Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva whose one of the forms is Neelkanth. Another example of faith and devotion, the temple is also known for its perfect work of architecture. The fine carvation is absolutely enchanting to the eyes. The temple owes immense laurels to the people of India and also other international pilgrims.
The temple is one of the most revered holy shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site. It is surrounded by dense forests and is adjacent to the mountain ranges of Nar-Narayan. It is enveloped between the valleys of Manikoot, Brahmakoot, and Vishnukoot and is located at the confluence of the rivers Pankaja and Madhumati.
Why You Should Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
The shikhara of the temple is adorned with sculptures of various Devas and Asuras depicting the Samudra Manthan. Neelkanth Mahadev in the form of Shivalinga is the presiding deity of the temple. The temple complex also has a natural spring where devotees usually take a holy bath before entering the premises surrounded by dense forests.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple History and Legend
According to Hindu mythology, the place where the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple currently stands is the sacred location where Shiva consumed the poison that originated from the sea when Devas (Gods) and Asuras (Demons) churned the ocean in order to obtain Amrita. This poison that emanated during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) made his throat blue in colour. Thus, Shiva is also known as Neelkanth, literally meaning The Blue Throated One.
Top Attractions in Neelkanth Mahadeva Temple
1. Kandoliya Temple
One of the ancient temples located in Rishikesh. The tranquillity is at its peak.
2. Chaukhamba Viewpoint
A great place to spend some quality time and view the beauty of Rishikesh.
3. Dhari Devi Temple
It is another ancient temple that instills eternal faith amongst locals and Indians.
Things to Do in Neelkanth Mahadeva Temple
1. Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivaratri is the most prominent festival celebrated in the temple and lots of devotees flock to the temple during the festival. The devotees who pay a visit to Neelkanth Mahadev make an offering of Bael leaves, coconut, flowers, milk, honey, fruits, and water to Lord Shiva. The temple observes two fairs that are held annually on the occasions of Maha Shivratri (Feb-Mar) and Shivratri of Shraavana (month of Hindu calendar) (July-Aug) during which the devotees (Kawarias) trek from Haridwar to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. So, if you are planning to visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, visit the temple during the Maha Shivratri Festival during Feb-March.
Best Time to Visit Neelkanth Mahadeva Temple
There is no specific timing to visit the temple. Though, early morning and early evening are preferable timings.
How to Reach Neelkanth Mahadeva Temple
With the belief in Hindu Mythology, Neelkanth Mahadeva Temple of Dehradun is supposed to be a place where Lord Shiva consumed poison from the ocean that made his throat blue. The exciting pilgrimage pays hostage to thousands of visitors every year. Its distance from Delhi is 265 km, 1665 km from Mumbai, 2385 km from Bangalore, and 2417 km from Chennai.
By Air
When planning to visit the place by air, nothing can be better than taking a flight from your nearest place to the Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun as that lies at the closest distance to the temple.
- From Kochi: Board Air India, IndiGo flights from Kochi Airport. The flight fares begin from INR 5226 up to INR 8410
- From Kolkata: Board Air India flights or IndiGo flights from Kolkata Airport. The flight may cost you around INR 5445 to INR 6552.
By Train
Coming to the nearest railway station, one can count on the Rishikesh Railway Station that is merely at a distance of 30 km from the temple. Once a person reaches the station, he or she can take a cab or taxi to complete the rest journey.
- From Raipur: Board DURG JAT SF EXP train from Raipur Railway Station and deboard at Rishikesh railway station.
- From Delhi: Board JAN SHATABDI SPL train from Delhi Railway Station and deboard at Rishikesh railway station.
By Road
With widely spread roads, it allows traveling of visitors both via public and private buses. When seeking convenience, the pilgrims and common visitors prefer a taxi or personal car to sightsee the views from proximity.
With these travel conveyance methods, you can surely make the best of your journey to Neelkanth Mahadeva Temple along with having the darshan of Lord Shiva.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here.
