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Despite being a Muslim-majority nation, Pakistan still has many ancient Shiva temples, built before the 1947 partition when Hindus had a strong presence in the region
During the month of Sawan, devotees in Pakistan also visit ancient Shiva temples to offer prayers and perform Jalabhishek. (News18 Hindi)
The holy month of Sawan begins on July 11, 2025, during which Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshipped with great devotion. In India, long queues of devotees can be seen outside Shiva temples, offering Jalabhishek (water offerings) to the Shivling. But did you know similar devotion is seen in Pakistan too?
Despite being a Muslim-majority country, Pakistan is home to a Hindu minority. Before the partition of 1947, Hindus had a larger presence in the region, which is why several ancient and historical Shiva temples still stand today.
Temple Where Shiva Cried
Located in Chakwal, Punjab province of Pakistan, the Katasraj Temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in the region. According to legend, when Mata Sati self-immolated, Lord Shiva wept at this very spot. His tears formed a pond now known as Kataksh Kund, considered extremely sacred by devotees.
Interestingly, another such pond is also said to have formed from Shiva’s tears, which is located in Pushkar, Rajasthan. The Katasraj site is also believed to be the place where the famous conversation between Yaksha and Yudhishthir took place.
Shivala Teja Singh Temple In Sialkot
Sialkot, located in Pakistan’s Punjab province near the Indian border, is home to the Shivala Teja Singh Temple, a historic Shiva temple. It was once a major religious centre for the Hindu community before the partition. The temple was built by Sardar Teja Singh, a Sikh religious reformer.
The temple was shut down after 1947 and even faced demolition attempts in 1992. However, it was renovated and reopened to the public in 2015. Even today, during Sawan, local devotees come to offer prayers and perform rituals.
1,000-Year-Old Shiva Temple in Umarkot
In Umarkot, Sindh, stands a 1,000-year-old Shiva temple, believed to be the oldest in the province. A large fair is held here annually on Mahashivratri, drawing Shiva devotees from far and wide. It is also a popular destination during Sawan.
A local legend tells of a shepherd who noticed one of his cows disappearing each day. He followed her and discovered a Shivling, over which the cow would pour her milk. A temple was eventually built at the site in the 10th century.
Other Notable Temples in Sindh and Karachi
In Tando Allahyar, Sindh, there is the Ramapir Temple, where Lord Ramapir is considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Meanwhile, in Karachi, the economic capital of Pakistan, stands the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, which is about 150 years old.
This temple features idols of several Hindu gods and goddesses, including Lord Shiva. Morning and evening prayers echo through the premises, and during Sawan, Hindu devotees living in and around Karachi perform Jalabhishek, offering Belpatra, Dhatura, and seasonal fruits to the deity.
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