Rishikesh to Neelkanth: Do You Know Why famous? Rishikesh is known for many things amongst which stands tall is the famous Shiva Temple called the Neelkanth Mahadev temple. The stupor and enchantment of the delightful city tells the most ancient of all tales and significant happenings in Hindu Mythology. During the months of Shrawan and Shivratri, huge numbers of followers turn out and grace this place and express their devotion to the mighty Shiva. One can offer prayers or get a significant Pooja done by the revered Hindu Priests to clear doshas (faults) in the stars. The splendid architecture of the temple will stun you because of the execution of fine detail without the use of technology. Outside the temple, you will find several stalls stocking memoirs and Pooja ingredients. The way to the temple also is thrilling which is why several visitors prefer trekking their way up the temple. Within the temple is a natural spring of water where devotees usually take bath. People can make offerings of coconut, milk, honey, flowers, and fruits to the Lord. This ancient temple of Lord Shiva is unmissable not just for the mystical tale that encapsulates it, but also for the lovely sights of the mountains and valleys it showcases while you are here.

History of Neelkanth Mahadev One of the most famous incidents in the history of Hindu mythology is the occurrence of Samudra Manthan. As per the Hindu mythology, the place where the temple currently situated is the location where lord shiva drink poison which is originated from the sea. It happened when the gods and demons are moving the ocean to obtain nectar. This poison is emanated during the Samudramanthan and that poison was consumed by lord shiva which turned his throat in blue Colour. temple name was also based on this mythology blue means Neel and throat means Kanth. That is why Neelkanth Mahadev mandir is very famous among Hindus.

The temple is about 32 km from the sacred city in Uttarakhand, Rishikesh. Inside the holy place sits the Shivalingam, known to be ages old. The glorious Shivalingam is beautifully decorated with fresh flowers and fruits every day. The temple’s outer walls are decorated with carvings related to the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). An 11 km trek is also available to reach the temple via Swarga Ashram. The trekking route is a steep climb up the hill.