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?
- Both cities are located on the holy banks of the River Ganga.
- They are gateways to the famous Char Dham Yatra.
- The region is known for ancient temples, peaceful ghats, and a pure atmosphere.
- Visitors experience not just religion, but also calmness, culture, and history.
1. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh
Location: 32 km from Rishikesh
Deity: 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:
- Beautiful hilltop temple surrounded by forests.
- Ideal for meditation and peaceful prayer.
- Scenic road trip with views of the Himalayas.
Temple Timings:
Opening: 6:00 AM
Closing: 8:00 PM
2. Trimbakeshwar Temple (Tera Manzil Temple), Rishikesh
Location: Near Laxman Jhula
Deity: 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:
- Great Ganga view from the top floor.
- Easy to reach by walking from Laxman Jhula.
- Peaceful environment with ancient chants echoing around.
Temple Timings:
Opening: 6:00 AM
Closing: 7:00 PM
3. Bharat Mandir, Rishikesh
Location: Near Triveni Ghat
Deity: 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:
- Oldest temple in Rishikesh.
- Peaceful place for meditation.
- Located near the famous Triveni Ghat.
Temple Timings:
Opening: 5:00 AM
Closing: 9:00 PM
4. Kunjapuri Devi Temple, Rishikesh
Location: 27 km from Rishikesh
Deity: 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:
- Amazing Himalayan sunrise view.
- A short, adventurous trek to the top.
- One of the main holy places near Rishikesh and Haridwar.
Temple Timings:
Opening: 5:00 AM
Closing: 7:00 PM
5. Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar
Location: Bilwa Parvat Hill
Deity: 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:
- Reach the temple by ropeway (Udan Khatola).
- Wonderful view of Haridwar city.
- One of the main religious places near Rishikesh and Haridwar.
Temple Timings:
Opening: 5:00 AM
Closing: 9:00 PM
6. Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar
Location: Neel Parvat Hill
Deity: 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:
- Ropeway and trek options available.
- Divine view of Haridwar and River Ganga.
- Popular during Navratri festivals.
Temple Timings:
Opening: 6:00 AM
Closing: 8:00 PM
7. Daksha Mahadev Temple, Kankhal (Haridwar)
Location: Kankhal, 4 km from Haridwar
Deity: 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:
- Ancient and sacred site.
- Near Har Ki Pauri.
- Peaceful for morning visits.
Temple Timings:
Opening: 5:00 AM
Closing: 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:
- Watch the evening Ganga Aarti.
- Take a dip in the holy Ganga.
- Feel the true essence of Haridwar’s spirituality.
Aarti Timings:
Morning Aarti: Around 5:30 AM
Evening 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:
- Perfect for yoga and meditation.
- Beautiful Aarti ceremony on Ganga’s banks.
- Calm and clean surroundings.
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:
- Peaceful shrine with strong historical roots.
- Close to the iconic Laxman Jhula Bridge.
Temple Timings:
Opening: 6:00 AM
Closing: 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
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) – 35 km away.
- By Train: Haridwar Junction is well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities.
- By Road: Frequent buses and taxis from Delhi (around 5–6 hours drive).
Where to Stay
- Clans Stays Uttarakhand Packages – for customized spiritual tours.
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram (Rishikesh).
- Hotel Ganga Lahari (Haridwar).
- Budget hotels and homestays available near Triveni Ghat and Har Ki Pauri.
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?
- Triveni Ghat (Rishikesh): Evening Aarti starts around 6:00 PM.
- Har Ki Pauri (Haridwar): Morning Aarti around 5:30 AM and Evening Aarti around 6:30 PM (varies by season).
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.
