Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

The temple is located about 30 km from Rishikesh; the road takes about 1–1.5 hours one way depending on transport and traffic. The road is a scenic mountain serpentine with views of forests, rocks and gorges.

This is one of the most revered Shiva temples in the area. According to legend, it was here that Shiva drank poison to save the universe, and his throat became blue, hence the name Nilkantha, meaning "blue-throated."

There's an atmospheric temple on the site, with queues of pilgrims, offerings, incense, modest shops and the feeling that you've found yourself at the epicenter of living mythology.

Blue-throated Shiva