Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Vital Information for Visitors

Address:

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Pauri Garhwal, Near Ram Jhula, Rishikesh (22 kms), Uttarakhand

Open & Close:

Open on all days – 05:00 AM – 06:00 PM

Entry Fees:

Free

Duration:

Approx 1-2 hrs

Dedicated To:

Lord Shiva

Famous For:

Sculptures portraying Samudra Manthan stories

Being an ancient temple and perched on a hill at height of 1675 meters, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a must visit place in Rishikesh. Regarded as one of the prominent tourist attractions in Rishikesh,Neelkanth Mahadev Templeis one of the most revered holy shrines of the Hindus. The leading deity of the temple Shiva Lingam is placed in the sanctum sanctorum in phallic structure. Lord Shiva is worshipped as Neelkanth (Blue Throat) because he gulped in the venom that came out due to churning of ocean (Samudra Manthan). Once drank the poison, Lord Shiva’s throat turned blue and from that time he is known as Neelkantha. In brief, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the Hindu Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu & Mahesh).

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand is 32 kms from Rishikesh. It is a thrilling experience to reach Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, surrounded by the hills of Vishnukoot, Brahmakoot, and Manikoot. In order to reach Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, the tourists follow steep and narrow roads on the hill which offers beautiful view of River Ganga. Being encircled by lush green hills and rivers, many pilgrims come to this temple by trekking, which takes around four hours to reach there from Rishikesh. Before taking a step into this Mahadev temple, the pilgrims take a dip in the natural spring in the premises. Honey, fruits, coconut, milk, and flowers are some ingredients which are offered by the pilgrims to the lord in this temple. The best time to visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple on the occasion of Shivratri (Feb-Mar) and Shivratri of Shravan (July-Aug). In brief, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a place in Rishikesh to get Lord Shiva's blessings.