Neelkanth Mahadev Temple image

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Find peace and enlightenment at the sacred Neelkanth Temple

  • Get Directions
  • Enquire Now
  • Share
  • Leave a review
  • Improve Details

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple highlights

  • Visiting hours: You can visit the Neelkanth Mahadev temple between the hours of 5.00 am and 6:00 pm.
  • Entry fee: There is no charge to enter the building. Depending on what the guest needs, different Pooja or contribution fees apply.
  • Location: The temple is located about 40 km from the city of Rishikesh and is situated amidst the beautiful Himalayan range.
  • Dedicated to Lord Shiva: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
  • Mythology: According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva drank the poison that emerged from the sea during the process of creation and held it in his throat, causing his throat to turn blue. Hence, he is known as Neelkanth, the blue-throated one.
  • Natural spring: The temple complex features a natural spring that is considered sacred by devotees.
  • Scenic surroundings: The temple is surrounded by lush green forests and breathtaking mountain views, making it a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and trekkers.
  • Annual festival: The temple is the site of an annual festival known as the Neelkanth Mela, which attracts thousands of devotees from all over India.
  • Religious and spiritual significance: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India and holds great religious and spiritual significance for Hindus.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple overview

The Neelkanth Mahadev temple, a well-known Shiva temple, is only one of the features that make Rishikesh famous. The most ancient of all tales and key events in Hindu mythology are told through the lethargy and magic of the charming city.

The temple is a revered pilgrimage site and located 32 kilometres away from Rishikesh. In the centre of the Manikoot, Brahmakoot, and Vishnukoot valleys, at a height of 1330 metres, is where Shiva's residence is located. On the confluence of the rivers Pankaja and Madhumati, the temple is surrounded by thick woods and strong mountain ranges of Nar-Narayan.

Huge crowds of devotees visit this location during the months of Shrawan and Shivratri to show their support for the powerful Shiva. To correct doshas (faults) in the stars, one can make prayers or hire respected Hindu priests to perform a big Pooja. You will be astounded by the temple's magnificent architecture because every last detail was carefully executed without the aid of modern technology. There are various booths around the temple that sell souvenirs and Pooja supplies.

Many visitors prefer to hike their way up the temple because the path leading there is also exciting. There is a natural spring inside the temple where worshippers frequently bathe. Offerings can be made with coconut, milk, honey, and flowers.

Ideal season to visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Rishikesh

The temple is open all year long, and hundreds of pilgrims flock here to worship the Lord. Shivratri and the month of Shrawan are the ideal times to visit the temple. The festivities include spectacular performances, music, a thorough Pooja service, and the illumination of the whole temple.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple History

The Neelkanth Mahadev temple, a respected holy place visited by lakhs of pilgrims, is situated on a hilltop above the Swarg Ashram in Haridwar. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva, who was regarded as the most complex and powerful deity in the Hindu pantheon. A distinct narrative can be drawn from the temple's design and location. Popular myths claim that Lord Shiva ingested the poison that appeared as a result of the churning of the ocean, also known as the 'Sagar Manthan.'

It is claimed that the incident happened on the premises of the shrine. The Lord's throat turned blue after consuming the poison. Because of this, the temple is often referred to as 'Neelkanth,' which means 'Blue Throat.' A Shiva Lingam may be seen in the main temple, and a delicate, ethereal vibe permeates the entire complex. Along with Vibhuti and Chandan, the temple also provides Prasad offerings to the worshippers.
The temple also holds two fairs a year, one during Shivratri and the other in the months of Shrawan between July and August. Devotees view participating in the festivities and Pooja at this time as a privilege and a sign of good fortune.

Neelkanth Mahadev's surrounding locations to check out in Rishikesh

1. Shri Sachcha Akhileshwar Mahadev Temple: Visitors visit to this stunning Shiva temple in search of solitude and inner peace. You can do an Abhishek as well for a small gift.

2. Tera Manzil Temple: This famous structure is situated close to Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh. The temple is special because it has 13 storeys, each of which is home to a different Hindu deity as described in the Hindu scriptures. From the 13th floor, you can see Lakshman Jhula, and the view of Rishikesh and the Jhula will make you want to leave.

