Enquiry
Haridwar
Location
Haridwar district in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 222 km State Capital Dehradun: 54 km
Altitude
314 meters (1,030 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
February to April and August to October
Facts About Haridwar
Haridwar, situated in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a sacred city revered by Hindus for its spiritual significance and vibrant cultural heritage. Nestled along the banks of the holy river Ganges, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism and attracts millions of pilgrims and visitors from around the world every year. The name "Haridwar" translates to "Gateway to God," and the city is believed to be the entrance point to the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, which includes Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. According to Hindu mythology, Haridwar is one of the four places where drops of the elixir of immortality, or amrit, fell from the pitcher carried by the celestial bird Garuda.
At the heart of Haridwar lies Har Ki Pauri, a revered ghat on the banks of the Ganges River. This sacred site is believed to be the precise spot where Lord Vishnu left his footprint, and it is a focal point for pilgrims who come to bathe in the holy waters and perform rituals to cleanse their sins. Another iconic landmark in Haridwar is the Chandi Devi Temple, situated atop the Neel Parvat hill. Dedicated to the goddess Chandi, this ancient temple is accessible via a cable car ride offering panoramic views of the city and the Ganges River.
Haridwar is also famous for its Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, which takes place every 12 years and attracts millions of devotees who come to take a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges to cleanse their souls. The city is a vibrant hub of spirituality, with numerous ashrams, temples, and yoga centers offering opportunities for meditation, prayer, and spiritual reflection. Visitors can participate in yoga and meditation sessions, attend religious ceremonies and rituals, or simply soak in the tranquil ambiance of this ancient city. Haridwar is also known for its colorful festivals and fairs, including the Ganga Dussehra, Kartik Purnima, and the Kanwar Yatra, which attract devotees and tourists from far and wide.
Night
Haridwar :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Har Ki Pauri
Har Ki Pauri is the most famous ghat (riverbank) in Haridwar, situated on the banks of the Ganges River. The name 'Har Ki Pauri' translates to 'Steps of Lord Shiva,' and it is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint on a stone wall here. This ghat is considered one of the most sacred places in India, where pilgrims come to take a holy dip in the Ganges, especially during festivals like Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh Mela. Significance - Har Ki Pauri is renowned for the Ganga Aarti, a daily ritual performed at sunset, where priests offer prayers to the Ganges with oil lamps and chants. The ceremony attracts thousands of devotees and tourists who come to witness the spiritual atmosphere and participate in the rituals.
2. Chandi Devi Temple
Chandi Devi Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Located atop the Neel Parvat on the eastern bank of the Ganges, the temple was built by the king of Kashmir, Suchat Singh, in 1929. However, the idol of Chandi Devi is believed to have been installed by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. Significance - The temple is considered a Siddh Peetha, a place where wishes are believed to be granted. Pilgrims can reach the temple by trekking or via a cable car ride, which offers panoramic views of Haridwar and the surrounding hills.
3. Mansa Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple is another prominent Hindu temple located on the Bilwa Parvat (hill) in Haridwar. It is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The temple is part of the trio of Siddh Peethas in Haridwar, along with Chandi Devi and Maya Devi Temples. Significance - Devotees tie threads around the branches of a tree in the temple complex while making a wish. After the wish is granted, they return to untie the thread. The temple can be reached by foot or via a cable car (Udan Khatola), which provides a scenic view of the city and the Ganges.
4. Shanti Kunj Gayatri
Shanti Kunj is the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar, a spiritual and social organization founded by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya in 1971. Located on the outskirts of Haridwar, it is a center for spiritual practices, meditation, and training in the principles of Gayatri Mantra and Yagya (Vedic rituals). Significance - Shanti Kunj is a place for spiritual seekers who wish to learn about Vedic culture, yoga, and meditation. The ashram also conducts various social welfare programs and is known for its serene environment and disciplined lifestyle.
5. Patanjali Yog Peeth
Patanjali Yog Peeth is one of the largest yoga institutes in the world, established by the renowned yoga guru Baba Ramdev. Located near Haridwar, it serves as a center for yoga practice, Ayurvedic medicine, and research. Significance - The institute promotes the ancient practice of yoga and Ayurveda through workshops, training programs, and health camps. It also houses a university, hospital, and Ayurvedic pharmacy, making it a prominent destination for those seeking holistic healing and wellness.
6. Maa Anandamayee Ashram
Maa Anandamayee Ashram is dedicated to the revered Hindu saint, Anandamayi Ma, who was known for her spiritual wisdom and mystical experiences. The ashram is located in Kankhal, a suburb of Haridwar, and serves as a place of meditation and spiritual retreat. Significance - The ashram includes the samadhi (final resting place) of Anandamayi Ma, a temple, and a meditation hall. Devotees and spiritual seekers visit the ashram to experience its peaceful environment and to learn more about the teachings of Anandamayi Ma.
