Shiva is considered as the God of Gods in Hindu Mythology. Shiva has no beginning and no end and the God of Destruction is equally famous outside India. In ancient times, Shiva was worshipped in many places and the deity and the temple still present at those places. The temples are not only famous for being Shiva Temples outside India but also for archaeological excellence.
1. Prambanan Temple, Java, Indonesia
The temple was built in the 9th century by the Mataram Kingdom. The huge temple which is also the largest temple in South East Asia is dedicated to Lord Shiva. However, Vishnu and Brahma are also worshipped in this temple. There are many temples around a 47 meter high center building. The temple dedicated to Shiva is the inner most one and is also the largest among the others.
2. Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu, Nepal
This is one of the oldest temples outside India and is famous for the uniqueness. The temple was believed to be formed during 753 AD. However, reconstruction was forced due to excessive damage due to termites. The temple is made of Pagoda style of Nepal. The lingam inside the temple has four faces and is one meter high.
3. Katasraj Temple, Chakwal, Pakistan
This is one of the oldest Shiva Temples present in the world. The legends say that The Pandavas took shelter at this temple during the exile. The presence of this temple is found since Mahabharata times. However, the legend of the temple goes even before that. It is said that the pool adjacent to the temple is made of the yeara of Lord Shiva when his wife Sati died. The bathing at the pool is also considered sacred. There are seven temples inside the temple house, but the temple of shiva is made on the square platform. It is situated near Lahore.
4. Munneswaram Temple, Munneswaram, Sri Lanka
The legacy of the temple goes back to Ramayana time. The ancient temple has enriched history and it is said to be the temple where Rama offered puja to Lord Shiva after defeating Ravana. The houses of the temple are known for central and the highest one that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Some part of the beautiful temple was destroyed by the Portuguese invaders.
5. Arulmigu Sri RajaKaliamman Temple, Johar Baru, Malaysia
This is one of the most famous Shiva temples outside India. The temple in Malaysia was established in 1922. The temple was not huge in size when it was established. However, as the time progressed, the temple kept on growing. The prime attraction of the temple is the Rudraksha bed made at the back of the temple. Almost 300000 rudrakshas are used in the temple to make the bed.
There are many other Shiva Temples present outside India. The existence of temples in Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, United States of America, Canada are very common. The popularity and the religious values of the temples are no lesser in any manner. Lord Shiva is one of the most famous Hindu Gods and the temples of Shiva are equally famous in and outside India.
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