2. Haridwar

Haridwar is an ancient city and important Hindu pilgrimage site in North India's Uttarakhand state, where the River Ganges exits the Himalayan foothills. The largest of several sacred ghats (bathing steps), Har Ki Pauri hosts a nightly Ganga Aarti (river-worshipping ceremony) in which tiny flickering lamps are floated off the steps. Worshipers fill the city during major festivals including the annual Kanwar Mela.
Elevation: 314 m
Area: 12.3 km²
Weather: 14 °C, Wind SW at 6 km/h, 70% Humidity
Population: 2.29 lakhs (2011)
Local time: Wednesday, 2:00 pm

Haridwar About this sound local pronunciation also spelled Hardwar, is an ancient city and municipality in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, India. According to legend, it was here that Goddess Ganga descended when Lord Shiva released the mighty river from the locks of his hair. The River Ganga, after flowing for 253 kilometers (157 mi) from its source at Gaumukh at the edge of the Gangotri Glacier, enters the Gangetic Plain for the first time at Haridwar, which gave the city its ancient name, Gangadwára.

Haridwar or Hardwar is regarded as one of the seven holiest places (Sapta Puri) to Hindus. According to the Samudra Manthan, Haridwar along with Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj (Allahabad) is one of four sites where drops of Amrit, the elixir of immortality, accidentally spilled over from the pitcher while being carried by the celestial bird Garuda. This is manifested in the Kumbha Mela, which is celebrated every 12 years in Haridwar. During the Haridwar Kumbh Mela, millions of pilgrims, devotees, and tourists congregate in Haridwar to perform ritualistic bathing on the banks of the river Ganges to wash away their sins to attain Moksha. Brahma Kund, the spot where the Amrit fell, is located at Har ki Pauri (literally, "footsteps of the Lord") and is considered to be the most sacred ghat of Haridwar. It is also the primary center of the Kanwar pilgrimage, in which millions of participants gather sacred water from the Ganga and carry it across hundreds of miles to dispense as offerings in Śiva shrines.

Haridwar is the headquarters and the largest city of the district. Today, the city is developing beyond its religious importance, with the fast developing industrial estate of State Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarakhand (SIDCUL), and the close by township of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited as well as its affiliated ancillaries.

Haridwar presents a kaleidoscope of Indian culture and development. In the sacred writings, it has been differently specified as Kapilsthan, Gangadwar, and Mayapuri. It is additionally a passage indicate the Char Dham (the four principle focuses of journey in Uttarakhand viz, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri), subsequently, Shaivaites (adherents of Lord Shiva) and Vaishnavites (devotees of Lord Vishnu) call this place Hardwar and Haridwar individually, relating to Har being Shiv and Hari being Vishnu.


Etymology

Meandering main Ganga river, known here as Neel Dhara (left) and the Ganga canal (right), passing through Haridwar
The name of the town has two spellings: Hardwar and Haridwar. Each of these names has its own connotation.

Hari means "Lord Vishnu". So, Haridwar stands for " The Gateway to Lord Vishnu". In order to reach Badrinath, one of the four Char Dhams, with a temple of Lord Vishnu, Haridwar is a typical place to start a pilgrim's journey. Therefore, the name Haridwar.

On the other hand, in Sanskrit, Hara means "Lord Shiva" and Dwara means "gate" or "gateway". Hence, Hardwar stands for "Gateway to Lord Shiva". Hardwar has been a typical place to start a pilgrim's journey in order to reach Mount Kailash, the eternal abode of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath, the northernmost Jyotirlinga and one of the sites of the smaller Char Dham pilgrimage circuit and Gaumukh, the source of River Ganga. Har ki Pauri or footsteps of Lord Shiva is considered the most sacred site in Hardwar.

Haridwar is also known as the home of Devi Sati and the palace of her father Daksha. In ancient times, the town was also referred to as Gangadwára (गंगाद्वार), the place where the Ganges descends to the plains.

Wikisource has original text related to this article:
Hurdwar, a poem
by L. E. L.
In the annotations to her poem 'Hurdwar. A Place of Hindoo Pilgrimage', Letitia Elizabeth Landon provides information on this name derivation, and also the story of the supposed origin of the 'River Ganges'.



History

In the scriptures, Haridwar has been variously mentioned as Kapilasthana, Gangadwara, and Mayapuri. It is also an entry point to the Char Dham (the four main centers of pilgrimage in Uttarakhand viz, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri), hence, Shaivaites (followers of Lord Shiva) and Vaishnavites (followers of Lord Vishnu) call this place Hardwar and Haridwar respectively, corresponding to Hara being Shiv and Hari being Vishnu

In the Vana Parva of the Mahabharat, where sage Dhaumya tells Yudhishthira about the tirthas of India, Gangadwar, i.e., Haridwar and Kankhal, have been referred to, the text also mentions that Agastya Rishi did penance here, with the help of his wife, Lopamudra (the princess of Vidharba).

Sage Kapila is said to have an ashram here giving it, its ancient name, Kapila or Kapilasthana.

The legendary King, Bhagiratha, the great-grandson of the Suryavanshi King Sagar (an ancestor of Rama), is said to have brought the river Ganges down from heaven, through years of penance in Satya Yuga, for the salvation of 60,000 of his ancestors from the curse of the saint Kapila, a tradition continued by thousands of devout Hindus, who bring the ashes of their departed family members, in hope of their salvation. Lord Vishnu is said to have left his footprint on the stone that is set in the upper wall of Har Ki Pauri, where the Holy Ganges touches it at all times.

Haridwar came under the rule of the Maurya Empire (322–185 BCE), and later under the Kushan Empire (c. 1st–3rd centuries). Archaeological findings have proved that terra cotta culture dating between 1700 BCE and 1200 BCE existed in this region. First modern era written evidence of Haridwar is found in the accounts of a Chinese traveler, Huan Tsang, who visited India in 629 AD. during the reign of King Harshavardhan (590–647) records Haridwar as 'Mo-yu-lo', the remains of which still exist at Mayapur, a little to the south of the modern town. Among the ruins are a fort and three temples, decorated with broken stone sculptures, he also mentions the presence of a temple, north of Mo-yu-lo called 'Gangadwara', Gateway of the Ganges

The city also fell to the Central Asian conqueror Timur Lang (1336–1405) on 13 January 1399.

During his visit to Haridwar, first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak (1469–1539) bathed at 'Kushawart Ghat', wherein the famous, 'watering the crops' episode took place, his visit is today commemorated by a gurudwara (Gurudwara Nanakwara), according to two Sikh Janamsakhis, this visit took place on the Baisakhi day in 1504 AD, he later also visited Kankhal en route to Kotdwara in Garhwal. Pandas of the Haridwar have been known to keep genealogy records of most of the Hindu population. Known as vahis, these records are updated on each visit to the city and are a repository of vast family trees of a family in North India.

Ain-e-Akbari, written by Abul Fazal in the 16th century during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar, refers to it as Maya (Mayapur), known as Hardwar on the Ganges", as seven sacred cities of Hindus. It further mentions it is eighteen kos (each approx. 2 km) in length, and large numbers of pilgrims assemble on the 10th of Chaitra. It also mentions that during his travels and also while at home, Mughal Emperor, Akbar drank water from the Ganges river, which he called 'the water of immortality'. Special people were stationed at Sorun and later Haridwar to dispatch water, in sealed jars, to wherever he was stationed.

During the Mughal period, there was mint for Akbar's copper coinage at Haridwar. It is said that Raja Man Singh of Amber, laid that foundation of the present-day city of Haridwar and also renovated the ghats at Har Ki Pauri. After his death, his ashes are also said to have been immersed at Brahma Kund. Thomas Coryat, an English traveler, who visited the city in the reign of Emperor Jahangir (1596–1627) mentions it as 'Haridwara', the capital of Shiva.

Being one of the oldest living cities, Haridwar finds its mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as it weaves through the life and time stretching from the period of the Buddha to the more recent British advent. Haridwar has a rich and ancient religious and cultural heritage. It still has many old Havelis and mansions bearing exquisite murals and intricate stonework.

One of the two major dams on the river Ganges, the Bhimgoda, is situated here. Built-in the 1840s, it diverts the waters of the Ganges to the Upper Ganges Canal, which irrigated the surrounding lands. Though this caused severe deterioration to the Ganges water flow, and is a major cause for the decay of the Ganges as an inland waterway, which till the 18th century was used heavily by the ships of the East India Company, and a town as high up as Tehri, was considered a port city The headworks of the Ganges Canal system are located in Haridwar. The Upper Ganges Canal was opened in 1854 after the work began in April 1842,  prompted by the famine of 1837–38. The unique feature of the canal is the half-kilometer-long aqueduct over Solani river at Roorkee, which raises the canal 25 meters above the original river

'Haridwar Union Municipality' was constituted in 1868, which included the then villages of Mayapur and Kankhal. Haridwar was first connected with railways, via Laksar, through branch line in 1886, when the Awadh and Rohilakhand Railway line was extended through Roorkee to Saharanpur, this was later extended to Dehradun in 1900.
In 1901, it had a population of 25,597 and was a part of the Roorkee tehsil, in Saharanpur district of the United Province, and remained so till the creation of Uttar Pradesh in 1947.

Haridwar has been an abode of the weary in body, mind, and spirit. It has also been a center of attraction for learning various arts, science, and culture. The city has a long-standing position as a great source of Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies and is home to the unique Gurukul (school of traditional education), including the Gurukul Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, which has a vast campus and has been providing traditional education of its own kind, since 1902. Development of Haridwar took an upturn in the 1960s, with the setting up of a temple of modern civilization, BHEL, a 'Maharatna PSU' in 1975, which brought along not just a its own township of BHEL, Ranipur, close to the existing Ranipur village, but also a set of ancillaries in the region. The University of Roorkee, now IIT Roorkee, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutes of learning in the fields of science and engineering.


