Discover Virbhadra Rishikesh: Timings and how to reach there?

Virbhadra Rishikesh, the Shiva temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at Virbhadra village near AIIMS of Rishikesh in Uttarakhand. The Shiva statue in this temple is a fierce form.  This temple is 1300 years old and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. Night-long Jagrans and special poojas are held on the occasion of Shivratri and Sawan month. The Mela coincides with the Mahashivratri festival each year.

 Myths and Legends

Virabhadra is a personification of Lord Shiva who was created by him in anger. The story in Hindu mythology goes that when Goddess Uma (Sati) felt insulted by her father Daksh Prajapati at Kankhal, Haridwar for not inviting her husband Lord Shiva to the Yagya ceremony, she jumped into the Yagya Kund to immolate herself for her husband’s dishonor. When Lord Shiva heard this news he became angry and pulled out his hair, thrashing on the ground in rage. Consequently, Lord Virbhadra was born.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit this temple is in the months of October and March. A huge fair is organized in the month of Sawan  (July ) and Maha Shivratri (March) which is attended by thousands of devotees.

How to reach Virbhadra Rishikesh

The temple is situated 2 kilometers away from the Haridwar-Rishikesh Highway, and the nearest railway station is Veerbhadra, which is located on the highway itself. The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is 25 kilometers away from the temple.

Conclusion

Virbhadra Rishikesh, home to the ancient Shiva temple, is a significant pilgrimage site rich in history and mythology. It is  near AIIMS Rishikesh, it is easily accessible from the Haridwar-Rishikesh Highway, with the nearest railway station being Veerbhadra and Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun just 25 kilometers away.