Bharat Mandir

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours approximately

Tickets: Free entry

Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh railway station, 2 km away

Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, 18 km away

Nearest Bus Stop: Rishikesh bus station, 1 km away 

Bharat Mandir is an ancient and revered temple in the heart of Rishikesh, dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. Believed to be the oldest temple in the city, it holds immense spiritual and historical significance. In 789 AD, Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya reinstalled the Shaligram idol here on Basant Panchami to revive Sanatan Dharma. This tradition continues with an annual ritual bath and procession from Mayakund.

According to legend, Sage Raibhya Rishi’s deep penance pleased Lord Vishnu, who manifested and chose to reside here as Hrishikesh Narayan giving the city its name. The temple is also mentioned in scriptures like the Mahabharata, Vishnu Puran, and Shrimad Bhagwat, making it one of the most spiritual places to visit in Rishikesh.

Devotees believe 108 circumambulations of the deity on Akshaya Tritiya fulfill wishes. The temple complex houses 250-year-old sacred trees Vat, Pipal, and Bail symbolizing the Tridev: Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. A museum within the temple showcases excavated artifacts, including pottery and idols of Lord Tirupati, Badrinath, and Hrishikesh Narayan. 

• Admire the ancient architecture of Bharat Temple, believed to be one of the oldest temples in Rishikesh, established by Adi Shankaracharya.
• Explore Bhadra Kali Temple,  known for its fierce energy, vibrant rituals, and grand Navratri celebrations.
• Marvel at the sacred Shaligram idol, carved from a single black stone and revered for its unique spiritual aura.
• Uncover the treasures of the Bharat Mandir Museum, where ancient idols, pottery, and stone carvings reveal Rishikesh’s cultural heritage.
• Experience the spiritual energy during festivals like Basant Panchami, when the idol is taken on a traditional procession around the city.