Geography and climate

Neel Dhara Bird Sanctuary at the main Ganges Canal, before Bhimgoda Barrage, also showing signs of an ancient port.
The Ganges emerges from the mountains to touch the plains. The water in the river Ganges is mostly clear and generally cold, except in the rainy season, during which soil from the upper regions flows down into it.

The river Ganges flows in a series of channels separated from each other called aits, most of which are well wooded. Other minor seasonal streams are Ranipur Rao, Pathri Rao, Ravi Rao, Harnaui Rao, Begham Nadi, etc. A large part of the district is forested, and Rajaji National Park is within the bounds of the district, making it an ideal destination for wildlife and adventure lovers. Rajaji is accessible through different gates; the Ramgarh Gate and Mohand Gate are within 25 km of Dehradun, while the Motichur, Ranipur and Chilla Gates are just about 9 km from Haridwar. Kumaon Gate is 6 km from Rishikesh, and Laldhang gate is 25 km from Kotdwara.

Haridwar district, covering an area of about 2360 km2, is in the southwestern part of Uttarakhand state of India.

Haridwar is situated at a height of 314 meters from the sea level, between Shivalik Hills in the North and Northeast and the Ganges River in the South

Temperatures:

Summers: 25 °C – 44 °C
Winters: −1 °C – 24 °C



Hindu genealogy registers at Haridwar

Something that is not well known today to Indians and to those settled abroad, in an ancient custom detailed family genealogies of Hindu families for the past several generations are kept by professional Hindu Brahmins popularly known as Pandas, at the Hindu holy city of Haridwar in handwritten registers passed down to them over generations by their Brahmin ancestors which are classified according to original districts and villages of one's ancestors, with special designated Brahmin families being in charge of designated district registers, even for cases where ancestral districts and villages that have been left behind in Pakistan after Partition of India with Hindus having to migrate to India. In several cases, present-day descendants are now Sikhs and many maybe Muslims or even Christians. It is common for one to find details of up to, or even more than, one's seven past generations in these genealogy registers kept by the Pandas of Haridwar.

For centuries when Hindu ancestors visited the holy town of Haridwar for any purpose which may have mostly been for pilgrimage purposes or/and for cremation of their dead or for immersion of ashes and bones of their kin after cremation into the waters of the holy river Ganges as required by Hindu religious custom, it has been an ancient custom to go to the Pandit who is in charge of one's family register and update the family's genealogical family tree with details of all marriages, births, and deaths from ones extended joint family.

In present-day India, people visiting Haridwar are dumbfounded when Pandas out of the blue solicit them to come and update their very own ancestral genealogical family tree. News travels like wildfire among the Pandas with one's family's designated Panda being quickly notified of one's visit. Nowadays with Hindu joint family system has broken down with people preferring more nuclear families, record-keeping Pandits prefer visitors to Haridwar to come prepared after getting in touch with all of one's extended family and bringing all relevant details regarding ones ancestral district and village, names of grandparents and great grandparents and marriages, births and deaths that have occurred in the extended family, even with as much details as possible of the families married into. A visiting family member is required to personally sign the family genealogical register furnished by one's Family Panda after updating it for future family visitors and generations to see and to authenticate the updated entries. Friends and other family members accompanying on the visit may also be requested to sign as witnesses. However, it is preferable to visit one's family pandas before immersion of ashes of one's kin as they will help properly in these rituals.

Demographics

As of 2001 India census, Haridwar district now has a population of 1,890,422 (2011) and before had 1,447,187 (2001)

Haridwar city has a 310,562 population (2011). Males constitute 54% of the population and females, 46%. Haridwar has an average literacy rate of 70%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 75%, and female literacy is 64%. In Haridwar, 12% of the population is under six years of age.

Transport

Haridwar is the headquarters of the Haridwar district and it has good connectivity with the other towns of the district and the state.

Road

National Highway 58, between Delhi and Mana Pass, passes through Haridwar connecting it with Ghaziabad, Meerut, Muzzafarnagar, Roorkee and Badrinath and National Highway 74 originating from Haridwar connects it with Kashipur, Kichha, Nagina, Pilibhit, and Bareilly. Haridwar is well connected to all major cities by bus. Buses from Delhi to Haridwar are available daily, more than 150 buses are available.

Rail

The Haridwar Railway Station located in Haridwar is under the control of the Northern Railway zone of the Indian Railways. It has direct links to the major cities of India such as Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, Patna, Gaya, Varanasi, Allahabad, Bareilly, Lucknow, Puri, and major cities of Central India namely Bhopal, and Indore, Khandwa, Itarsi.

Air

The nearest domestic airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is located 35 km from Haridwar. Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi is the nearest International Airport which is located 220 km from Haridwar.

Haridwar Tourism

Haridwar, considered to be among the seven holiest cities in India, is an ancient city located on the banks of River Ganga in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Dotted with temples, ashrams and narrow lanes across the city, Haridwar is a famous Hindu temple town where millions of devotees come to take a dip in the holy Ganges. It's believed that taking a dip in the holy Har Ki Pauri relieves you of all your sins.

Every evening, Haridwar is witness to a set of rituals for the famous Ganga Aarti at the Ghats (River Banks) where thousands of devotees come together to pray to the river. Once in every twelve years, Haridwar is host to the mega-gathering during the world-famous Kumbh Mela which sees millions of visitors from all over the country. Along with Prayagraj, Nashik, and Ujjain, Haridwar is one of the only four cities in India which can host the Kumbh Mela.

Haridwar also acts as the base destination for some of the other tourist towns of Rishikesh and Devprayag as Hardwar is well connected by trains and roads. Apart from the religious angle, Haridwar is also now developing as a multifaceted cultural and spiritual center. It's also known for its food and some of the must-try dishes include kachoris at Kashyap Kachoriwala and the aloo puri at Mohanji Puriwale. 

Places To Visit In Haridwar

1. Ganga Aarti, 

Ganga Aarti is a religious prayer that takes place at the bank of the sacred river, Ganga, at the Har Ki Pauri ghat in Haridwar. Bringing in tourists and devotees from all over the world, it is a ritual of light and sound where the priests perform prayers with bowls of fire and the ringing of the temple bells. Visitors float "diyas" (small candles) and flowers, surrounded by the chanting of the mantras and the reflection of the lights off the surface of the flowing river, which is said to be blessed by the Goddess Ganga.

Ganga Aarti Timings 

The Ganga Aarti at Haridwar takes place twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. The starting of the Aarti depends upon the time of the sunrise and sunset in Haridwar.

In the summer months from March to October, the morning Aarti commences anytime between 5:00 AM and 6:50 AM, while the evening Aarti starts between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM.

During the winter months, the morning Aarti begins between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM, and the evening Aarti begins between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM.

Ganga Aarti Pre-Ceremony 

The Ganga Aarti in Haridwar is a magnificent event that attracts around 3,000 to 30,000 tourists every evening. The number of tourists can even touch a lakh during times of important festivals. The evening ritual commences with the bringing of an idol of Ganga from a small temple that is located nearby. The goddess is carried in a decorated 'palkhi' (palanquin) to a platform near the river and is accompanied by the singing and dancing of the pundits as well as devotees. Worshippers then seek the blessing of the idol, following which the ceremony begins.

The pundits chant Sanskrit mantras and offer milk, honey, curd, and other such items to the idol. Loudspeakers in the vicinity of River Ganga ensure that the chants can be heard by all devotees, including those who are standing far away. This is then followed by the singing of 'Ganga Lahari', which is a Sanskrit poem that was written by Pundit Jagannath. The pundits then ask the gathered devotees to promise that they would not pollute the sacred holy river, and the people acknowledge by raising their hands and chanting the phrase 'Har Har Gange, Jai Ma Gange'.

What follows next is a short break wherein the workers of the Ganga Sabha collect donations that the people are willing to offer. These donations are used to meet the expenses of the Ganga Aarti, as well as for other religious and social purposes. Finally, the main Aarti begins. The Aarti is just a five-minute song, and the background music of bells enhances the overall experience.

Best Time to Experience Ganga Aarti in Haridwar 

The best time to visit the Ganga Aarti entirely depends on your personal preference. If you like to be a part of a large crowd that is bustling with activity, visit the river in May or June; and to explore a quieter side, visit the river in July and August.

Evening aartis are much more vibrant than the morning ones since the lights from the candles and diyas can be thoroughly enjoyed, and hence are more recommended.

History of Ganga Aarti at Haridwar 

The exact period when the tradition of the Ganga Aarti was started has not yet been ascertained. However, the ritual of the Ganga Aarti at the Har Ki Pauri was started by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya in the 1910s.

According to Hindu traditions and culture, the river Ganga is not a mere river; instead, it is the Divine Mother who gifts life in the form of water. When the fury of sage Kapil reduced the ancestors of Saint Bhagirath to mere ashes, the latter prayed and meditated for a very long time and was ultimately blessed with Ganga by the gods. Lord Shiva had held Ganga to reduce the steady flow of water, and the flowing water then provided liberation or moksha to the ancestors. This same water of the holy river is also believed to remove sins from the devotees who take a dip in the sacred water. The Ganga Aarti is thus a way to thank the River Ganga for all that she offers.

History of Har ki Pauri 

The word 'Har' means Lord Shiva, who is the god of the universe according to Shaivite Rishav Bhagwan's school of Hindu theology. The word 'Ki' means 'of', and 'Pauri' translates to 'steps'.

The area within Har Ki Pauri where the Ganga Aarti is performed is known as the Brahma Kund and is considered to be the most sacred place in the entire area. This is because the Brahmakund is thought to be the spot where drops of Amrit or God's Nectar fell from the sky, while the Amrit was being carried by the celestial bird, Garuda at the time when the world came into existence. It is also believed that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu had visited the Brahmakund in Har Ki Pauri in the Vedic times. On a stone wall at the ghat, there is a large footprint that is said to belong to Lord Vishnu.

