The history reveals that Haridwar's existence dates back to as early as the days of Buddha. The name of this holy city means 'Gateway to God' in Hindi. Haridwar is situated at the base of the Shivalik hills, where the mighty Ganga, flows down from the lap of great Himalayas. As per the Hindu mythology, Haridwar is fortuned with the footprints of the angelic Gods, thereby representing the land as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, and Mokshadwar. This prominent Hindu pilgrimage destination is the gateway to other three prominent holy Chardham destinations of Uttarakhand namely, Rishikesh, Badrinath and Kedarnath. Get uplifted in the spiritual ambiance by choosing Haridwar as your holiday destination in Uttaranchal, the divine path to the homes of God. The godly land scintillates during the famous Kumbh Mela, organized by devotees after every 12 years and also with the similar Ardha Kumbha Mela is held after every six years. Pilgrims welcome the daily dusk with an evening aarti on the bank of the pious river Ganga, which is believed to carry the stone cuts marked with the footprints of Lord Vishnu. This beautiful has been grabbing million people since the period of Lord Buddha and till today, the place holds all its religious and cultural aspects in a unique style.
The most sought-after sightseeing revolves around the Ganga River and the temples on the banks. The sacred bathing Ghat of Har-ki-Pauri, along the banks of the River Ganga is the pulse of this city. Thousands of pilgrims come here to take a dip in the holy river, which is an enchanting sight when lit up with oil-lamps during the evening ceremony of Ganga Arti.
Best time to visit:
Haridwar can be visited round the year.
Places of Interest:
Chandi Devi Temple: Situated atop the Neel Parvat, gives a panoramic view of the entire Haridwar town. The temple was built in the year 1929 by the then king of Kashmir Suchat Singh.
Bharat Mata Temple: Is a massive eight-storey structure consecrated in 1983. Each floor of the temple houses statues of different mythological and historical legends, religious deities, leaders and heroes who played important role in the formation of the modern India. The temple was founded by Swami Satyamitranand Giri.
Shanti Kunj: It is the most important centre for the Gayatri followers all over India. The temple here houses 24 images of Gayatri. Shanti Kunj is also famous for yoga practices.
Har-Ki-Pauri: Is regarded as one of the major attractions of Haridwar.
Maya Devi Temple: Holds great religious importance for the follower of Hindu religion. The temple is also regarded as one of the Siddhapethas dedicated to the Adhisthatri Devi of Haridwar.
Bazaars: Haridwar is also famous for its local bazaars or markets. The main Haridwar bazaar is a long, winding street, probably the oldest part of the town, free of all vehicular traffic.
Excursion: ( places around Haridwar)
Rishikesh: 24 kms Rishikesh is considered to be one of the most sacred cities in India, next only to Haridwar. Nestled amidst the beautiful Himalayas and piously intercepted by the mystic Ganges, this place is considered to be the sacred spot where one can attain salvation. This holy city also serves as the centre of several ancient Hindu temples and many other sacred shrines. Some of the places in Rishikesh worth visiting are Bharat Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev, Laxman Temple, Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula and Swarga-Ashram. Rishikesh is also getting attention as a centre for rafting and trekking.
Dehra Dun: 52 kms The capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is famous for its scenic grandeur and beautiful surroundings. Located in the Shivalik hills, the dense forests and scenic beauty of the place are enough to captivate the tourists. The places worth visiting in Dehradun are Sahastradhara, Tapkeshawar Temple, Chandrabani, Tibetan Temple, Robber's Cave, Santala Devi Temple, Lachhiwala, Tapowan, Asan Barrage Water Sports Resort, Rajaji National Park, Dakpathar and Malsi Deer Park.
Rajaji National Park: 9 kms Rajaji National Park was established in 1983 amidst the bio diverse area of the Shivalik Hill range on the Himalayan foothills. The national park’s name has been dedicated to C. Rajagopalachari, fondly known as Raja Ji.
Piran Kalier: 23 kms Located on the outskirts of Roorkee town, Piran Kalier is a place that every tourist in Haridwar must visit. It is actually the 'dargah' of Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahamed 'Sabir'. This place is famous for its sacred aura and mystical powers. It is visited with due regard by Hindus and Muslims alike. During the Rabeeull month of the Islamic calendar, Urs, a colorful festival, is celebrated here from the first day of sighting the moon to the sixteenth day.
Deoprayag: 95 kms is the confluence point of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, through the vast network of tributaries, to form Ganges. It is only from Deoprayag that the sacred river starts being called Ganga. At a height of 2700 feet above sea level, it is a sacred pilgrimage centre and is considered the second most divine confluence centre in India, next only to Prayag. One of the famous temples here is the Raghunath Temple, which is considered as one of the 108 most important temples in India.
Sapt Rishi Ashram: 5 kms According to Hindu Mythology, Sapt Rishi Ashram is regarded as the place where the seven great sages, or Sapt-Rishis, Kashyap, Vashisht, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagni, Bharadwaja and Gautam meditated. It is said that the Ganges split herself into seven streams, here only, so that the sages would not be disturbed by her flow. Thus, this place is also known as the Sapt Sarovar or Saptrishi Kund. The streams reunite further and flow as a beautiful channel called Neel Dhara while entering Haridwar.
Chila: 10 kms is known for housing the famous Rajaji National Park. This is a popular destination for all the nature and adventure lovers. The immaculate scenic beauty and varied biodiversity of this park has been a major attraction for wildlife lovers from all over the world, since its inception.
Kanva Rishi Ashram: 42 kms Built on the banks of river Malini, on the way to Kotdwar. The path to this ashram is along a dense forest, providing an exciting experience for the adventure-lovers. This is a serene place, in the lap of nature, away from the hush-bush of cities.
Reach:
By Air: The nearest Airport to Haridwar is Dehradun and is 52 kms away from the town.
By Rail: Haridwar Railway station is well connected with all major cities of India main trains are Ujjaini Express, Uttaranchal Express, Haridwar Allahabad Express and many more.
By Road:National Highway 45 passes through the Haridwar town with major towns of North India: Delhi: 224 kms, Dehradun: 52 kms, Rishikesh: 24 kms, Mussoorie: 90 kms, Nainital: 190 kms, Saharanpur: 81 kms, Yamnotri: 240 kms, Kedarnath: 250 kms, Badrinath: 290 kms and Agra: 385 kms.
