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Welcome to the mystical month of Sawan, a time filled with devotion, spirituality, and the divine presence of Lord Shiva. This sacred month holds a special place in the hearts of Shiva devotees, as it is believed to be a powerful period for connecting with divine energy.
In this blog, we invite you to explore the profound significance of Sawan and the timeless wisdom behind worshiping Lord Shiva. Discover the reasons why millions of devotees embark on this spiritual journey every year, seeking solace, blessings, and enlightenment.
Join us as we traverse the spiritual landscape, uncovering the hidden gems of Shiva and Parvati temples scattered across the country. From the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi to the tranquil Bhimashankar Temple in Maharashtra, we will unlock the stories, rituals, and mystical experiences associated with each sacred abode.
Pack your bags, book your flight tickets, and let the exploration begin. Join us on this incredible quest to connect with the divine and experience the magic of Sawan. Your spiritual adventure awaits!
Importance: Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, representing the radiant form of Lord Shiva. The temple holds immense spiritual significance, and it is believed that a visit to this temple can help devotees attain salvation and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It is also considered the holiest of the holy cities in Hinduism, and a pilgrimage to Varanasi is believed to cleanse one's sins. Kashi Vishwanath is one of the most important and a must visit temple in India.
Story: According to Hindu mythology, Varanasi is said to be the city where Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati reside. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva revealed himself in the form of a fiery pillar of light. It is said that visiting this temple and offering prayers to Lord Shiva can grant devotees Moksha (liberation) and eternal blessings.
Location: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport in Varanasi, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi service to reach the temple.
By Road: Varanasi is well-connected by road, and you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. Local transportation options like cycle rickshaws and e-rickshaws are also available.
By Train: Varanasi Junction is the main railway station in Varanasi and is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
Importance: Bhimashankar Temple holds immense significance as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is associated with the legend of Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasura. The temple's location amidst the Sahyadri hills and the serene ambiance of the surrounding forests adds to its spiritual allure making it a must visit temple in Maharashtra. Devotees visit this temple to seek Lord Shiva's blessings, attain spiritual growth, and experience divine bliss.
Story: According to Hindu mythology, Bhimashankar is the place where Lord Shiva manifested himself in the form of a fiery column of light to destroy the demon Tripurasura. It is said that Lord Shiva took the form of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, radiating immense power and energy. Devotees believe that visiting this temple during Sawan can help them attain divine blessings, overcome obstacles, and find inner strength.
Location: Bhimashankar Temple is located in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, India, near the town of Bhimashankar.
How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Pune International Airport, which has regular domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar.
By Road: Bhimashankar is well-connected by road, and you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Pune or Mumbai. The temple is located within Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, and private vehicles are not allowed. Devotees need to park their vehicles at the parking lot and either walk or take a local shuttle service to reach the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune Junction, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Pune, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhimashankar.
Importance: Baijnath Temple, located in the picturesque town of Baijnath, is an ancient and significant temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to have been constructed during the 13th century and showcases remarkable architectural brilliance. The temple holds great historical and religious importance and is known for its spiritual vibrations. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings, attain spiritual enlightenment, and find inner peace.
Story: According to legends, Baijnath Temple is associated with the story of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Ravana was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva and wished to carry a Linga (a symbol of Lord Shiva) to his kingdom. Lord Shiva agreed but set the condition that the Linga should not be placed on the ground until reaching the final destination. While Ravana was traveling through Baijnath, he needed to relieve himself and requested Lord Ganesha to hold the Linga. However, Lord Ganesha placed the Linga on the ground, leading to its installation at Baijnath. Hence, the temple holds significance as the spot where Lord Shiva's Linga resides.
Location: Baijnath Temple is located in the town of Baijnath in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India.
How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Kangra, which has regular flights from major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Baijnath.
By Road: Baijnath is well-connected by road, and you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from nearby cities like Dharamshala or Kangra.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Pathankot Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Pathankot, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Baijnath.
Importance: Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is considered a highly revered pilgrimage site for Lord Shiva devotees. This must visit temple in Andhra Pradesh is located on the banks of the Krishna River and is believed to be a place where Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati reside. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings, find inner peace, and attain spiritual liberation.
Story: According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati got married at this sacred spot, and it is believed that their divine union brought blessings and prosperity to the universe. The temple is associated with various legends and stories that highlight Lord Shiva's grace and his role as the destroyer of evil. Devotees believe that a visit to Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple during Sawan can bring them closer to Lord Shiva and bestow divine blessings.
Location: Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
How To Reach
Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, which has regular domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Srisailam.
Road: Srisailam is well-connected by road, and you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from nearby cities like Hyderabad or Kurnool.
Train: The nearest railway station is Markapur Road Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Markapur Road, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Srisailam.
Importance: Kailasanathar Temple is one of the oldest and must visit temples in Tamil Nadu dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its architectural grandeur. It is an example of Dravidian temple architecture and showcases intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple holds immense religious and historical significance, attracting devotees from far and wide.
Story: According to legends, Kailasanathar Temple was built by the Pallava dynasty rulers in the 8th century. It is said that Lord Shiva himself appeared in a dream to King Rajasimha Pallava and instructed him to construct the temple. The temple's architecture and intricate carvings depict various mythological stories and legends associated with Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati images. Devotees visit this temple to witness its architectural splendor, experience the divine vibrations, and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
Location: Kailasanathar Temple is located in the city of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India.
How To Reach
Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which has regular domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kanchipuram.
Road: Kanchipuram is well-connected by road, and you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from nearby cities like Chennai or Bangalore.
