Rishikesh Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, situated at an altitude of 1330 m and is located in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India, is a highly revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This magnificent temple is situated about 29.4 km from Rishikesh, 55 km from Haridwar and is surrounded by dense forests and towering mountain ranges of Nar-Narayan. It is believed that Lord Shiva meditated at this location after drinking the poison that emerged during the churning of the ocean.
The temple’s stunning architecture is heavily influenced by the Dravidian style of temple architecture, with intricate carvings and detailed sculptures adorning its walls. The temple’s main deity is Nilkanth, an aspect of Lord Shiva, who is also known as the Blue Throated One.
This ancient temple attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year, especially during the Hindu festival of Shivratri. Pilgrims from all over the country visit the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The temple is located at the confluence of the rivers Pankaja and Madhumati and is enveloped between the valleys of Manikoot, Brahmakoot, and Vishnukoot.
Apart from its religious significance, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is also a popular tourist destination due to its breathtaking location amidst the natural beauty of the Himalayas. The temple’s tranquil surroundings and serene atmosphere provide a sense of peace and tranquility to visitors. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a spiritual experience and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of India.
Rishikesh Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Legend
According to Hindu sacred texts, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is situated at the very location where Lord Shiva consumed the poison that originated from the sea during the churning of the ocean by the Devas (Gods) and Asuras (Demons) to obtain Amrita, the nectar of immortality. The poison made his throat turn blue, hence Shiva is also known as Neelkanth, meaning The Blue Throated One.
As per the Shruti-Smriti Puran, during the churning of the ocean, 14 treasures were obtained, including the “Kalkut” poison that was capable of destroying the whole world. Lord Shiva consumed this poison to protect the universe and meditated for 60,000 years at the confluence of the Pankaja and Madhumati rivers, beneath the Panchpani tree. The current Garbha Gruh of the temple is constructed at this very site. After his penance, Lord Shiva installed the present-day “throat” shaped Shivaling beneath the Panchpani tree, where he had meditated for many years.
The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is located in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India, approximately 32 kilometers from Rishikesh. It is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site and is surrounded by dense forests, with the mountain ranges of Nar-Narayan nearby. The temple’s architecture is heavily influenced by the Dravidian style of temple architecture, with intricate carvings and designs that showcase the rich culture and history of Hinduism. Visiting the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a spiritual and cultural experience that attracts thousands of devotees every year.
Temple Architecture
The temple follows the Dravidian style and features a Gopura or shikhara, which is built in a tiered pyramid style and adorned with carved motifs and friezes. The shikhara is embellished with sculptures of Devas and Asuras depicting the Samudramanthan. The presiding deity of the temple is Neelkanth Mahadev, in the form of a Shivalinga. Additionally, there is a natural spring within the temple complex where devotees can take a holy bath before entering the premises, which are surrounded by dense forests.
Rishikesh Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Festivals
The temple celebrates Maha Shivaratri as its most prominent festival, drawing many devotees from far and wide. Visitors typically offer Bael leaves, coconut, flowers, milk, honey, fruits, and water to Lord Shiva during their visit to Neelkanth Mahadev. In addition, the temple hosts two annual fairs during the occasions of Maha Shivratri (Feb-Mar) and Shivratri of Shraavana (July-Aug) on the Hi
How to reach Neelkanth Mahadev Temple?
By Air:
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun 43.5 km.
By Train:
Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railway station, which is 26.4 km away from the temple.
By Road:
To reach Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, one can take a bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Rishikesh and then hire a taxi or board another bus to reach the temple.
Neelkanth Temple Address
Shree Neelkanth Mahadev Temple,
Kotdwar – Pauri Road,
Kotdwar,
Uttarakhand – 246149.