About Shiva Temple
A Place for Shiva
A Living Connection with the Divine
Developed over more than 30 years through dedicated yogic practice at Lilleoru, Shiva Temple Estonia is the culmination of a long-standing journey into sacredness, wisdom, and conscious living. The temple was consecrated in a powerful Mahā Kumbhābhiṣekam ceremony on 10 June 2024, marking the birth of a living sanctuary.
About the Temple
A Temple Built in the Siddha Tradition
The Shiva Temple Estonia is not just beautiful—it is alive with presence. Designed and built under the guidance of the Siddha lineage, rooted in the ancient knowledge of Sanātana Dharma, and following the principles of Indian Vastu Shastra, every element—from the east-facing entrance to the sanctum layout and the placement of deities—follows sacred geometry and energetic laws.
Located near Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, the temple is one of the largest of its kind in Europe, spanning 5,500 m². It stands within Lilleoru, a sacred site known for its Flower of Life pattern inspired by ancient geometry and spiritual symbolism.
At its heart stands a uniquely and powerfully installed Shiva Lingam that radiates deep stillness and presence —it is conscious and alive.
The temple is home to nearly 60 deities, including the presence of all Siddhas, Rishis, and Naths, together with their consorts—their energies. This makes the temple not only architecturally unique, but also spiritually rare.
Daily Life in the Temple
Sacred Rhythm and Living Devotion
Each day at the Shiva Temple flows in harmony with ancient rituals that keep the energy vibrant and alive. Mornings begin with the sound of conches and mantras, as light breaks gently into the temple hall. The fragrance of incense fills the air while bells and chants awaken the murtis.
Aartis—ceremonies with light and sound—honor the divine forms with devotion. Yagyas, the sacred fire rituals, transform offerings into purifying energy. Offerings of flowers, water, and food (naivedya) are made with reverence, creating a living bond between the devotee and the Divine.
Visitors are welcome to observe or participate. Even sitting quietly during these ceremonies can shift your inner state. The temple doesn’t ask you to believe—it invites you to experience.
Experience the Temple
A Temple of Prayer, Wisdom, and Transformation
A temple is more than walls and rituals—it is a place where the sacred becomes tangible. The Shiva Temple is filled with a subtle yet powerful presence. The air feels still, the atmosphere quiet yet vibrant. As you enter, you may feel the mind naturally become silent, drawn inward.
In ancient traditions, a temple is where divine energy is concentrated. Just as a fan helps you feel the air that’s already all around, the temple helps you feel the presence of the Divine more clearly. It’s a space for pausing, sensing, and awakening.
If you’re new here, move with awareness. Leave your shoes at the entrance, silence your phone, and let the silence embrace you. Whether you sit in front of the murtis, walk mindfully, or simply observe, allow the space to guide you. Let the temple meet you where you are.
This is a place where stillness opens the way for prayer to be heard and wisdom to be received — in quiet connection with the Divine.
Our Story
A Temple Born of Devotion and Guidance
The Shiva Temple Estonia is the first of its kind in Northern Europe — born through the blessings of Lord Shiva and the living knowledge of the Siddha Yoga lineage. It stands in Lilleoru, a sacred site where spiritual cultivation has been unfolding for over 30 years.
Lilleoru is also home to the Ashram and Siddha Yoga Center, where the ancient teachings of the Siddhas—masters of perfection—are brought to life through initiations, practices, and satsangs. Rooted in a living lineage, Siddha Yoga guides students toward self-realization and true liberation through deep inner transformation.
The founder of the temple is Acharya Ishwaranand (Ingvar Villido) and is lovingly maintained by the Temple Trust and dedicated supporters who care for its energy and sanctity. It is a place for all who seek connection with the Divine and the wisdom of spiritual tradition.
With Deepest Gratitude
Honoring Those Who Made the Temple Possible
The consecration of Shiva Temple Estonia was a sacred milestone made possible by the dedication, generosity, and service of many.
Our heartfelt thanks go to Shrila Shri S. Boopathi Shivacharya Swamigal, the head priest from India who led and performed the entire Mahā Kumbhābhiṣekam and consecration process with profound devotion and precision.
We also extend our sincere gratitude to Estonian architects of the temple Ain Padrik and Ahti Sepsivart, as well as Vastu Shastra sthapathis Maielvel Dhanabal and Manivel Mayilvel.
Our deepest thanks go to Gitanjali Azariah Thelen, together with the entire team at VASTU Services GmbH and their Indian colleagues, whose immense dedication and expertise supported every step of the temple’s planning, construction, and sanctification.
This temple was made possible through donations and the hundreds of volunteers from both the Estonian and Indian communities. Their unity, devotion, and shared purpose turned this into living reality.
Watch an interview with head priest Shrila Shri S. Boopathi Shivacharya Swamigal about the Shiva Temple.Translation by Gitanjali Azariah Thelen.
Support Shiva Temple
Help this sacred space carry its mission
Your generous contributions play a crucial role in sustaining the spiritual sanctity of Shiva temple. By making a donation, you directly support the maintenance of temple's sacred space and the expansion of spiritual offerings. Join us in our mission to uphold the divine presence of Lord Shiva.