Neelkanth Mahadev is a Lord Shiva temple located above on the hills of Rishikesh in Uttarakhand. This temple stands as a symbol of the sacrifice Lord Shiva made during Samundra Manthan. This guide will tell you about the temple’s history, how far it is from Rishikesh, the time to visit and some simple tips to help you during your visit.
Table of Contents
What Is Neelkanth Mahadev?
Neelkanth Mahadev is a temple situated in the hills of Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The name Neelkanth comes from two words. “Neel” and “Kanth”. Which together mean Blue Throat. The temple is a symbol of the sacrifice Lord Shiva made during the churning of the ocean. The purpose of the churning was to get water, known as Amrit. When the ocean was churned, a deadly poison also came out along with Amrit. This poison was dangerous for the world. To save everyone, Lord Shiva drank the poison. Held it in his throat, which turned blue.
Where Is Neelkanth Mahadev Located?
Neelkanth Mahadev Rishikesh is located in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The temple is covered with dense forest that comes under the Rajaji National Reserve. Here two small rivers also meet, which are the Madhumati and the Pankaja. The temple is far from the city, which makes it a calm and peaceful location for the visitors.
History of The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
The history of the temple is mainly connected with the legendary tale of Samundra Manthan. There is no recorded evidence about the construction of this temple. The structure of the temple is basically inspired by the Dravidian style of architecture that includes a cone-shaped body and colourful patterns and symbols around the temple. Saints, sages and pilgrims still prefer the old forest trail from Rishikesh to reach the temple. It is the oldest route to reach there. The trail starts from Ram Jhula, which is built on the Ganga River.
How Far Is Neelkanth Mahadev from Rishikesh?
The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple lies within a distance of 22 to 25 km from the main bus stand of Rishikesh. By road the journey usually takes about 1 to 2 hours from Rishikesh. The scenery of the site, with the Ganga flowing alongside the road, is a mesmerising experience if you love driving. It takes something like 30 minutes to reach the temple from the car and less with a two-wheeler like a bike and scooter. The route to the temple is a combination of both rough trails and smooth roads; you will experience both ups and downs along the way, which makes it a truly unique experience.
Inside the Temple: What to Expect?
Inside, there is a Shivlinga, the symbol of Lord Shiva; devotees offer the milk on the Shivlinga with respect. Pilgrims also offer the prasad in the temple for Lord Shiva. Nearby you will find small shops of flowers, prasad, religious ornaments, and refreshments. No, the entry fee is taken from visitors who enter the temple.
Best Time to Visit Neelkanth Mahadev
Spring and Summer (March to June)
During spring and summer the warm and sunny weather of the location gives visitors a comfortable experience.
Autumn (September to November)
As the temple is covered with the dense forest, the cold and cozy winds of this weather provide a pleasant and calm experience to the visitors.
Monsoon Season (July to August)
Wet trails during the rainy days are not widely recommended by the locals to pilgrims. Heavy mist covers the mountain top, and the flow of the Ganga starts flowing in its full capacity.
Nearby Places to Visit
● Ram Jhula – A suspension bridge built over the river Ganga in Rishikesh is one of the popular attractions that people came to see from all over India.
● Triveni Ghat – The Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh is widely popular for Ganga Aarti, which is performed every evening.
● Neer Garh Waterfall – This waterfall, located 10 km away from Rishikesh, is the best location for tourists to enjoy the vacation.
● Dhari Devi Temple – The temple that is believed to be the protector of the four Dhams of Uttarkhand is 100 km away from Rishikesh.
Travelers who want to see more of Rishikesh and nearby towns can look at Explore Hills’ Mussoorie-Rishikesh-Haridwar Trip.
How to Get There
● By road: The road is well connected to the location and is about 22 km long.
● By rail: Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest railhead, connecting Haridwar and Dehradun.
● By trek: The trail starts from Ram Jhula and is around 11 to 15 km long, covered with dense forest of Rajaji National Reserve.
For official information on forest areas and trekking rules in this region, you can refer to the Uttarakhand Forest Department, the state government body that manages these forests.
Most travellers combine their trip with Rishikesh and also prefer to explore Dehradun, which is 30 km away from Rishikesh.
Tips for Visiting Neelkanth Mahadev
● Avoid making a plan of visiting the temple during monsoon season.
● Prefer to start early in the morning to avoid crowds and traffic.
● Keep some cash with you.
● Mobile signals are weak in the temple; better prepare before reaching.
Conclusion
Neelkanth Mahadev is a Hindu temple surrounded by dense forest that has beautiful trails and the sacred river Ganga. The temple remains open for all the visitors throughout the year; all seasons give visitors a unique and memorable experience of the temple. The temple is mainly crowded during the Mahashivratri, when people from all over the state come here for prayers. Pilgrims who want to continue to other Shiva shrines in the Himalayas can explore Explore Hills’ Kedarnath Yatra.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the story behind Neelkanth Mahadev?
The Temple is mainly connected to a legendary Hindu tale, “Samundra Manthan”, where it is believed that Lord Shiva drank the poison that came out with Amrit.
What is the distance between the temple and Rishikesh?
What is the story behind Neelkanth Mahadev?
The Temple is mainly connected to a legendary Hindu tale, “Samundra Manthan”, where it is believed that Lord Shiva drank the poison that came out with Amrit.
What is the best time to visit Neelkanth Mahadev Rishikesh?
The spring season (February-July) is the best time to visit the temple, while the monsoon season (July-August) is the most avoided one.
Is there an entry fee for Neelkanth Mahadev Mandir Rishikesh?
No, there are no fees to enter the temple; it’s totally free for all the visitors around the country.
Is there any trek route to the temple?
Yes, a 10 to 15 km long trail covered with dense forest of the Rajaji National Biosphere Region is best for trekking, especially if you want an easy trek.