Bhootnath Temple Rishikesh

Introduction to the Bhootnath Temple

Rishikesh is the abode of many ancient Hindu temples. It is one of the most renowned pilgrimage spots in India. Bhootnath Temple is an ancient Temple in Dev Boomi Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. The temple lies on the top of the hill in the Swarg ashram region, behind the Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Shiva is the primary deity here.

Legend of the Bhootnath Temple

The Bhootnath Temple legends are interesting. One legend says Shiva went out in a procession to marry Sati. His father-in-law, King Daksha, had placed Shiva in this Bhootnath Temple with his marriage procession. So, Shiva spent the night here with all the deities, Ganas, ghosts, and all other creatures who were part of the marriage procession.

According to another legend, Shiva appeared as Bhootnath and protected Rishikesh from the demons. Thus, he put a stop to the atrocities and destruction taking place in this area.

The Architecture of the Bhootnath Temple

The temple displays traditional Hindu temple architecture. It has intricate designs and carvings adorning the walls and pillars. Rishikesh's Sri Kailashananda Trust constructed the Bhootnath Temple. The temple has a tall Shikhar (spire), visible from a distance. It adds magnificence to the temple.

Rajaji National Park surrounds the temple on three sides. Bhootnath Temple is a thirteen-story building. On the first floor, pilgrims can see the stories of Shiva engraved in pictures. Pictures of Nandi, Hanuman, and all other deities are on every floor. On the seventh floor, there is a small Shiva temple. This is the sanctum sanctorum where pilgrims can worship Bhootnath in Shiva Linga form. There are ten bells on all four sides surrounding him.

The interesting fact about the Bhootnath Temple is that each bell produces a different sound. No one sound matches the other. People can see these bells emit different sounds even when ringed together. Devotees can worship idols of Saraswati, Kalabhairava, and other deities here.

In the courtyard, pilgrims can see images of the procession of Shiva and his Ganas. They can view Rishikesh, Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, Parmarth Niketan Muni ki Reti, and Shivanand Ashram from the top floor of the Bhootnath Temple.

Festivals in the Bhootnath Temple

The Bhootnath Temple celebrates Shivratri grandly every year. Navratri, Holi, and Diwali are other festivals celebrated in the Bhootnath Temple. Thousands of devotees throng here to worship the deity.

Benefits of Worshipping at Bhootnath Temple

Meditating on Bhootnath in the temple helps to reduce anxiety and promotes mental peace. He bestows Moksha (liberation) on yearning souls. Bhootnath blesses his fervent devotees with both spiritual and material boons. Regular worship of the deity helps to earn wealth and attain fame.