Bihar is home to some of India’s oldest and most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. These sacred sites not only hold immense religious value but also reflect the deep-rooted culture and spiritual history of the region. Whether you’re a devotee or a cultural explorer, visiting these Shiva temples in Bihar offers a deeply divine experience.
Know about Bihar’s most significant Shiva temples, from Ugna Mahadev to Budhanath Temple, and the vibrant pilgrimages that bring them to life during the holy month of Shravan.
List of Top 12 Shiva Temples in Bihar
Let’s take a spiritual tour of the most famous and powerful Shiva temples across Bihar.
1. Ugna Mahadev Temple, Madhubani
Ugna Mahadev Temple in Madhubani is deeply connected to the legendary poet-saint Kavi Vidyapati, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. According to folklore, Lord Shiva disguised himself as “Ugna,” Vidyapati’s servant, to be near his devotee.
This temple sits in a serene village setting and is often visited by those seeking divine blessings in a peaceful ambiance.
- Best Time to Visit: February (during Shivratri), winter months (Nov–Feb)
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Madhubani Railway Station (10 km)
- Nearest Airport: Darbhanga Airport (55 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Madhubani Bus Stand
2. Ajgaibinath Temple, Sultanganj
Located on the banks of the holy Ganga River, Ajgaibinath Temple is one of the most visited Shiva temples in Bihar. It’s famous for the Shravani Mela, when devotees collect holy water from here and walk barefoot to Deoghar’s Baba Baidyanath Dham.
The temple is believed to be over a thousand years old and is a prime destination for Kanwariyas during the monsoon season.
- Best Time to Visit: July–August (Shravani Mela) and during Maha Shivratri
- Temple Timings: 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Sultanganj Railway Station (1 km)
- Nearest Airport: Patna Airport (200 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Sultanganj Bus Stand
3. Brahmeshwar Nath Mandir, Buxar
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Brahmeshwar Nath, and it holds great spiritual importance for locals in the Buxar region. It is surrounded by greenery and offers a calm environment for meditation and prayer.
Brahmeshwar Nath Mandir is especially crowded during Maha Shivratri and Mondays in the month of Shravan.
- Best Time to Visit: Shravan month (July–August), Maha Shivratri
- Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Buxar Railway Station (20 km)
- Nearest Airport: Patna Airport (120 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Itarhi Bus Stop
4. Baba Garib Nath Temple, Muzaffarpur
One of the most famous Shiva temples in North Bihar, Baba Garib Nath Temple is believed to be self-manifested. It’s located in the heart of Muzaffarpur city and sees heavy footfall throughout the year.
The temple becomes vibrant during Shivratri, Shravan Mondays, and other Shiva-related festivals.
- Best Time to Visit: Shivratri and Shravan
- Temple Timings: 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Muzaffarpur Junction (2 km)
- Nearest Airport: Patna Airport (75 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Muzaffarpur Bus Stand
5. Kusheshwar Dham, Darbhanga
Also known as Baba Kusheshwar Nath, this temple is located in Darbhanga and is considered very sacred in the Mithilanchal region. It is believed that Lord Shiva resides here in the form of Kusheshwar Nath.
The temple attracts thousands of devotees especially during the month of Shravan, when water is offered by Kanwariyas.
- Best Time to Visit: Shravan and Shivratri
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Samastipur Junction (40 km)
- Nearest Airport: Darbhanga Airport (60 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Kusheshwar Asthan Bus Stand
6. Koteshwarnath Dham, Gaya
Located near the sacred city of Gaya, Koteshwarnath Dham is one of the ancient Shiva temples in Bihar. It is believed to be one of the temples established by Lord Vishwakarma and holds deep mythological significance.
Pilgrims also combine their visit here with the famous Vishnupad Temple nearby.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Gaya Junction (20 km)
- Nearest Airport: Gaya Airport (25 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Tekari Bus Stand
7. Mahendranath Temple, Siwan
Mahendranath Temple is an important Shiva temple in Siwan district and sees a large number of devotees during Maha Shivratri and Shravan.
