Haridwar, the Gateway to the Gods, is a city that reverberates with spirituality and ancient culture. Nestled at the foot of the Shivalik range, Haridwar is a divine city where the River Ganges enters the North Indian plains. The name Haridwar means ‘Gateway to Lord Vishnu’ and is considered one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism.
At Haridwar, you can immerse yourself in the ancient rituals and customs of Hinduism. Take a dip in the holy Ganges River, attend the spectacular Ganga Aarti, visit the temples, and seek blessings from the deities. Witness the vibrant culture and traditions of Haridwar as you explore the city’s bustling streets and markets.
Haridwar is not just a spiritual hub but also offers a plethora of adventure activities. From trekking and camping to white water rafting and bungee jumping, Haridwar is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. Visit Rajaji National Park, located just 10 kilometers away, to experience the rich biodiversity and stunning wildlife.
Haridwar is also home to the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, which happens once in every twelve years. Millions of devotees from across the world visit Haridwar to take a holy dip in the Ganges during the Kumbh Mela.
At Haridwar, you will find yourself amidst the essence of Indian culture and spirituality. Plan a trip to Haridwar to embark on a journey of self-discovery, spirituality, and adventure.
History of Haridwar
Haridwar, located in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The city is mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Mahabharata and the Puranas, where it is referred to as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, and Kapilsthan.
Haridwar is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are said to have left their footprints. The city is also associated with the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, which has been held in Haridwar for centuries.
Over the centuries, Haridwar was ruled by various empires, including the Mauryan, Kushan, and Gupta empires. During the medieval period, Haridwar was ruled by the Mughals and the Marathas.
During the British rule in India, Haridwar became an important hub for trade and commerce, and many infrastructure developments were made during this time. The British also established the Haridwar Municipality in 1868, which is considered to be one of the oldest municipalities in India.
Today, Haridwar is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. The city’s ancient temples, ghats, and other religious sites continue to be an important part of the city’s history and culture.
Architecture of Haridwar
Haridwar’s architecture is a beautiful amalgamation of ancient and modern styles. The city’s ancient temples and religious sites showcase exquisite and intricate designs, while modern infrastructure developments reflect contemporary styles.
One of the most iconic structures in Haridwar is Har Ki Pauri, a ghat on the banks of the River Ganges. The ghat was built by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bharthari, and is one of the most popular landmarks in the city. The ghat’s design includes several steps leading down to the river, with a large platform at the top where people can offer prayers and perform religious rituals.
Another important structure in Haridwar is the Chandi Devi Temple, which is located on top of Neel Parvat Hill. The temple was built in 1929 and is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, who is believed to have defeated the demon Chanda-Munda at this location. The temple’s architecture includes a mix of North Indian and South Indian styles, with intricate carvings and decorations.
The Mansa Devi Temple, located on top of Bilwa Parvat Hill, is another important religious site in Haridwar. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi and is believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes. The temple’s architecture includes a mix of traditional North Indian and modern styles, with a cable car facility for visitors to reach the temple.
Apart from religious sites, Haridwar is also home to several modern infrastructure developments such as hotels, resorts, and shopping complexes. These developments reflect contemporary styles and offer visitors a comfortable and luxurious experience.
Overall, Haridwar’s architecture showcases the city’s rich history and culture, while also embracing modern developments to cater to the needs of visitors.
List of Places to Visit in Haridwar
Here’s a list of 50 places to visit in Haridwar:
- Har Ki Pauri
- Chandi Devi Temple
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Maya Devi Temple
- Bharat Mata Mandir
- Shantikunj
- Daksheswara Mahadev Temple
- Pawan Dham
- Sapt Rishi Ashram
- Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar
- Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
- Kumbh Mela
- Patanjali Yogpeeth
- Rajaji National Park
- Shri Mata Mansa Devi Mandir
- Shri Chintamani Parshwnath Jain Shwetambar Mandir
- Triveni Ghat
- Bhimgoda Tank
- Piran Kaliyar Sharif
- Saptrishi Ashram
- Parmarth Niketan
- Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple
- Vishnu Ghat
- Doodhadhari Barfani Temple
- Anandamayi Ma Ashram
- Vaishno Devi Temple
- Gurudwara Hemkund Sahib
- Shri Vaishnav Mutt
- Bhuma Niketan
- Maya Devi Temple
- Jairam Ashram
- Baba Ramdev Temple
- Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple
- Vasishta Gufa
- Birla Ghat
- Swami Vivekanand Park
- Neer Gaddu Waterfall
- Pashulok Barrage
- Rishikesh
- Dehradun
- Mussoorie
- Sahastradhara
- Lachhiwala
- Forest Research Institute
- Tapkeshwar Temple
- Mindrolling Monastery
- Buddha Temple
- Jwala Devi Temple
- Robber’s Cave
- Malsi Deer Park
Haridwar has a lot to offer visitors, from spiritual sites to natural wonders and modern infrastructure developments. Each of these places has its unique charm and significance, and it’s worth exploring them all.
