Mahashivratri is one of the most auspicious festivals celebrated in India. This year, it will be observed on March 8. Devotees, during this time, offer prayers to Lord Shiva, the harbinger of cosmic transformation. Here's a glimpse of 10 sacred sites that offer unique experiences for devotees on this divine occasion.
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh | Home to the revered Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain beckons devotees to partake in the celestial festivities honouring Lord Shiva. The city, situated on the banks of the River Kshipra, every year witnesses pilgrims seeking blessings at the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.
Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu | Placed amid the serene environs of Coimbatore, the Isha Yoga Center invites seekers to immerse themselves in spirituality. Led by the esteemed Sadhguru, the centre hosts celebrations, including dance, music and meditation, along with a night-long Satsang with Sadhguru himself.
Baba Baidyanath Dham, Deogarh, Jharkhand | Revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deogarh, Jharkhand, reverberates with divine fervour on Maha Shivratri. Devotees throng to this sacred shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva, to seek solace and blessings amid the tranquil surroundings.
Somnath Temple, Gujarat | Steeped in history, the Somnath Temple is seen as an example of resilience and devotion. Situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea, the shrine enthrals pilgrims with its timeless allure, offering a glimpse into India's spiritual heritage.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi casts a spell binding spell on devotees during Maha Shivratri. The sacred ghats of the holy city come alive with prayers, aartis and vibrant processions, creating an immersive experience steeped in tradition and piety.
Murudeshwar Temple, Karnataka | Adorned with architectural splendour, the Murudeshwar Temple in Karnataka impresses with its grandeur and magnificence. Set against the Arabian Sea, the towering statue of Lord Shiva, overlooking the temple complex, serves as a symbol of spiritual enlightenment. (Image: Shutterstock)
Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu | Situated on the pristine shores of Rameswaram island, the Ramanathaswamy Temple beckons devotees to partake in sacred rituals and prayers on Maha Shivratri. As one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, it holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. (Image courtesy wikipedia commons).
Taraknath Temple, Tarakeshwar, West Bengal | In the quaint town of Tarakeshwar, the Taraknath Temple enchants devotees with its divine aura and architectural grandeur. Believed to have been constructed in 1729 AD, the temple is a prime example of West Bengal's rich cultural heritage. (Image: Shutterstock)
Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha | Renowned for its architectural splendour, the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneshwar is a symbol of Odisha's rich cultural legacy. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple beckons pilgrims with its towering spires and intricate carvings, offering a glimpse into the state's vibrant heritage.
Omkareshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh | Perched on the sacred Mandhata Island in the Narmada River, the Omkareshwar Temple is revered as one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines. Encircled by pristine natural beauty, the temple invites devotees to embark on a spiritual odyssey, seeking solace and enlightenment in the divine presence of Lord Shiva. (Image: Shutterstock)