Temple tourism has long been one of the best things about the state of Uttarakhand, which has seen an upsurge in visitors in recent years. The city of Rishikesh is abode to a multitude of religious attractions, including historical temples. Devotees from all over the country come to Rishikesh to pray and tour the city’s famed temples. For many years, a number of saints and sages have lived in and visited these famous temples in Rishikesh. The sacred feeling that one experiences here is unparalleled in the country.
Apart from the famous temples in Rishikesh, the city also has a plethora of ashramas where various religious activities take place all throughout the year. You can visit these ashramas and see the events that take place there. Also, be sure to purchase in and around the city’s marketplaces, which sell a variety of colorful things primarily associated with the Hindu faith, temples, and deities.
Here are a few of Rishikesh’s most magnificent temples that perfectly capture the spirit of the city
Neelkanth Mahadeva Temple
The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is one of Rishikesh’s most prominent religious destinations. This temple is devoted to Lord Shiva who is also known as Neelkanth. It is around 7 kilometers from the well-known Swarg Ashram. The journey to the temple takes three hours through a trail through the jungle. Another option for getting to the temple is to ride the famed Lakshman Jhula, or you may rent a taxi. The holy Ganga water is presented to the temple as an offering by worshippers.
This is one of the most prominent Lord Shiva Temples in Rishikesh and should not be missed. In addition to visiting and touring the revered temple, one may also discover other natural wonders including stunning waterfalls and the surrounding deep forests.
Bharat Mandir
Bharat Mandir is another temple to add to the list of Rishikesh mandir. The temple was founded in the 12th century by Adiguru Shankaracharya. The temple holds the idol of Lord Vishnu, which is skillfully sculpted utilizing a single Saligram stone. The interiors and exquisite architecture of the temple have been recorded on Kearkhand’s old list.
It is said that Tamur demolished the original temple, and later on, the same remains served as the foundation for a new temple. Archaeological excavations have uncovered several historical artifacts at the location, including antique sculptures, coins, and pots from long ago. This temple is a great combination of aesthetic qualities and ancient architecture that you should not miss out on when visiting Rishikesh.
Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Another sacred spot to visit while in the pious city of Rishikesh is the well-known Kunjapuri Devi temple. It is a respected holy site devoted to Goddess Parvathi that is elegantly situated atop Kunjapuri Hill. This temple of Goddess Parvathi is one of the fifty-two Shaktipeeths in Uttarakhand. It is quite popular among both residents and visitors. It provides a breathtaking view of the Shivalik Ranges, Bandarpunch Peak, and Chaukhamba Peak. At this religious site, you may discover a lot more about the Hindu faith in great depth.
During Dussehra and Navratri, the temple and its environs are beautifully illuminated, providing tourists and watchers with a breathtaking picture. The temple’s great celebrations throughout these holidays are worth seeing.
Tera Manzil Temple
Tera Manzil Temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Rishikesh that you should include on your list if you visit the city. Trimbakeshwar Temple is another name for this temple. It is a large temple with thirteen floors that sits on the banks of the holy River Ganga. It is located directly across the street from the popular Lakshman Jhula. The temple roof holds a multitude of deities for pilgrims to worship under.
The temple is well-known for its beautiful architecture. The upper level of the temple provides a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding area. This temple is reported to be about 400 years old, with wonderful historical architecture, and should be visited when visiting Rishikesh.
Raghunath Temple
Raghunath Temple is a Hindu temple located in the middle of the city, adjacent to the Triveni Ghat. The temple is devoted to Lord Ram and Mata Sita. This Rishikesh mandir is very important and is of utmost significance to Hindus. The temple also has a tiny kund or pond, that is well-known by the name of Rishi Kund.
Rishi Kund is regarded as one of the holiest pools of water in Rishikesh. It is a naturally occurring hot water spring. The Kund is said to have been filled with holy water only after the River Yamuna blessed a sage. The locals also think that Lord Ram bathed in this kund during his exile. It is also stated that the rivers Ganga and Yamuna meet here. The tranquil atmosphere of the kund is not to be missed while on your visit. You may also take pleasure in exploring the neighborhood market next to the temple, which offers a variety of handcrafted decorations, several holistic sculptures, and many other attractions.
Virbhadra Temple
The gorgeous and devout Virbhadra Temple is yet another temple worth seeing in Rishikesh. This temple, which is thirteen years old, is devoted to Lord Shiva’s furious incarnation. Lord Shiva’s furious incarnation was assumed when his wife Devi Sati died by plunging into a flaming yagya kund.
Every year, the temple enthusiastically commemorates the celebrated holiday of Mahashivratri. During this event, there is a mela or fair set up around the temple where one may enjoy themselves to the fullest with family and friends. During the Mahashivratri festival, the temple is packed with people from both close and faraway regions.
Shatrughna Temple
The Shatrughna Temple is one of Rishikesh’s temples that exudes tranquillity and serenity. It also happens to be one of the most popular places of worship in the city. You may pray at the temple and also have a yoga session on its premises.
The Shatrughna temple is devoted to Lord Lakshmana, Lord Rama’s younger brother. The temple is around four kilometers away from Rishikesh’s train station. It was built by Adi Shankaracharya on a visit to the city. It is located close to Ram Jhula. This temple is particularly unique because there aren’t many temples devoted to Lord Lakshmana in the country.
These seven temples in Rishikesh are among the best to be visited while one is touring the city while looking to unwind. Overall, the whole city of Rishikesh is a perfect place for anybody looking to embark on a religious tour in India while also unwinding. As a result, plan your itinerary, make your reservations with one of the best hotels in Rishikesh near Ganga, The Neeraj Ganga Heritage Palace, and go off to see this lovely city.
