Top 10 Famous Temples in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the sacred Ganga, Rishikesh is known worldwide as the Yoga Capital of the World and the spiritual gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. Located about 25 km from Haridwar, Rishikesh is strictly vegetarian and alcohol-free, reflecting its deep religious roots.

The town is dotted with ancient temples, many of which can be explored on foot. These shrines, along with ashrams and ghats, create a timeless spiritual atmosphere that attracts pilgrims, yogis, and curious travelers alike.

Overview: Temples in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has been a center of meditation and penance since ancient times. Saints, sages, and spiritual seekers have lived here for centuries. Along with yoga ashrams and spiritual markets, the temples of Rishikesh form the soul of the city—each narrating a legend from Hindu mythology and offering moments of peace by the river.

Below are the Top 10 famous temples in Rishikesh that every visitor should experience.

Top 10 Temples to Visit in Rishikesh

1. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sacred temple is located about 22 km from Rishikesh, surrounded by dense forests. According to legend, this is where Shiva drank poison during the Samudra Manthan.

• Distance: 22 km

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

• Ideal Time: 3–4 hours

2. Bharat Mandir

Founded in the 12th century by Adi Shankaracharya, Bharat Mandir is the oldest temple in Rishikesh. It houses a single-stone idol of Lord Vishnu carved from Saligram.

• Distance: 2 km

• Timings: 5:00–11:00 AM & 1:00–9:00 PM

• Entry: Free

3. Kunjapuri Devi Temple

One of the 52 Shakti Peeths of India, this hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati is famous for panoramic Himalayan views and sunrise experiences.

• Distance: 32 km

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Best Time: Sunrise

4. Tera Manzil Temple

Also known as Trimbakeshwar Temple, this iconic 13-storey shrine near Lakshman Jhula houses multiple deities and offers stunning Ganga views from the top floor.

• Distance: 4 km

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

5. Raghunath Temple

Situated near Triveni Ghat, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. Nearby Rishi Kund is believed to be where Lord Rama bathed during exile.

• Distance: 3 km

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

6. Virbhadra Temple

Dedicated to Virbhadra, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, this temple becomes vibrant during Mahashivratri celebrations.

• Distance: 4 km

• Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Shatrughan Temple, Rishikesh

7. Shatrughna Temple

Associated with Lord Lakshmana’s younger brother Shatrughna, this peaceful temple is ideal for meditation and yoga sessions.

• Distance: 3 km

• Timings: Daytime hours

8. Bhootnath Temple

A serene forest-surrounded shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to be a resting place of Shiva on his way to marry Sati.

• Distance: 4 km

• Best For: Quiet meditation

Madhuban Ashram Rishikesh

9. ISKCON Temple Rishikesh

Located at Madhuban Ashram near Muni-ki-Reti, this temple resonates with Hare Krishna chants and offers a calm spiritual vibe by the Ganga.

• Distance: 2 km

• Ideal Time: Morning aarti

Shree Vithal Ashram & Omkarananda Kamakshi-Devi Mandir

10. Kamakshi Devi Mandir

Built in South Indian architectural style, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi. It is part of the Swami Omkarananda Ashram complex.

• Distance: 2 km

• Highlight: Unique Dravidian architecture

Final Thoughts

The temples of Rishikesh are more than places of worship—they are gateways to inner peace, history, and timeless legends. Whether you seek divine blessings, spiritual learning, or quiet moments by the Ganga, these temples together define the sacred rhythm of Rishikesh.

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