Tips 

1. Be sure to reach the Ghat at least 45 mins before the morning Aarti and 75 minutes before the evening Aarti to grab a seat for yourself and visit the Aarti closely.

2. Since there is a massive rush at the time of the Aarti, be sure to take care of your belongings and valuables. Do not let children go out of your sight.

3. Rickshaws and auto-rickshaws to take you to Har Ki Pauri often quote exorbitant prices, and hence you may have to bargain.

4. Seats near the clock tower and across the Ganga Temple, on the stairs of the ghats (cross the footbridge) are preferable for a good view.

How To Reach Ganga Aarti in Haridwar 

Har Ki Pauri is located on the main highway, in the center of the city. It can be reached either by bus or train. It is about 3 km away from the Haridwar Railway Station. You can hire an auto-rickshaw from any part of the city.

2. Har Ki Pauri, 

Regarded as one of the most sacred Ghats in Haridwar and India, Har Ki Pauri is a revered landmark and is visited by devotees and visitors in the large numbers seeking the blessings of Holy Ganga by offering their prayers. Har Ki Pauri which literally translates to 'Steps to Lord Shiva' is situated in the holy city of Haridwar which is considered as one of the seven holiest places in the country. A dip in the river Ganges here is believed to wash away one's sins and according to the Indian mythology, it is one of the four places where the drops of elixir ('Amrit') were accidentally spilled by the celestial bird Garuda. The river is filled in a golden hue of countless diyas offered by devotees floating along the river.

Har Ki Paudi is the place where River Ganga flowing through the Himalayas touches the plains for the first time. Oozing serenity and calm all the time, it is the evening time at Har Ki Pauri that is most cherished by its visitors. With a plethora of temples at the riverbank, offerings are made with lighted candles and diyas floating across the river, an enchanting sight to behold. The chanting of mantras and prayers with sages meditating exudes spiritual vibes and is an experience of a lifetime. The sound of gongs in the background takes one to an entirely different world. Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are believed to have visited the place in Vedic times. The large footprints on a stone wall are said to belong to Lord Vishnu.

Har Ki Pauri Aarti  

The Aarti offered to River Ganga is witnessed by thousands. Priests, clad all in white holding large fire bowls, chanting of mantras and the sound of gongs coming out of the temples give Har Ki Pauri a supernatural vibe. Ganga Aarti takes place between 05:30 to 06:30 in the morning and between 06:00 to 07:00 in the evening.

Priests selected by the Ganga Sabha conduct the proceedings of the aarti. Ganga Sabha is an NGO that runs the morning and evening aartis at Har Ki Pauri and also helps the government in the management and cleanliness of the ghats. For the best view of the Aarti, sit on the ghats on the opposite side of the temples. You may also sit on an island-style ghat named 'Malviya Dweep'. More than three thousand people attend the Aarti daily and the numbers go up on weekends. The ceremony is started with the chanting of a Sanskrit poem, 'Ganga Lahari', written by Pandit Jagannath followed by the grand Aarti. 

Festivals 

Har Ki Pauri is also known for the huge gathering of devotees and pilgrims for the festival of Kumbh Mela that is held here once every twelve years and Ardh Kumbh Mela that takes place every six years. Kumbh Mela is assumed as the largest gathering of pilgrims in the entire world. 

Festival of Vaisakhi, also attended by people in large number, is a huge harvest festival which takes place in April every year. Diwali, the festival of lights is celebrated by thousands of people when the entire ghat is covered in lights and devotees offer diyas to the holy river. 'Chhath' festival, an east Indian festival to celebrate the Sun god also

Best Time To Visit Har Ki Pauri 

The best time to visit Har Ki Pauri is during the summer months i.e. from March till June end. One might want to avoid the winter season (October - February) as it gets quite chilly.

Tips For Visiting Har Ki Pauri 

Make sure not to miss the evening aarti, which is considered as the most cherished time of the day by devotees. The river current is extremely strong and one should never cross the barricades while taking a dip.

How To Reach Har Ki Pauri 

Located in the center of the city, Har ki Pauri is easily accessible by shared or booked auto rickshaws which are the best way to commute in the city.

Haridwar Railway Station is the nearest railway station approximately three kilometers away while Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport.

3. Chandi Devi Temple, 

The Chandi Devi Temple of Haridwar is a charming temple dedicated to the Chanda Devi Goddess, perched on the Neel Parvat of the Shivalik Hills. The Chandi Devi Mandir, also known as Neel Parvat Teerth, is one of the five pilgrimages of Haridwar and is also known as Siddha Peetha, a place where devotees worship to fulfill their desire. Because of its location, the Chandi Devi temple is also a preferred choice for trekking tourists. You can also reach the temple zenith by the means of a ropeway, the view from which is exhilarating.

The historic beauty of Chandi Devi Temple is best experienced as you hike your way up to the top. With the verdant greenery of the surrounding, you will certainly feel the presence of the divine around you. Being one of the oldest and revered temples in Haridwar, this shrine has a tremendous footfall throughout the year. One of the most festive times here is during the festivals of Chandi Chaudas, Navratra, and Kumbh Mela when the temple sees amazing celebrations and massive participation. The Chandi temple during the festival time is a must-visit.

Chandi Devi Temple Ropeway 

A convenient way to reach the top of the Chandi Devi Temple is by the means of a ropeway ride. It spans over the mountains for a distance of about 4-5 kilometers and takes you through a scenic route from where you can witness the beauty of this place first hand. Known as the Chandi Devi Udankhatola, a ride through the same costs about INR 84 per head.

Legend of Chandi Devi 

The presiding deity of Chandi Devi Temple is Goddess Chandi, who is also known as Goddess Chandrika. Legend says that a long time ago, demon kings Shuhnmbha and Nishumbha had captured the kingdom of Heaven and banished all the gods from there, including God-King Indra. Seeing no way out, all the gods prayed to Goddess Parvati when she assumed the form of Chandi, an extremely beautiful woman.

Chandi visited the demon kings and upon gazing at her face, Shumbha was mesmerized and decided to marry her. However, Chandi refused him and which enraged Shumbha to no end and he sent demon chiefs Chanda and Munda to kill her. Upon being confronted by the two, Chandi's anger gave rise to Chamunda who killed Chanda and Munda. Shumbha and Nishumbha then attempted to kill Chandrika but were killed by the goddess. After destroying the two demons, Chandrika rested for a while on top of the Neel Parvat after which the Chandi Devi temple was created here to mark the legend. The two peaks located in the mountain range are called Shumbha and Nishumbha, after the slain demon kings.

Trek to Chandi Temple 

Chandi Temple is located at the foothills of the Himalayas, which makes it the perfect destination for trekking. The trek up to the temple is about three kilometers long and begins at Chandighat. The trek is mildly steep and has a few impediments on the way, but the scenery of the region makes it worth a try, With an easy to medium difficulty level, the trek to Chandi Devi temple is an unlikely destination for hikers as well.

Architecture and View of Chandi Devi Mandir 

The beautiful temple located atop the hill is a trekker's delight and you will find visitors walking uphill to the temple. If you wish to enjoy a bird's eye view of the entire city of Haridwar, hop aboard one of the many cable cars that have been recently installed here for the convenience of the devotees. As the car makes its ascent towards the temple, you can see an astonishing view of the valley below. The temple architecture in itself is an embodiment of simplicity and humble bearings. With a simple facade bearing a flag, the Chandi Devi temple attracts millions of devotees every year.

History & Significance 

The foundation of the Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar is believed to have been laid down by Adi Shankaracharya sometime in the 8th century, and it is believed that the great Hindu priest had installed the Goddess's idol here himself. A formal shrine was built in the year 1929 by Kashmiri king Suchat Singh, after which the temple rose to great prominence as a revered shrine of Chandi Devi. 

4. Rajaji National Park Tourism

Encompassing the Shivalik mountain ranges, Rajaji National Park is abundantly rich in flora and fauna and proves a great holiday destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Famous for its wildlife, especially for tigers and elephants, Rajaji National Park has recently received the status of a Tiger Reserve by the Government of India. Named in the honor or C. Rajagopalchari, this national park spreads over 3 districts of Uttarakhand including Dehradun, Haridwar and Pauri Garhwal. This area is also enriched with valuable fossils that date back to as old as 10 million years old. The forest area is popular for Sal, Teak and other shrubs. You should explore the wilderness and rich diversity of Himalayan lives here with a Jeep Safari or Elephant Safari organized by the Forest Department, the 34 km jungle track is a major attraction here. You can spot Asian Elephants, Tiger and King Cobra, Panther, Bear, Chital, Sambar, Wild Boar, Kakar, Python, Monitor Lizard, Wild Cats.

You can also spot many birds including many species of migratory birds, especially after monsoons.

Chilla, Motichur and Rajaji 

A thriving wildlife ecosystem, Rajaji National Park is located beneath the Shivalik range in Uttarakhand. It’s a unique combination of not two, but three sanctuaries; namely Chilla, Motichur, and Rajaji.  After a name change in 2015, the national park is now known as Rajaji Tiger Reserve.

Huddling up against the Eastern bank of Ganga, Chilla Sanctuary lies only 10 Kms away from the pilgrim town of Haridwar. So, a religious trip with the family can easily be extended into an adventurous excursion into the wilderness.

60 Kms from Dehradun lies Motichur Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Kansro. It’s best known for its Leopard sightings. Rajaji sanctuary is the oldest of them all. Asian Elephants are the center of the spotlight here. The river Ganga drifts about, cutting through the forest.

Etymology 

The tiger reserve earns its name from Shri C. Rajgopalachari, a popular leader, first and last Governor-General of independent India, and a revered statesman. He was famous among the masses as Rajaji. It was his wish to turn the vast stretch of wilderness into a sanctuary as he was awed with its diverse flora and fauna. That’s how Rajaji Sanctuary came into being and later got its name to the unified Rajaji National Park.

