Maha Shivratri falls on 15 February in 2026, and devotees across India celebrate this night, dedicating it to fasting, meditation, and prayer. This is the
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day when Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. He had performed the Tandaav and ensured the win of consciousness over ignorance. This Shivratri, consider visiting these Shiv temples that are rich in mythology and history.
Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur
It is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva; the Brihadisvara temple is one of the most well-known places in Thanjavur. It houses one of the largest Shivalingams in India. This temple also includes the shrines of Goddess Parvati and Nandi. It is a popular tourist attraction in Tamil Nadu. Devotees come here to pray for protection and courage.Gudimallam Parashurameshwara Temple, Andhra Pradesh
This temple is nestled in the Chittor district of Andhra Pradesh. It is very well-known for its one-of-a-kind Shiva Lingam. The statue of Lord Shiva showcases him smothering the demon of ignorance, Apasmara, under his feet. This symbolises the defeat of ignorance. Gudimallam Parashurameshwara Temple is believed to be one of the oldest Shiva temples in India. The statue of Lord Shiva is also very delicately carved and has been given human features.Arunachalam Tiruvannamalai Temple, Tamil Nadu
Tiruvannamalai is named after the deity of Annamalaiyar Temple. The Arunachalam mountain behind the temple is considered to be sacred and is believed to be a representation of Lord Shiva. The legend says that Lord Shiva appeared as fire itself in this place. It had happened after Goddess Parvati had covered Lord Shiva’s eyes on the mountain Kailash; she had meant it to be playful, but it had led to darkness swallowing the earth for years. Lord Shiva had manifested as fire to return light to the world.Gauri Shankar Temple, Chandni Chowk
The 800-year-old Gauri Shankar Temple is located in Chandni Chowk and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The lingam is surrounded by silver snakes and signifies the centre of the universe. The legend says that the temple was built by Apa Ganga Dhar, who happened to be a devotee of Lord Shiva. He built it after he survived a very tough battle.Lingaraj Temple, Odisha
The temple is believed to be one of the finest examples of Hindu temples in India. It was built in the 11th century and houses a Swayambhu Shivalinga. Devotees visit this temple in flocks, but crowds are expected around Mahashivratri. The temple has been built with a Kalinga architectural style and also has 150 smaller shrines.Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.
