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

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

The city of Haridwar Uttarakhand India, the only sacred city in the Uttarakhand region, known as the “gateway of the gods,” is one of the seven jewels where Hinduism is profoundly expressed. These seven jewels are, in fact, some of the main sacred cities of India:

• Haridwar
• Mathura
• Ayodhya
• Varanasi
• Ujjain
• Dwarka
• Kanchipuram

Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India

• Location: Situated on the banks of the Ganges River in the foothills of the Himalayas.
• Famous for: Pilgrimage site, Kumbh Mela, Ganga Aarti.

Key Attractions:

• Har Ki Pauri: Most famous ghat known for the Ganga Aarti.
• Mansa Devi Temple: Hilltop temple accessible by cable car.
• Chandi Devi Temple: Another hilltop temple with cable car access.
• Maya Devi Temple: One of the Siddh Peethas, an important Shakti temple.
• Bharat Mata Mandir: Multi-story temple dedicated to Mother India.
• Wildlife Sanctuary: Chilla Range and Motichur for Tiger Safari

Activities:

• Ganga Aarti: Evening prayer ceremony at Har Ki Pauri.
• Temple Visits: Pilgrimages to various temples.
• Ayurvedic Treatments: Various centers offering traditional therapies.

Events:

• Maha Kumbh Mela: Held every 12 years, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
• Ardh Kumbh Mela: Held every 6 years.
• Kanwar Mela: Annual pilgrimage during the monsoon season.

Accessibility:

• By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (about 37 km away).
• By Train: Haridwar Junction Railway Station is well-connected to major cities.
• By Road: Well-connected by road with regular bus and taxi services from Delhi and other major cities.

Suggested Read: Haridwar to Rishikesh and Enroute Key Stops 

Haridwar Uttarakhand India holds a strong symbolic significance, very important for Indian spirituality. It is in this place that the sacred Ganges River begins its journey, bathing the holy cities after originating from the Himalayan sources and traveling the entire path that has led it here.

It is the first city it encounters. Here its waters are clear, and for this reason, they are chosen for the purifying bath. Hindu tradition states that bathing in these waters ensures complete purification of the soul, allowing it to achieve liberation (Nirvana).

Haridwar Uttarakhand India has a long history, including the dramatic sacking by Tamerlane in 1309, which marred its original beauty. Its name has changed over time: first Kapilsthan, then Gangadwar, and finally Mayapuri.

Geographically, Haridwar is located at the base of the Shivalik hills, on the right side of the Ganges, at the point where the river splits into many channels, forming large islands. According to Hinduism, it is from Haridwar that one begins the sacred journey to Mount Kailash, which is described as the “gateway to heaven.”

A legend tells that it was in this place that a Garuda (a mythical bird, messenger of the gods), while carrying a pitcher, spilled a few drops of the water of life, Amrita, the most desired reward, which everyone aspires to obtain the gift of immortality.

Places to Visit in Haridwar Uttarakhand India

Haridwar Uttarakhand India is dotted with five key points, destinations of pilgrimages for the devotees. These spiritual places are:

• The Har Ki Pauri ghat (steps leading to the sacred river).
• The Kankhal ghat,  Haridwar Uttarakhand India
• The Mansa Devi temple, Haridwar Uttarakhand India
• The Chandi Devi temple, Haridwar Uttarakhand India
• The Maya Devi temple, Haridwar Uttarakhand India
• Haridwar Gha, Haridwar Uttarakhand India
• Chilla Range, Haridwar Uttarakhand India

Har Ki Pauri Ghat

Haridwar Ghat:  Har Ki Pauri, also known as Brahmakund, is one of the holiest ghats in India. This ghat is famous for the Maha Aarti, a must-see experience that immerses visitors in the spiritual essence of the place.

The atmosphere at Har Ki Pauri is soft and captivating, enhanced by the ritual and a nearby islet featuring a clock tower atop some steps. This tower is an unusual sight in Haridwar, adding a unique touch to the ghat’s spiritual ambiance.

Many devotees flock to Har Ki Pauri, especially in the early morning and at sunset, times most suited for offering prayers and making offerings to the gods. Alongside the opportunity to take a purifying bath in the Ganges, devotees can follow the guidance of the numerous priests at the ghat to participate in the rituals.

