Haridwar, often referred to as the ‘Gateway to God,’ stands proudly as one of India’s seven holiest cities, known as Sapt Puris. Nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganga River in the state of Uttarakhand, this ancient city is a treasure trove of temples, ashrams, ghats, and revered sites, drawing Hindu pilgrims and tourists from across the globe. The city’s significance amplifies during the Maha Kumbh Mela (every 12 years) and the Ardh Kumbh Mela (every 6 years), witnessing a massive influx of devotees.
If you’re planning a trip to this spiritual haven, here are the top places to visit in Haridwar that should undoubtedly make it to your itinerary:
Places to Visit in Haridwar
1. Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar
Har Ki Pauri | #1 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar
Har Ki Pauri, translated as ‘Lord Shiva’s steps,’ graces the banks of the Ganga River. According to Vedic literature, both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu once visited this sacred spot. You can even witness a large footprint on a wall, believed to be Lord Vishnu’s. Also known as Gangadwar, this is where the Ganga River descends from the mountains to the plains.
Har Ki Pauri is revered as the most sacred ghat in the city. Legend has it that the mythological bird Garuda accidentally spilled Amrit (elixir) here, making it a place where sins are washed away with a dip in the holy waters. The Ganga aarti held at dusk and dawn here is a magnetic attraction for devotees.
- Location: Kharkhari, Haridwar
- Timings: 24X7 (Ganga Aarti: 5:30 am – 6:30 am and 6 pm – 7 pm)
2. Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar
Mansa Devi Temple | #2 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar
Perched atop Bilwa Parvat on the Shivalik Hills, Mansa Devi Temple, also known as Bilwa Tirth, is another prominent attraction in Haridwar. This Siddh Peeth is dedicated to Goddess Mansa, believed to be a form of Goddess Shakti, created from Lord Shiva’s mind.
Considered one of North India’s most revered temples, devotees flock here with the firm belief that their wishes will be granted by Goddess Mansa (meaning ‘wish’). You can reach the temple either by trekking or by taking the unmissable ropeway, offering panoramic views of Haridwar.
- Location: Bilwa Parvat, Haridwar
- Timings: 5 am to 9 pm
3. Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar
Chandi Devi Temple | #3 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar
Chandi Devi Temple, another Siddh Peeth, pays homage to Goddess Chandi, a form of Goddess Durga. This temple sits atop the Shivalik Hills’ Neel Parvat, the mythological battlefield where the goddess defeated demons Chand-Mund and later, Shumbh-Nishumbh. The temple’s construction is attributed to the Kashmir King Suchan Singh, with the idol established in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya.
Visitors can choose to trek to the temple or take the Chandi Devi Udankhatola ropeway, which offers a bird’s-eye view of Haridwar. Nearby lies the Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Location: Neel Parvat, Haridwar
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm
4. Kankhal, Haridwar
Kankhal | #4 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar
Kankhal, one of Haridwar’s Panch Tirths, houses the renowned Daksha Mahadev Temple and Maa Anandamayi Ashram. The former is dedicated to Lord Shiva and sees a surge of devotees, especially during the holy month of Sawan. The latter serves as a spiritual center, paying tribute to the Bengali mystic leader Maa Anandamayi.
Kankhal is also home to the sacred ghat of Kushavarta, another of the Panch Tirths, and the famous Patanjali Yog Peeth, one of the world’s largest yoga centers. Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple in Harihar Ashram, located on Kankhal Road, is renowned for the unique Parad Shivalinga, crafted from 151 kg of mercury.
- Location: South Haridwar
- Timings: 24X7
5. Maya Devi Temple, Haridwar
Maya Devi Temple | #5 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar
Completing the trio of Siddh Peeths in Haridwar is Maya Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Maya, the city’s main deity. As per mythology, the temple stands on the site where Goddess Sati’s heart and navel fell.
One of the country’s oldest temples, it was built in the 11th century on Har Ki Pauri Ghat. Devotees flock here daily to seek blessings and have their wishes fulfilled, with an even larger crowd during Navratri and Kumbh Mela.
- Location: Birla Ghat, Haridwar
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm
6. Shantikunj, Haridwar
Shantikunj, a prominent spiritual and moral enlightenment center globally, was established in 1971. It serves as the headquarters of All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP), boasting millions of followers worldwide. Shantikunj promotes national integration, cultural and ethical values, in addition to spiritual and moral upliftment. It houses a research institute (Brahmavarchas Shodh Sansthan) and a residential university (Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya).
This must-visit attraction has hosted numerous world-renowned personalities, including the Dalai Lama. Visitors can even stay for free for up to two days, participating in daily activities like bhajans and aartis.
- Location: Motichur, Haridwar
- Timings: 24X7
7. Sapt Rishi Ashram, Haridwar
Located on the riverbanks, Sapt Rishi Ashram ranks among the popular places to visit in Haridwar. This ashram, along with Hindu devotees, attracts visitors seeking a tranquil site for meditation and yoga. Its serene ambiance led to its name – ‘sapt’ means seven, and ‘rishi’ means sage.
