Did you know about these epic Shiva temples, and statues in India?

On the occasion of Mahashivratri 2021, Local Samosa presents you a list of the shiva temples and statues in India that are not just a symbol of great devotion, but also they are great examples of fantastic architecture.

Our country is known for its religious enthusiasm, devotion, and there isn't even a single city or town which doesn't have temples. These shiva temples and statues in India are the spiritual home to lakhs of devotees, Shiva lovers, and even tourists. Scroll down to read about these architectural marvels.

1. Nathdwara Shiva statue, Rajasthan

Nathwada is known for its popular Shrinathji Temple, but now it also has a 351 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva and is the largest Shiva statue in the world. It has been built on Ganesh Tekri, in Nathdwara town. In addition to a 25 feet high Nandi Statue, this facility also has a meditation room, visitors room, administration office, and a VIP Lounge.

Where: Akshaya Patra, Nathdwara, Rajasthan

2. Murudeshwar Temple, Karnataka

Situated in the Bhatkal taluka of Karnataka, this temple is surrounded by the Arabian sea. It has the second-highest shiva statue which is 123 feet tall. This massive statue sparkles every time the sunlight falls on it. This temple also has a Nandi idol, a 20-storeyed Gopuram, and other important sculptures mentioned in the religious scriptures.

Where: Koti linga Temple, Road, Ghattiragadahalli, Karnataka

3. Kotilingeshwara Temple, Karnataka

Kotilingeshwara Temple has one crore shiva lingas along with a 108 feet tall huge shiva linga. It is located in the Kolar district of Karnataka and covers a huge area of 15 Acres. Also, did you know you can even install your own shiva linga if you want? Sounds interesting right?

Where: Koti linga Temple, Road, Ghattiragadahalli, Karnataka

4. Adiyogi shiva statue, Tamil Nadu

Unless you were living under a rock in the last couple of years, you'd know that this statue of Shiva is the biggest bust sculpture in the world. It is 112.4 feet tall and is located on the outskirts of Coimbatore. It's mesmerizing, and so, a must-visit for every Shiva Devotee.

Where: Mahashivaratri Grounds, Ishana Vihar, Velliangiri Foothills, Tamil Nadu

5. Tungnath Temple, Uttarakhand

It is certainly one of the beautiful, and highest Shiva temples in India and is located at an elevation of 12,073 feet. The solid granite slabs give it a rustic vibe. The temple resembles the Kedarnath temple and ranks 2nd amongst the five Panch Kedars. It also has two small temples dedicated to Parvati and Ved Vyas.

Where: F6Q8+FR Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand

6.  Trimbakeshwar Temple, Maharashtra

Located near the Godavari river 8 km away from Nashik, this temple is all black. It has a Hemadpanthi style of architecture(an architectural style, named after its founder, the prime minister Hemadpant from the court of Seuna Yadavas Of Devagiri, and many people believe Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao gave orders to build this temple. It has a three-faced idol that depicts Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma, and Lord Rudra. Each one of them has a crown on their head. The architecture of this temple will leave you in awe for sure.

Where: Shrimant Peshwe Path, Trimbak, Maharashtra

7. Brihadeswara Temple, Tamil Nadu

This temple is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and has one of the largest Shiv linga in the country. The statue of Nandi was carved out of a single stone. Raja Raja Cholan ordered to built this temple after seeing a dream and got the inspiration to build it because of it.

Where: Membalam Rd, Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

8.  Vadakkunathan Temple, Kerala

This temple is located on 9 acres of land and has 3 main shrines of Lord Shiva, Lord Rama, and Shankaranarayana. However, the Shiva idol here is not completely visible. It is immersed in pure ghee, poured by the devotees. This temple has received the award of excellence from UNESCO and hundreds of devotees pay a sacred visit to it, and so, maybe you should visit it at least once.

Where: Swaraj Round N, Kuruppam, Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur, Kerala

9. Lingaraj Temple, Odisha

It is the largest temple in Bhubaneshwar and has marvellous architecture. It is believed that the Bindusara tank inside the temple is filled with the water blessed by Lord Shiva himself. Also, unlike the other Shiva lingas, the shiva linga here has an equal height and width. This temple goes back to the 11th century and so, is one of the oldest Shiva temples in the country.

Where: Lingaraj Nagar, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751002

So, which one are you planning to visit on your next vacation? Tell us in the comment section below.

Also Read: Fans of actress Nidhhi Agerwal built a temple on her in Chennai as a gift on Valentine’s Day

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