Last Update: February 10, 2023, 08:00 IST
Murudeshwara Temple is a popular Shiva temple in Murudeshwara, Karnataka. (Image: shutterstock)
Mahashivratri 2023: On this day, to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and witness some grand festivities, you can plan a visit to some of the ancient and famous Shiva temples in the southern states.
MAHASHIVRATRI 2023: Mahashivratri is an important day for all the devotees of Lord Shiva and visiting the temple is mandatory. Lakhs of devotees across the country visit nearby Shiva temples on this day to worship their beloved Lord. Grand celebrations and fairs are organized on the day of Mahashivaratri in many temples.
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Some people are attracted towards ancient temples and famous temples of Lord Shiva on Mahashivaratri. These temples form an important part of the architectural heritage of India. This year Mahashivaratri will be celebrated on 18 February.
Read also: Lord Shiva Temples In Delhi For A Divine Experience
On this day, to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and witness some grand festivities, you can plan a visit to some of the ancient and famous Shiva temples in the southern states.
Brihadeshwara Temple, Thanjavur
Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is home to the beautiful ancient Shiva temple also known as the Brihadeeswarar Temple. It is one of the biggest and busiest temples in Tamil Nadu. People come from all over India to seek blessings and offer prayers at this holy site. In addition, it is a World Heritage Site.
Murudeshwara Temple, Karnataka
Thousands of devotees visit the Murudeshwar temple every year on Mahashivaratri to celebrate this special day. Murudeshwara Temple is a popular Shiva temple in Murudeshwara, Karnataka. Built on the Kanduka hill and surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides, this place is quite picturesque. It has a 20-storey gopuram and the temple complex houses the second tallest Shiva statue in the world.
Virupaksha Temple, Hampi
The Virupaksha Temple, situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, is a magnificent marvel of the Vijayanagara Empire. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva (Virupaksha), is famous for its tall gopurams, grand architecture and intricate carvings. The temple, which was built in the 7th century, went through several additions to reflect the power of the various rulers of the kingdom. This temple located in South India is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Airavateswara Temple, Kumbakonam
The Airavatesvara Temple, located in the town of Darasuram near Kumbakonam, is another impressive example of Dravidian architecture. This temple, included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built in the 12th century AD.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and derives its name from Airavata, the white elephant of Indra, who worshiped Lord Shiva in this temple. The temple is famous for its magnificent stone carvings.
Vadakkunnathan Temple, Kerala
Thrissur is another great place to visit during Maha Shivaratri in South India. Vadakkunnathan Temple, located in the heart of Thrissur, is an ancient Shiva temple with authentic Kerala style of architecture. During Maha Shivaratri, thousands of people from all over South India visit Thrissur to witness the grand festivities held here.
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