Haridwar in Uttarakhand is among the seven
holy destinations for Hindus and is also one of the four sites where
the Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years. Located at the foothills of
Shivalik range and on the banks of River Ganga, Haridwar (literally
translated as Gateway of the Gods) serves as the entry point for
several pilgrimage centers located in the Himalayas including Chota Char
Dham Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri
pilgrimage.
River Ganga begins its journey through the plains at
Haridwar. The pilgrim town’s most famous sight is the Ganga itself with its
ghats and temples. Haridwar is sacred because it is believed to be blessed by
Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. Millions of pilgrims and tourists
congregate in Haridwar for the ritualistic bathing in river Ganga during
Kumbh Mela.
The holy town of Haridwar is a hub of Hindu fairs and
festivals. The term 'Gateway to God' (as the town is aptly called) itself makes
it obvious how significant a tour to Haridwar can be. Situated on the banks of
the River Ganges, Haridwar is one of those places where Hindu temples and
religious sites abound.
Not only pilgrims and devotees, but travellers and
backpackers from every corner of the world visit the town to enrich their
travel experience.
Haridwar is simply dispersed with temples, from one corner
to the other. Some of the most visited temples in the town include
the Chandi Devi Temple, the Mansa Devi Temple, the Maya Devi Temple, the
Daksha Mahadev Temple and the Bharat Mata Mandir among others. The Sapt
Rishi ashram at Haridwar is also a must-see place for travellers.
Shopping streets in Haridwar such as Moti Bazaar, Bara
Bazaar, Upper Road and Jwalapur is predominantly related to items of devotion,
though it has some famous eating joints too. A visit to Haridwar, which
according to the literal translation means ' The Gateway to God' , is your
first step to getting closer to God.
Besides Kumbh Mela, you can also participate at the Ardh
Kumbh Mela (organized every six years), Kanwar Mela (held in July
every year), Baisakhi (held in April) and the Kartik Purnima (held in November)
among others. Each of these festivals provides a window to the cultural
richness that Haridwar actually stands for.
The 'Aarti' worship of the Ganga after sunset and the
floating 'dia' (lamp) is a colourful and moving ritual.
Haridwar has very rich ancient religious and cultural
heritage.
One of the oldest cities in the world, Haridwar is also
considered among the holiest cities for Hindus. Esteemed temples, sacred ghats
and a spiritual ambience all merge seamlessly in Haridwar.
When it comes to stay, Haridwar features an array
of budget and mid-range hotels. In addition, you can also find multiple
dharamshalas to suit your shoe-string budgets. According to your specific
requirements, you can also choose hotels in specific locations like those
located close to the Ganga Ghat, near the Shantikunj or in close
vicinity of the railway station or bus stand.
How to Reach
By Air
Jolly Grant at Dehradun, 226 km away, is the nearest
airport. Taxis, private cars, state road transport buses are available from the
airport to reach Haridwar.
By Train
Haridwar is well connected by trains to almost all major
cities in India. In fact, most tourists come to Haridwar by train.
By Road
Well constructed roads connect all the major cities and
towns to Haridwar. So driving to Haridwar will be a smooth ride. One can easily
get a bus to and from Haridwar the bus station located nearby.
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