To get special blessings of Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri 2026, it is best to visit some special Shiva temples in India. These seven temples are famous for their massive puja, night vigil and wonderful spiritual atmosphere.
Shivratri Temples in India: Hashivaratri is the most sacred festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. On this day, devotees observe fasting, Rudrabhishek and night vigil. There are some Shiva temples in India where Mahashivratri is celebrated with great pomp. If you want a special spiritual experience on Mahashivratri 2026, then these 7 temples must be on your travel list.
Mahakaleshwar Temple
Mahakaleshwar Temple of Ujjain is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. On Mahashivratri, a special Bhasma Aarti is performed here, which attracts devotees from across the country and abroad. Pooja, chanting and Rudrabhishek continue throughout the night. This place is also famous for its devotion towards Shiva and Tantric traditions.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is in Varanasi, the city of Lord Shiva. On Mahashivratri, a big procession starts from the banks of Ganga to the temple. The whole of Kashi echoes with the slogans of “Har Har Mahadev”. Special puja, bhajan and aarti take place throughout the night, which gives a divine experience to the devotees.
Somnath Temple
Somnath Temple is considered to be the first Jyotirlinga and has an illustrious history. A huge fair is organized here on Mahashivratri. This temple situated on the sea shore is decorated with special decorations and lamps at night, which gives a feeling of peace and faith to the devotees.
Vaidyanath Dham
Vaidyanath Dham is also known as Kamna Jyotirlinga. On Mahashivratri, lakhs of devotees anoint Lord Shiva with Ganga water. There is an atmosphere of devotion day and night in the entire temple complex. It is believed that wishes made with a true heart are definitely fulfilled here.
Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath temple situated in the lap of Himalayas has special importance for Shiva devotees. If the weather is good, worshiping here on Mahashivratri has a unique spiritual effect. The sight of Shivalinga amidst snow clad mountains purifies the mind, body and soul.
Tarakeshwar Temple
Tarakeswar Temple in West Bengal is very popular among Shiva devotees. A huge fair is organized here on Mahashivratri and devotees come from far and wide to perform Jalabhishek. The atmosphere of the temple becomes very devotional with drums, hymns and flower decorations.
Nataraja Temple
The Nataraja Temple of Chidambaram is dedicated to the Tandava form of Lord Shiva. On Mahashivratri, special anointments, dance rituals and chanting of Vedic mantras take place here. This temple displays a wonderful fusion of spirituality and art, where Shiva is worshiped as the cosmic dancer.