According to mythology, the seven sages, Kashyapa, Vashishta, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Bharadwaja, and Gautam, meditated on the banks but were disturbed by the flowing river’s noise. Ganga later split into seven streams (Sapt Sarovar) to minimize the disturbance.
- Location: Motichur, Haridwar
- Timings: 24X7
8. Bharat Mata Mandir, Haridwar
Literally translating to ‘Mother India Temple,’ Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique multi-storey temple dedicated to patriots and freedom fighters. Inaugurated by the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1983, the 180-feet tall temple with 8 floors celebrates the spirit of unity in diversity, reflecting the true essence of India.
Each of the eight floors has a distinct theme, honoring Mother India, Indian heroes, renowned women personalities, saints, religious harmony, Goddess Shakti, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva.
- Location: Motichur, Haridwar
- Timings: 7:30 am to 5 pm
9. Pawan Dham, Haridwar
Pawan Dham | #9 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar
Pawan Dham, an ancient temple and social non-profit organization, is managed by the Geeta Bhawan Trust Society of Moga. Adorned with exquisite glasswork, stunning interiors, and beautiful idols decked with precious jewels and stones, this revered site’s main attraction is the Lord Krishna idol preaching to his disciple Arjun. Thanks to its intricate mirror and glasswork, it is often called the Glass Temple, attracting not only Hindu devotees but also local and foreign tourists.
- Location: Sapt Sarovar Road, Haridwar
- Timings: 6 am to 8 pm
10. Bara Bazar, Haridwar
While Haridwar may not boast high-end malls, Bara Bazar is a bustling marketplace where you can find everything you need. This lively market offers religious items, Ayurvedic medicines, wooden crafts, ornaments, and more. Visitors, including foreign travelers, often purchase Rudraksha beads and ‘peda’ (sweet), two of the most popular items.
Besides shops, you’ll also find numerous restaurants serving hot samosas, kachori-sabji, choley-bhature, and more. Haridwar has other local markets like Moti Bazar, Kankhal Bazar, and Jwalapur Bazar, all of which exude the old-world charm of the city.
- Location: Subhash Ghat, Haridwar
- Timings: 9 am to 9 pm
In addition to these top attractions, Haridwar offers a plethora of other places to explore, including Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Ganga Temple, Vaishno Devi Mandir, Vishnu Ghat, Alaknanda Ghat, Birla Ghat, and Gau Ghat. For leisure, consider visiting Swami Vivekanand Park, Fun Valley, Crystal World, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajaji National Park, and Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar. Adventure enthusiasts can also indulge in white-water rafting and camping in Rishikesh, an international tourist hotspot located just an hour’s drive from Haridwar. Enjoy your spiritual journey in this divine city!
Travel Tips for Haridwar:
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Timing Matters: Plan your visit around the Ganga aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a mesmerizing experience at both dawn and dusk.
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Footwear Etiquette: Remove your shoes before entering temples and some ashrams, as it’s a sign of respect.
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Modest Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly to show cultural sensitivity.
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Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle, especially during the summer months, to stay hydrated.
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Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on the local street food, like samosas and choley-bhature, but ensure it’s from a reputable vendor.
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Traffic Awareness: Be cautious of traffic, especially near crowded areas, and consider walking or using public transportation.
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Cash and ATMs: Carry sufficient cash as some places might not accept cards, and locate ATMs for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Is Haridwar safe for tourists?
- Haridwar is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it’s essential to take precautions, especially in crowded areas.
2. What’s the best time to visit Haridwar?
- The best time to visit Haridwar is during the winter months (October to February) when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the scorching heat of summer.
3. Can I take a dip in the Ganga River in Haridwar?
- Yes, you can take a dip in the Ganga River in designated areas. However, it’s crucial to be cautious of the strong currents and follow local guidelines.
4. Is photography allowed in temples and ashrams?
- Photography rules vary from place to place. Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially in religious sites.
5. What’s the significance of the Ganga aarti in Haridwar?
- The Ganga aarti is a sacred ritual that pays homage to the Ganges River, considered holy in Hinduism. It’s a spiritually uplifting experience.
6. How do I reach Haridwar?
- Haridwar is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 35 kilometers away.
7. Are there any adventure activities in Haridwar?
- Yes, you can enjoy white-water rafting, trekking, and camping in nearby Rishikesh.
Conclusion:
Haridwar, with its rich spiritual heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, offers a profound and captivating experience for travelers. From the sacred ghats to the historic temples, every corner of the city resonates with spirituality. Whether you seek divine blessings or wish to explore the cultural tapestry of India, Haridwar is a destination that leaves an indelible mark on your heart and soul. Embrace the tranquility, immerse in the rituals, and savor the local flavors as you embark on your unforgettable journey to the ‘Gateway to God.’
