Haridwar, which is a perfect place to experience spirituality, culture, and natural beauty all together. It's not just a pilgrimage place or tourist place, but it's a land of deities and sadhus with rich history. Read this article to know more about it.
Well known as the "Gateway to the Gods," Haridwar is one of the seven holiest cities of India. Located in the foothills of Himalaya, known for it's natural beauty and religious collection. It is the home of "Kumbh Mela," one of the largest religious gatherings on this earth. It is the place where Maa Ganga descends from mountains to the plane area for the first time. Every year millions of devotees visit Haridwar in search of enlightenment, peace, salvation, and purification. Some of the most famous attractions of Haridwar are the Ganga Aarti at Har ki Pauri, beautiful temples, and ancient ashrams catering to Vedic and spiritual enlightenment. Haridwar provides the divine atmosphere that soothes the soul and uplifts the spirit. So let's dive deep to explore more about this divine land in detail.
The literal meaning of Har ki Pauri is "Footstep of lord Vishnu.". It is one of the most sacred gats of India and well known for its mesmerising and spiritual Ganga Aarti. Hello, every day at sunrise and sunset, we offer a tribute to Maa Ganga for its life-giving and divine purification property. Thousands of devotees and tourists gather along the banks to witness the enchanting sight of flaming oil lamps, rhythmic chanting of Vedic hymns, and the collective devotion that fills the air with a profound spiritual energy. The entire riverbank glows with flickering lamps and glittering diyas offered by devotees to Maa Ganga with a wish of well-being and prosperity. Ganga aarti is not just a ritual but it's a life time experience which touches our heart and cater peace with devotion.
Haridwar, a spiritual hub, is home to thousands of small and large temples. Here are the list of some of the most famous temples in and around Haridwar which should be there in your bucket list if you are planning to visit here.
Located on Bilwa Parvat on the Shivalik hills, it is dedicated to "Mansa Devi" and is one of the "Shidhi Peeths in India.". The lateral meaning of Mansa Devi is "Diety who fulfills all the desire" and is believed be the incarnation of lord Shakti born from the mind of lord Shiva. The main shrine houses two idols of the goddess: one with three faces and five arms, and another with eight arms. As per the legends, it is believed that she grants all the wishes of her devotees who prayed to her with a pure heart. Every year thousands of devotees visit here with their wishes of health, prosperity, and protection from evil forces.
Located on the top of Neel Parvat in Haridwar, the chandi devi temple is one of the most famous and revered site for hindus of India. It is also the part of Seedhi peeth lovated in Uttarakhand. Chandi devi is believed to be the incarnation of lord Durga. Although the idol of this temple was believed to be established by Adi Shankarachary in the 8th century, this temple was believed to be built by the King of Kashmir, "Suchat Singh.". As per the legend it is believed that Goddess Chandi fought and defeated the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha on this very hill, making it a sacred site of divine victory and protection. Devotees visit this place with a wish to gain strength, well-being, and prosperity.
Located in Kankhal, about 4 km from Haridwar, the Daksha Mahadev Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, King Daksha organized a grand yajna (sacrificial ritual) but did not invite his son-in-law, Lord Shiva. When Goddess Sati arrived uninvited and witnessed her father insulting Shiva, she self-immolated in grief. Enraged, Lord Shiva created Veerbhadra, who destroyed the yajna and beheaded Daksha. Later, Shiva forgave Daksha and restored his life, replacing his head with that of a goat. Inside the temple, the sacred Shivalinga and Yajna Kund serve as symbols of divine energy and penance. Every year thousands of devotees visit this place to worship Lord Shiva and get a blessing of well-being.
One of its kind of spiritual and patriotic temples in Uttarakhand is the Bharat Mata temple to "Mother India.". Unlike traditional temples, this magnificent structure honors India’s cultural heritage, freedom fighters, and great personalities who contributed to the nation’s progress. Located in Sapt Sarovar, about 5 km from Har Ki Pauri, the temple is a symbol of national unity and pride. This temple was inaugrated in 1983 by Prime Minister of India "Indira Gandhi". This 8-floor temple is 180 feet tall, housing the culture and heritage of India on each floor.
Haridwar is a land of spirituality and devotion. In addition to attending Ganga aarti at Har ki pauri and visiting temples all around Haridwar you can just stroll across the markets of Haridwar. It is well known for spiritual sovenier, holy books, Rudraksha beds and incense sticks. You can also find a variety of sweets and handicrafts all along the market. Some of the major markets of Haridwar are Har ki pauri market, Bara Bazaar, Jwalapur Market, Mansa Devi Market etc. In addition to this, you can also visit Raja Ji National Park or visit Rishikesh to experience the power of meditation or do thrilling adventure activities specially river rafting at Rishikesh. In additon to this, Haridwar is also the starting point of major pilgrimage circuit of Uttarakhand like Do dham yatra, Kedarnath Yatra, Char dham yatra, Tour to Hemkund sahib gurudwara, Panch Prayags and Panch Kedar temples.
The Kumbh Mela takes place after 12 years and is believed to be the grandest spiritual gathering of Hindus. During this time, millions of devotees visit Haridwar to take a dip in the holy Ganga River with the belief of washing out their sins. As per the mythological story, when the ocens were churned to derive the nectar of life, four drop fall at four key places in India where this Kumbh Mela where organised. Thousands of saints and devotees visit here to take a holy bath during this time. In addition to this, the Ardh Kumbh, which was also organized here after every six years.
Haridwar is well connected by all the means of transport. The nearest airport to Haridwar is Jolly Grant Airport, which is also known as Dehradun Airport. It is located at a distance of just 38 km from Haridwar, and almost all the major aviation companies have regular flights for this airport. The nearest international airport is Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.
It is well connected by road and rail routes. Haridwar railway station is also inside the city and has regular trains from all the major cities of India.
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