History 

Until 1983, the 820 km long span of the forest was scattered into three different wildlife reserves, each with particular flora and fauna of its own. The vast expanse of land traverses Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal districts in Uttarakhand. The park was established when C. Rajgopalachari (Rajaji), who was on a hunting trip in the wild, changed his mind and expressed his wish to turn it into a wildlife reserve instead. The oldest of them all, Rajaji sanctuary came into being in 1948. Motichur was established in 1964 and Chilla in 1977. The reserve boasts of an enriched fossil trail that goes back in ancient history. The Shivalik trail is believed to be at least 10 million years old.

Flora 

Rich flora adorns the national park with myriad shades and hues of Green. It’s home to the Shivalik ecosystem. Furnished with dense foliage of Sal trees and Bamboo Stalks, the Rajaji forest range is comprised of tropical and subtropical vegetation. Both Riverine and Deciduous Broadleaf trees embellish the forestland. Flowering trees and shrubs like Amaltas, Lydia, Kachnar, Lantana, Sandan, Acacia, and Chilla augment the scenic beauty, making sure that the forest is always rife with a splash of color. On the other hand, Shorea, Bel, Ber, Pipal, Ficus, Adina, and Chamaror add to the lush green cover. Syzgium is a sight to behold when ripe with vividly colored fruits.

Entry Fee for Rajaji National Park 

For Indian Nationals: INR 750 per person

For Foreign Nationals: INR 1500 per person

For Jeep Safari: INR 1500 per Safari (INR 150 per person)

Safari Timings 

The usual timings are 06:00 AM to 11:00 AM for morning sessions, 11:30 AM to 1 PM for birdwatching sessions inside the forest, and 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm for afternoon sessions. Depending on the season, the timings may undergo a slight change, which is notified in advance by the authorities in the forest department.

Wildlife in Rajaji National Park 

Rajaji National Park is predominantly formed from dense green jungles, and this environment forms a habitat for a number of animals. An amalgamation of three different forests with distinctive life forms, Rajaji national park houses an enormous variety of land and fauna.

The park is at the northwestern limit of distribution for both elephants and tigers in India. Other wild animals found in the park include the Asian elephant, Bengal tiger, Langur, Leopard, Jungle cat, Striped hyena, Sambhar, Bear, Barking Deer, Goral, Indian hare, Monitor Lizard, Sloth bear, Indian Porcupine, and Rhesus Macaque.

Due to the presence of a large number of birds, birdwatching is one of the popular attractions here. Scimitars, Babblers, Starlings, Hawk-Owls, Cuckoos, Pheasants, Hornbills, Kingfishers, Pea Fowls, Cormorants, Lapwings, and Partridges are only a few of the 315 bird species which call it home.

Numerous types of butterflies are a permanent fixture amongst the plants and shrubs and migratory birds make it their home during winter months.

Trout and Masheer fish populate the waters of Ganga cutting through the forest.

Restaurants and Local Food in Rajaji National Park 

The National park does not have many options for food and hence you might want to bring some from home or make personal arrangements. You can, however, find eating joints in the nearby Dehradun.

5. Mansa Devi Temple

The Mansa Devi Temple is a famous temple in Haridwar in Uttarakhand that is dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi, who is considered to be a form of Shakti and is believed to have emerged from Lord Shiva's mind. Thousands of Hindus flock to the temple every year in large numbers to this temple, which is one of the 'Panch Tirths' or the five pilgrimages in Haridwar. The temple is also popularly known as Bilwa Tirth and is perched on the top of the Bilwa Parvat on the Sivalik Hills.

The word Mansa means to wish, and devotees firmly believe that the goddess Mansa fulfills all the wishes of a dedicated and sincere person who visits the temple. Thus, the magnificent temple is regarded as a 'Siddh Peetha', which is the term that is used to refer to places where desires and wishes get fulfilled. Together with the Maya Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple, the three temples constitute the three Peethas that are located in Haridwar.

The Mansa Devi Temple holds immense religious importance, not only because of the temple itself but also because it is located in Haridwar, which is believed to be one of the four places where drops of elixir fell accidentally while they were being carried by Garuda, Lord Vishnu's vehicle. This is perhaps why this grand temple has one of the highest footfalls of all temples in north India. The ropeways that lead up to it are yet another feature that adds to the magnificence of the temple and attracts tourists from all across the country.

History of Mansa Devi Temple 

The Mansa Devi Temple was constructed by Maharaja Gopal Singh of Mani Majra between 1811 A.D. and 1815 A.D. The goddess Mansa Devi, to whom the temple is dedicated, is believed to be a form of Shakti, who emerged from the mind of sage Kashyap. She is also the sister of the serpent Vasuki.

The place where the temple is located that is Haridwar; itself has a rich history attached to it. Haridwar is one of the most ancient centers of pilgrimage all across the country. According to Indian mythology and legends, Haridwar is one of the four places where drops of elixir, or Amrita, accidentally spilt from the pitcher that Lord Vishnu's vehicle - the celestial bird Garuda was carrying.

Another belief associated with the temple is that the two goddesses Mansa and Chandi, who are the two forms of goddess Parvati, always reside close to each other, and hence one can find the Chandi Mandir near the Mansa Devi Temple.

Rituals at Mansa Devi Temple 

The inner shrine of the Mansa Devi Temple has two deities installed in it, one of which has eight arms, and the other has five arms, but three heads. It is firmly believed that goddess Mansa Devi fulfills the wishes of all ardent devotees who visit the temple to seek the blessings of the goddess. Thus, people who want their specific desires to be fulfilled tie threads on the branches of a large tree that is located inside the complex. When these wishes are granted, they visit the temple yet again to untie these threads and to thank the Almighty. In order to please Mansa Devi, devotees also offer her coconuts and other fruits, garlands, and incense sticks.

Ropeway to Mansa Devi Temple 

Ropeway service is available to take devotees and visitors up to the Mansa Devi Temple. This service is known as 'Mansa Devi Udankhatola' and was introduced primarily for the benefit and convenience of the pilgrims. The ropeway journey begins from the lower base station and goes directly till the temple while covering a total length of 540 meters at the height of 178 meters. One can also use the ropeway to visit the Chanda Devi Temple as well.

The first cable car to the Mansa Devi Temple starts running at 7:00 AM during the months between April and October, and at 8:00 AM for the rest of the year.

A round trip to and from the temple will cost you around INR 150 per person.  

Tips For Visiting Mansa Devi Temple 

1. Steer clear of the priests there who wish to extract huge amounts of money from the devotees.

2. Beware of the monkeys around the temple, and do not offer them food.

How To Reach Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar 

The Mansa Devi Temple is located at a distance of 3 kilometers from Haridwar and can be reached either by a cable car or on foot. The walk up to the temple is an uphill trek of one and a half kilometer and is quite exerting, which is why a lot of people prefer the cable car. Alternatively, taxis and auto-rickshaws are also frequently available to reach the temple.

6. Bharat Mata Mandir,

The Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar is dedicated to India as a country and thereby gets its name from its purpose. Its name translates into "The Moth India Temple". The multi-story temple situated in Sapt Sarovar is not a temple that worships gods or has any religious inclination, but one that stands for the many freedom fighters and patriots of the Indian Struggle for Independence. The majestic temple Bharat Mata Mandir also celebrates the unique trait of India and its immense culture. The oneness of the country and its diversity are also a few aspects that the Bharat Mata Mandir brings to our attention.

The late Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi inaugurated the Bharat Mata Temple in 1983. The temple stands at a height of 180 feet and has a total of 8 floors with a specific theme. The temple has a massive map of the Mother India on the ground, denoting the statue of the mother of India depicted as a four-armed Hindu goddess wearing saffron-colored robes, holding a book, sheaves of rice, a mala, and a white cloth. The statue has a design that indicates the Goddess of India for all the religious deities, freedom fighters, and leaders. The Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar is dedicated to all those who took part in the formation of India as it was built before the partition of India. Elevators are installed in the temple to aid the pilgrims.

Bharat Mata Mandir Structure 

The temple, as we know, is divided into eight storeys. The first storey of the temple has a statue of Mother India adjacent to a 3D map of the Indian Subcontinent. The statue is dressed in a pink sari, and the floor is tiled with marble.

The second storey is the 'Shoor Temple'. This storey is dedicated to all those important personalities who have fought for the freedom of our country and given their lives for that cause. The storey has a lot of statues of these patriots, which include the likes of Jhansi Ki Rani, Bhagat Singh, Subhash Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, etc.

The third storey is called the 'Matra Mandir' and is dedicated to all the motherly figures of Indian History. Meera Bai, Savitri, and Maitri are a few of the women that are present at this temple.

The fourth storey celebrates the saints of India, thereby acquiring the name 'Sant Mandir'. A few of the enlightened men that you can find here are Kabir Das, Gautam Buddha, Tulsi Das, and Sri Sai Baba.

The fifth storey has a pictorial representation of all popular Indian religions and their pivotal moments in mythology. There is a painting of Mother Yashodha scolding Lord Krishna for stealing butter.

The sixth storey is known as the 'Shakti Temple' and worships the many goddesses of Hindu mythology like Goddess Sarasvati, Goddess Durga, Goddess Parvathi, etc.

The seventh storey is an ode to Lord Vishnu and his ten avatars.

The last storey is a temple for Lord Shiva. The statue in this storey is sitting in a meditating position and has replications of the Himalayan Mountains in the background.

Best Time to Visit 

Afternoon time generally has lesser crowds, and a very beautiful view of the whole city and the Himalayas can be seen from the top as well.

Tips 

Tickets can be bought to use the lift to go up the temple to the different floors, but the descent must be done by stairs only.

