Haridwar – Where the Ganga Meets Devotion

Haridwar – (also known as Haridwar) is a holy city in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. Known as the Gateway to the Gods, Haridwar is considered one of the seven holiest places according to Hindus, as the devas are said to have left their footprints there. Here pilgrims float diyas on the Ganges, to commemorate their deceased ancestors. The city also stands as a gateway to three other important pilgrimage destinations: Rishikesh, Badrinath, and Kedarnath. In Haridwar you will see a great statue of Shiva at the fork of the river. If you are there for a short visit, it is definitely worth to visit the temple on top of the mountain, with a wonderful view.
Haridwar has very rich ancient religious and cultural heritage. In the ancient scriptures of India, this place is well known by the name of Mayapur. This city is also well known for many other things apart from the holy river Ganges. Haridwar has privilege of having IIT at Roorkee. The tomb Piran Kaliar of Shabir Shahib in Roorkee is a living example of religious harmony in India which is visited by the people of all religious sects from all over the world. There is another University in the city called Gurukul Kangri Vishva Vidyalaya apart from the head quarter of Uttarakhand State Public Service Commission also being established at Haridwar. Besides this, Kumbh fair is organized at the interval of every 12 years in this city in which about 1 crore pilgrims from all over the world participate.

Main Attraction of Haridwar

The most famous place in Haridwar is Har Ki Pauri Ghat. It is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint here, and taking a bath in the holy River Ganga at this spot washes away sins. Every day, thousands of people come here to take a dip and pray.

The main highlight is the evening Ganga Aarti. As the sun sets, priests light big lamps, chant mantras, and offer prayers to the river. Devotees float small lamps in the water, and the whole river shines with light — it is a truly magical and spiritual experience.

Other popular attractions in Haridwar include:

• Mansa Devi Temple – A hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, reached by ropeway.
• Chandi Devi Temple – Another hill temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi, also reachable by ropeway.
• Daksha Mahadev Temple – An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Bharat Mata Mandir – A special temple honoring Mother India, with different floors showing India’s culture and history.

Nearby Places to Visit in Haridwar

• Rishikesh (25 km): Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh is famous for yoga, meditation, river rafting, and the iconic Laxman Jhula bridge.

• Chandi Devi Temple (5 km): Located on Neel Parvat hill, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi. You can reach it by a short trek or ropeway.

• Mansa Devi Temple (2 km): Situated on Bilwa Parvat, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi and offers a ropeway ride with scenic views.

• Rajaji National Park (10 km): A great place for nature and wildlife lovers. You can spot elephants, deer, leopards, and many bird species here.

• Daksha Mahadev Temple (4 km): An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a rich mythological background.

• Bharat Mata Mandir (6 km): A unique multi-storey temple dedicated to Mother India, showcasing India’s culture, freedom fighters, and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Haridwar

• Summer (April – June): The weather is hot but still manageable. Many festivals are celebrated during this time.

• Monsoon (July – September): Haridwar becomes green and fresh, but heavy rains may cause travel difficulties.

• Winter (October – March): The most comfortable season for visitors, with pleasant days and cool nights.

What to Do in Haridwar

• Take a holy dip in the River Ganga at Har Ki Pauri.

• Attend the evening Ganga Aarti for a spiritual experience.

• Visit famous temples like Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi, and Daksha Mahadev.

• Explore ashrams and yoga centers for peace and meditation.

• Shop at local bazaars for Rudraksha beads, idols, and sweets.

• Enjoy Ayurvedic massages and treatments at wellness centers.

• Go for a short trip to Rishikesh for yoga, adventure, and river rafting.

• Experience festivals and fairs like Kumbh Mela and Kanwar Yatra.