Kankhal Ghat Haridwar

The Kankhal ghat is famous for the Daksh Prajapati temple. Other well-known nearby locations include Sati Ghat, Raj Ghat, Gulab Bagh, and Hari Har Ashram. Kankhal has always been considered the winter abode of Shiva.

Mansa Devi Temple

Located about three kilometers from Haridwar, Mansa Devi Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi. It was conceived by the ancient Vedic saint, Saint Kashyap, and is a popular pilgrimage site.

Chandi Devi Temple

Perched atop Neel Parvat, Chandi Devi Temple is one of India’s most well-known temples. It offers stunning views and is a significant religious site.

Udan Khatola

Udan Khatola is the cable car service that takes worshippers up to the mountain temples. The journey starts near Chandi Devi Temple and provides a scenic ride up the mountains.

Bharat Mata Mandir

Bharat Mata Mandir, also known as the Mother India Temple, is dedicated to Bharat Mata. It was built by the revered religious leader Swami Satyamitranand Giri and is a unique temple honoring the nation.

Chandi Devi Temple Haridwar- Shakti Siddhapeeth

Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary

Established in 1977 and covering 249 square kilometers, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary was originally two separate sanctuaries, Motichur and Rajaji. It was combined into one park in 1983 and offers a great place to experience wildlife and nature.

Vaishno Devi Temple

The Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar is a newer replica of the original temple in Jammu. The path to this temple mimics the ancient route in Jammu, passing through a series of caves and tunnels, making it an exciting and spiritual journey.

Maya Devi Temple

The Maya Devi temple is perhaps the oldest place of worship in Haridwar Uttarakhand India. The city devotes to the goddess Maya. Legend has it that the heart and navel of the goddess Sati fell in the area where the temple now stands, and for this reason, it is sometimes called Shakti Peetha.

Spiritual Ritual of Haridwar

Devotees visiting the city of Haridwar Uttarakhand India go to the sacred river at sunset to pray during the Ganga Aarti, surrounded by the light of lamps and fires, immersing themselves in the waters of the Ganges to seek liberation (moksha) from the cycle of reincarnations.

In addition to the places already mentioned as destinations for pilgrims, we must not forget the Gorakhnath temple, dedicated to the guru of the same name, and the Birbhadreshwar temple. Along the banks of the Ganges that, crossing India, border Haridwar, there are many ashrams of various Sadhus and Yogis, the so-called “wise men” of India.

These are places where yoga schools operate and meditation is practiced. The most famous are the Parmarth Ashram and the Pawan Dham Ashram. One of the most famous temples dedicated to Hanuman, adorned with numerous glass ornaments.

Together with three other holy cities in India, Haridwar periodically hosts the Kumbh Mela Festival, which takes place over twelve years and during which the faithful flock to celebrate this important spiritual rite of India.

The Kumbh Mela , Haridwar Uttarakhand India

Pilgrims flock in mass to the cities that host the Kumbh Mela. It is important to note that, this festival happens alternately in Haridwar and Allahabad every six years. The Kumbh Mela deserves an in-depth look, as it is an impressive religious event that attracts around one hundred million devotees from all over India.

It is a moment steeped in deep mysticism, during which holy men gather to discuss their doctrines and disseminate their key concepts. Westerners fortunate enough to participate will find it an unprecedented experience capable of evoking engaging emotions.

• The ritual of the Kumbh Mela

The ritual of the Kumbh Mela centers on the purifying bath. Hindus believe that by bathing in the sacred river waters on the day of the new moon, they can attain remission of sins, and this purification will also extend to their ancestors. At sunrise, the faithful walk in line toward the river for the ritual ablution.

Once the rite is completed, they don dry, clean clothes, continue with prayer, and make offerings to the gods. The next Kumbh Mela in PRAYAGRAJ  is scheduled for 2025.

Places to Stay in Haridwar Uttarakhand India

• Pilibhit House, Haridwar – IHCL SeleQtions

Pilibhit House offers luxurious accommodations with beautifully decorated rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy a spa and fine dining, making it perfect for a comfortable and relaxing stay.