How To Reach Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar 

The temple is around 5 kilometers on the outskirts of Haridwar city and 25 kilometers from the Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun. Rickshaws can be taken to the temple. Buses from within Haridwar are available that drop off exactly in front of the temple.

7. Daksheswara Mahadev Temple, 

Located in Kankhal in Haridwar, Daksha Mahadev is one of the oldest temples and a prime place of pilgrimage for Shaivites. The chief deity of the temple is Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati. The temple is named after King Daksha Prajapati, the father of Goddess Sati. Also known as Daksheswara Mahadev Temple, it houses the Yajna Kund and the Daksha ghat on the left of the main temple where devotees take a dip in the holy Ganga River. The temple is also known for its pompous Shivratri celebrations. 

Daksha Mahadev Temple is widely famous among the devotees of Lord Shiva and lakhs of devotees gather around the temple every year. The rush gets heavier during the month of Sayan. Apart from Yajna Kund in one part of the temple, there is another part where a Shiv Linga has been installed. The walls of Daksheswara Mahadev temple depict the various episodes of the yajna story of King Daksha and the entire history of the temple. The temple premises also have a very banyan tree, which is thousands of years old. 

Legend of Daksheswara Mahadev 

The temple is named after King Daksha Prajapati who was the father of Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva. The spot where the temple is built is where once King Daksha organized a grand Yajna, inviting all gods and saints, except for his son-in-law, Lord Shiva. Insulted by this, Sati jumped to the fire of the Yagya. An angry Lord Shiva then sent one of this Ganas named Virbhadra to Kankhal to chop off King Daksha's head and annihilate it in the fire of the Yajna. However, the gods and sages, including Lord Vishnu pleaded to what appeared there as a self-created shiv-linga. Lord Shiva then restored King Daksha back to life, to complete the yajna that had been disrupted.

The restoration was done by putting the head of a male goat on the shoulders of his corpse. King Daksha repented his misdeeds and it was declared by Lord Shiva that during the month of Sayan every year, Kankhal would be his abode. The legends also say that Lord Vishnu chopped off Sati's dead body's parts with his Sudarshan chakra, in order to free Lord Shiva from mourning. The points where the body parts of Sati were dropped later on became Shakti Peethas and are revered today. 

Architecture of Daksha Mahadev Temple 

The architectural style of the temple is Nagara style of architecture. There is a single spire in the center of the temple with small domes around. A huge idol of Shiva is installed in the center in phallic form. The Das Mahavidya Temple stands next to the main temple, dedicated to Mahavidyas. There is also a temple in the complex dedicated to River Ganga. There is a gha called Daksha Ghat on the Ganges River where the devotees take a holy dip.

How To Reach Daksha Mahadev Temple 

The temple is located in Kankhal, which is 4 kilometers from Haridwar. One can take a bus or taxi from Haridwar to reach there. The Haridwar railway station is only 3 kilometers from the temple, so if one is planning to reach directly from the station can take a taxi from there as well. 

8. Vaishno Devi Temple, 

A replica of the Vaishno Devi temple in Kashmir, the Vaishno Devi Temple of Haridwar is marked by tunnels and caves that lead to the inner sanctum containing the shrine of Goddess Vaishno Devi. The divine temple houses three deities - Lakshmi, Kaali and Saraswati. The Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar is a frequently visited site, both by religious devotees and nature lovers because of the stunning view of the surrounding landscape.

Apart from its architecture and tunnels, this temple bears no resemblance to the original Vaishno Devi Temple. After climbing a flight of steep stairs and crawling through a narrow tunnel, the devotees are blessed with the sight of the idol of Maa Vaishno Devi and the replicas of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. It is widely believed that the Vaishno Devi Temple of Haridwar was constructed in the memory of Trikuta, a devotee of Lord Ram. She prayed to him so devotedly that he agreed to marry her in his last earthly carnation. This is also one of the Shakti Peethas temple. 

How to Reach Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar 

The Vaishno Devi Temple is only 5km from the city railway station, is located in the Jagdish Nagar, Jwalapur area. Taxis are the most convenient mode of transport in the city and can be hired from any site.

9. Patanjali Yog Peeth, 

Patanjali Yogpeeth is a medical and research institute in Yoga and Ayurveda, located in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. It is also renowned as one of the largest yoga institutes in India as well as in the world. The institute is named after Rishi Patanjali, who is acclaimed for the invention of Yoga and is Baba Ramdev's flagship project. If one is interested in Ayurveda and Yoga, it is one of the finest places to visit in Haridwar.

The institute was established by him in 2006 for the practice and development of yoga and research on Ayurveda and the manufacture of Ayurvedic medicines. People visit the Patanjali Yogpeeth for Ayurvedic treatments and medications. It is run by Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust, UK. Apart from Ayurvedic treatments, there are laboratories dedicated to study and research, canteen, ATM as well as residential accommodation. The Patanjali Yogpeeth comprises of two campuses: Patanjali Yogpeeth I and Patanjali Yogpeeth II. They collectively carry out welfare activities in the field of health care, education and other socio-economic activities.

Patanjali Yogpeeth I 

Patanjali Yogpeeth I was the first Yogpeeth campus, established on 6 April 2006. This campus includes the Patanjali Ayurveda college which is dedicated to imparting education in the field of Ayurveda. Study and research facilities were started in 2010, as a part of the University that includes about 122 students, as per the data of 2013. There is a huge library inside the campus that is dedicated to the research of Yoga and Ayurveda. One can also look around for ancient books, which have been restored and digitized. 

Patanjali Yogpeeth II 

Patanjali Yogpeeth II is the second Yogpeeth campus inaugurated in April 2009. This campus includes a Yog Bhawan, which is a 20000 square feet auditorium hosting yoga, Pranayam and meditations that involve the participation of thousands of people, a Shradhalayam which is another auditorium about 60000 square feet large and a Panchkarma & Shatkarma Center, which is a 40000 square feet large center where people participate and perform the therapies of Panchkarma and Shatkarma. There are residential yoga camps as well as a Food and Herbal Park. 

Patanjali Ayurveda Hospital 

Patanjali Ayurveda Hospital is located on Patanjali Yogpeeth I campus. The hospital is well-designed and known for its beautiful infrastructure. It is a go-to treatment place for those who are seeking natural treatment. The hospital is well equipped with all kinds of medical facilities and has provisions for as many as 400 inpatients. About 50-200 outpatients are seen daily by over 40 qualified practitioners of Ayurveda. Patients of all age groups visit the hospital for treatment of various conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, hemorrhoids, etc. Patients visiting the outpatient department are also eligible for a free Ayurveda consultation. 

How To Reach Patanjali Yogpeeth Haridwar 

Patanjali Yogpeeth is located on the Haridwar Delhi highway, at Kankhal, about 15 kilometers from Roorkee and about 20 kilometers from Haridwar. One can reach there by bus or taxi from either Haridwar or Roorkee. The nearest railway station is Haridwar railway station, about 17 kilometers away. 

10. Shantikunj, 

Shantikunj is a world-renowned ashram and the headquarter of All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP) located in Haridwar. An academy for social and spiritual awakening, this pilgrimage center has shown the right path and given long-lasting happiness to crores of people. An ideal place which imparts training to the masses based on divine spiritual principles, it aims for the revival of Rishi traditions.

Development of divinity in mankind is the foremost goal and avowed objective. The Shantikunj ashram has Yagya shala, Gayatri Mata Temple, Akhand Deep, Devatma Himalaya Temple, temples of ancient Rishis and Exhibition of Divine Culture. Besides visiting these places, you can also participate in the daily activities of the ashram. Various training camps are also organized for the upliftment of moral and spiritual values. Those seeking inner peace and divine inspiration, Shanti Kunj is the place to be.

Daily Routine at Shantikunj 

The daily routine begins at 3:30 AM with a collective prayer followed by special “Gayatri Mantra chanting and sun meditation” and Akhand Deepak darshan. Yagna is also performed every morning, which reminds one of the Vedic days in the ashrams of the Rishis. Two meals are offered free of cost to every visitor and resident. Morning and afternoons are scheduled for lectures, practical and fieldwork under different kinds of training programs. Two special kinds of meditations- the Jyoti Avadharan Sadhana and Nad Yoga Sadhana are also performed in the afternoon and morning respectively for 15 minutes each. 

Short Visit 

On a short visit to Shantikunj, you should make sure to visit the following places-

Samadhi Sthal & Yagya Shala- You can offer heartfelt prayers in Samadhi Sthal which is the eternal abode of Revered Gurusatta. In the Yagyashala, the fire that burns in the Yagya kundas is the eternal fire that has been kept burning in the Himalayas by the sages. It was brought to Shantikunj by Revered Gurudev. You can participate in Yagya between 5:00 AM to 7:30 AM. 

Gayatri Mata Mandir, Bhakta Hua Devta and Sapt Rishi Place- You can include in your itinerary a visit to the abode of deities. The unique temple of Bhakta Hua Devta helps one find the purpose of life. The divine spiritual energy of the ambiance is surely soul-stirring. 

Akhand Deepak- This divine light has been burning since 1926. It opens every day between 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM.  

Devatma Himalayas temple, Exhibition of the Divine Culture and Haritima Devalaya- These places have a collection of rare plants and medicinal herbs. In the temple of Divine Himalayas, one can get the sight of the four Dham- Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri and Gangotri, the five Prayag- Vishnu Prayag, Nand Prayag, Karn Prayag, Rudra Prayag, and Dev Prayag and the pious streams of holy rivers- Ganga and Yamuna.

Food Prasadam from Mataji’s Bhojanalaya- The timings are 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM.

Two Day Visit 

On a two-day visit to Shantikunj, you can participate in the daily activities of the ashram. You should not miss Morning Yagya and Akhand Deepak. You can meet Shradhey Dr. Sahab and Vandaniya Shail Jiji between 7:30 AM to 8:15 AM. Dev Sanskriti Vishwa Vidyalaya (DSVV) can also be included in your plan. DSVV has Gaushala, Polyclinic, Sriram Smriti Upavan which is a unique acupressure garden and a Mahakal Mandir. On the second day, a visit to the research center of science and spirituality - Brahma Varchas Shodh Sansthan can be made.