Climate and Best time to visit Haridwar
Haridwar has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The city experiences monsoon rains from July to September, which can sometimes cause flooding. Here is a breakdown of Haridwar’s climate by season:
- Summer (March to June): Haridwar experiences hot and dry summers, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 45°C. The heat can be intense, so visitors are advised to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.
- Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season in Haridwar brings heavy rainfall, which can sometimes cause flooding. Visitors are advised to avoid traveling during this time.
- Winter (October to February): Haridwar experiences cool and pleasant winters, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 20°C. The city can sometimes experience fog during this time, which can affect visibility.
The best time to visit Haridwar is from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is also the time when many important festivals and events are held in the city, such as the Kumbh Mela and the Ardh Kumbh Mela. March to June can be hot, but it’s still a good time to visit for those who can tolerate the heat. It’s best to avoid visiting during the monsoon season from July to September, as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and cause inconvenience.
Must Know Before You Visit Haridwar
Here are some must-know facts before you visit Haridwar:
- Haridwar is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus and is considered one of the seven holiest places in India.
- The city is located in the northern state of Uttarakhand and is situated on the banks of the Ganges river.
- Haridwar is known for its famous Ganga Aarti ceremony, which takes place every evening at Har Ki Pauri.
- The Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu festival, is held in Haridwar every 12 years, while the Ardh Kumbh Mela is held every 6 years.
- Visitors are advised to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting Haridwar’s temples and other religious sites.
- The city has a diverse range of street food options, but visitors are advised to exercise caution and only eat food from clean and hygienic vendors.
- It’s important to stay hydrated when visiting Haridwar, especially during the summer months when temperatures can be high.
- Visitors should be aware of the potential for scams, such as fake guides or touts who may try to overcharge for goods or services.
- Visitors are also advised to be respectful of the local culture and customs, and to avoid causing offense or disrespecting local traditions.
- Haridwar is well-connected by road, rail, and air, with many transport options available for visitors. However, traffic can be heavy, so it’s best to plan your travel ahead of time to avoid any delays or disruptions.
How To Reach Haridwar
Haridwar is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for visitors. Here’s a breakdown of the different ways to reach Haridwar:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Haridwar is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 35 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Haridwar.
- By Train: Haridwar is well-connected by train, with regular trains running from major cities across India. The Haridwar Junction railway station is located in the heart of the city, making it a convenient option for visitors.
- By Road: Haridwar is well-connected by road, with several buses and taxis available for visitors. The city is located on National Highway 7, which connects it to major cities across India.
- Local Transportation: Once you are in Haridwar, there are several local transportation options available such as auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis. Buses are also available for travel within the city and to nearby areas.
It’s important to plan your travel ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons like the Kumbh Mela, as transport options can become limited due to high demand.
Accommodation options in Haridwar
Haridwar is a popular tourist destination and offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the accommodation options available in Haridwar:
- Budget Hotels: Haridwar has several budget hotels that offer basic amenities like clean rooms, comfortable beds, and attached bathrooms. These hotels are a good option for visitors on a tight budget.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Haridwar also has several mid-range hotels that offer more amenities like air conditioning, TV, room service, and in-house restaurants. These hotels are a good option for visitors looking for a more comfortable stay at a reasonable price.
- Luxury Hotels: For visitors looking for a more luxurious stay, Haridwar has several high-end hotels that offer top-notch amenities like swimming pools, spas, gyms, and fine-dining restaurants. These hotels are a good option for visitors looking to indulge in luxury.
- Guesthouses: Haridwar also has several guesthouses and homestays that offer a more personalized and homely experience. These are a good option for visitors who want to experience local culture and hospitality.
- Ashrams: Haridwar is also known for its many ashrams, which offer simple accommodation and vegetarian meals for visitors. These are a good option for visitors looking for a more spiritual and immersive experience.
It’s best to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons like the Kumbh Mela, as availability can become limited due to high demand.
