Mahashivratri, the ‘Great Night of Lord Shiva,’ is a sacred occasion celebrating Shiva’s divine energy. Some believe it marks his marriage to Parvati, while others link it to his cosmic dance or the night he consumed halahal poison. Regardless of the legend, devotees seek his blessings on this powerful night. Here are six temples to visit on or before Mahashivratri.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh): One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi is considered among the holiest Shiva temples. The evening Shayan Aarti is an experience not to be missed. Varanasi is believed to be Shiva’s own city, where devotees share a personal bond with him. Many believe that seeking his blessings here leads to moksha (liberation).
Situated amidst the snow-covered Himalayas, Kedarnath is accessible after an 18-kilometer trek. According to legend, when the Pandavas sought Shiva’s forgiveness, he disguised himself as a bull and hid underground, leaving only his hump visible, which now resides in the temple. The temple exudes an aura of peace, devotion, and divine energy.
Known for its unique Bhasma Aarti, Mahakaleshwar is a spiritually charged temple where Shiva is adorned daily with different decorations of flowers, rudraksha, and sacred ash. This temple is also the only Jyotirlinga that faces south, making it distinct from others.
Somnath, the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas, has withstood multiple invasions and reconstructions. Despite its turbulent history, it remains a symbol of unwavering faith. Mahashivratri sees a massive influx of devotees here for Shiv Abhishek, bhajans, and night-long prayers in honor of Lord Shiva.
Located near the source of the Godavari River, Trimbakeshwar’s Jyotirlinga is unique, featuring three faces symbolizing Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva). It is believed to be a powerful site for those seeking spiritual awakening and divine blessings.
At Baidyanath Dham, Shiva is revered as a healer (Baidya). According to mythology, Ravana’s intense penance pleased Shiva, who gifted him a lingam under the condition that it should not be placed on the ground before reaching Lanka. However, Ravana was deceived, and the lingam was established in Deoghar, where it remains as a sacred Jyotirlinga.
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