Pilgrims from all around the world highly revere Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Rishikesh. This pilgrimage site is one of the most visited ones in the country. Hence when it comes to planning a tour to Rishikesh, you cannot miss visiting the temple. The famous shrine is located at an altitude of 1675 m at the top of Swarg Ashram. As the name suggests, the main deity worshipped here is Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva drank the venom that was churned out during Samudra Manthan. He had an immense capacity not to ingest the poison and hence stored it in his throat due to which it turned blue. It is believed that this event took place at the current location of the temple.
From this holy shrine, you can climb 2 km. to the Parvati temple, located on a high hill. Move ahead 2 km, and you will find a cave where there is a small temple. While trekking, you can enjoy surreal views of forests and snow-capped mountains.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is famous for the legend associated with it and beautiful views that abound the temple.
There are two Melas hosted in the Neelkanth Mahadev temple – one during Shivratri and another during Shravan (July-August). Thousands of devotees visit the temple during Maha Shivratri.