Tips To Visit Haridwar
Here are some tips to keep in mind while visiting Haridwar:
- Respect the Local Culture: Haridwar is a religious city, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Visitors should dress modestly and behave appropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites.
- Plan Your Visit: Haridwar can be quite crowded, especially during peak travel seasons like the Kumbh Mela. It’s a good idea to plan your visit in advance, including booking your accommodation and transport.
- Stay Hydrated: The weather in Haridwar can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. It’s important to stay hydrated and carry a water bottle with you at all times.
- Be Careful of Scams: Like many tourist destinations, Haridwar can be a target for scams. Visitors should be wary of fake guides, touts, and overcharging for goods or services.
- Watch Your Belongings: With the large crowds and busy streets, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying too much cash or valuables with you.
- Explore Local Cuisine: Haridwar is known for its street food, but visitors should be cautious about where they eat. Stick to clean and hygienic vendors, and try the local cuisine like the famous “chhole bhature” and “aloo puri”.
- Attend Ganga Aarti: Haridwar is famous for its Ganga Aarti ceremony, which takes place every evening at Har Ki Pauri. This is a must-attend event for any visitor to Haridwar.
- Respect the Environment: Haridwar is situated on the banks of the Ganges river, which is a vital lifeline for the local community. Visitors should respect the environment and avoid littering or polluting the river.
Best Places for Shopping in Haridwar
Haridwar is a holy city in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. While the city is known for its spiritual significance, it also offers plenty of opportunities for shopping. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Haridwar:
- Bara Bazaar: This bustling market is located near Har Ki Pauri and is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Haridwar. It offers a wide range of products, including religious items, clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts.
- Moti Bazaar: Located near Har Ki Pauri, this market is known for its beautiful and affordable jewelry. You can find a variety of traditional jewelry, including bangles, necklaces, earrings, and rings.
- Kankhal Market: This market is located in the Kankhal area of Haridwar and is known for its exquisite wooden carvings and brassware. You can also find a variety of clothing, footwear, and handicrafts here.
- Jwalapur Market: This market is located in the Jwalapur area of Haridwar and is famous for its woolen clothes. You can find a variety of woolen products, including shawls, sweaters, and blankets, at reasonable prices.
- Government Handicraft Emporium: This government-run store is located near the railway station and offers a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs. You can find beautiful items made of wood, brass, and other materials here.
- Shanti Bazaar: This market is located near the Triveni Ghat and offers a variety of traditional items, including clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts. You can also find a variety of souvenirs and religious items here.
Overall, Haridwar offers a diverse range of shopping options to suit all budgets and tastes.
Handicrafts of Haridwar
Haridwar is a city in northern India with a rich cultural and artistic heritage. The city is known for its beautiful handicrafts, which are made by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. Here are some of the popular handicrafts of Haridwar:
- Brassware: Haridwar is famous for its brassware, which includes statues of deities, lamps, bells, and other decorative items. The brassware is made using the lost wax technique and is known for its intricate designs and fine details.
- Wooden Carvings: Haridwar is also known for its exquisite wooden carvings, which are made using different types of wood, including teak, rosewood, and mango wood. The carvings depict deities, animals, and other motifs and are used for decorative purposes.
- Handmade Paper: Haridwar is famous for its handmade paper, which is made using natural fibers like cotton, jute, and silk. The paper is used for making greeting cards, notebooks, and other stationary items.
- Stone Carvings: The artisans of Haridwar are also skilled in stone carving, which involves carving intricate designs on stones like marble and granite. The carvings are used for decorative purposes, and some are even used in temples and other religious places.
- Textiles: Haridwar is also known for its beautiful textiles, which include silk sarees, shawls, and other clothing items. The textiles are made using traditional techniques like handloom weaving and block printing.
Overall, the handicrafts of Haridwar are a reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage and are popular with both locals and tourists.
Nightlife in Haridwar
Haridwar is primarily a spiritual city, and its nightlife is relatively subdued compared to other cities in India. The city has a curfew, and most businesses and shops close by 10 PM. However, there are still a few places where you can enjoy a peaceful and serene evening in Haridwar:
- Ganga Aarti: The Ganga Aarti is a mesmerizing ritual that takes place every evening on the banks of the Ganges river. The ritual involves chanting, prayers, and lighting of lamps, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting Haridwar.
