Discover Haridwar Uttarakhand India | Places to Visit | 10 Things to Do

Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India, revered as the “Gateway of the Gods”, is one of the holiest cities in Hinduism and the only sacred city in Uttarakhand. It is among the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) where Hindu spirituality is believed to be most powerfully expressed:

• Haridwar

• Mathura

• Ayodhya

• Varanasi

• Ujjain

• Dwarka

• Kanchipuram

Situated at the foothills of the Himalayas along the sacred River Ganga, Haridwar marks the point where the river descends from the mountains to the plains—making it the first and most sacred bathing place of the Ganges.

Why Haridwar Is Spiritually Important

According to Hindu belief, a dip in the holy waters of Haridwar Uttarakhand India washes away sins and helps attain moksha (liberation). Legends say that during the celestial struggle for Amrita (nectar of immortality), drops fell at Haridwar—making it eternally sacred.

Historically, the city has been known by many names:

• Kapilsthan

• Gangadwar

• Mayapuri

• Finally, Haridwar

Despite invasions like that of Tamerlane in 1309, Haridwar retained its profound spiritual essence.

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Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India

It holds profound symbolic importance and occupies a central place in Indian spirituality. It is here that the sacred River Ganga emerges from the Himalayan foothills and begins its divine journey across the plains, flowing onward to bathe countless holy cities of India.

Haridwar is the first major city touched by the Ganges, where the river’s waters are still crystal clear. For this reason, it is regarded as the most auspicious place for a ritual purifying bath. According to Hindu tradition, bathing in the holy waters of Haridwar cleanses the soul of past sins and helps one attain moksha (liberation or nirvana).

The city has a long and layered history. In 1309, Haridwar suffered severe destruction during the invasion of Tamerlane, which altered much of its ancient grandeur. Over the centuries, the city has been known by several names—Kapilsthan, later Gangadwar, and eventually Mayapuri—each reflecting a different chapter of its spiritual evolution.

Geographically, Haridwar is located at the base of the Shivalik Hills, on the right bank of the Ganges. This is the point where the river divides into multiple channels, creating large river islands and sacred ghats. In Hindu belief, Haridwar marks the starting point of the sacred pilgrimage to Mount Kailash, revered as the ultimate “gateway to heaven.”

According to legend, this is also the place where Garuda, the celestial bird and messenger of the gods, spilled a few drops of Amrita, the divine nectar of immortality, while carrying it in a celestial pitcher. These sacred drops are believed to have sanctified Haridwar forever, making it one of the holiest places on Earth.

Top Places to Visit in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India

1. Har Ki Pauri Ghat (Brahmakund)

Best Time: Early morning & sunset
Must Do: Attend Maha Ganga Aarti

2. Mansa Devi Temple

3. Chandi Devi Temple (Shakti Siddhpeeth)

4. Maya Devi Temple

The Maya Devi Temple is among the oldest temples in Haridwar and is revered as a Shakti Peetha, where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati are believed to have fallen.

5. Kankhal Ghat

Kankhal is home to the ancient Daksh Prajapati Temple and is considered the winter abode of Lord Shiva. Nearby sites include Sati Ghat, Raj Ghat, and Hari Har Ashram.

6. Bharat Mata Mandir

A unique multi-storey temple dedicated to Mother India, built by Swami Satyamitranand Giri. Each floor represents different aspects of Indian history and culture.

7. Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajaji National Park)

8. Vaishno Devi Temple, Haridwar

A replica of the original Jammu shrine, this temple recreates the cave journey of Mata Vaishno Devi.

9. Ashrams & Yoga Centers

Haridwar hosts many famous ashrams:

• Parmarth Ashram

• Pawan Dham

• Gorakhnath Temple

• Birbhadreshwar Temple

These are ideal for yoga, meditation, and spiritual learning.

10. Kumbh Mela – The World’s Largest Spiritual Gathering

The ritual centers on the holy bath (Shahi Snan) in the Ganges.

• Ardh Kumbh: Every 6 years

• Next Maha Kumbh: Prayagraj 2025

Things to Do in Haridwar

• Attend Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

• Take a holy dip in the Ganges

• Ride the ropeway to hilltop temples

• Go for a wildlife safari at Chilla

• Learn yoga & meditation

• Explore bustling local bazaars

Best Time to Visit Haridwar

Places to Stay in Haridwar

• Pilibhit House – IHCL SeleQtions

• Haveli Hari Ganga

• Amatra By The Ganges

• Regenta Orkos – Royal Orchid

• Ambrosia Sarovar Portico

Shopping in Haridwar

• Moti Bazar: Copperware, bangles

• Jwalapur: Handicrafts & street food

• Bara Bazaar: Rudraksha & handloom

Best Restaurants in Haridwar

• Chotiwala – Iconic vegetarian food

• Sardarji – Popular non-veg dishes

• Ganga Lahari – Traditional Indian meals

• Next 2 (Radisson Blu) – Fine dining

• Ksheer Sagar – Authentic Indian cuisine

How to Reach Haridwar

• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (37 km)

• By Train: Haridwar Junction (well connected)

• By Road: Regular buses & taxis from Delhi (≈220 km)

FAQs – Haridwar Uttarakhand India

Q. Where is Haridwar located?
At the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, on the banks of the Ganges.

Q. Best time to visit Haridwar?
October to February (peak), March to June (pleasant).

Q. Why is Haridwar famous?
For Ganga Aarti, Kumbh Mela, temples, and spiritual purification.

Q. Uttarakhand is in which country?
Uttarakhand is a state in India.

Conclusion

Haridwar Uttarakhand India is far more than a pilgrimage city. It is a place where mythology, spirituality, yoga, nature, festivals, and culture merge seamlessly. Whether you seek devotion, wellness, wildlife, or heritage, Haridwar offers an unforgettable journey into the soul of India.

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