Introduction: The Land of Faith and Peace Rishikesh and Haridwar are the two most spiritual cities in Uttarakhand, filled with temples, ghats, and divine energy. These twin towns, located along the River Ganga, attract pilgrims and traveller’s from all over the world. If you are searching for spiritual places near Rishikesh, or planning to visit famous temples in Rishikesh and Haridwar, this simple and complete travel guide will help you. Here, you’ll find details about temple locations, timings, and travel tips — everything you need for a peaceful and memorable spiritual journey. Why Visit Temples Near Rishikesh and Haridwar? 1. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh Location: 32 km from RishikeshDeity: Lord Shiva Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is one of the most famous temples in Rishikesh and Haridwar. According to legend, Lord Shiva drank poison here during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), which turned his throat blue. Why Visit: Temple Timings: Opening: 6:00 AMClosing: 8:00 PM 2. Trimbakeshwar Temple (Tera Manzil Temple), Rishikesh Location: Near Laxman JhulaDeity: Lord Shiva This 13-storey temple is a major part of Rishikesh and Haridwar sightseeing. Each floor has different idols, representing various Hindu gods and goddesses. Why Visit: Temple Timings: Opening: 6:00 AMClosing: 7:00 PM 3. Bharat Mandir, Rishikesh Location: Near Triveni GhatDeity: Lord Vishnu Believed to be one of the oldest temples in India, Bharat Mandir was built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. It holds a black stone idol of Lord Vishnu carved from a single rock. Why Visit: Temple Timings: Opening: 5:00 AMClosing: 9:00 PM 4. Kunjapuri Devi Temple, Rishikesh Location: 27 km from RishikeshDeity: Goddess Parvati Situated at 1,650 meters above sea level, Kunjapuri Devi Temple is one of the 52 Shakti Peeths in India. It is known for its stunning sunrise view and peaceful surroundings. Why Visit: Temple Timings: Opening: 5:00 AMClosing: 7:00 PM 5. Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar Location: Bilwa Parvat HillDeity: Goddess Mansa Devi Dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, this temple is one of the most visited in Haridwar. It’s believed that the goddess grants the wishes of her devotees. Why Visit: Temple Timings: Opening: 5:00 AMClosing: 9:00 PM 6. Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar Location: Neel Parvat HillDeity: Goddess Chandi Devi Built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, this temple is another important Shakti Peeth in Haridwar. It is believed that Goddess Chandi killed demons Chanda and Munda at this very spot. Why Visit: Temple Timings: Opening: 6:00 AMClosing: 8:00 PM 7. Daksha Mahadev Temple, Kankhal (Haridwar) Location: Kankhal, 4 km from HaridwarDeity: Lord Shiva One of the oldest temples near Rishikesh and Haridwar, this temple marks the spot where Goddess Sati sacrificed herself in her father’s yajna. Why Visit: Temple Timings: Opening: 5:00 AMClosing: 8:00 PM 8. Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar Location: Main Ghat, Haridwar Har Ki Pauri means “Steps of Lord Shiva.” It’s not a temple but one of India’s most sacred ghats. The evening Ganga Aarti here is world-famous. Why Visit: Aarti Timings: Morning Aarti: Around 5:30 AMEvening Aarti: Around 6:30 PM (seasonal variation) 9. Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh Location: Near Ram Jhula Parmarth Niketan is a peaceful ashram that hosts yoga, meditation, and evening Ganga Aarti. It’s one of the main attractions for Rishikesh and Haridwar sightseeing. Why Visit: Aarti Timings (Triveni Ghat & Parmarth): Evening Aarti: Around 6:00 PM daily 10. Lakshman Temple, Rishikesh Location: Near Laxman Jhula This temple is said to mark the spot where Lord Lakshman crossed the Ganga on jute ropes. It’s small but holds great mythological importance. Why Visit: Temple Timings: Opening: 6:00 AMClosing: 7:00 PM Quick Summary Table: Major Temples Near Rishikesh & Haridwar Temple Name Location Main Deity Opening Time Closing Time Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Rishikesh Hills Lord Shiva 6:00 AM 8:00 PM Trimbakeshwar (Tera Manzil) Temple Laxman Jhula Lord Shiva 6:00 AM 7:00 PM Bharat Mandir Triveni Ghat Lord Vishnu 5:00 AM 9:00 PM Kunjapuri Devi Temple Rishikesh Hills Goddess Parvati 5:00 AM 7:00 PM Mansa Devi Temple Haridwar Goddess Mansa Devi 5:00 AM 9:00 PM Chandi Devi Temple Haridwar Goddess Chandi Devi 6:00 AM 8:00 PM Daksha Mahadev Temple Kankhal Lord Shiva 5:00 AM 8:00 PM Har Ki Pauri Haridwar — Open All Day Aarti 5:30 AM / 6:30 PM Parmarth Niketan Ashram Rishikesh — Open All Day Aarti 6:00 PM Lakshman Temple Rishikesh Lord Lakshman 6:00 AM 7:00 PM How to Reach Rishikesh and Haridwar Where to Stay Best Time to Visit Temples Near Rishikesh and Haridwar Season Months Experience Winter October – February Cool and pleasant, best for temple visits Summer March – June Warm but manageable mornings Monsoon July – September Green landscapes, fewer crowds Conclusion: A Journey from Faith to Inner Peace Visiting the temples near Rishikesh and Haridwar is not just a religious experience — it’s a journey of the heart. Every temple, ghat, and Aarti here connects you deeply to India’s culture and peace. Whether it’s the divine chants at Triveni Ghat, the mountain view from Kunjapuri Devi Temple, or the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, each moment here brings calmness and devotion. So, if you’re planning a trip to Uttarakhand, add these sacred places to your list — and let your soul soak in the divine energy of the Himalayas. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What are the most famous temples near Rishikesh and Haridwar? Some top temples include Neelkanth Mahadev, Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi, Bharat Mandir, and Kunjapuri Devi Temple. 2. What are the Aarti timings at Triveni Ghat and Har Ki Pauri? 3. How far is Rishikesh from Haridwar? It’s around 25 km and takes 40–45 minutes by car. 4. What is the best time to visit these temples? The best time is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and cool. 5. Can I attend Ganga Aarti in both cities? Yes! You can attend Parmarth Niketan Aarti in Rishikesh and Har Ki Pauri Aarti in Haridwar — both are beautiful and spiritual.