A Guide to Neelkanth Temple Rishikesh Timings, History and Location

Here is the Neelkanth Temple Rishikesh Timings Tabled Schedule:

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a special place in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, which is famous for its spiritual vibe. Rishikesh is known as the Yoga Capital of the World, and it is surrounded by the beautiful Himalayas and the peaceful Ganges.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also called Neelkanth, who is believed to have drunk poison here during the Samudra Manthan. The temple is located on a hill at a height of 926  meters and is surrounded by forests.

What it’s Known For:
The temple is famous for its spiritual importance, peaceful location, and the Maha Shivaratri festival held every year.

History: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Located just 32 km from Rishikesh via Barrage and 22 km via Ram Jhoola, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is surrounded by religious energy, mythological stories, and beautiful views. According to a legend, the temple gets its name from Lord Shiva.

It is believed that this is where Lord Shiva drank the poison that came out during the Samudra Manthan, which turned his throat blue. This is why Shiva is also called Neelkanth (meaning “blue throat”).

The temple, with its ancient history, holds a divine aura, surrounded by three valleys: Vishnukoot, Brahmakoot, and Manikoot. It sits at an altitude of 926 meters and is located at the meeting point of the Madhumati and Pankaja rivers.

The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is 22 km from Swargashram, and there is a 12 km trek through dense forests, perfect for trekkers. There are rest houses for accommodation, provided by the Irrigation & Forest Department.

Lord Shiva Consumed the Poison

• There is a mythological story associated with this temple. According to the legend, during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), various things emerged, which were divided between the gods and the demons. However, a dangerous poison called Halahal also emerged.
• Neither the gods nor the demons wanted this poison, as it was so deadly that it could destroy the entire universe. The poison was so powerful that it set the ten directions on fire, causing chaos in the world.
• To save the world, Lord Shiva decided to consume the poison. As he was drinking the poison, Goddess Parvati, who was following him, held his throat, preventing the poison from spilling out or entering his body. This act saved the universe from destruction.

Lord Shiva Meditated Under a Tree

• The poison got stuck in Lord Shiva’s throat, which caused his throat to turn blue, and he became known as Neelkanth. However, the heat of the poison made Lord Shiva restless, so he sought coolness and headed towards the Himalayas.
• Upon reaching the Manikoot Mountain, where he saw the coolness of the Madhumati and Pankaja rivers, he sat under a tree at their confluence. There, he entered into deep meditation and remained absorbed in it for many years, which made Goddess Parvati very worried.

How the Place Came to Be Called Neelkanth Mahadev

• Goddess Parvati also sat on the mountain, waiting for Lord Shiva to come out of his deep meditation. However, after many years, Lord Shiva remained absorbed in his meditation. After the prayers of the gods and goddesses, Lord Shiva finally opened his eyes. Before returning to Kailash, he named the place Neelkanth Mahadev. This is why the place is still known by the name Neelkanth Mahadev.
• The tree under which Lord Shiva was meditating is now the site of a grand temple. Every year, millions of Shiva devotees visit this temple to seek blessings.

Entry Fee: Neelkanth Temple Rishikesh Timings

• There is no entry fee to visit the temple.

Tips: It’s best to visit early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise and avoid the heat in the afternoon.

Time to Visit: Most visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours at the temple. Restricted Items: You cannot bring non-vegetarian food, alcohol, or leather items into the temple.