A Famous Shiva Temple
A revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is believed to be the same place where Lord Shiva drank the poison that came out of Samudra manthan.
Suggested Duration - 30 Minutes to 1 hours
Visitors can expect a peaceful ambiance, scenic views of the surrounding hills, and traditional rituals performed by the temple priests. The trek to the temple is scenic, with dense forests and a view of the Ganga River.
Nestled in the divine city of Rishikesh, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a revered place of worship. Rishikesh, often referred to as the 'Yoga Capital of the World', is a city of spiritual significance, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and the serene Ganges.
The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated atop a hill at a height of 1330 metres and is surrounded by dense forests. The temple is named after Lord Shiva, who is also known as Neelkanth, and is believed to be the site where he consumed the poison that emerged during the 'Samudra Manthan'.
Known For | Its spiritual significance, serene location, and the annual Maha Shivaratri festival. |
---|---|
Timings | The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. |
Entry Fee | There is no entry fee to visit the temple. |
Tips | It's recommended to visit early in the morning to witness the sunrise and avoid the afternoon heat. |
Required Time | Visitors typically spend around 1-2 hours at the temple. |
Restricted Items | Non-vegetarian food, alcoholic beverages, and leather items are not allowed inside the temple. |
The temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple complex also houses several shops where devotees can buy religious items and souvenirs.
The temple exhibits a traditional Hindu architectural style with beautifully carved images of various deities. The main shrine houses a Shiva lingam.
The evening aarti is a spiritual experience, with the temple premises illuminated and the air filled with devotion.
Nearby attractions include the Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, and the Triveni Ghat.
The best time to visit Rishikesh, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is during the monsoon months from July to August when the annual Maha Shivaratri festival is celebrated.
The temple can be reached by road from Rishikesh. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway station is in Rishikesh.
Rishikesh is also known for its yoga retreats and adventure sports like white-water rafting. If you're visiting during the summer, stay hydrated as the temperatures can soar.
Other attractions in and around Rishikesh include the Beatles Ashram, Parmarth Niketan, and the Rajaji National Park.
How to explore a place by yourself?
How to choose a destination to travel to?
How do you plan for the perfect trip to any destination?