One of the best things about the state of Uttarakhand, which has seen an increase in visitors recently, has long been temple tourism. There are numerous religious sites, including old temples, in the city of Rishikesh. Devotees from all over the nation travel to Rishikesh to offer prayers and see the renowned temples there. Several saints and sages have resided at and travelled to these well-known temples in Rishikesh over the years. Here, one feels a sense of holiness that is unmatched throughout the nation.
In addition to the city’s well-known temples, Rishikesh is home to numerous ashramas where a variety of religious events are held all year long. You can go to these ashramas and observe the rituals being performed there. And make sure to shop in the city’s markets, which sell a wide range of bright items primarily related to the Hindu religion, temples, and deities.
Here are a few of Rishikesh’s most magnificent temples that perfectly capture the spirit of the city
- Neelkanth Mahadeva Temple
One of the most famous religious sites in Rishikesh is the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Lord Shiva, sometimes referred to as Neelkanth, is the subject of this temple. The renowned Swarg Ashram is about 7 kilometres away. The three-hour trek through the jungle on the way to the temple. You can also take the renowned Lakshman Jhula or hire a taxi to go to the temple. Worshipers offer the sacred Ganga water to the temple as an offering.
This is one of Rishikesh’s most well-known Lord Shiva Temples and shouldn’t be missed. The respected temple is only one of several natural treasures that may be explored, along with the surrounding deep forests and gorgeous waterfalls.
2. Bharat Mandir
Another temple to include on the list of Rishikesh mandirs is Bharat Mandir. In the 12th century, Adiguru Shankaracharya established the temple. The idol of Lord Vishnu, which was expertly crafted using just one Saligram stone, is kept in the temple. Kearkhand’s earlier list mentions the temple’s outstanding interior design and architecture.
The ancient temple is claimed to have been destroyed by Tamur, and the same remnants later served as the foundation for a new temple. At the site, historical objects such as ancient sculptures, coins, and pots have been found through archaeological investigations. When visiting Rishikesh, you should not skip this temple because it is a wonderful example of ancient architecture and aesthetics.
3.Kunjapuri Devi Temple
The well-known Kunjapuri Devi temple is another holy site to see while in the pious city of Rishikesh. Atop Kunjapuri Hill, there is a revered holy place dedicated to the goddess Parvathi. One of the fifty-two Shaktipeeths in Uttarakhand is this temple dedicated to the goddess Parvathi. Both locals and tourists find it to be highly popular. It offers a stunning view of the Chaukhamba Peak, Bandarpunch Peak, and Shivalik Mountains. You may get a lot more in-depth information on the Hindu religion at this religious website.
The temple and its surroundings are exquisitely illuminated during Dussehra and Navratri, giving visitors and onlookers a stunning view. It’s worth going to view the temple’s lavish celebrations throughout these festivals.
4.Tera Manzil Temple
Tera Manzil Temple is one of the most gorgeous temples in Rishikesh that you should have on your list if you visit the city. Another name for this temple is Trimbakeshwar Temple. On the banks of the revered River Ganga stands a sizable temple with thirteen levels. The well-known Lakshman Jhula is right across the street from it. There are numerous gods for worship under on the temple roof.
The temple is renowned for having exquisite architecture. A stunning view of the surroundings is offered from the temple’s highest level. When visiting Rishikesh, you should go to this temple, which has beautiful historical architecture and is thought to be 400 years old.
5.Raghunath Temple
A Hindu temple called Raghunath Temple may be found in the heart of the city, close to Triveni Ghat. The temple is dedicated to Mata Sita and Lord Ram. Hindus place a great deal of importance on this Rishikesh mandir. The temple also contains a tiny pond, known as Rishi Kund, which is a kund.
One of Rishikesh’s most sacred waterbodies is known as Rishi Kund. It is a hot spring that exists naturally. The River Yamuna is reported to have blessed a sage only after which the Kund is said to have been filled with holy water. The people believe that Lord Ram took a bath in this kund while he was in exile. It is also claimed that this is where the Ganges and Yamuna meet. You should not skip the kund’s serene atmosphere while you are there. You could also enjoy taking a look around the local market near to the temple, which has a lot of handcrafted ornaments, holistic sculptures, and other interesting things to see.
6.Virbhadra Temple
Another temple worth visiting in Rishikesh is the stunning and revered Virbhadra Temple. The thirteen-year-old shrine is consecrated to Lord Shiva’s enraged manifestation. When his wife Devi Sati drowned in a raging yagya kund, it was believed that Lord Shiva had taken on a furious avatar.
The temple zealously observes Mahashivratri, a well-known festival, each year. A mela, or fair, is set up around the temple during this celebration so that attendees can have a great time with their loved ones. The temple is crowded during the Mahashivratri festival with visitors from nearby and distant areas.
7.Shatrughna Temple
One of the temples in Rishikesh that radiates peace and tranquilly is the Shatrughna Temple. In addition, it’s one of the city’s busiest places of worship. The temple is a place where you can pray and practise yoga.
Dedicated to Lord Lakshmana, Lord Rama’s younger brother, is the Shatrughna shrine. The distance from the train station to the temple in Rishikesh is about four kilometres. Adi Shankaracharya constructed it while he was in the city. It is situated around Ram Jhula. There aren’t many temples in the nation dedicated to Lord Lakshmana, making this one extremely special.
These seven Rishikesh temples are some of the greatest to see when exploring the city and trying to relax. Ultimately, Rishikesh is the ideal location for anyone wishing to travel to India for a religious tour while enjoying unwinding.
