Haridwar Tourist Places - “Gateway to Gods”
About Haridwar
Haridwar also known as “Mayapuri”, is a city and municipal corporation in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand India. It is situated on the right bank of the Ganges river, at the foothills of the Shivalik ranges. Haridwar is known for its religious significance, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.
Haridwar Tourist Places - “Gateway to Gods”
Discover Fascinating Facts About Haridwar Tourist Places
- Haridwar is one among the seven holiest places (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism.
- Taking a dip in the River Ganges at Haridwar is believed to cleanse all sins and pave the way for salvation (Moksha).
- It is also an entry point to the Char Dham (the four main centers of pilgrimage in Uttarakhand viz, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
- Legend says that Haridwar along with Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayag, is one of four places where drops of amrita, the elixir of immortality, spilled from a pitcher carried by the celestial bird Garuda during the churning of the ocean. Brahma Kund at Har ki Pauri ("footsteps of the Lord") is the most sacred ghat in Haridwar, where the amrita is believed to have fallen.
- Haridwar is also the main center for the Kanwar pilgrimage. During this event, millions of people collect sacred water from the Ganges and carry it for hundreds of miles to offer at Shiva shrines.
- Every 12 years, Haridwar hosts the Kumbh Mela, a massive gathering of millions of Hindu devotees. The Ardh Kumbh is organized here every six years.
Best Time to explore Haridwar Tourist places
- Peak Season - October to April is considered to be extremely chilly days with an average temperature falling below 10℃. Given the festive season there is huge crowd during this season
- Moderate Season - May to June is considered to be warm days with clear blue skies followed by breezy nights.
- Off-season - July To September is considered to face heavy rainfalls with high levels of humidity. Given its off season the crowd is less and one enjoys discounted hotel prices and tour cost would be comparatively less
Experience the charm of Haridwar's festivals and fairs, where tradition thrives and joy abounds.
- Kumbh Mela – held once in every 12 years in the month of March and April
- Ardh Kumbh Mela – held once in every 6 years
- Ganga Dussehra
- Kanwar Mela – held during the month of Shravan
- Diwali – festival of Lights
- Baisakhi Mela
Discover the Beautiful Haridwar Tourist Places
1. Har Ki Pauri
Har Ki Pauri is a revered site in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, known as “Steps of the Lord” where the Ganges River enters the plains. Famous for its spiritual significance, it’s believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint here. The ghat is a central hub for the Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual of lights and chants, held at dawn and dusk. It’s a major destination during Hindu festivals like Kumbh Mela, where millions take sacred baths to cleanse sins and seek salvation. With modern amenities to accommodate pilgrims, Har Ki Pauri offers a profound experience of Hindu traditions and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.
2. Daksh Mahadev Temple
Daksh Mahadev Temple is located in Kankhal, close to Haridwar, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a significant place because it’s where Lord Shiva’s wife, Sati, ended her life and where Shiva later killed her father, King Daksha. The temple is peaceful and beautifully designed in a traditional Hindu style. It’s especially busy during the monsoon month of Sawan and the festival of Maha Shivaratri when many devotees come for special prayers
Haridwar Tourist Places - “Gateway to Gods”
3. Mansa Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site located atop the Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar. Dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, believed to grant wishes of her devotees, the temple is accessible by a scenic cable car ride or a trekking path, offering stunning views of Haridwar. It’s particularly crowded during the Navaratri and Kumbh Mela festivals when thousands of devotees visit to tie threads on the temple’s branches as a symbol of their wishes. The temple complex is well-equipped with facilities to handle the large influx of visitors, making it a must-visit for those seeking both spiritual and cultural experiences in Haridwar.
4. Chandi Devi Temple
Chandi Devi Temple, atop Neel Parvat in Haridwar, honors Goddess Chandi. Accessible by cable car or trek, it offers scenic views and spiritual solace. Popular during Navratri and Kumbh Mela, it’s a must-visit for those seeking Hindu spirituality and panoramic vistas.
Haridwar Tourist Places - “Gateway to Gods”
5. Vaishno Devi Temple
Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar is a special place devoted to Goddess Vaishno Devi. It’s like a copy of the famous temple in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir. People come here to pray and ask for blessings. The temple has a calm atmosphere and beautiful design that makes it a nice place to visit for spiritual reasons. It’s important because it lets people feel close to the goddess without having to travel far.
Haridwar Tourist Places - “Gateway to Gods”
Experience the Thrill of Adventures and Activities of Haridwar Tourist places
Ganga Aarti
The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar happens every evening at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Priests pray to the Ganges River with music and lamps, making it a beautiful and spiritual experience for everyone who attends.
River Rafting on the Ganges
In Haridwar, you can go river rafting on the Ganges, which is super exciting. You get to ride through the river’s rapids, and it’s fun for everyone, whether you’re new to rafting or have done it before. With beautiful views all around, it’s a thrilling adventure you won’t forget!
Paragliding
Paragliding in Haridwar is an exciting adventure where you glide through the air, enjoying stunning views of the city and hills below. Suitable for beginners and experienced flyers, it’s a thrilling experience with trained instructors ensuring safety.
Wildlife Safaris in Rajaji National Park
Explore Rajaji National Park on a wildlife safari to see elephants, tigers, and birds up close. Ride in a jeep or on an elephant with a guide to discover the park’s lush forests and enjoy this exciting adventure in nature!
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking in Haridwar is an exciting way to explore nature and villages, with trails for all skill levels. Guided tours ensure safety and provide insights into the region’s culture. It’s a thrilling adventure in the Himalayan foothills for outdoor lovers.
Haridwar Tourist Places - “Gateway to Gods”
Treat yourself to the delicious local dishes of Haridwar, where every bite is a taste of tradition and flavor.
Aloo Puri
Deep-fried bread served with spicy potato curry, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Kachori
Deep-fried pastry filled with a spicy mixture of lentils or potatoes, perfect for a flavorful snack.
Jalebi
Crispy, coiled sweets made from deep-fried batter soaked in sugar syrup, offering a deliciously sweet treat.
Chole Bhature
Soft, fluffy bread served with spicy chickpea curry, a hearty and satisfying dish loved by locals and visitors alike.
Rabri
Thickened sweetened milk garnished with nuts and saffron, offering a rich and indulgent dessert experience.
Lassi
Refreshing yogurt-based drink flavored with spices or fruits, perfect for quenching thirst on hot days.
Chole Kulche
Soft, fluffy bread served with spicy chickpea curry, a popular street food option packed with flavor.
Haridwar Tourist Places - “Gateway to Gods”