There are 6 sects of Shaivism. These are: -
Gorakhnatha Shaivism: This sect is also known as Siddha Siddhanta. This sect has been named after Gorakhnatha. This school was primarily ascetic and revealed many secrets of samadhi, kundalini yoga and hatha yoga.

Ganapati Sect: It was a departure from the main principles of Shaivism. It is closer to the tantric form of worship in ancient India. There are certain doctrines in this branch that are similar to those of Shaivism Ganesha. He, too, is worshipped as the ultimate master. He is seen as the creator, preserver and destroyer of the universe. Lord Ganesha is also associated with the deity of Shakti.

Kashmiri Shaivism: Also popularly known as Pratyabhijna Darshana, this school of Shaivism explains the creation of soul and world as Lord Shiva`s shinning forth in His dynamic first impulse. Shiva is surpassing and immanent.

Pasupatha Shaivism: The most ancient branch of Shaivism is Pasupatha Shaivism. It dates back to Indus Valley Civilization and till date remains the most controversial one. Shiva, Himself, is considered to be the founder of this sect. It was He who passed the knowledge to the ancient sages.

Saiva Siddhanta: This is one of the oldest schools of Shaivism. Dating back to almost 2000 years it was mostly popular in Kashmir and South India. According to this doctrine Jiva, the soul created by the Lord is fated to merge with him. Lord Shiva is looked upon as transcendent, immanent and He is beginningless and endless.

Vira Shaivism: According to this sect God and Jiva are inseparable. However the difference lies in the activity of Shakti manifested by the Supreme Power. During creation Shiva remains immutable while Shakti manifests the world. Devi or Shakti is an inseparable aspect of the Lord.

Shaivism largely owns its recognition to the sages who popularized it. Manikkavachaka, Appar, Jnanasambhanda and Sundarmurthy are some of the names that were instrumental in propagating the doctrines of Shaivism throughout India. These saints are considered to be the founder of the 4 important paths of Shaivism- sat marga, dasa marga, the satpura marga and the saha marga. Besides them Sakyanayanar, a Buddhist monk, also dedicated his life to the devotion of Lord Shankar or Shiva. Auvai, a woman saint from Tamil Nadu and Nandanar were also some of the well-recognized saints of Shaivism cult.

It was because of the simple dogmas and selfless devotions of the sages that Shaivism became popular in ancient India and today it is considered as the foundation of ancient Indian culture.