7. Daksh Mahadev Temple
Daksh Mahadev Temple is an ancient temple located in Kankhal, Haridwar. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is associated with the mythological tale of Sati, the first wife of Shiva and daughter of King Daksha. Significance - According to Hindu mythology, the temple marks the site where Daksha Prajapati, father of Sati, conducted a yagna (sacrificial ritual), during which Sati immolated herself. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site, especially during the Maha Shivaratri festival, when devotees gather to offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
8. Saptrishi Ashram
Saptrishi Ashram is a historic and spiritual ashram located on the banks of the Ganges River, about 5 kilometers from Haridwar. The ashram is named after the seven great sages (Saptrishis) who, according to Hindu mythology, meditated here. Significance - The ashram is known for its peaceful environment and serves as a center for meditation and spiritual learning. It is believed that the Ganges splits into seven streams here, allowing the sages to meditate undisturbed. The ashram also provides accommodation for pilgrims and travelers.
9. Rajaji Tiger Reserve
Rajaji Tiger Reserve is a large wildlife reserve and national park located near Haridwar. It spans across three districts in Uttarakhand—Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. The reserve is named after C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji), a prominent leader of the Indian freedom movement. Significance - The reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, including tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and various bird species. It offers opportunities for wildlife safaris, bird watching, and nature walks, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
10. Bharat Mata Temple
Bharat Mata Temple is a unique and patriotic temple located in Haridwar. It is dedicated to Bharat Mata (Mother India) and symbolizes the unity and cultural diversity of India. The temple was inaugurated by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1983. Significance - The temple has eight floors, each dedicated to different deities, freedom fighters, and cultural heroes of India. The first floor features a large map of undivided India, while the upper floors are dedicated to various themes like Indian saints, national leaders, and India's unity. The temple is a popular spot for tourists and those interested in Indian history and culture.
How to Reach
By Road
One can easily get the bus from Delhi to Haridwar both from private(Luxury) and public transport and it will take hardly 5 hr depending of the condition.
By Train
Haridwar can be easly reached via train as there are plenty of direct trains from Delhi to Hardwar which take approximately 7 hrs. Some trains are Uttaranchal Express, Dehradun Shatabdi, Jan Stabdi and Nanda Devi express etc.
By Air
By air one need to first reached to Dehradun Jolly Grant airport and then take a Bus or taxi from Dehradun to Haridwar. By air one can reached Dehradun in approx 2.5 hrs.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): Haridwar experiences hot summers, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. The heat is intense during the day, but the evenings are cooler, especially near the Ganges. Pilgrims continue to visit for rituals despite the heat.
monsoon
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon brings moderate to heavy rainfall, with temperatures between 22°C and 30°C. The river Ganges flows at its fullest, and the entire city is refreshed. However, some lowlying areas may experience flooding.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): Autumn in Haridwar is marked by a pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. The postmonsoon greenery and clear skies make it a good time for religious activities and sightseeing.
winter
Winter (December to February): Winters are mild to cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The mornings can be foggy, but the days are pleasant. This is a popular time for pilgrims, especially during the Kumbh Mela.
Hotels Around Haridwar
Haridwar offers a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to the needs and preferences of travellers, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some notable hotels in Haridwar:
Radisson Blu Hotel Haridwar: Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Radisson Blu Hotel offers luxurious accommodation with modern amenities. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, a rooftop restaurant, swimming pool, spa, and fitness center.
Ganga Lahari by Leisure Hotels: Nestled on the banks of the Ganges River, Ganga Lahari offers comfortable accommodation with stunning views of the river and surrounding hills. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a serene ambiance ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Hotel Ganga Kinare: Located near the famous Har Ki Pauri ghat, Hotel Ganga Kinare offers riverside accommodation with panoramic views of the Ganges. The hotel features spacious rooms, a vegetarian restaurant, yoga and meditation facilities, and a riverside lawn for events and gatherings.
Hotel Hari Heritage: Situated in the heart of Haridwar, Hotel Hari Heritage offers comfortable accommodation at affordable prices. The hotel features clean and cozy rooms, a vegetarian restaurant, and easy access to major attractions like Har Ki Pauri and Mansa Devi Temple.
Regenta Orko's Haridwar: Located near the railway station, Regenta Orko's Haridwar offers modern accommodation with a range of amenities for business and leisure travelers. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, banquet facilities, and a rooftop swimming pool.
Hotel Le Roi: Situated near the famous Har Ki Pauri ghat, Hotel Le Roi offers comfortable accommodation with easy access to major attractions and markets. The hotel features clean and spacious rooms, a vegetarian restaurant, and warm hospitality.
Ganges Rivera: Overlooking the Ganges River, Ganges Rivera offers budget-friendly accommodation with basic amenities for pilgrims and travelers. The hotel features clean rooms, a vegetarian restaurant, and a serene ambiance ideal for relaxation and spiritual retreats.
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of hotels available in Haridwar. Whether you're looking for luxury, riverside accommodation, or budget-friendly options, Haridwar has something to offer for every traveler. It's advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and the best possible rates.: