Out-of-Country Mahadev Temples: A Complete Travel Guide
Lord Shiva (Mahadev) is worshipped worldwide. This guide highlights major Shiva temples outside India and gives practical travel tips for pilgrims and curious travellers.
Pashupatinath Temple — Kathmandu, Nepal
One of the most significant Shiva temples outside India, Pashupatinath sits on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus.
- Best time to visit: October to December and February to April.
- Highlights: 5th-century architecture, evening aarti on the Bagmati river, and the grand Maha Shivratri celebration.
- How to reach: Kathmandu has a direct international airport. The temple is about 5 km from Tribhuvan International Airport.
Muktinath Temple — Mustang, Nepal
Muktinath is mainly known as a Vishnu shrine but also houses a sacred Shiva presence called "Jwala Mai." It is high in the Himalayas at about 3,710 meters.
- Best time to visit: March to June.
- Highlights: Natural eternal flame, dramatic Himalayan landscape, and 108 water spouts for ritual bathing.
- How to reach: Fly Kathmandu → Pokhara → Jomsom, then jeep/trek to Muktinath.
Munneswaram Temple — Chilaw, Sri Lanka
About 80 km from Colombo, Munneswaram is an ancient Shiva temple linked to Ramayana legends. It has deep local significance and historic architecture.
- Best time to visit: July (Perahera festival) and February.
- Highlights: 1,000+ year-old shrine, Dravidian-style features, and rich historic legends.
- How to reach: Bus or taxi from Colombo to Chilaw.
