From Pashupatinath to Brihadeeswarar, 8 Powerful Shiva Temples to Visit on Maha Shivaratri 2026

Maha Shivaratri in 2026 will be observed on February 15. The festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It marks Shiva's cosmic dance, victory over darkness, spiritual awakening, inner strength, and the union of Shiva and Shakti.

Devotees observe fasting, night long prayers, chanting and meditation. Many visit major Shiva temples across the world to seek blessings.

Here are eight of the largest and most prominent Shiva temples globally.

Kailashnath Temple

Located in Maharashtra and part of the Ellora Caves, the temple is a rock cut structure dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built during the Rashtrakuta dynasty in the 8th century. The temple is carved from a single rock and depicts scenes from Hindu mythology.

Brihadeeswarar Temple

Situated in Tamil Nadu, the temple is a major example of Dravidian architecture. Also known as Peruvudaiyar Kovil, it was built by Raja Raja Chola I in the 11th century. The temple houses a large Nandi statue carved from a single stone. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Murudeshwar Temple

Located on the Karnataka coast, the temple is known for its 123 foot Shiva statue. The 237 foot Raja Gopura offers views of the Arabian Sea. According to tradition, the temple enshrines a fragment of the sacred Atma Linga.

Kotilingeshwara Temple

The temple in Karnataka houses over a million Shiva Lingams. It also features a 108 foot Shiva Lingam and a large Nandi statue. Devotees install personal lingams as part of their worship.

Pashupatinath Temple

Situated on the banks of the Bagmati River in Nepal, it is one of the most sacred Shiva shrines in Hinduism. The temple features a pagoda style structure with a golden roof and silver doors. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major centre for Maha Shivaratri observances.

Prambanan Temple

Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. Built in the 9th century, it is dedicated to the Trimurti. The tallest shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands 47 metres high. The complex is known for Ramayana reliefs and cultural performances.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

Constructed in the 11th century by Rajendra Chola I, the temple reflects Chola architecture. It features a large Shiva Lingam, detailed sculptures and a ritual water reservoir within the complex.

Vadakkunnathan Temple

One of the oldest Shiva temples in India, it is built in traditional Kerala style. The temple is known for its wooden gateways, murals and multi tiered gopurams. The Shiva Lingam is covered with centuries old solidified ghee.