- Triveni Ghat: Triveni Ghat is a popular spot for evening walks and stargazing. You can sit by the river and enjoy the peaceful ambiance, or take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges.
- Rooftop Cafes: Some of the hotels and restaurants in Haridwar have rooftop cafes that offer a beautiful view of the city at night. These cafes serve a variety of food and beverages and are perfect for a relaxing evening.
- Local Markets: Some of the local markets in Haridwar, such as Bara Bazaar and Moti Bazaar, remain open until late in the evening. You can stroll through the markets and shop for traditional items or enjoy some street food.
Overall, while Haridwar may not have a lively nightlife scene, there are still plenty of options to enjoy a peaceful and serene evening in this holy city.
Things to do in Haridwar
Haridwar is a city in northern India known for its spiritual significance, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. It offers a wide range of activities and experiences that visitors can enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Haridwar:
- Attend the Ganga Aarti: The Ganga Aarti is a ritual that takes place every evening on the banks of the Ganges river. It is a mesmerizing experience that involves chanting, prayers, and lighting of lamps.
- Take a dip in the Ganges: The Ganges is considered a sacred river in India, and taking a dip in its holy waters is believed to be a purifying experience. Haridwar has several ghats where visitors can take a dip.
- Visit the Har Ki Pauri: Har Ki Pauri is a famous ghat on the Ganges river and is considered one of the holiest places in India. It is believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu left his footprint.
- Explore the local markets: Haridwar has several local markets, including Bara Bazaar and Moti Bazaar, where visitors can shop for traditional items like handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing.
- Visit the Mansa Devi Temple: The Mansa Devi Temple is a famous temple located on top of a hill in Haridwar. Visitors can take a cable car to reach the temple and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
- Explore Rajaji National Park: Rajaji National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located near Haridwar and is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and leopards. Visitors can enjoy jeep safaris and nature walks in the park.
- Enjoy local cuisine: Haridwar is known for its delicious street food, including chaat, kachori, and lassi. Visitors can explore the local markets and food stalls to sample the city’s culinary delights.
Overall, Haridwar offers a diverse range of experiences and activities that cater to all interests and budgets.
Lesser Known facts aboutHaridwar
Haridwar is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage, and there are several lesser-known facts about the city that may surprise you. Here are some interesting facts about Haridwar:
- Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, and it is believed that taking a dip in the Ganges river in Haridwar can cleanse one’s sins.
- The city has a long history and is mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures like the Mahabharata and the Skanda Purana.
- Haridwar was known as Mayapuri in ancient times, and it was believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married.
- The famous Kumbh Mela, which is the largest religious gathering in the world, takes place in Haridwar every 12 years. The last Kumbh Mela was held in Haridwar in 2021.
- The city is home to several famous temples, including the Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, and Maya Devi Temple.
- Haridwar is also known for its traditional handicrafts, including brassware, wooden carvings, and handwoven textiles.
- The city is also a gateway to several popular hill stations in Uttarakhand, including Mussoorie, Nainital, and Rishikesh.
- Haridwar is also a center of Ayurvedic medicine, and visitors can find several Ayurvedic clinics and wellness centers in the city.
Overall, Haridwar is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage, and there are several fascinating facts and stories associated with it.
FAQ about Haridwar
Sure, I can answer some frequently asked questions about Haridwar.
- Where is Haridwar located?
Haridwar is a city in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, on the banks of the river Ganges.
- What is the best time to visit Haridwar?
The best time to visit Haridwar is from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. However, if you want to attend the Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years, the best time to visit is during the festival.
- What is the Kumbh Mela?
The Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu festival, which is held every 12 years in Haridwar, along with other cities in India. During the festival, millions of Hindu devotees take a dip in the holy river Ganges, believing it will cleanse them of their sins.
- What are the major attractions in Haridwar?
Haridwar is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus and has several temples and ashrams. Some of the major attractions in Haridwar are Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, and Daksha Mahadev Temple.
- Is Haridwar safe for tourists?
Yes, Haridwar is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take precautions like not traveling alone at night and avoiding crowded areas during festivals.
- What is the cuisine of Haridwar?
Haridwar offers a variety of vegetarian cuisine, including traditional North Indian dishes like chole bhature, aloo poori, and paneer dishes. The city is also famous for its sweets and street food, like kachori, samosas, and jalebis.
- How can I reach Haridwar?
Haridwar is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 35 km away. The city has a railway station, which is connected to major cities in India. Buses and taxis are also available from nearby cities like Delhi and Dehradun.