Bharat Mandir
श्री भरत मंदिर
Rishikesh’s oldest temple, said to have been rebuilt by Shankara. The courtyard features an ancient bodhi tree and old stone carvings worth seeing.
The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, in the name of Bharata, the brother of Rama. It is said to have been rebuilt by the master Shankara in the 8th century, and it is the central temple of Rishikesh’s old town. The name of the town, which means “Lord of the Senses,” is also linked to this legend. In the courtyard stands a bodhi tree that is about a thousand years old, and a small museum displays ancient coins, pottery, and sculptures unearthed from the site. Entry is free and the temple is open about 5:30 to 21:00. It is in the old town market near Triveni Ghat, so you can visit both together.
Opening hours
Approx. 05:30–21:00
Nearby sights
- Triveni Ghat
- Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
- Janki Setu
- Parmarth Niketan Ganga Aarti
- Sivananda Ashram (Divine Life Society)
- Ram Jhula
- Lakshman Jhula
- Tera Manzil Temple (Trayambakeshwar)