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Located on the sacred Ganges River in Uttarakhand, India, Haridwar is a city rich in spiritual heritage and devotion. One of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, it is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists around the world. Among its numerous sacred sites, the Shiva temples in Haridwar, with special significance, provide devotees with an opportunity to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. These Shiva temples of Haridwar highlight the history and speciality of this holy city.
Top 10 Shiva Temples In Haridwar
Here are the Shiva temples in Haridwar, offering the perfect sanctum of tranquility, piousness and architectural beauty for the devotees:
1. Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple
Photo: World8115 / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the historic Kankhal area of Haridwar, Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the most ancient and revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to mark the site where King Daksha, father of Sati and father-in-law of Lord Shiva, conducted a grand yagna (sacrificial ritual). The temple complex also houses the Sati Kund, a sacred spot linked to this legend. Pilgrims flock here to pay homage and seek blessings, especially during Mahashivratri when the temple celebrates with grand rituals and prayers.
Location: Kankhal, Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: February to October; especially during Mahashivratri
Timings: 4 AM – 7 PM daily
2. Neeleshwar Mahadev Temple
Photo: World8115 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Neeleshwar Mahadev Temple is located at the foot of the beautiful Neel Parvat. Its location close to the Chandi Devi Temple and the Neel Dhara stream, a tributary of the Ganges, adds to its peaceful beauty. According to legend, this temple was founded by a devout follower named Neel, hence, known as Neeleshwar. The temple is a place where peace and serenity can be sought for meditation and connection to the divine. Surrounded by verdant greenery and lovely views, the temple brings not only spiritual value but also rejuvenation for visitors. On Shivratri, the temple celebrates special pujas and rituals, which draws hundreds of pilgrims.
Location: Neel Parvat, Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM daily
3. Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated near the revered Chandi Devi Temple, Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple is a sacred shrine dedicated to the divine couple, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple exudes a tranquil ambiance, providing devotees a serene space for worship and reflection. It is especially known for the grand Maha Aarti performed on Monday evenings, a ritual that attracts numerous devotees and visitors. The rhythmic chants and melodious hymns during the Aarti create a spiritually uplifting experience. Pilgrims often visit this temple as part of their Chandi Devi pilgrimage, combining the worship of Shakti and Shiva. The temple is also surrounded by beautiful views of the adjacent hills, making it a peaceful retreat.
Location: Near Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: February to October
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM daily
4. Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple
Photo: Nizil Shah / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a hidden gem nestled amidst dense forests near Haridwar Railway Station. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple offers a tranquil retreat for devotees and travelers. Surrounded by natural beauty, the temple provides a perfect setting for meditation and solitude. The legend associated with the temple states that it was once a site where Lord Shiva meditated, making it a highly sacred place for worship. The serene ambiance is complemented by the chirping of birds and the gentle rustling of leaves. Devotees often perform Rudrabhishekam rituals here, believing that it brings blessings and prosperity.
Location: Near Haridwar Railway Station, Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM daily
5. Parad Shivling Temple
Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Parad Shivling Temple is a unique and spiritually significant one among the Shiva temples in Haridwar. It is renowned for housing a Shivling made entirely of mercury (Parad). Weighing approximately 150 kg, the Parad Shivling is considered a powerful symbol of purity and divine energy in Hindu tradition. Devotees believe that worshiping this Shivling can absolve sins, grant liberation (moksha), and bestow peace and prosperity. The temple is situated in the sacred town of Kankhal and forms an essential part of many pilgrims’ itineraries. Its serene environment and the chanting of Vedic hymns create a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Location: Kankhal, Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: February to October
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM daily
6. Shri Maha Mrityunjaya Temple
Photo: Varun Shiv Kapur / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Shri Mahamrityunjaya Temple is among the revered Shiva temples in Haridwar. It is dedicated to the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, one of the most powerful hymns in Hinduism. This mantra is believed to grant longevity, ward off evil and bestow spiritual liberation. The temple houses a unique Shivling featuring an eye-shaped opening, symbolising the third eye of Lord Shiva. Devotees often visit the temple to participate in the continuous chanting of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, a practice believed to have immense spiritual and healing benefits. The temple’s serene environment and the melodious sound of the chants create a deeply meditative experience for visitors.
Location: Bhagirath Nagar, Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: September to November
Timings: 4:30 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM to 7 PM daily
7. Shri Pawan Dham Shiva Temple
Photo: आशीष_भटनागर / Wikimedia Commons
The Shri Pawan Dham Shiva Temple, situated within the renowned Pawan Dham complex, is a magnificent example of devotion blended with exquisite artistry. This temple is particularly famous for its intricate glass work that adorns the walls and ceilings, creating a dazzling display of craftsmanship. The temple’s serene ambiance provides an ideal environment for meditation and reflection, attracting both devotees and art enthusiasts. Regular aartis and bhajans fill the air with a divine aura, enhancing the spiritual experience. Shri Pawan Dham Shiva Temple is a celebration of Indian culture and artistic tradition, a must- visit among Shiva temples in Haridwar.
Location: Bhagirathi Nagar, Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM daily
8. Shiva Sati Murti Temple
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Shiva Sati Murti Temple is a revered pilgrimage site in Haridwar. It holds immense significance due to its association with the divine love story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati. The temple houses a beautifully crafted idol depicting Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati, symbolising their eternal bond. Its architecture, blending traditional designs with intricate carvings, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Devotees visiting the temple often recount a sense of divine connection and peace. Regular pujas and special rituals during festivals like Mahashivratri add to its spiritual charm. For those on a spiritual journey in Haridwar, the Shiva Sati Murti Temple is a must-visit destination.
Location: Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: February to October
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM daily
9. Shiva Temple, Goodar Akhara
Photo: Akshay Vijay Nachankar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Shiva Temple in Goodar Akhara is a revered spiritual site in Haridwar, known for its simplicity and deeply rooted religious significance. Nestled in a peaceful corner of the city, this temple is a sanctuary for devotees seeking solace and divine blessings. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple reflects the ascetic nature of the deity, with its unpretentious structure exuding serenity and devotion.The temple is associated with the Goodar Akhara, a spiritual institution that has nurtured centuries-old traditions of meditation and yogic practices. The temple is particularly crowded during Mahashivratri, when special pujas and offerings are made.
Location: Goodar Akhara, Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM daily
10. Pashupati Mahadev Mandir
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons
The Pashupati Mahadev Mandir in Haridwar is a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, particularly revered in his Pashupati form, the Lord of all living beings. Inspired by the famous Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal, this temple attracts devotees who come to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The temple features a striking Shivling and intricately designed idols of Lord Shiva, showcasing artistic and cultural influences. The peaceful surroundings and the chants of “Om Namah Shivaya” create a tranquil atmosphere. Festivals like Mahashivratri and Shravan Somvar witness grand celebrations, drawing large crowds of devotees.
Location: Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: February to November
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM daily
Haridwar, a spiritual haven, is home to some of the most revered Shiva temples that embody the divine essence of Lord Shiva’s grace and power. From the historic Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple to the serene Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple, each shrine offers a unique spiritual experience. The Shiva temples in Haridwar not only serve as places of worship but also as centers for meditation, reflection, and cultural heritage. Visiting these sacred sites provides an opportunity to connect with ancient traditions and immerse oneself in a serene, divine atmosphere. Plan your journey through Haridwar’s Shiva temples along with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Livefree2013 / Wikimedia Commons
