Neelkanth Mahadev Temple from Rishikesh is a road trip to a Shiva shrine in Uttarakhand, about 31 km from the city. Its hillside setting and association with the legend of Shiva make it a religious destination, while reported opening hours and festival crowds are worth factoring into your plans.
- Location: Rishikesh area, Uttarakhand
- Distance: 31 km from Rishikesh, according to an AIIMS Rishikesh document
- Reported timings: 05:00–13:00 and 16:00–21:00
- Busy periods: Maha Shivratri and Kanwar Mela
Where the Temple Is
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple stands in the Rishikesh area of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 1,325 metres. An AIIMS Rishikesh document gives its distance from Rishikesh as 31 km.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is linked to the Hindu legend of the churning of the ocean. In the story, Shiva consumed poison and became known as Neelkanth, meaning “blue-throated.” That association explains the name and the shrine’s connection to Shiva worship.
For another trip from Rishikesh, the routes and sights around Narendra Nagar offer a different outing.
How do you get from Rishikesh to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple?
The temple is accessible by road from Swarg Ashram, and a trekking route is also described in an AIIMS Rishikesh document. A separate route depiction gives a road journey from Rishikesh Bus Stand to the temple as 26.1 km, with a map estimate of 1 hour 7 minutes.
That road figure starts at the bus stand, so it is not the same measurement as the 31 km distance from Rishikesh. Use the route information for orientation, then confirm your specific road access before setting out.
A feasibility report discusses possible ropeway alignments between Rishikesh and the temple; it does not confirm that a ropeway is operating. Plan around the road or trekking access described above rather than assuming a cable-car connection is available.
Temple Timings and Visitor Rules
An AIIMS Rishikesh document gives temple hours as 05:00–13:00 and 16:00–21:00, with a break between the two periods. These hours are time-sensitive, so check the official site before you go.
Confirm any practical requirements with the temple’s official source before travelling, especially if you are planning your visit around a particular service or occasion.
Planning for the Journey
Allow for the road journey from your actual starting point in Rishikesh, since the reported route distance and time begin at Rishikesh Bus Stand. The temple is 31 km from Rishikesh according to the AIIMS document, while the route depiction gives a separate 26.1 km figure from the bus stand.
Hotel Raj Palace is a three-star hotel in Rishikesh; you can view Raj Palace rooms in Rishikesh while planning where to stay.
The temple’s elevation is 1,325 metres.
Festival Crowds and Travel Checks
Maha Shivratri and Kanwar Mela are periods when thousands of visitors come to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. If your visit coincides with either, allow flexibility for a busier journey and check current access arrangements before leaving. For seasonal patterns and events in the city, read about the best time to visit Rishikesh.
The road to the temple passes through the core zone of Rajaji Tiger Reserve, according to a government wildlife committee document. Access arrangements may be subject to restrictions, so verify the current position with the relevant official authorities before travelling.
FAQs
How far is Neelkanth Mahadev Temple from Rishikesh?
An AIIMS Rishikesh document gives the distance as 31 km. A separate route depiction measures 26.1 km from Rishikesh Bus Stand.
What are the temple timings?
The hours are 05:00–13:00 and 16:00–21:00. Check the official site before travelling because hours may change.
Which festivals draw large crowds?
Maha Shivratri and Kanwar Mela are periods when thousands of visitors come to the temple.
Is there a ropeway to the temple?
A feasibility report discusses possible ropeway alignments, but it does not confirm an operating service. Road and trekking routes are described for access.