One of the most important festivals of Hindu culture, Maha Shivratri honours Lord Shiva, the ultimate god also referred to as the “Destroyer”. Known as “The Great Night of Shiva,” Maha Shivratri festival 2025 in India takes place on the fourteenth night of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Phalguna.
Though it is celebrated all over India, each place has its own way of celebrating the festival because of the cultural diversity of the country. If you’re looking for some best places to celebrate your Maha Shivratri, here are five must-attend Maha Shivratri events and festivals. These 5 special places are sure to offer divine blessings of Mahadev on the special occasion. Immerse yourself in the cultural activities and rituals at these temples that are unique from one another.
1. Maha Shivratri At Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, often known as “The Spiritual Capital of India,” becomes alive during Maha Shivratri. The whole city is decorated with lights and accessories, creating a spiritual mood combining excitement and devotion. Devotees visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple for prayers and to seek blessings. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple vibrates with the sounds of temple bells and the chant of “Om Namah Shivaya” throughout the day and night of the Maha Shivratri festival.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple Timings: 2:30 AM to 11 PM
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple Address: Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Domari, Uttar Pradesh 221001
- Religious Activities: Devotees perform Rudrabhishekam which is the Shiva Lingam’s sacred bathing, cultural shows, and mythical lectures.
- Cultural Activities: Dance shows, concerts of classical music, and local art exhibitions
2. Maha Shivratri Festival At Murudeshwar, Karnataka
Located on the coast of Karnataka, the Murudeshwar Temple marks Maha Shivratri with an unmatched celebration. Devotees gather at the Murudeshwar Temple during the Maha Shivratri festival to see age-old customs and rituals brought to action. The temple’s huge Shiva statue and magnificent gopuram provide the best Maha Shivratri celebrations in India. The scent of sandalwood and the constant tempo of traditional music captivate the soul.
- Murudeshwar Temple Timings: 6 AM to 1 PM, and 3 PM to 8:15 PM
- Murudeshwar Temple Address: Murdeshwar, Karnataka
- Religious Activities: Special Pujas and Abhisheks to seek Lord Shiva’s divine blessings.
- Cultural Activities: Competitions include folk dances, rangoli contests, and traditional games.
Suggested Read: 13 Best Places to Celebrate Mahashivratri 2025
3. Maha Shivratri At Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
For Maha Shivratri 2025, visit Mandi; a town located in Himachal Pradesh. It is the place of one of India’s most vibrant Maha Shivratri celebrations. The festival starts with prayers at Bhootnath temple. During the Maha Shivratri festival, the temples of Lord Shiva and its surroundings become active with colour, music, and celebration against the panorama of the snow-capped Himalayas. The centuries-old “International Mandi Shivratri Fair” attracts both locals and tourists from across the world.
- Bhootnath Temple Timings: 5 AM to 9:45 PM
- Bhootnath Temple Address: Bhoot Nath Road, Samkhetar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175001
- Activities: Exhibition of Himachali cuisine delights, traditional arts, handicrafts, spiritual gatherings, and traditional dances.
4. Maha Shivratri Festival At Srikalahasti Temple, Andhra Pradesh
Srikalahasti is one of the famous temples for Maha Shivratri. At the Srikalahasti Temple, the Maha Shivratri festival is celebrated in a symphony of ceremony and devotion. The smell of fresh flowers and the chanting of Hindu prayers soothe the soul and body. The festival brings joy and celebration to the surrounding community of the temple and enhances the spiritual experience of followers. This famous temple of Lord Shiva invites devotees seeking divine blessings and spiritual peace.
- Srikalahasti Temple Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM
- Srikalahasti Temple Address: Kondamitta, Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh 517644
- Cultural Activities: Dance performances, classical music concerts, spiritual lectures, and sacred ceremonies.
5. Maha Shivratri In Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Located in the hills of Uttarakhand near the banks of the river Ganga, Rishikesh has great significance in Hindu mythology. Rishikesh becomes a popular location during the celebration of Maha Shivratri, where devotees visit ancient temples like the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple to perform prayers and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. Maha Shivratri celebrations in Rishikesh allow believers to experience Lord Shiva’s divine presence in the breathtaking Himalayan environment.
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Timings: 5 AM to 6 PM
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Address: Swargashram Rd, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304
- Activities: Well-known saints and spiritual leaders provide enlightening lectures, special cultural events, and religious teachings.
Suggested Read: How Maha Shivratri is Celebrated in Nepal