• Haveli Hari Ganga

Haveli Hari Ganga is a lavish hotel located on the banks of the sacred Ganges. It features opulent rooms, an exquisite spa, and a multi-cuisine restaurant, providing a serene and luxurious experience.

• Amatra By The Ganges

Amatra By The Ganges is a 5-star hotel offering luxurious suites, an outdoor pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and other high-end facilities. It provides a perfect blend of comfort and luxury.

• Regenta Orkos – Royal Orchid

Regenta Orkos by Royal Orchid Hotels offers spacious suites, excellent restaurants, and modern amenities. It ensures a high standard of comfort for visitors to the holy city of Haridwar.

• Ambrosia Sarovar Portico

Ambrosia Sarovar Portico is a magnificent hotel offering unmatched elegance and comfort. The on-site spa provides a variety of aromatic massages and treatments for a relaxing stay.

Things to Buy in Haridwar Uttarakhand India

When you visit Haridwar, you’ll find lots of cool things to buy for your friends, family, and yourself. Here are some popular shopping spots:

• Moti Bazar

Moti Bazar is a busy market where you can find beautifully carved copper cookware and colorful glass bangles. It’s located north of the canal on the upper road.

• Jwalapur

Jwalapur is another popular spot known for its tasty local food and unique handicrafts. You can also find great souvenirs here.

• Bara Bazaar

In Bara Bazaar, you’ll see many decorative rudrakshas and handloom items. It’s a great place to buy authentic handmade products.

Restaurants in Haridwar Uttarakhand India

• Chotiwala Restaurant

Chotiwala Restaurant is famous for its delicious vegetarian food. If you love Indian cuisine, this is one of the best places to eat in Haridwar.

• Sardarji

For non-vegetarian dining, Sardarji is a top choice in Haridwar. They serve tasty meat dishes, with chicken curry being a popular option.

• Ganga Lahari

Ganga Lahari is a great vegetarian restaurant known for serving authentic and affordable Indian cuisine in a convenient setting.

• Next 2

Located in the Radisson Blu, Haridwar, Next 2 offers a dining experience worthy of a five-star rating. The restaurant exudes elegance and sophistication.

• Ksheer Sagar

Ksheer Sagar features exquisite furnishings and excellent service. The menu includes authentic Indian dishes and other specialities, making it a great place for a satisfying meal.

Best Time to Visit Haridwar Uttarakhand India

• The best time to visit is from October to February. During these months, it’s quite chilly with temperatures dropping below 10°C, so expect some crowds.
• From March to June, the weather is warmer with clear skies and breezy nights, making it a great time to visit without the heavy crowds.

Weather in Haridwar Uttarakhand India

• Peak Season (Oct-Feb): Chilly days with temperatures below 10°C.
• Moderate Season (Mar-Jun): Clear blue skies, warm days, and breezy nights.
• Off-Season (Jul-Sep): Heavy rainfall and high humidity.

Festivals ( Haridwar Uttarakhand India )

Haridwar Uttarakhand India gets very busy during festivals like Baisakhi in April and Kanwar Mela in July. If you enjoy bustling streets and festive vibes, this is a great time to visit.

Fun Activities in Haridwar Uttarakhand India

• Peak Season: Enjoy the festive atmosphere at the temples.
• Moderate Season: Take a dip in the holy river and watch the beautiful sunsets from Lakshman Jhula.

Conclusion

Even though many people visit Haridwar for religious reasons, there’s much more to explore. Food lovers will enjoy the authentic Indian food, and you can even learn yoga at top-rated ashrams.

FAQs

• Q: Peak season and moderate season in Haridwar? July and August is moderate /  October to March is peak time.
• Peak Season (Oct-Feb): Experience chilly days with temperatures below 10°C.
• Moderate Season (Mar-Jun): Enjoy clear blue skies, warm days, and breezy nights.
• Q: For which type of traveling is Haridwar a perfect destination? Haridwar is perfect for pilgrimage-themed holidays.
• Q: The weather in Haridwar during the peak season? The weather is very chilly, with temperatures dipping below 10°C.
• Q. Where is Haridwar in India? Located at the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand state of India, Haridwar is a city of temples and ashrams and river Ganga.
• Q. Uttarakhand which country? It is in India