Training Camps 

For the upliftment of the moral, cultural, spiritual and ethical values, national integration and development of youths, various types of training are organized frequently like-

Nine days training of Sanjeewani Vidyaa which includes Art of Living and Art of Relating training camps.

One month training of Yug Shilpi and Parivraajak which includes Art of Serving and Art of Leading training camps.

Three months of training for proficiency in Sangeet or music

Occasional training of officers and employees of government, local bodies, corporations, banks, factories, etc. are also organized on elegant lifestyle, organizational management, efficient working methodology, work culture, the glory of labor, health, behavioral science, the value of time, inculcation of discipline, duty consciousness, and national integration. For the all-round development of villages and self-employment generation, nine days of training is also imparted to the selected village folk. Training relates to agriculture, horticulture, herbal production, Dairy, and Cottage industries.

Shantikunj Ashram Stay 

Visitors are allowed to stay for not more than two days and they have to participate in all daily activities. Stay arrangements are made for those who join training camps or participate in spiritual penance or come to conduct some sacramental rite. The facility is free of cost and there is no need for reservation priorly. Spiritual seekers are given group accommodation only – separate rooms are not given. People can stay outside Shantikunj also and take part in all its activities. 

History of Shanti Kunj 

Shantikunj was established in 1971 by Pt. Shriram Sharma Acharya on a small piece of land. Gradually, it spread over a large area in Gayatri Nagar. Several practice camps were organized under his guidance. In 1979 a satellite campus was established named Brahmavarchas Shodh Sansthan. One more campus was added in 1988 named as Gayatrikunj. Since then, it has been visited by many scholars and saints including Dalai Lama, Pranab Mukherjee, Abdul Kalam, etc.

How To Reach Shanti Kunj Haridwar 

Shantikunj is located on NH58, Delhi-Rishikesh highway in Hardiwar. The easiest way to reach the ashram is by taking a cab.

11. Swami Vivekanand Park, 

Swami Vivekanand Park is one of the few amusement parks in Haridwar located near Har ki Pauri. The mesmerizing park is triangular in shape and boasts of lush green lawns and flowering beds along with housing a massive statue of Swami Vivekananda which is the highlight of the park. Another major feature of Swami Vivekanand Park is the colossal statue of Lord Shiva which is visible even from a distance. This park is, thus, ideal for day picnics and jogging activities.

Since Swami Vivekanand Park is located quite close to Har ki Pauri on the banks of River Ganga, people often come here to soak in the serene surroundings along with enjoying a stunning view of Har ki Pauri. The park is squeaky clean and nicely maintained by the local authorities. Apart from the tourists, the locals too visit the Swami Vivekanand Park to just sit and watch the world flow by.

12. Maya Devi Temple,

Built-in the 11th century, the Maya Devi temple in Haridwar is one of the oldest temples in India. The temple is dedicated to Hindu goddess Maya and is also one of the three Shaktipeeth, believed to be the place where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell. Goddess Maya is considered to be a form of Adi Shakti, who is believed to be the Goddess of divine power. Devotees of the Goddess visit in large numbers during Navratra and Kumbh Mela to take her blessings.

Maya Devi is considered by many as the chief Goddess of the holy city and no pilgrimage is complete without doing Devi's darshan. Formerly the city of Haridwar was even called Mayapuri in veneration to this deity. The ancient Maya Devi Temple is also one of the three oldest temples of Haridwar, which is still intact, the other two being Narayana-Shila and Bhairava Temple. Along with goddess Maya, the sacred temple is graced by the idols of goddess Kamakhya and Goddess Kali who are also a form of Adi para shakti. It is a common belief that the holy temple is a Siddha peeth which means that the presiding goddess has the power to fulfill any desires or wishes of the person seeking Her blessings.

Legend of Maya Devi Temple 

According to Hindu mythology, Sati, who was the divine consort of Lord Shiva, married him against her father's wishes. One time Daksh Prajapati, Sati's father, decided to perform a Yagya and invited all the deities except Lord Shiva. Sati, even after knowing this reached her paternal home and asked her father to invite her husband. However, Daksh insulted her daughter and Lord Shiva. Unable to bear her husband's insult Sati self-immolated herself in the Yagya's Agni (fire).

When Lord Shiva heard of Sati's sacrifice, he ordered Virbhadra and Khali to destroy the Yagya and kill Daksha. Loaded with fury, he traveled the entire world carrying his wife's burnt corpse, moaning and dancing the dance of destruction (tandav). To save the universe from Shiva’s rage, Lord Vishnu ordered his Sudarshan Chakra and cut Sati's body into pieces. These broken pieces fell on 52 different places in the Indian subcontinent. These pieces came to be known as Shakti Peeth. Goddess Maya Devi temple is formed where Sati's heart and navel fell and is, hence, considered one of the most revered shakti peeth of all.

Structure of Maya Devi Temple 

The ancient Maya Devi Temple was established in the eleventh century, along with two others: The Narayana-Shila Temple and the Bhairava Temple. All three still stand and have not been destroyed by time or environment to date, and have developed to be the centers for pilgrimage, seeking of blessing and worship.

Built with traditional north Indian architecture, it is a small temple that contains stucco pictures depicting different postures of the Devi. The inner shrine of the temple enshrines three idols, the Maya Devi in the center, Goddess Kali on the left and Goddess Kamakhya on the right. Besides these, the temple also preserves two other goddesses, and both believed to be forms of the Goddess Shakti. There is also a metal idol of Chamunda and a sub-shrine to the Sheetala Devi. It is said that the goddess fulfills desires and wishes when prayed to with love and complete devotion.

Best Time to Visit 

You can visit the Maya Devi temple anytime during the year. However, visiting during Navratri and Kumbh Mela is very popular.

Try to Visit during early mornings or late evenings to escape the crowd of devotees.

Tips 

1. You can buy offering like garland, flowers, and prasad for the Goddess from the vendors outside the temple only for INR 10-30.

2. Photography is allowed inside the temple premises.

How To Reach Maya Devi Temple 

This temple is located on the Birla Ghat to the east of the Har ki Puri. It is at a distance of about 600m from Haridwar railway station. You can take a bus or an auto-rickshaw from there.

13. Fun Valley Water Park

Fun Valley is a gorgeous water park nestled in the valley of Haridwar. It offers close to 21 thrilling water rides, roller coasters, aqua dancing, DJ, etc. In addition to that, it has an amusement park that boasts of a plethora of adventure activities to give you an adrenaline rush.

14. Bara Bazar,

The Bada Bazar in Haridwar is a bustling lane market filled with religious trinkets and other paraphernalia for the locals, as well as, the foreign tourists visiting the holy city in great number. This market is mainly known for shopping of Rudraksha and ayurvedic medicines. The Bara Bazaar is also a great place to shop for wooden items and handicrafts and munch on the delicious Peda (a sweet made from milk) sold in huge quantity here.

15. Sapt Rishi Ashram,

Sapt Rishi Ashram is one of the most famous ashrams of Haridwar established by Guru Goswami Dutt in 1943. Famous for having hosted 7 great sages- Kashyapa, Vashishta, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Bharadwaja and Gautam, this ashram is well known for its tranquil atmosphere ideal for meditation. It is also believed that Ganga split herself into seven currents at this spot. For yoga lovers and people seeking spiritual solace and happiness, this place is a must-visit. 

As per mythological records, river Ganga had split into seven streams so that the sages were not disturbed by the sound of gushing water. Owing to this reason, the ashram is also called as Sapt Sarovar or Sapt Rishi Kund. Due to its religious significance, rishis, saints and sages from all over the world hold this ashram in high esteem. The ashram has a well-maintained complex with a residential hostel and a Sanskrit school for poor children.

How To Reach Saptrishi Ashram

Located on the banks of Ganga in Motichur, Haridwar, to Saptrishi Ashram can be easily reached by taking a cab or a bus from Haridwar as it is only 5 km away.

16. Kumbh Mela, 

Haridwar in Uttarakhand is an important pilgrimage town for the Hindus. The place is a perfect escape from the cacophony of urban life and a beautiful amalgamation of old and new, replete with beauty, culture, history, and spirituality. Haridwar is known as the ‘Abode of God’ because of its serenity and scenic beauty by the River Ganga. The most famous fair in the world - Kumbh Mela is celebrated here once in twelve years. It’s a sight that should never be missed.

Haridwar Kumbha Mela has gained international fame as "the world's most massive act of faith". The unflinching trust of millions of devotees is mind-boggling. This spectacle of faith has attracted the curiosity of foreigners as well. The pilgrims come from all walks of life, traveling long distances and tolerating many physical discomforts, just for one dip in the holy river. While some arrive on overcrowded trains, others come by helicopters and planes. But, what remains common is their tremendous faith. Nothing deters the faith of the pilgrims, who celebrate the Kumbh Mela at Haridwar in all pomp and glory. Fathoming the atmosphere of the celebration is difficult. It’s surreal. It’s magical!

Haridwar Kumbh Mela Dates 2022 

The next Maha Kumbha at Haridwar will be hosted in 2022 from March - April while the exact dates shall be worked out by the astrologers. Kumbh Mela is celebrated on the dates when the water of the sacred rivers turns into nectar. The exact dates are determined according to a combination of zodiac positions of the Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon. The Kumbh Mela is held once in every three years and returns to each of the four locations (Allahabad, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Nasik) after twelve years which is considered as Purna Kumbha. It is believed to be the most auspicious fair and a mass pilgrimage for the Hindu community of India.

