One of the not to be missed places to visit near Rishikesh, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is around 32km from the city limits and is located at a height of 1,330m above the sea level in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Among all the temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple holds a major prominence among the devotees. Tucked between the pictorial valleys of Manikot, Brahmakot and Vishnukot.
Rishikesh is known for many things amongst which stands tall is the famous Shiva Temple called the Neelkanth Mahadev temple. The stupor and enchantment of the delightful city tells the most ancient of all tales and significant happenings in Hindu Mythology.
Located at a distance of 32 km from Rishikesh, the temple is a sacred pilgrim spot. The Shiva abode is situated at a height of 1330 meters amidst the valleys of Manikoot, Brahmakoot, and Vishnukoot. The temple is surrounded by dense forests and sturdy mountain ranges of Nar-Narayan on the confluence of Rivers Pankaja and Madhumati.
During the months of Shrawan and Shivratri, huge numbers of followers turn out and grace this place and express their devotion to the mighty Shiva. One can offer prayers or get a significant Pooja done by the revered Hindu Priests to clear doshas (faults) in the stars. The splendid architecture of the temple will stun you because of the execution of fine detail without the use of technology. Outside the temple, you will find several stalls stocking memoirs and Pooja ingredients.
The way to the temple also is thrilling which is why several visitors prefer trekking their way up the temple. Within the temple is a natural spring of water where devotees usually take bath. People can make offerings of coconut, milk, honey, flowers, and fruits to the Lord. This ancient temple of Lord Shiva is unmissable not just for the mystical tale that encapsulates it, but also for the lovely sights of the mountains and valleys it showcases while you are here.
How To Reach
The nearest accessible location from Neelkanth temple is Rishikesh which is 32 km away from the temple. You can reach the temple via Rishikesh which is the easiest way to get here without delay.
By road: The road networks and its conditions are good which makes the road drive easy and quick. The well-connected roads can be used to reach by hiring or renting a car from Ram Jhula.
By train: The nearest railway station to the temple is the Rishikesh railway station which is nearly 30 km away. You can hire a public transport bus or a cab to reach the temple.
By air: If you want to come closest to the temple by flight then we suggest you take a cab from the Jolly Grant Airport from Dehradun which is 49 km away.
Best Time To Visit
The temple is open throughout the year and pilgrims in thousands come here to pay their respect to the Lord. The best time to visit the temple is during Shrawan month and when it is Shivratri. The celebrations here comprises of dazzling performances, music, detailed Pooja ceremony and decoration of the entire temple in flowers and light.
Other Essential Information
- Location: The popular place of worship is located 32 km from Rishikesh in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The complete address for the location is Kotdwar – Pauri Road, Kotdwar, and Uttarakhand – 246149.
- Timings: The visiting time for the temple is between 5.00 am to 6.00 pm
- Fee: No fee is required to enter the premises. The Pooja or donation charges are different according to what the visitor requires.
Places to Visit Near Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
1. Shri Sachcha Akhileshwar Mahadev Temple: Another beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, tourists come here to discover inner peace and tranquility. You can also do an Abhishek in a minimal donation.
2. Tera Manzil Temple: This is a landmark location in Rishikesh near the Laxman Jhula. The uniqueness of the temple lies in the presence of 13 floors which houses all Hindu Gods as per the Hindu scriptures. Laxman Jhula is visible from the 13th floor and the sight of the town of Rishikesh and the Jhula will sway you away.
3. Prakriti Vedic Spa: To add to your relaxation you can also visit the Prakriti Vedic spa and get a massage done by an expert masseuse. The interiors are calming and the therapists are well-versed with the pressure that needs to be applied. Hot Ayurvedic oils combined with professional relaxing massages, the spa is unmissable.
4. Scorpion Handicrafts: For all the handicraft lovers, this place signifies some of the most stunning collections of pants, shawls, and dresses apart from varieties of handicrafts available here. Once you are here you will end up staying more and spending more because of the vivacious collection on display here.
