Haridwar – Uttarakhand – India

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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