From Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple To Srikalahasteeswara Temple: Shiva Temple In South India To Visit On Mahashivratri

Celebrate Mahashivratri by visiting these stunning Shiva temples in South India, known for their spiritual significance and breathtaking architecture.

Shiva Temple In South India

Source : ABPLIVE AI

Mahashivaratri is one of the major festival dedicated to Lord Shiva which is one of the times when devotees seek his divine blessings through prayers, fasting, and visiting temples. South India, with its rich traditions in spirituality, has among the many excellent Shiva temples that have been constructed and are associated with deep religious as well as historical significance. 

From the revered Jyotirlingas to architectural marvels, these temples attract thousands of pilgrims during Mahashivratri. If you are planning a spiritual journey this Mahashivratri, here are some of the most beautiful Shiva temples in South India that you must visit.

Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, Andhra Pradesh: 

(Image Source: Twitter/ Tourism_AP)

Situated on the banks of the Krishna River in Srisailam, Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and also a revered Shakti Peeth. Lord Shiva is worshipped as Mallikarjuna, whereas Goddess Parvati is honoured as Bhramaramba. This temple is said to have been set up sometime in the 2nd century, and later additions were made by the Vijayanagar rulers and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It is a major pilgrimage hub during Mahashivratri, as the setting is beautiful with the Nallamalai Hills.

Ramanathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu:

(Image Source: Twitter/ LostTemple7)

Built in the 17th century, the Ramanathaswamy Temple is located on the island of Rameswaram and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a Char Dham pilgrimage centre. The temple has grand corridors, wherein one takes to be the longest among Hindu temples. According to the Ramayana, the shivalinga was installed by Lord Rama here, while one was made of sand and the other was brought from Mount Kailash by Hanuman.

Brihadeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu:

(Image Source: Twitter/ tntourismoffcl)

The UNESCO World Heritage site Brihadeswarar Temple is an architectural marvel built by Chola King Rajaraja I in the 11th century. Also known as Dakshin Meru, it boasts the highest vimana (temple tower) in South India. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is adorned with rich carvings, inscriptions, and a striking Nataraja sculpture.

Shore Temple, Tamil Nadu:

(Image Source: Twitter/ incredibleindia)

This temple was built by the Pallavas in the 7th century, greeting the Bay of Bengal. Shore Temple, despite being a UNESCO-listed heritage site, was once a bustling seaport. The temple mainly enshrines Lord Shiva, with additional shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Mainly known for the magnificent stone-carved architectural work, it remains an important historic landmark rather than an active place of worship.

Srikalahasteeswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh:

(Image Source: Twitter/ Maithili__)

Near Tirupati lies Srikalahasteeswara Temple, which forms the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, where Lord Shiva is worshipped as Vayu Linga (air element). According to ancient scriptures, this temple was constructed in the 5th century and extended further by various rulers. The temple is famous for its Rahu-Ketu pooja, which is performed to nullify planetary doshas. It is referred to as 'Dakshina Kailasam,' a major pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees.