Haridwar

Haridwar or Hari-dwar in Hindi literally means Gateway to God; Hari is synonymous to God and Dwar means gate! Situated in the state of Uttarakhand, this holy place is a famous religious destination that invites people of various faiths and background. Haridwar depicts Indian culture and civilization in its full effect. The ancient Indian mythology refers to Haridwar as Gangadwar, Kapilsthan and Mayapuri, as also known in olden times. The descent of river Ganga from the mountains into the plains touches Haridwar before moving down other towns. Haridwar opens the doors to Char Dham or the four religious centers Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri and promises a very pious experience for travelers. One of the oldest beliefs states that anyone taking a dip in the holy river of Ganga here can achieve salvation. 

Sightseeing in Haridwar-

Har ki Pauri: Har Ki Pauri is believed to be the exit point of the Ganges from the mountains and entry into the plains. Also known as Brahm Kund, this ghat was built by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Brithari who often meditated on the banks of river Ganga. History records an imprint of Lord Vishnu’s foot on one of the stones present on the ghat, which is indicative of the name. An evening ritual (Aarti) performed by the priests on the banks of river Ganga is a highly enchanting and divine experience. Lamps are seen floating on the river, immersed after the ritual. A splendid aura of lights and chants fills the atmosphere in the evenings.

Udan Khatola: Udan Khatola, or ropeway, is a mode of transport to reach the hill top temples of Haridwar. Also known as the ropeway to Gods, this facility came into effect more than a decade back. You can reach the abode of God in approximately five minutes by Udan Khatola, as against the one hour steep climb/trek. The Udan Khatola is operational in the area where Chandi Devi temple is located. As you rise in the air once atop the Udan Khatola, you can enjoy the marvelous view from greater heights. The Udan Khatola ride is for the strong hearted and not for those who fear heights.

Mansa Devi Temple: Goddess Mansa Devi, wife of the Nag King Vasuki, is believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees visiting her temple. To seek the blessings of the Goddess and get their wishes fulfilled, the devotees tie sacred threads on the sacred tree that stands proud in the temple premises. Once the wishes are fulfilled, the devotees mark respect by returning to the tree to untie the threads. One of the famous Siddhapeeths, the Mansa Devi temple is located atop the Shivalik Hills. A picturesque view of Haridwar awaits those visiting this temple. Mansa Devi temple is one vertex of the Siddhapeeth triangle formed between three temples, Chandi Devi and Maya Devi temples being the other two.

Sapt Rishi Ashram: Sapt Rishi Ashram is an ancient ashram famous for having hosted seven (sapt) sages (rishis), namely, Kashyapa, Vashisht, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Bharadwaja and Gautam. In order to avoid any disturbance to the seven sages meditating in the ashram, it is believed that river Ganga split herself into seven currents at this spot. Hence, this ashram is also referred to as Sapt Sarovar or seven streams. The Sapt Rishi Ashram is located at about 5 km from Har-ki-Pauri.

Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary: A treat for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the east bank of the Ganga River. Spread across an area of 249 sq km, the wildlife fauna includes elephants, tigers, bears and small cats. This area is mostly inhabited with elephants, apart from a variety of interesting birds. 

Shopping in Haridwar- One of the best and busiest shopping areas in Haridwar, Moti Bazaar is situated between the Har-ki-Pauri and the Upper Road. To make your trip to Haridwar worthwhile, make sure you visit Moti Bazaar and shop for religious items such as Rudraksha or sacred beads, Gangajal or water of the holy Ganges stored in a container, precious stones for prosperity, and vermillion to name a few. Images of deities, food offerings, sacred threads, pickles, and ayurvedic medicines are among the other items that can be purchased. The numbers of tiny shops lined along the streets are best explored on foot.

How to reach-

By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is a domestic airport located at about just 20 km away from city center. The airport operates daily flights to Delhi.  Taxi cabs are available from airport to Haridwar city.

By Train: Haridwar railway station is a major station well connected to all major cities in India.

By Bus: Haridwar is well connected by tourist bus services and state owned bus services. All cities in and around Haridwar are connected by state buses. Many deluxe buses are available at a regular interval from Delhi to Haridwar.