By Train: Kanchipuram has its own railway station, Kanchipuram Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
Importance: Kedarnath Temple, situated amidst the majestic Himalayan ranges, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds immense spiritual significance. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva absolved the Pandavas of their sins after the Kurukshetra war in the Mahabharata. The temple's remote and scenic location adds to its spiritual allure, attracting devotees seeking spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings. The spiritual power and belief that Kedarnath holds, makes it a must visit temple in Uttarakhand. Devotees across the world visit here by doing the difficult trek just to get a glimpse of Mahadev and take part in aarti.
Story: According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for their involvement in the Kurukshetra war, which caused massive destruction. Lord Shiva took the form of a bull and hid himself in the Himalayas. When the Pandavas discovered him, they tried to hold onto his body parts. The hump reappeared in Kedarnath, and the temple was built at this spot to honor Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that a visit to Kedarnath Temple during Sawan can cleanse their sins and grant them blessings and divine grace.
Location: Kedarnath Temple is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India.
How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which has regular domestic flights. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a helicopter service to reach Phata or Guptkashi. From there, you have to trek or take a helicopter service to reach Kedarnath Temple.
By Road: The town of Gaurikund is the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath. It is well-connected by road, and you can reach Gaurikund by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from nearby cities like Rishikesh or Haridwar.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund.
Importance: Amarnath Cave Temple is a highly revered pilgrimage site for Lord Shiva devotees. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva revealed the secret of immortality to Goddess Parvati. The ice lingam that forms naturally inside the cave is considered a divine manifestation of Lord Shiva. The trek to the cave is challenging and tests the devotees' faith and determination.
Story: According to Hindu mythology, when Goddess Parvati insisted on knowing the secret of Lord Shiva's immortality, Lord Shiva chose the secluded Amarnath Cave to reveal it. To ensure their privacy, Lord Shiva left behind his bull, Nandi, at Pahalgam and his snake at Lake Sheshnag. It is believed that only those who are blessed and determined can witness the divine ice lingam inside the cave. The annual Amarnath Yatra during Sawan attracts devotees who undertake the arduous trek to seek Lord Shiva's blessings and witness the ice lingam.
Location: Amarnath Cave Temple is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India.
How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport, which has regular domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pahalgam or Baltal, the base camps for the Amarnath Yatra.
By Road: Pahalgam and Baltal are the two main base camps for the Amarnath Yatra and are well-connected by road. You can reach these base camps by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Srinagar or Jammu.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Jammu, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pahalgam or Baltal.
Importance: Pashupatinath Temple, located in the capital city of Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in the world. It is considered the national deity of Nepal and holds great religious significance. The temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts devotees from across the globe.
Story: Pashupatinath Temple is believed to be an ancient temple that has existed since time immemorial. The temple's name, Pashupatinath, translates to "Lord of all animals," symbolizing Lord Shiva's role as the protector of all living beings. The temple is associated with various myths and legends, including the story of Lord Shiva appearing as a deer in front of a hunter to save his devotees. The temple's serene ambiance and spiritual aura make it a significant pilgrimage site for Lord Shiva devotees.
Location: Pashupatinath Temple is located in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal.
How To Reach
By Air: Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is well-connected with international and domestic flights. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Pashupatinath Temple.
By Road: Pashupatinath Temple is easily accessible by road from various parts of Nepal and neighboring countries. You can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from nearby cities.
Importance: Meenakshi Amman Temple, also known as Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Devi Parvati as Meenakshi and Lord Shiva as Sundareswarar. It is one of the largest temple complexes in India and showcases magnificent Dravidian architecture.
Story: According to Hindu mythology, Meenakshi Amman Temple is the sacred spot where Lord Shiva married Devi Parvati in her form as Meenakshi. The temple's mythology revolves around the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati and their reign over Madurai as the divine couple. The temple's grand architecture, intricate carvings, and vibrant festivities during festivals attract devotees and tourists alike.
Location: Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
How To Reach
By Air: Madurai has its own airport, Madurai International Airport, with regular flights from major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi service to reach the temple.
By Road: Madurai is well-connected by road, and you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. Local transportation options like cycle rickshaws and e-rickshaws are also available.
By Train: Madurai Junction is the main railway station in Madurai and is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
Importance: Somnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds immense religious significance for Lord Shiva devotees. It is believed to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas and is considered a sacred pilgrimage site. The temple has withstood centuries of destruction and reconstruction, signifying the eternal presence of Lord Shiva.
Story: According to legends, the Somnath Temple has a rich history associated with various dynasties and invasions. It is said to have been built by the moon god, Som, at Lord Brahma's request. The temple has faced several invasions and was destroyed multiple times, only to be rebuilt each time as a symbol of resilience and devotion. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings, experience its historical significance, and witness the divine presence of Lord Shiva.
Location: Somnath Temple is located in Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Gujarat, India.
How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport, which is about 90 kilometers away from Somnath. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Somnath.
By Road: Somnath is well-connected by road, and you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from nearby cities like Veraval or Junagadh.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Veraval Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Veraval, you can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
Note: Please note that the modes of transportation mentioned are based on general information and it is advisable to check for the most up-to-date transportation options and schedules before planning your visit.
Bottom Line
Each of these temples holds its significance and is associated with mythological stories that highlight the divine presence and grace of Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati. Visiting these temples during Sawan provides devotees with an opportunity to connect with the divine, seek blessings, and deepen their spiritual journey.
If you're looking for the best holiday packages to embark on a divine adventure during the sacred month of Sawan, EaseMyTrip is your go-to platform for incredible travel experiences.
From the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi to the serene Bhimashankar Temple in Maharashtra, each destination offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the divine presence of the divine couple. Our comprehensive guide provides the proper locations of these temples and guides you on how to reach them, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
Get ready to Join us on this incredible journey, unleash your inner explorer, and let the divine adventure begin!