5. Tattva Ayurvedic Centre: Yet, another place for a relaxing massage is the Tattva Ayurvedic center. The treatments and therapies here are inspired by Tattva which are the five elements of the body. The wellness therapies are ideated around the 5 important elements and provide a soothing experience to the visitors.
6. Gita Bhavan: Evenings at the Gita Bhavan temple are breezy and blustery. In combination with the views of the river flowing by, Gita Bhavan is a peaceful abode where you can sit in silence for hours. The desi Ghee sweets available here sell like hot cakes along with Ayurvedic oils which are prepared combining natural herbs and aromatic plants.
History of Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
The sacred pilgrim spot of the Hindus and the revered holy shrine visited by thousands of pilgrims, the Neelkanth Mahadev temple is located on a hill above the Swarg Ashram in Haridwar. The temple is fondly dedicated to Lord Shiva who was considered the most convoluted and authoritative of all gods in the Hindu Pantheon. The construction and placement of the temple have a different story to tell. According to popular mythological stories, Lord Shiva drank the poison which appeared as a result of the churning of the ocean or the ‘Sagar Manthan’.
The premise of the temple is touted to be the same place where this incident occurred. When the Lord drank the poison, his throat became blue. This is the reason why the temple is also known as ‘Neelkanth” which means ‘Blue Throat’. The main temple has a Shiva Lingam and the aura surrounding the temple is ethereal and subtle. Devotees also get Prasad offerings from the temple along with Vibhuti and Chandan.
The temple also observes two fairs annually, one on the occasion of Shivratri and the other between July and August in the month of Shrawan. During this time, devotees consider it their privilege and good luck to be a part of the celebrations and Pooja.
Facts about Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
1. The temple has many interesting things going for it which makes it an intriguing spot full of mystical tales.
2. According to Hindu mythology, the place got its name after the popular tale of Lord Shiva consuming poison. Due to the intake of the poison, his throat turned blue; hence the name Neelkanth was appropriate for the site.
3. Inside the temple, the walls depict the story of Samudra Manthan to honor the sacrifice made by Mahadev for the well-being of the entire World.
4. There is also a sacred Peepal tree on the premises which has a certain belief attached to it. Pilgrims tie threads around the trunk of the tree and pray to get their wishes fulfilled and souls purified.
Tips for Visiting Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
1. We believe that the best time to go is to enjoy the celebrations of the devotees during July and August as well as Shivratri – the night for Lord Shiva. If you are unable to visit the temple at this time, we will recommend you to visit here between October and March and avoid the rainy season.
2. If you are interested to carry out the rituals conducted early in the morning, you should be empty-stomach to take part in the sacrament.
3. You should also do your homework before visiting the temple. All the stories and myths surrounding the temple will help you understand the architecture and wall carvings done inside the temple.
4. There are no professional guides available here hence we recommend you hire a guide from a professional agency supplying them.
Things to do in Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
1. Prayer and Pooja: Offer your prayers and engage in devotional Pooja to Lord Shiva proclaimed as the creator of the universe.
2. Admire the architecture: The beautiful carvings and intricate architecture of the temple has to be admired and loved. People often come here to visually treat themselves and click pictures of the temple and its construction.
3. Take bath: If you want to relax and get lost in the celestial aura of the temple, do not forget to take a bath in the hot springs that come naturally in the temple premises.
4. Buy yourself a memory: From the various stalls stationed outside the temple, you can buy idols and Shiva accessories for yourself and your loved ones.
5. Visit various places located close to the temple: Rishikesh is about adventure and purity. The aura of this place is one of its kind and true to its name; it has several places that can be visited. Likewise, Near the Neelkanth temple are several places where you can get calm and serenity you have been looking for.
The Rishikul Yogshala has a cut status of being a place where Yoga is taught. Several tourists visit here to learn the nuances of the art. You will also enjoy the scenic spots of the Khirsu village at the Garhwal Hills and love the pictorial views that the Chaukhamba point has in its store.
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