It’s believed that this temple dates back to the ancient times and still holds a powerful spiritual vibration.
- Best Time to Visit: Shivratri and Shravan
- Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Siwan Junction (8 km)
- Nearest Airport: Patna Airport (150 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Siwan Bus Stand
8. Hariharnath Temple, Sonpur
This historic temple is known for being part of the Harihar Kshetra Mela, Asia’s largest cattle fair. The temple is dedicated to Hari (Vishnu) and Har (Shiva) together, making it unique among Shiva temples in Bihar.
The architecture and festive vibe during Kartik Purnima are unmissable.
- Best Time to Visit: Kartik Purnima Fair, Nov–Feb
- Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Sonpur Junction (1.5 km)
- Nearest Airport: Patna Airport (30 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Sonpur Bus Stand
9. Chaumukhi Mahadev, Vaishali
Chaumukhi Mahadev Temple is known for its unique four-faced Shiva Lingam, symbolizing the presence of Shiva in all directions. It’s a major spiritual site and a hidden gem in Vaishali district.
It is often visited by devotees seeking peace and liberation.
- Best Time to Visit: Nov to Feb and during Shivratri
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Hajipur Junction (12 km)
- Nearest Airport: Patna Airport (35 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Vaishali Bus Stand
10. Mundeshwari Dham, Kaimur
This is one of the oldest functional temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti. Located atop the Kaimur Hills, Mundeshwari Dham dates back to the 2nd century CE.
The temple offers a beautiful mix of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Bhabua Road (22 km)
- Nearest Airport: Varanasi Airport (100 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Bhabua Bus Stand
11. Ashok Dham, Lakhisarai
Ashok Dham, also known as Indradameshwar Mahadev Mandir, is a grand and beautifully built Shiva temple in Lakhisarai. It is known for its massive Shivling and spacious temple complex.
This temple is a popular destination for devotees from across the state.
- Best Time to Visit: Shivratri and Shravan month
- Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Lakhisarai Junction (3 km)
- Nearest Airport: Patna Airport (125 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Lakhisarai Bus Stand
12. Budhanath Temple, Bhagalpur
Located on the banks of the Ganga, Budhanath Temple is one of the most famous Shiva temples in Eastern Bihar. The temple has a calm vibe and is often filled with the sounds of mantras and bells.
It is considered one of the top temples to visit during Maha Shivratri in the state.
- Best Time to Visit: Shivratri and Shravan
- Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Nearest Railway Station: Bhagalpur Junction (3 km)
- Nearest Airport: Deoghar Airport (120 km)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Bhagalpur Bus Stand
Conclusion: Why Visit These Shiva Temples in Bihar?
These 12 Shiva temples in Bihar offer a spiritual journey through the heart of India’s divine heritage. From mystical legends to vibrant festivals, each temple tells a story that touches the soul.
If you’re planning a spiritual retreat, a family religious tour, or simply a peaceful getaway, these sacred Shiva temples in Bihar are worth exploring. Each site offers not just darshan, but also cultural richness and architectural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which is the oldest Shiva temple in Bihar?
A. Mundeshwari Dham in Kaimur is considered one of the oldest functional Shiva temples in India, dating back to the 4th century.
Q2. What is the best time to visit Shiva temples in Bihar?
A. The best time to visit is from October to March. However, months like Shravan (July–August) and festivals like Mahashivratri are particularly auspicious.
Q3. Are all these temples easily accessible by road and rail?
A. Yes, most temples are well-connected via nearby railway stations, bus stands, and highways. Some temples also have nearby airports for easier access.
Q4. Are there any major festivals celebrated at these temples?
A. Yes, Mahashivratri and Shravan month are the most celebrated times, drawing large numbers of devotees for darshan and Jalabhishek rituals.
Q5. Can I visit all these temples in a single trip?
A. While it’s possible with careful planning, a comfortable trip would require at least 7–10 days. You may also consider dividing the journey by region.
Explore More
Planning a full Shiva circuit across India? Don’t miss our guide on Shiva Temples in South India to continue your divine trail.
