About Bharat Mandir
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours approximately
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh railway station, 2 km away
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, 18 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Rishikesh bus station, 1 km away
Bharat Mandir is an ancient and revered temple in the heart of Rishikesh, dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. Believed to be the oldest temple in the city, it holds immense spiritual and historical significance. In 789 AD, Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya reinstalled the Shaligram idol here on Basant Panchami to revive Sanatan Dharma. This tradition continues with an annual ritual bath and procession from Mayakund.
According to legend, Sage Raibhya Rishi’s deep penance pleased Lord Vishnu, who manifested and chose to reside here as Hrishikesh Narayan giving the city its name. The temple is also mentioned in scriptures like the Mahabharata, Vishnu Puran, and Shrimad Bhagwat, making it one of the most spiritual places to visit in Rishikesh.
Devotees believe 108 circumambulations of the deity on Akshaya Tritiya fulfill wishes. The temple complex houses 250-year-old sacred trees Vat, Pipal, and Bail symbolizing the Tridev: Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. A museum within the temple showcases excavated artifacts, including pottery and idols of Lord Tirupati, Badrinath, and Hrishikesh Narayan.
Bharat Mandir Highlights
• Admire the ancient architecture of Bharat Temple, believed to be one of the oldest temples in Rishikesh, established by Adi Shankaracharya.
• Explore Bhadra Kali Temple, known for its fierce energy, vibrant rituals, and grand Navratri celebrations.
• Marvel at the sacred Shaligram idol, carved from a single black stone and revered for its unique spiritual aura.
• Uncover the treasures of the Bharat Mandir Museum, where ancient idols, pottery, and stone carvings reveal Rishikesh’s cultural heritage.
• Experience the spiritual energy during festivals like Basant Panchami, when the idol is taken on a traditional procession around the city.
How To Reach Bharat Mandir
By road- The Bharat Mandir is located around 2 km from the Rishikesh city center and can be reached in approximately 10 minutes via Dehradun Road and ISBT road.
Best Time To Visit Bharat Mandir
Peak Season (October to February):
- Weather insights- Pleasant weather, clear skies, temperatures between 8°C and 34°C.
- Things to do- Explore the temple, seek blessings from Lord Hrishikesh Narayan, attend Basant Panchami.
Moderate Season (March to May):
- Weather insights- Hot and humid, temperatures between 24°C and 36°C.
- Things to do- Visit the temple, seek blessings from Lord Hrishikesh Narayan, attend rituals.
Low Season (June to September):
- Weather insights- Moderate rainfall, potentially humid with temperatures between 24°C and 35°C.
- Things to do- Explore the temple, seek blessings from Lord Hrishikesh Narayan, attend poojas.
Bharat Mandir Other Essential Information
Know before you go to Bharat Mandir:
- Recommended to dress modestly and respectfully, as it's a sacred site.
- Carry water bottles to stay hydrated while exploring the temple.
- Carry sunscreen,hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Avoid bringing non-vegetarian food as it is strictly prohibited.
Explore the temple
Bharat Mandir is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan, housing a 5-foot idol carved from a single black shaligram stone. The idols of Lord Tirupati, Badrinath, and Hrishikesh Narayan are all carved from the same sacred rock. Built with massive stone walls and topped with a 125-tonne dome, the temple stands as a remarkable feat of ancient architecture. It was restored by Adi Shankaracharya in the 9th century, who installed a sacred Sri Yantra to unify five Vedic traditions. It was later renovated in 1832 by Maharaja Yashwant Singh of Nabha.
Offer your prayers
Bharat Mandir resonates with daily poojas, aartis, and Vedic chants, keeping its spiritual energy alive. During Basant Panchami, the temple celebrates the idol’s reinstallation with a holy bath at Mayakund and a grand procession. On Akshaya Tritiya, the Lord’s feet are unveiled, and devotees perform 108 parikramas, believed to fulfill wishes.
Discover the Museum
The museum at Bharat Mandir houses artifacts unearthed during temple excavations, including pottery, ornamental bricks, and idols, all certified by the Archaeology Department of Uttar Pradesh. Dating from the 3rd to 14th century, the highlights include sculptures of Yaksha, Yakshini, a four-armed Vishnu, and a lion-headed figure. The museum offers a glimpse into Rishikesh’s rich heritage and inspires further historical and archaeological exploration.
Tourism Board Alliances
Bharat Mandir FAQs
What is the story of Bharat Mandir Rishikesh?
Bharat Mandir is one of the most sacred and ancient temples in Rishikesh. According to legend, Sage Raibhya Rishi performed deep penance at this very spot, which led to the divine appearance of Lord Vishnu as Hrishikesh Narayan. It is from this sacred event that the town later derived its name Rishikesh. Mentioned in various mythological texts, the temple has been restored several times throughout history, continuing to stand as a timeless symbol of devotion and spiritual heritage
Who is the main deity of Bharat Mandir?
The main deity of Bharat Mandir is Lord Vishnu, worshipped in the form of Hrishikesh Narayan. The idol is uniquely carved from a single piece of sacred black granite known as Shaligram, revered for its spiritual significance.
Why is the temple referred to as Hrishikesh Narayan Temple?
Bharat Mandir is referred to as Hrishikesh Narayan Temple as Lord Vishnu is believed to have taken form as Hrishikesh Narayan at this spot. Moved by the devotion of Sage Raibhya Rishi, Lord Vishnu chose to reside here eternally, giving both the temple and the city the name Hrishikesh.
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