Best Places to visit in Haridwar
Haridwar is located in the mountains of the Himalayas, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is one of India’s holiest cities (or cities of pilgrimage). The term Haridwar itself means the Gateway to Lord Vishnu, or the Gateway to God. Hinduism recognizes Haridwar as one of the seven holiest places in its religion. Haridwar is a city of pilgrimage and is frequented by millions of pilgrims and travelers every year. The city symbolizes devotion and tradition with its wonderful culture, spirituality, sacred river ghats and beautiful marketplaces. Haridwar will leave you open-minded and amazed.
Welcome to Haridwar
Haridwar is culturally and mythologically significant to Hinduism, which is why it has a vital and unique importance. Legend states, when the Hindu Gods and Demons were churning the oceans in search of the nectar of immortality (or amrit), four drops of amrit fell to Earth here, thus making its spiritual significance valuable in multiple ways, especially since Haridwar is associated with the Kumbh Mela.
Kumbh Mela is a gathering of pilgrims taking the plunge of faith at one of the four sites, thus making Haridwar one of the holy sites recognized. The Ganga river runs parallel to the city and is important in Hinduism. Pilgrims have a custom of taking a holy dip in the river to wash their sins. Haridwar is also the starting point of the Char Dham Yatra that encompasses four important pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand, which takes part of the journey for many visitors, thus making it much more pilgrim like than a travel adventure.
Places to visit in Haridwar
Famous Ghats in Haridwar
One of the unique experiences in a visit to Haridwar sacred ghats. Ghats are riverfront stairs leading directly to the holy river where pilgrims perform rituals, prayers, and take holy dips.
1. Har Ki Pauri is the famous ghat in Haridwar. It is said to be where Lord Vishnu left a footprint. It is the heart of Haridwar but also the sight of the evening Ganga Aarti where thousands of devotees attend to watch the lamps in the river.
2. Kushavarta Ghat is another important ghat. It is at this ghat that the rituals for the ancestors called pind daan, are performed.
3. Brahmakund located at Har Ki Pauri, is the holiest bathing ghat in Haridwar. People traveling from throughout India, come to this ghat to bathe in, especially during festivals and auspicious occasions.
Temples to visit in Haridwar
Haridwar has many ancient temples to different gods and goddess that you can visit. Some of the more well known temples that you would want to make sure are part of your trip include:
1. Mansa Devi Temple, located on the top of Bilwa Parvat hill, is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi said to fulfill the wishes of devotees. The temple can be accessed either by trekking to the top or riding the cable car to the top of the hill providing spectacular views of
2. Chandi Devi Temple is also a well-known temple where Goddess Chandi is also worshipped. This temple is also located on Neel Parvat hill, so it has a trek option or cable car option like Mansa Devi.
3. Bharat Mata Mandir is a different kind of temple. There are no gods and goddesses, just a big map of India and an honor for national heroes and freedom fighters.
4. Maya Devi Temple, one of the Shakti Peethas, is for Goddess Maya, who is the presiding deity of Haridwar.
The divine experience of Ganga Aarti
One of the most whimsical experiences in Haridwar is the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. At dusk, priests being to do their ritual with large lamps. As the priests chant hymns and ring bells, the river sparkles with thousands of floating diyas. The wonderful sound of conch shells, the smell of incense, and the sight of devotees praying establishes a spiritually mesmerizing atmosphere. For many travelers visiting Haridwar, this is their Haridwar highlight.
Local markets and street food
In addition to its spirituality, Haridwar has a special character through its exciting, local markets and delicious street food.
The active markets around Har Ki Pauri & Bara Bazaar have lots of stores selling Rudraksha beads, idols, religious books, handicrafts, souvenirs, and even Ayurvedic medicines & herbal products.
Everyone knows that Haridwar has a lively street food scene. Travelers have to try some Aloo puri, kachoris, jalebi, and lassi when visiting. Chhole bhature and samosas are also popular street foods you will find in Haridwar, for both travelers & locals discarding your Indian diets. For those with a sweet tooth, the famous peda and rabri you must try from local shops. Eating in Haridwar is about enjoying the taste of traditional North Indian cuisine, not just filling the stomach.
Haridwar to Rishikesh trip
Haridwar and Rishikesh are common trip combinations as they are only about 25 kilometers apart with a pleasant road journey. Rishikesh is recognized as the Yoga Capital of the World with many yoga ashrams, yoga centres and outdoor/ adventure sports like river rafting. Many travelers opt to stay in Haridwar and take a short trip into Rishikesh to complete the spiritual adventure.
Buses, taxis and auto rickshaws are available for your very short drive between the towns that is exactly what it seems, however, it is straight forward with lots of beautiful scenery.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Haridwar is anytime between October to March when the weather is good enough to explore the city; summers can be hot, and the monsoon can be heavy enough to cause flooding in parts of Haridwar.
If you want to experience the grand Kumbh Mela, held in Haridwar once every twelve years, or the Ardh Kumbh Mela which occurs every six years, plan your visit accordingly but be aware that huge crowds will swarm to attend. Major Hindu festivals Kartik Purnima, Makar Sankranti, and Ram Navami are also very popular and celebrated with gusto in Haridwar.
How to reach Haridwar
Haridwar can be reached in multiple ways, including by road, rail, and by air.
By air: The best airport to Haridwar is Jolly Grant Airport, located in Dehradun, approximately 35 km from Haridwar. After arriving at the airport, taxis are available, as well as buses to get to Haridwar.
By rail: Haridwar Junction is a rail terminal with connecting trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Varanasi, and many other major cities. Trains are particularly popular with people making pilgrimages but also for tourists.
By road: Haridwar is well connected by road to neighbouring towns and cities. Buses run regularly from and to Delhi, Rishikesh, Dehradun, and other towns.
Buses run regularly from Delhi, Rishikesh, Dehradun and other towns. You can also hire a private taxi or use your own transportation.
Travel Tips
While visiting Haridwar, it is important to keep in mind the cultural traditions and religious traditions of the time.
Dress conservatively, and especially if you will be visiting temples and ghats.
Stay away from crowded areas, especially during festivals, and keep close tabs on your belongings during this time.
If you are planning to dip in the Ganga, be aware of the flow of the water and try to stay near the ghats where the lifeguards are.
Conclusion
Haridwar occupies more than just the place of a travel destination. The journey itself occupies not only one’s mind in a literal or physical way but also opens the door to spirituality, culture, tradition, and even devotion. Whether you are a serious pilgrim seeking blessings from the Ganga Bahwan, a traveler looking to immerse oneself in the local culture and traditions, or maybe someone simply seeking peace by dipping your feet into the water of the river Ganga, Haridwar offers for everyone what they are enticed to discover or receive.
The divine ghats, temples that are aged in their history and traditions, the spiritual aura, the vibrant bazaars and so much more make Haridwar one of the most incredible journeys to go on in India. A visit to Haridwar further unlocks the door to Rishikesh, the Char Dham circuit and beyond, thus Haridwar serves as a gateway to both God and exploring discovery.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most famous place to visit in Haridwar?
Explore the best places to visit in Haridwar, from sacred temples and ghats to peaceful ashrams. Discover Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, and other top attractions that make Haridwar a must-visit spiritual destination in India
Which temples are must-visit in Haridwar?
Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, and Bharat Mata Mandir are among the must-visit temples.
Can I visit Haridwar and Rishikesh together?
Yes, Haridwar and Rishikesh are close by and can be covered together in a 3–4 day trip.
How many days are enough to visit Haridwar?
Two to three days are enough to explore the main temples, ghats, and nearby attractions.
