Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Neelkanth Mahadev is a Hindu shrine in the Pauri Garhwal district of India, built on a forested hillside between two smaller mountain streams. The outer walls display chiseled reliefs, while the interior holds a stone shrine with a lingam surrounded by flower garlands and incense sticks.

The queen of Indore commissioned the shrine in the 18th century after earlier structures were lost to landslides. Later renovations added smaller shrines and a paved courtyard without altering the original footprint.

The name combines two Sanskrit words referring to a deity with a blue throat, worshipped here for centuries. Devotees arrive before sunrise and hear temple bells echo through the valley as priests light oil lamps and recite mantras.

The path from the riverbank climbs uphill through rhododendron forests and can become slippery during monsoon rains, so sturdy footwear is advised. The main hall is reached by several steps, with a stone railing offering support during the ascent.

A small pond beside the main shrine is said never to run dry, even during the hottest summer months the water remains constant. Local guides say the pond is fed by underground springs that originate deep within the rock.