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Rishikesh is a tranquil town at the foothills of the Himalayas adjacent to the river Ganges. Famous for its temples and ancient architecture, huge devotees visit them for inner peace and wisdom. These Rishikesh temples respond to the ‘eighth’ urge in the holistic model. This is not only because of their rich cultural background in Hindu mythology but also because of the picturesque neighbourhood suitable for meditation or self-evaluation. From the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, embraced by dense trees, to the old perceived Bharat Temple, every temple possesses something special to offer. Visiting these temples allows one to absorb a divine ambience, appreciate Rishikesh’s rich culture and participate in centuries-old traditions.
Top 10 Rishikesh Temples
Here are the top 10 Rishikesh temples that are a must-visit for any spiritual journey during the trip:
1. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Photo: Deeksha vyas / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Neelkanth Mahadev temple in Rishikesh, famous among the locals and visitors, is devoted to Lord Shiva. The dense forests surrounding this temple make it all the more special and spiritually enriching. Many come to the temple for the temple’s devotion and nature’s beauty. Appropriately placed through the jungle’s edges, the temple’s beautiful nature and many nearby waterfalls enhance the visit. The temple is perfect for people on any itinerary visiting Rishikesh since the visit is as good as the destination itself.
Location: Kotdwar Pauri Road, Kotdwara, Uttarakhand 246149
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
2. Shatrughna Temple
Photo: Guptaele / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Those looking for calmness and somewhere quiet can surely visit the Shatrughna Temple. This holy shrine can be found near the banks of the river Ganges. It promotes a disturbance-free environment for worshippers who can practice Yoga or meditate inside the temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shatrughna, Lord Rama’s younger brother, who shares the same background as other temples in Kerala. For starting any kind of spiritual journey, this temple is the most appropriate one. It can provide the calm and serene atmosphere that is the trademark of Rishikesh.
Location: Shatrughan Temple Muni-Ki-Reti, Shivananda Nagar, Tehri Gharwal, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249192
Timings: 6 AM – 7:30 PM
3. Raghunath Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Raghunath Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. With easy access for devotees, this sanctum is located right within the busy Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh. After reaching this temple, there is a lot to see, and it becomes a full-day tour. One can visit the temple, the beautiful reservoir nearby, and the marketplace. The temple is quite a tranquil and peaceful place to observe while providing a brief insight into the culture of the locals. Visitors can buy handcrafted sculptures, ornaments, and other keepsakes here, making it a well-rounded place in the holy city.
Location: 9, Ghat Road, Pragati Vihar, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249201
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
4. Trayambakeshwar Temple
Photo: VK1983 / Wikimedia Commons
Also called the Tera Manzil Temple, the Trayambakeshwar Temple is one of the most important temples of Rishikesh, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is regarded as one of the Jyotirlingas and is a thirteen-storeyed structure known for splendid designs and beautiful carvings embellishing it that denote its history. The temple was founded more than 400 years ago, and its stunning structure and serene atmosphere draw thousands of worshippers every year. Given its view of the river Ganga and other nearby areas, spiritual devotees visit this place.
Location: Laxman Jhoola, Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249302
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
5. Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Photo: Acharya Bipin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Settled about a hillock, the Kunjapuri Devi Temple is a holy place where people encounter Hindu customs. These are with fantastic sights such as mountains, such as the Himalayas. The journey to this place takes nearly two hours and offers many a rapid but satisfying spiritual experience. The temple looks very dynamic during the Navratri and Dussehra festival periods due to the huge celebrations and lights. The view of the temple from a distance is perfect and ideal for people who like to get up early in the morning.
Location: Hindolakhal Road, Adali, Uttarakhand 249175
Timings: 6:15 AM – 7:15 PM
6. Parmarth Niketan
Photo: Billjones94 / Wikimedia Commons
Parmarth Niketan is not only a temple but also a yogic educational institution based in Rishikesh. The place attracts many people because of the river bank Ganga Aarti, which is performed every evening and captures the beauty of the people. Within the temple’s premises is a religious education institute which focuses on the missionary work of Hinduism and Yoga. Due to the peaceful surroundings, it is highly recommended for meditation, soul searching, or even to seek other spiritual people. Rishikesh is known for its culture and history, and for those who want to see its beauty, Parmarth Niketan is a perfect place for it.
Location: Near Main Market Road, Ram Jhula, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
7. Bharat Mandir
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Bharat Mandir is said to be one of the most important temples. Adiguru Shankaracharya constructed it about 12th centuries ago. The temple contains a most exquisitely sculptured image of Lord Vishnu, Ruth Hussion, from one solid piece of Saligram. In addition, the temple features the Shree Yantra, believed to embody the spiritual energy of the temple. The spirituality of the temple can be felt from its magnificent architecture. Several archaeological digs at the site have also uncovered fascinating relics. Devotees come from all over, and the temple is a famous embodiment of Rishikesh’s sacred heritage.
Location: 9, Ghat Rd, Mayakund, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249201
Timings: 5 AM – 11 PM and 1 PM – 9 PM
8. Virbhadra Temple
Photo: Ken Wieland / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the most frequented temples in Rishikesh, the Virbhadra Temple is dedicated to the dangerous-looking incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is particularly considered to be important during the Mahashivratri festival when a large number of devotees come to celebrate. During the festival, the temple is surrounded by a vibrant fair that people can enjoy with their friends and family. Many visitors fascinated by myths and religious celebrations are attracted to the temple because of the stunning aura of the temple and the story of Lord Shiva’s avatar.
Location: Aam Bag, IDPL Colony, Veerbhadra, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249202
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
9. Bhootnath Temple
Photo: Ken Wieland / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Bhootnath Temple is a serene and lesser-known temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva rested here while on his way to marry Mata Sati. One of several temples honoring Mata Sati in the area, dedicated to the divine female counterpart of Lord Shiva. Even admiration that this shrine and its quiet, lush surroundings deserve is seldom observed; it seems to have become the norm for Sadavarte. Those who come here can appreciate nature’s stillness and beauty, away from the hubbub of the more populous temples in Rishikesh.
Location: 4889+J6Q, Swargashram Rd, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
10. Hanuman Mandir
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
About 6 kilometres from Rishikesh, the Hanuman Mandir is a temple that attracts many devotees who make pilgrimages there. It experiences a huge number of devotees every year, and during festive seasons, it’s common to hold a bhandara where food is served to the worshippers. Because the temple is known for the ecstatic atmosphere that surrounds every holiday celebration, one can fully immerse in the cultural flow of Rishikesh. Its peaceful location and the spiritual feeling that describes the place make it a wonderful spot for the most devoted and those who want to touch the city’s culture.
Location: Purshotam Farm (Delhi farm), Khadri Road Shyampur, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Timings: 5 AM – 6 PM
Rishikesh temples are not just for worshipping the divine but also offer insight into nature’s argumentative history and captivating beauty. It is said that visiting these holy sites can give people satisfaction and allow them to appreciate the views of Rishikesh. Be it the Shatrughna Temple you wish to find peace at, the Bharat Mandir you want to know the stories behind or the grand celebrations at the Virbhadra Temple, there is a place for everyone. You can now plan the trip with TripXL and prepare for a refreshing dawn in the divine land of Rishikesh.
Cover Photo: VikramSingh Valera / Wikimedia Commons
