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Bhootnath Temple

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About

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Bhootnath Temple is located in Rishikesh near Parmarth Niketan Ashram. The temple comprises 11 floors, with the topmost floor dedicated to Lord Shiva, where the sacred Shiva Barat is depicted beautifully through murals. Being situated at the highest point of Rishikesh, the Bhootnath temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. From the top floor, devotees can also witness various popular landmarks of Rishikesh. The temple is easily accessible from all major parts of the city, particularly from Janki Setu and Ram Jhula.

Bhootnath Temple, Rishikesh

Located just one kilometre away from both Janki Setu and Ram Jhula, the Bhootnath Temple is situated behind Swargashram and Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Maintained and managed by Swami Kailashanand Mission Trust, the temple is surrounded on three sides by the lush greenery of Rajaji National Park, providing a scenic view.

Pilgrims can access the shrine either by climbing steep stairs or by using a well-paved pathway. Each floor of the temple is dedicated to a different form of Mahadev, while the seventh floor is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Due to the temple's height, some pilgrims may experience dizziness. Before entering the shrine, pilgrims must wash their hands and feet.

Sphatik Shivling

The fifth floor of the temple houses the Sphatik Shivling (Quartz), which is one of the most unique in the shrine. It is believed that offering a Dandvat Pranam (Ashtanga Pranam) while chanting Har Har Mahadev fulfils one's pilgrimage. A similar shivling is also enshrined in Dehradun's Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple, commonly known as Shiv Mandir.

Mythological Belief

The temple is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed that when Lord Shiva was on his way to marry his first wife, Goddess Sati, his barat halted here for the night. From here, the barat proceeded to Kankhal the next day. As Shiva barat was accompanied by bhoots (known as Bhootgan), ganas, and other divine beings, the temple is known as Bhootnath Mandir.

Top Floor

The top floor of the temple is considered the most significant one and is dedicated to the Bhootnath. Like other floors, it also houses an idol of Lord Shiva, but along with a mural depicting the Shiv Barat.

Temple Opening and Closing Time

The Bhootnath Temple in Rishikesh remains open to devotees throughout the week. The temple generally opens around 7 in the morning and closes around 5:00 PM. Devotees can visit during these hours to seek the blessing of Lord Shiva. Post the given time, no one is allowed to visit the shrine.

Accommodation

Pilgrims can find several accommodation options near Janki Setu and Ram Jhula, such as Hotels, resorts, homestays, and a Dharamshala. These accommodations can be booked easily online or offline. However, before booking, visitors must check or confirm the parking availability and accessibility from the main road.

Food Guide

Near Janki Setu or at Ram Jhula, visitors will enjoy a variety of food options. In the evening, pilgrims can also enjoy popular local street food. Additionally, there are several theme based cafe serving both national and international cuisine.

Important Tips for Visitors

The temple doesn't offer any dedicated parking facility; visitors must park their vehicle roadside.
Instead of using the stairs, visitors are advised to take the alternative path, which can be climbed easily.
Renting a two-wheeler is a good option to access the site.
During weekends and special occasions, pilgrims may face congestion.
A shoe rack stand is available at the temple entrance.
Before reaching the main shrine, offer water at the Bhuteshwar Shivling located near the first entrance.
Prasad offerings are available near the temple.
Avoid leaning on the safety railing, especially when the temple is overcrowded.
Avoid unnecessary gathering on the top floor.
Pilgrims are not allowed beyond its closing time, i.e. 5 PM.
Drinking water facilities are available within the temple.
Climb the temple stairs carefully and avoid creating a nuisance.

Major Nearby Attractions

After visiting Bhootnath Temple, the pilgrims can explore various other popular places in the town. Some recommended place lists near Bhootnath Temple are given as:

How to Reach

By Road: Bhootnath Temple is located around 3 km from Rishikesh Bus Stand. It can be reached easily up to the temple gate by a two-wheeler, as the roads are narrow and not suitable for four wheeler. However, to access the temple, one must cover a short distance to reach the temple.

By Rail: Yog Nagri Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest railway station, situated around 5 km away. From the station, visitors can take an auto or e-rickshaw to reach the city, and from there they can rent a two-wheeler to reach the location. Alternatively, visitors can hire a rickshaw up to Janki Setu and from there they can cover the remaining distance on foot.

By Air: The nearest airport to the temple is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, approximately 20 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi up to Rishikesh and from there they can reach the site by the available means.

Best Time to Visit

Bhootnath Temple can be visited throughout the week; the best time to visit is in the evening. During this, you can witness the charming beauty of Rishikesh and the beautiful sunset.