3. Prakriti Vedic Spa: To further your state of relaxation, you can stop by the Prakriti Vedic spa and hire a professional masseuse to give you a massage. The decor is soothing, and the therapists are knowledgeable about the appropriate pressure to use. The spa is not to be missed because it offers expert soothing massages while using hot Ayurvedic oils.

4. Scorpion Handicrafts: This location is known for having some of the most beautiful selections of pants, shawls, and gowns, in addition to the various types of handicrafts that are offered here. Due to the vibrant assortment on exhibit here, you'll end up lingering longer and spending more money once you arrive.

5. Tattva Ayurvedic Centre: The Tattva Ayurvedic centre is another another location for a soothing massage. The five aspects of the body, known as Tattva, are the inspiration for the treatments and therapies offered here. The guests can encounter a calming experience thanks to the wellness therapies, which are designed around the five key components.

6. Geeta Bhavan: The Geeta Bhavan temple experiences blustery, windy evenings. Geeta Bhavan is a serene location where you can spend a lot of time alone, especially with its riverside views. The ayurvedic oils made here using natural herbs and aromatic plants, as well as the desi Ghee sweets, are both in high demand.

Visitor advice at the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

1. According to our opinion, the greatest time to visit is during Shivratri, the night dedicated to Lord Shiva, as well as the festivals held by devotees in July and August. If you are unable to visit the temple now, we advise avoiding the rainy season and coming here between October and March.

2. If you want to participate in the morning rites, you should be empty-handed in order to receive the sacrament.

3. You should research the temple before going there. You can better understand the temple's architecture and wall carvings by learning all the myths and legends that surround it.

How to reach Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

32 kilometres separate the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple from Rishikesh's major bus station. By reserving a private or shared cab, you can get there. Even better, go on a public bus that will drop you off near to the temple. You may attempt the 22-kilometer trip to the temple from the well-known Ram Jhula if you're up for some adventure.

Restaurants nearby Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

  • The Siting Element
  • Café de Goa
  • Ramana’s Organic Café
  • Bistro Nirvana
  • Pure Soul – Café and Organic Kitchen
  • Little Buddha Café
  • Ganga View Restaurant
  • Ganga Beach Restaurant

Activities to perform in Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

1. Prayer and Pooja: Pray to Lord Shiva, who is acknowledged as the universe's creator, and perform devotional Pooja in his honour.

2. OBSERVE The architecture: The exquisite architecture and stunning sculptures of the temple must be observed and adored. People frequently visit this location to pamper themselves aesthetically and take photos of the temple and its architecture.

3. Take a bath: Don't forget to take a dip in the hot springs that naturally occur on the temple grounds if you want to unwind and lose yourself in the heavenly aura of the temple.

4. Purchase souvenirs: You may purchase Shiva accessories and idols for yourself and your loved ones from the different kiosks set up outside the temple.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple information

1. The temple has a lot going for it, making it a fascinating location full of mystic beliefs.

2. In Hindu mythology, the location's name derives from the well-known legend of Lord Shiva eating poison. His neck went blue as a result of ingesting the poison, hence Neelkanth was a suitable name for the location.

3. To honour the sacrifice made by Mahadev for the welfare of the entire world, the walls of the temple represent the Samudra Manthan narrative.

4. There is also a holy Peepal tree on the property that is associated with a particular religion. To make their wishes come true, pilgrims wrap threads around the tree's trunk.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Location

Get Directions

Fairly Asked Questions

Some of the common questions asked related to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

What is Neelkanth Temple?
What is the significance of Neelkanth Temple?
How do I reach Neelkanth Temple?
What are the timings for visiting Neelkanth Temple?
Are there any restrictions for visiting Neelkanth Temple?
What is the best time to visit Neelkanth Temple?
Are there any nearby attractions to Neelkanth Temple?
What are the pooja timings in Neelkanth Temple?

You May Also Be Interested In

Cherry-picked tavel destinations in Rishikesh...