Temples in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a town of ashrams more than grand temples, but a few shrines matter to every pilgrim. The biggest, Neelkanth Mahadev, is a drive into the hills.
Neelkanth Mahadev
The most important temple for Rishikesh sits about 32 km away by road, in forested hills at around 1,300 m. It marks the place where Shiva is said to have held the poison from the churning of the ocean in his throat, turning it blue. The tall painted tower is covered in figures from that story. During Shravan, in July and August, Kanwar pilgrims carrying Ganga water walk here in huge numbers, and the road is diverted and crowded for weeks. Read more on the Neelkanth Mahadev page.
Trayambakeshwar Temple
Beside the old Laxman Jhula stands the thirteen-storey Trayambakeshwar Temple, often called Tera Manzil. Each floor holds shrines to different deities, and the upper floors look straight down on the bridges and the river. It is modern, busy and easy to visit, with small shops on the lower levels.
Bharat Mandir
In the old market lanes near Triveni Ghat, Bharat Mandir is by tradition the oldest temple in Rishikesh and is linked in local belief to Adi Shankaracharya. It is dedicated to Vishnu. It is small and easy to miss, but it is the part of town with the deepest roots.
The ashrams
Parmarth Niketan, Gita Bhawan and the Sivananda Ashram are working spiritual centres, not monuments. Visitors can usually walk in, attend the evening aarti at Parmarth's ghat, and sit in on some talks. Keep voices low and follow any signs about photography.
Kunjapuri Devi
On a hilltop above Narendra Nagar, the Kunjapuri temple is a popular sunrise trip from Rishikesh, with a wide view of the snow peaks on clear winter mornings. It is a steep climb up steps from the road.
Visiting respectfully
Remove your shoes, cover your shoulders and knees, and carry a scarf. Leather items are best left behind at the inner shrines. Photography is often not allowed inside sanctums, so shoot the exterior and the views instead. Beware of anyone who insists on guiding you to a paid puja.
Questions
Rishikesh — FAQ
How far is Neelkanth Mahadev from Rishikesh?
About 32 km by road, usually an hour or more each way on a narrow, winding hill road. Shared jeeps and taxis go from the Laxman Jhula and Swarg Ashram side.
What is Tera Manzil in Rishikesh?
It is the local name for the thirteen-storey Trayambakeshwar Temple beside Laxman Jhula, with shrines on each floor and river views from the top.
Is there a dress code for Rishikesh temples?
Modest clothes that cover shoulders and knees, and bare feet inside. A scarf is useful for covering your head at some shrines.
When is Neelkanth Mahadev most crowded?
During Shravan, in July and August, when the Kanwar Yatra brings huge numbers of pilgrims, and on Mahashivratri. Mondays are busier than other weekdays.