15 places in India to celebrate Mahashivratri
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi witnesses grand celebrations on Mahashivratri. The famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the main attraction.
2. Haridwar, Uttarakhand:
This holy city witnesses a massive gathering of devotees on Mahashivratri. Har Ki Pauri and Chandi Devi Temple are the major places of worship.
3. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand:
Rishikesh is another popular destination for Mahashivratri celebrations. The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and the Triveni Ghat are the main places of worship.
4. Amarnath, Jammu and Kashmir:
The Amarnath Cave, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a major pilgrimage site. On Mahashivratri, devotees trek to this cave to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
5. Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh:
Ujjain is home to the famous Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, which attracts a large number of devotees on Mahashivratri.
6. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh:
The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its intricate sculptures depicting various deities, including Lord Shiva.
7. Nashik, Maharashtra:
The Trimbakeshwar Temple in Nashik witnesses grand Mahashivratri celebrations. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India.
8. Shravanabelagola, Karnataka:
The famous Gommateshwara Statue in Shravanabelagola is a significant Jain pilgrimage site. On Mahashivratri, devotees visit the temple to offer prayers.
9. Deoghar, Jharkhand:
The Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and attracts a large number of devotees on Mahashivratri.
10. Jaipur, Rajasthan:
The Khatu Shyam Temple in Jaipur witnesses grand Mahashivratri celebrations. Devotees come from far and wide to seek blessings.
11. Pushkar, Rajasthan:
The sacred Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple in Pushkar witness vibrant Mahashivratri celebrations.
12. Jageshwar, Uttarakhand:
Jageshwar is home to a cluster of ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. On Mahashivratri, devotees gather here to seek blessings.
13. Ellora Caves, Maharashtra:
The Ellora Caves are famous for their rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities. The grand celebration on Mahashivratri attracts many visitors.
14. Somnath, Gujarat:
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, celebrates Mahashivratri with great enthusiasm. The temple is beautifully decorated, and devotional activities like bhajans and discourses on Shiva take place throughout the night.
15. Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu:
The famous Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his cosmic dancing form. Mahashivratri is celebrated with grand processions and traditional rituals at this temple.