Every sixth year after a Purna Kumbh Mela, an Ardh Kumbh Mela takes place, which is celebrated only at Haridwar and Allahabad. The Purna Kumbha Mela, one of the grandest religious fairs in the last few years, is a less boisterous and glamorous affair than its big brother, the Maha Kumbh Mela held at Prayag after 144 years.

Things To Do at Kumbh Mela in Haridwar 

Kumbh Mela in Haridwar extends for one and a half months on the banks of the holy river Ganga. The festival sees sadhus, swamis, and devotees from all parts of India and across the globe. The divine celebration offers excellent tranquillity and contentment to all devotees. The festival is celebrated with great passion and enthusiasm and a holy dip in the river Ganga is considered a way of attaining salvation.

Peshwai Procession: One of the major rituals of the festival is the ‘Peshwai Procession’ which is a royal procession of the Naga sadhus. The procession is a breathtaking display of acrobatic and martial skills of the sadhus.

Darshan: Another important event of Haridwar Kumbh Mela is the Darshan, which allows members of the Hindu public to interact with the Sadhus visually. In the surreal environment, one can hear devotional songs, Veda mantras and prayers and preaches of saints and sages.

Ganga Aarti: The celebration is incomplete without the famous Ganga Aarti. Every evening, as the dusk descends, it’s time for the “aarti” to be performed at the Har Ki Pauri Ghat. The aarti is a powerful spiritual ritual of light and sound that uses fire as an offering. The magnificent event witnesses chanting of the mantras and prayers with the brass lamps of fire. It’s a spiritual circus of clanging bells, pandits, devotees and flowers and flames!

Last Purna Kumbh and Ardh Kumbha in Haridwar: Haridwar hosted the previous Purna Kumbh Mela in 2010. Millions of Hindu pilgrims were in attendance. Many of them participated in the Chaitra Purnima Snan (holy bath) at the Har ki Pauri. ISRO took satellite pictures of the fair so that they could improve the conduct of the festival while the BBC reported an audio and video report on titled "Kumbh Mela: The Greatest Show on Earth" which explored the philosophies, beliefs, and traditions of Hinduism. A popular American morning show "CBS News Sunday Morning" gave extensive coverage to Haridwar's Kumbh Mela. The last Ardh Kumbh Mela was celebrated from January 2016 to April 2016. It witnessed a rush of pilgrims from across the country, with devotees immersing themselves into the icy waters of the Ganga to absolve their sins. Air-borne drones were put in place to oversee security at the Ardh Kumbh Mela.

Significance and History of Haridwar Kumbh Mela 

Kumbh Mela is the most significant religious carnival and congregation of pilgrims in the world. It is celebrated at four places – Haridwar, Allahabad, Nashik, and Ujjain. Legend tells a tale from the bygone days when the demigods (devas) used to reside on earth. Sage Durvasa’s curse had weakened them, and the demons (asuras) caused havoc in the world. It was only then that Lord Brahma asked the devas to churn out the nectar of immortality with the help of asuras. The demons, after learning that the nectar will not be shared with them, went after the demigods for 12 days and 12 nights. During the chase, some of the nectar fell at the four places mentioned above which ultimately came to be revered as holy places in the power of which millions of Hindus repose their faith.

17. Ma Anandamayi Ashram, 

Located in Kankhal in Haridwar, Ma Anandamayi Ashram is a spiritual center and ashram dedicated to Sri Ma Anandamayi who was a prominent Bengali mystic and a spiritual personality. The ashram has a mausoleum or a Samadhi which houses the grave of Ma Anandamayi. The complex houses several buildings meant for meditation, yoga and similar activities.

18. Pawan Dham, 

Pawan Dham, an ancient temple in Haridwar located at Bhagirathi Nagar, Bhupatwala, is a non-profit organization and a revered site among Hindu pilgrims. It is managed and looked after by the Geeta Bhawan Trust Society of Moga. The Pawan Dham temple boasts of intricate architecture, elaborate glasswork and houses idols adorned in rich jewels and precious stones. The major highlight of the temple is the gorgeous idol of Lord Krishna preaching the Bhagavad Geeta to Arjun.

Located just 2km from Haridwar, on the Dehradun-Rishikesh road, it is quite easy and convenient to reach Pawan Dham through any means of local transport. The stunning interiors and divine atmosphere of Pawan Dham attract devotees and it is one of the most visited pilgrimage shrines in Haridwar.

19. Vishnu Ghat,

Haridwar is the land of ghats and Vishnu Ghat is among the most serene and tranquil ghats of the city. Situated quite close to Hari ki Pauri, this ghat is comparatively less crowded and is visited mostly by Vaishnavites for the Vishnu Ghat is named after Lord Vishnu. Being one of the cleanest ghats in Haridwar, people often come to this ghat to take a dip in the holy River Ganga and absolve their sins.

Vishnu Ghat is also visited by people who sit on the banks of River Ganga and just soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The street hawkers selling some local snacks and water nearby along with little trinkets make it an outing of sorts for the tourists. Since Vishnu Ghat is just 1.7 km from Har ki Pauri, the two ghats can also be visited together.

20. Parad Shivlinga, 

Parad Shivlinga is a unique religious site housed in Harihar Ashram, Haridwar on the Kankhal Road. The word Parad Shivlinga is derived from "Parad" meaning mercury and "Shivling" which is a sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. Thus, Parad Shivling is also known as the Mercury Shivling, making it a holy pilgrimage site among the devotees of Lord Shiva visiting Haridwar.

The other attraction at this temple, also known as Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple, is the Rudraksha Tree which has been standing there for decades. People collect Rudraksha from the tree and wear it to get rid of the problems in their lives. The Parad Shivling is made from 151 kg of pure mercury making it a one of its kind in the world. The temple is, thus, thronged by thousands of devotees and pilgrims annually.

How to Reach Parad Shivling 

The Harihar Ashram, in which Parad Shivling is housed, is located at a distance on about 4km from Har ki Pauri and 3km from the bus stand making it accessible by motorable roads.

21. Birla Ghat,

One of the ancient ghats in Haridwar, the Birla Ghat is a pristine and tranquil site, situated adjacent to Vishnu Ghat. Situated on the banks of the pious river Ganga, there is a flight of stairs that lead towards the holy water, enabling the devotees to take a dip and absolve their sins, as is believed by many. Security barriers are installed near the flight of stairs to prevent people from drowning while bathing in the Ganga River's strong water current.

There are multiple food joints and eateries too at Birla Ghat, making it a good place to visit if you wish to escape the maddening crowd of Har ki Pauri. Since Birla Ghat is a 5-minute walk from the Vishnu Ghat, both can be visited together. You can also reach the place using local transport in Haridwar. 

22. Gau Ghat,

Gau Ghat is located on the southern part of Subhash Ghat and is relatively less crowded. The ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru were cremated at this ghat. It is a common belief among Hindus that killing a cow is a sin equal to killing a Brahman. Devotees visit Gau Ghat to cleanse themselves of the sin of killing a cow, hence the name.

Gau Ghat is also visited by people who want to offer solace to their departed family members. Since it is located just 2 km from Haridwar Railway Station and very close to Har ki Pauri, it is very accessible to reach Gau Ghat.

23. Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple,

Located in Bilkeswar Nagar in Haridwar, near the Chandi Devi Temple, the Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is thronged by pilgrims and tourists day in and day out owing to its picturesque locales, the adjacent flowing river and Himalayas in the backdrop. The devotees bring coconut, incense sticks and flowers for the shrine, believing that all their wishes get fulfilled by praying at the Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple. The presence of the Himalayas juxtaposed against the pristine temple surroundings, create an aura of stunning beauty and tranquillity.

24. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar,

Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is situated at Bhimgoda Barrage in Haridwar and has a rich flora and fauna. A popular tourist spot, the site offers rare bird watching opportunities and a panoramic view of the Shivaliks in the backdrop. The place is famous for its unrealistically beautiful locales and is a must-visit if you are in the area.

25. Bhuma Niketan Temple, 

Situated on the Saptasarovar Marg, Bhuma Niketan is a popular pilgrim spot in Haridwar. The shrine houses magnificent idols of several gods and goddesses. However, the highlight of the temple is the sculptures of Shiva and Parvati adorning the entrance gates of the shrine. Bhuma Niketan is surrounded by water fountains and green lawns and serves both as a temple and a shelter for the visiting pilgrims.

Founded by Swami Sr Bhumananda Teerth Ji, the Bhuma Niketan is currently under the guidance of Swami Achutyananda Teerth. Being a charitable trust, it provided food and shelter for the old and the needy apart from organizing medical camps for the weaker sections of the nearby villages. 

How to Reach Bhuma Niketan 

Located on the Saptshringi Marg in Haridwar, Bhuma Niketan can be reached by a local taxi. Head towards Har ki Pauri, straight to Dudhadhari Chowk. Taking a right from the chowk, you will reach Saptshringi Road from where Bhuma Niketan is towards the left.

26. Jai Ram Ashram, 

Situated at Bhimgoda in Haridwar, Jai Ram Ashram was founded by Adi Guru Sri Jai Ram Maharaj in 1891. The ashram has gained fame in the short term owing to the services it provides. The well-maintained gardens with colorful fountains and blooming flowers add to the beauty of the ashram.

Besides accommodation facility for the pilgrims, Jai Ram Ashram has a charitable hospital in which free medical treatment and medicine is provided to the poor and travelers. Frequent eye camps are also organized for the unprivileged. Famous for its diorama exhibition, the front facade has a stunning painting of Samudra Manthan. Unlike the multicolored deities of other temples, the statues in Jai Ram Ashram are vibrant white sculptures. 

Jai Ram Ashram Accommodation and Booking 

The ashram has 512 rooms for providing comfortable and free accommodation to the pilgrims. The rooms are equipped with modern facilities and amenities. You can book the rooms online from websites like Yatradham. The rooms range from INR 300 to 1000. 

