Haridwar History: A Mythical City in Uttarakhand

Discover Haridwar, a historic city in Uttarakhand, India, known for its deep connections to Hinduism. It’s a special place with a rich past and is considered one of the holiest spots for Hindus. Located near the Shivalik mountains, Haridwar is where the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage starts, taking travelers to Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

Ancient Beginnings:

Long ago, during the time of the Vedas, Haridwar was mentioned as Mayapuri and Gangadwara. In the epic Mahabharata, it’s called Kapilsthan, where the sage Kapil meditated.

Learning and Healing:

Haridwar was a place of wisdom and healing. The great sage Vyasa composed the Mahabharata here, and the city was also known for Ayurvedic medicine, with the famous physician Charaka practicing his craft.

Suggested Read- Divine Triangle In Haridwar 

Pind Daan at Har-Ki-Pauri Ghat in Haridwar

Where and When:

You can find Haridwar in Uttarakhand, nestled by the Ganges River at the foothills of the Shivalik range. The best time to visit is from September to April, with the ideal months being October to March.

Going to Kedarnath:

If you’re planning to travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath, it’s about a 260 km journey by road. You’ll pass through places like Rishikesh and Rudraprayag before trekking 16 km to reach the sacred Kedarnath temple.

Tracing 

• e Maurya Empire ruled from 322 BC to 185 BC.
• Huan Tsang, a traveler, mentioned Haridwar in 629 AD during King Harshvardhan’s time.
• Timur Lang, a Turkish king, came in 1399, leaving a mark.
• During the 16th century, the Mughals, including Akbar, recognized Haridwar’s significance.

In a Nutshell:

Haridwar is a city of legends, spirituality, and history. It’s a place where myths and ages come together, forming a tapestry of culture and devotion. Whether you’re exploring temples, witnessing rituals, or feeling the Ganges’ waters, Haridwar offers a unique glimpse into India’s ancient roots.