Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated at an altitude of 1,330 meters amidst the dense forests of the Pauri Garhwal district, approximately 32 km from Rishikesh. According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Lord Shiva consumed the poison (halahala) that emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), turning his throat blue, hence the name Neelkanth (blue-throated one). The temple is a significant pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of devotees annually, especially during the festivals of Shivratri and Kanwar Yatra. The temple complex offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and the journey to the temple through winding mountain roads is as scenic as the destination itself. The spiritual significance, natural beauty, and mythological importance make it one of the most important Shiva temples in the region.