Neelkanth Temple Alwar – Rajasthan’s Hidden Shiva Gem

Neelkanth Temple Alwar is a stunning 10th-century Shiva shrine nestled in the Aravalli hills near Sariska Tiger Reserve. Known for its intricate trikuta architecture, mythological carvings, and serene surroundings, it stands as a spiritual and architectural marvel of ancient Rajasthan

1. Overview: Why Visit the Neelkanth Temple?

Tucked amidst the rugged Aravalli hills in Tehla village, Rajgarh tehsil of Alwar district, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a timeless tribute to Lord Shiva. It lies inside the buffer zone of the Sariska Tiger Reserve, surrounded by ancient ruins and panoramic views.

• Deity: Dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Neelkanth (blue-throated) form, who drank the Halahala poison during Samudra Manthan.

• Heritage: Commissioned around 961 CE by Parmeshwara Mathanadeva, a feudatory of the Pratihara dynasty.

• Significance: This is the sole surviving temple out of nearly 200 in the region, and a brilliant example of Nagara-style architecture from medieval North India.

2. History & Legends

Once known as Rajyapura and later Paranagar, this site was a bustling temple town during the Pratihara reign.

• Folklore recounts how Aurangzeb’s troops attempted to destroy the temple but were driven back by swarms of bees, believed to be Shiva’s divine protectors.

• Mythological traditions also link the temple to the Pandavas, who are said to have brought a Shivalinga from Kashi (Varanasi) during their exile.

3. Architectural Brilliance: Inside the Trikuta Temple

The Neelkanth Temple showcases a Trikuta (three-shrine) layout, where only the main sanctum remains intact, and side shrines now lie roofless.

Key Features:

• Main Shrine (Garbhagriha): Towered with a beautifully preserved Nagara-style shikhara.

• Rangamandapa (Hall of Worship): Features four intricately carved pillars with a concentric lotus ceiling, evoking divine symmetry.

• Exterior Sculptures: Depict Narasimha, Harihararka, Tripurantaka, along with mythological beings like apsaras, gandharvas, yalis, and mithunas, some in Khajuraho-style erotic art.

• Doorframe Art: Decorated in Panchashakha style, featuring Natesa (dancing Shiva) and celestial motifs.

This temple is a testimony to Pratihara craftsmanship and their spiritual aesthetics.

4. Spiritual Ambience & Cultural Relevance

A year-round pilgrimage destination, the temple becomes especially lively during:

• Shravan Month (July–August) – devotees visit in large numbers for Shiva worship.

• Mahashivratri – a spiritual celebration under the stars on the hilltop.

The surrounding forests and silence enhance the temple’s meditative energy, offering a perfect escape from modern chaos.

5. Nearby Attractions Worth Exploring

• Naugaza Jain Temple (922 CE): Located just 100 meters west, this shrine features a 17.5 ft tall statue of Tirthankara Shantinatha in Digambara form — a must-see for lovers of Jain heritage.

• Sariska Tiger Reserve: Enjoy a safari through Rajasthan’s wilderness where leopards, tigers, and peacocks roam freely.

• Bhangarh Fort & Rajorgarh Ruins: Extend your visit by exploring these legendary sites filled with myths and historical grandeur.

6. Visitor Information & Travel Tips