Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, nestled 32km from Rishikesh, is a revered sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva. Perched at an altitude of 1,330m in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, this temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. During Maha Shivaratri festival thousands of pilgrims and devotees gather here to celebrate this religious festival. Also, during Kanwar yatra in Sawan devotees offer prayers at the temple.
Trip to Neelkanth Mahadev Rishikesh
So, if you are planning a trip to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Rishikesh, then you can check out the below given details before proceeding on your trip and you can also book a cab from us at Gokeys. We will be happy to help you to make a perfect religious trip for you and your family.
Legends and Story about the Neelkanth Mahadev
Neelkanth means Blue Throats and Neelkanth Mahadev is Lord Shiva, who consumed the Kalkut Poison during Smudramanthan for Amrita by Devas and Ashura and the Gods and Demons. It is said the Poison have capacity to burn whole world, but Lord Shiva consumed its and then his throat become blue, to reduce the effect of poison Lord Shiva meditated here for 60 thousand years. Then the place is now called Neelkanth Mahadev.
The Temple is built in Dravidian architecture style, and you can see the pyramid style with Gopuram. You can also see the Samudramanthan sculptures are engraved in the temple.
The Enchanting Setting
Surrounded by the picturesque valleys of Manikot, Brahmakot, and Vishnukot, the temple sits amidst the lush greenery and robust Nar-Narayan Mountain ranges, where the rivers Pankaja and Madhumati converge.
A Divine Experience at Temple
- Offering Prayers and Pooja
Devotees come to express their devotion and seek blessings from Lord Shiva, the creator of the universe.
- Admiring the Intricate Architecture
The temple’s awe-inspiring carvings and detailed architecture never fail to captivate visitors, who often take pictures to preserve the memory.
- Taking a Refreshing Bath
A natural spring within the temple premises offers pilgrims a chance to cleanse themselves before entering the sacred space.
- Souvenirs and Keepsakes
Stalls outside the temple offer a variety of idols and Shiva-related accessories, making it the perfect place to pick up a memento.
- Exploring Nearby Serenity
Rishikesh boasts not only of adventure but also tranquility. Surrounding the Neelkanth temple are places where visitors can find calm and solace.
How to Reach
The nearest accessible location is Rishikesh, a mere 32 km away. Visitors can easily reach the temple via road, train, or air.
By Road: The well-maintained road network provides a smooth drive. Renting a car from Ram Jhula is a popular option.
By Train: The Rishikesh railway station, about 35 km away, offers easy access. Public transport or a cab can be hired for the onward journey.
By Air: The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 49 km away, is the closest airport. A cab from there can take you to the temple.
Best Time to Visit
The temple welcomes pilgrims year-round, but Shrawan month and Shivratri are particularly special times to witness the vibrant celebrations, music, and detailed Pooja ceremonies.
Essential Information
Location: Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand – 246149
Timings: 5.00 am to 6.00 pm
Entry Fee: None (Pooja/donation charges vary)
Places of Interest Nearby to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Shri Sachcha Akhileshwar Mahadev Temple: Another beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering inner peace and tranquility.
Chodah Manzil Temple: A landmark location near Laxman Jhula, known for its 14 floors housing various Hindu deities.
Gita Bhavan: A peaceful temple with stunning river views, offering a serene place for contemplation.
Triveni Ghat: Witness the amazing Ganga Aarti here at evening with enchanting environment.
Parmarth Ashram: Enjoy your day in Parmarth Ashram where you can practice so yoga tactics and also see the Ganga aarti at evening.
Check Out: Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand
Conclusion
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple stands as a testament to faith, history, and natural beauty. Visiting this temple promises not only spiritual solace but also an enriching cultural experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
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What is Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and where is it located?
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a revered sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated 32km from Rishikesh in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India.
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What is the significance of the name “Neelkanth Mahadev”?
Neelkanth Mahadev refers to Lord Shiva, who earned this name after consuming the Kalkut Poison during Smudramanthan, which turned his throat blue.
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What is the legend associated with Neelkanth Mahadev?
According to the legend, Lord Shiva meditated at this location for 60 thousand years after consuming the Kalkut Poison during Smudramanthan to reduce its effects.
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What is the architectural style of the temple?
The temple is built in the Dravidian architectural style and features a pyramid structure with a Gopuram. It also has engravings depicting the Samudramanthan.
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What is the experience like for visitors at the temple?
Visitors can offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. They can also admire the intricate carvings and detailed architecture, take a refreshing bath in a natural spring, and explore nearby serene areas.
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How can one reach Neelkanth Mahadev Temple?
Visitors can reach the temple by road, train, or air. Rishikesh, which is 32km away, is the nearest accessible location.
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What are the nearby places of interest around the temple?
Some nearby places of interest include Shri Sachcha Akhileshwar Mahadev Temple, Chodah Manzil Temple, Gita Bhavan, Triveni Ghat, and Parmarth Ashram.
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Is there an entry fee to visit the temple?
No, there is no entry fee to visit the temple. However, charges for Pooja and donations may vary.
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When is the best time to visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple?
The temple welcomes pilgrims year-round, but special times to visit are during the Shrawan month and Shivratri, when vibrant celebrations, music, and detailed Pooja ceremonies take place.
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What are the temple’s operating hours?
The temple is open from 5.00 am to 6.00 pm.
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What is the nearest airport to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple?
The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is 49km away from the temple. Visitors can hire a cab from the airport to reach the temple.
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Is there a recommended route for reaching the temple by road?
A popular option is to rent a car from Ram Jhula in Rishikesh, which provides a smooth drive to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.
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Are there souvenir stalls near the temple?
Yes, there are stalls outside the temple that offer a variety of idols and Shiva-related accessories, making it a perfect place to pick up a memento.
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What is the setting around Neelkanth Mahadev Temple like?
The temple is surrounded by picturesque valleys of Manikot, Brahmakot, and Vishnukot, nestled amidst lush greenery and the Nar-Narayan Mountain ranges, where the rivers Pankaja and Madhumati converge.