How To Reach Jai Ram Ashram 

Jai Ram Ashram is located at Bhimgoda in Haridwar at a distance of 3 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station and 1 km from Har Ki Pauri. You can reach the ashram easily by hiring a cab or an auto. 

27. Doodhabhari Barfani Temple,

Located on the Haridwar Rishikesh highway and very close to Har ki Pauri in Haridwar, the Doodhadhari Barfani Temple is a cluster of several small shrines dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses. The temple is built completely out of white marbles and is a popular tourist attraction in the city. Besides, it has attractive interiors and elaborately carved exteriors. The highlight of Doodhadhari Barfani Temple is the Ram-Sita and Hanuman Mandir.

28. Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple, 

Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is situated in the valley of Billa Parvat near Har ki Pauri in Haridwar and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. It is believed that the site at which the temple sits in the same spot where Goddess Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva and he accepted to make her his wife. Being surrounded by woods in a hilly area, the Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a weekend getaway and picnic spot for the locals and the visiting tourists.

The temple complex also houses smaller shrines for Lord Hanuman, Lord Ganesha, Mata Rani, and Mahadev. There is a Bilva tree located in the complex and it is a tradition to offer the Bilva leaves to Lord Shiva and do his Abhishek with the water of the pious river Ganga. Being centrally located near the Haridwar Junction railway station, it is very convenient to reach Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple by any means of local transport.

29. Bhimgoda Tank, 

Bhimgoda Tank is a sacred water tank situated near Birla Ghat in Haridwar. The tank is named after Bhima - one of the five Pandava brothers. The tank is refurbished with the water of the Ganges and is surrounded by well-groomed lush gardens. The locale is also beautified with water fountains and flower beds and hence is a popular tourist spot.

30. Kushavarta Ghat, 

Believed to have been constructed in the 18th century by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar, Kushavarta Ghat is considered the most sacred and auspicious ghat of the city. The final rites and rituals of the deceased are performed at the banks of the river including the Shraddha rites, after which the devotees take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges.

31. Sureshwari Devi Temple, 

Situated a little on the outskirts of the city in Ranipur near Haridwar, Sureshwari Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple is located amidst dense green forests and beautiful natural locales and hence it also makes up for a popular tourist spot near the city besides being an important pilgrimage center.

32. Crystal World, 

Spread over 18 acres of land in the holy land of the Ganges, Crystal World Water Park boasts of over 18 thrilling water rides. They also have the very famous 5D water ride in addition to several other games and activities. The park is also known to host private parties, weddings, and other functions.

33. Adbhut Mandir, 

Located in Haripur Kalan in Haridwar, Adbhut Mandir is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Spread across 3 acres of land area, the temple was started to be built in the year 2000 and took a total of 16 years. Because of the same, the temple stands out for its striking architecture and design. Founded by Mahamandleshwar Bhooma Pithadhiswar Swami Achyutanand Ji Maharaj, the temple was inaugurated in 2016 by the then Chief Minister of Uttarakhand- Mr. Harish Chandra Rawat. With a backdrop of green hills, blue mountains, and the cascading river, the temple offers peace and calm like no other place. It is visited by tourists and devotees alike.

34. Prem Nagar Ashram,

Located at a distance of 3 km from Haridwar, Prem Nagar Ashram is an epitome and a manifestation of serenity that was also a retreat for a lot of saints and sages for a lot of years. It was built in 1943 by Yogiraj Satgurudev Shri Hans Ji Maharaj and was later developed by his wife Jagat Janani Shri Mata Ji and his son Shri Satpal Ji Maharaj. Built on the banks of the river Ganges, the ashram is nothing but beautiful.

The ashram boasts of a gorgeous garden that has 250 different varieties where the members are welcomed to relax and unwind. In this same garden, there is a Panch Pallava grove which is known for its five trees that grow together. It is considered the most ideal place in the entire premises to meditate. The ashram is surrounded by several temples like Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple.

Activities at Prem Nagar Ashram 

There are daily bhajans, poojas, and kirtans that are organized in the ashram.

The ashram also arranges free medical checkups and medical drives for the poor and the needy.

To help attain peace, there are daily meditation and yoga exercises organized in the ashram.

For recreational purposes, there is a light and sound show organized on every Wednesday and Sunday, for the tourists. This is a major highlight at the ashram.

Facilities at Prem Nagar Ashram 

Prem Nagar Ashram has a total of 800 rooms that are well furnished with all modern amenities.

It has both AC and non AC rooms for the pilgrims.

                                            Restaurants In Haridwar 

Dosa Plaza

South Indian in Haridwar

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While it's a chain that's gone global, Dosa Plaza offers a more contemporary choice than the gritty Dhaba options close to the train station. There are 104 different types of dosa (including 20 trademarked varieties), ranging from the classic masala dosa (curried vegetables inside a crisp pancake) to ambitious fusions of vegetarian flavors ranging from Mexican and American to Chinese.

Hoshiyar Puri

Indian in Haridwar

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Established in 1937, this place still has a loyal (and well-deserved) local following. The dhal makhani (black lentils and red kidney beans with cream and butter), lacha paratha (layered fried bread), aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower curry) and kheer (creamy rice pudding) are lip-smackingly good.

Haveli Hari Ganga Restaurant

Indian in Haridwar

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The restaurant at this lovely heritage hotel is the classiest in Haridwar. Come for the thali lunch or buffet dinner.

Big Ben Restaurant

Multicuisine in Haridwar

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Watch the passing parade through the big windows and enjoy some of Haridwar’s best food in this restaurant of mirrors, Hindi pop, and polite bowtie-uniformed staff. It’s a solid choice for breakfast, with good coffee.

Chotiwala

INR 120-250

7AM-10PM

Subhash Ghat, Haridwar

One of the popular and oldest restaurants in Haridwar is Chotiwala. Chotivala's highlight is its famous Chola Bhatura. An absolutely worth it and 'not-so-expensive' restaurant to enjoy delicious North Indian and South Indian dishes.

How to Reach Haridwar

How to Reach Rishikesh by AirIf you want to travel to Rishikesh by Air Dehradun Jollygrant Airport is the best option for you. Every day there are flights from New Delhi to Dehradun on a regular basis. Dehradun has no direct flights from other cities than New Delhi. From Rishikesh nearest airport is Dehradun Airport at Jollygrant which is 25 km far from Rishikesh. Rishikesh to Dehradun Jollygrant Airport 25 km Rishikesh to New Delhi Airport 240 Kms

Haridwar is well connected by roadways and rail networks from all parts of India. Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport is the closest airport at about 40 km away. Another close airport is in Delhi at 200 km from Haridwar.

Route Name            Distance                                Time

Delhi to Haridwar             222 km                   4 hours 58 mins

Dehradun to Haridwa r 53.6 km                      1 hour 38 mins

Chandigarh to Haridwar 199 km                     4 hours 34 mins

Hyderabad to Haridwar 1,725 km                   1 day 3 hours

Bangalore to Haridwar 2,314 km                    1 day 11 hours

Ahmedabad to Haridwar 1,145 km                 18 hours 26 mins

Mumbai to Haridwar       1,614 km                 1 day 2 hours

Rishikesh to Haridwar       19.8 km                 39 mins

Agra to Haridwar          393 km                       6 hours 57 mins

Varanasi to Haridwar       866 km                     14 hours 46 mins

Amritsar to Haridwar       406 km                     7 hours 39 mins

Gurgaon to Haridwar      241 km                 5 hours 22 mins

Jodhpur to Haridwar     804 km                        13 hours 51 mins

Shimla to Haridwar     286 km                         7 hours 22 mins

Jaipur to Haridwar    480 km                           8 hours 57 mins

Manali to Haridwar    494 km                         11 hours 44 mins

Kolkata to Haridwar   1,537 km                      1 day 2 hours

Chennai to Haridwar   2,349 km                     1 day 12 hours

Udaipur to Haridwar    862 km                        14 hours 24 mins

Srinagar to Haridwar   796 km                        15 hours 45 mins

Pune to Haridwar    1,664 km                          1 day 4 hours

How to reach Haridwar by road

Haridwar can easily be reached via roads. The roads are well connected to every major city in India. Taxi. buses and private vehicles can be used to reach here.

How to reach Haridwar by train

Haridwar has a well-connected railway system. The trains are available in many cities. From the railway station, many taxis are available to take you to any place you desire.

Local transport in Haridwar

Numerous buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws ply across the city. You can also take the local train that connects most of the city.

 Best time to visit Haridwar

The best time to visit Haridwar is from October to February when the weather is pleasant. However, Haridwar experiences a moderate climate throughout the year, allowing the devotees to take part in different ceremonies and rituals. If you are a pilgrim, the best time to visit would be during the Kanwar Mela in July and Diwali in October.

Haridwar in Winter (October - February) 

The chill inviting days in Haridwar begin in November. The entire month is ideally pleasant for spending enjoyable holidays or going on a pilgrimage tour in this holy city. Winters are also a favored time to plan sightseeing tours and take boat rides in rivulets. As the temperature tends to drop by a few degrees in the evenings, especially by the end of November, it is advisable to carry light woolens. The month of December is blessed with lovely sunny days and hence the ideal month for tourism. Even though it is still winter, the skies remain partially cloudy. The temperature continues to drop down further while remaining within a comfortable range, as the month approaches its end. Do not forget to pack warm jackets, heavy woolens and boots to make the most out of your sightseeing and pilgrimage tours.

January remains very cold as well, characterized by a mildly blowing breeze. The welcoming climate revitalizes everything around this holy city. Pilgrimage tours at dawn and sightseeing during sunset must not be missed if you are visiting Haridwar in January. The weather during February gets pleasurable for the tourists, as the days bring sunshine with minimal overcast. It is comfortably warm during the daytime, which cuts the edge off the wintry weather.

Haridwar in Monsoon (July - September) 

The arrival of July brings about a change in the weather patterns of Haridwar as dark blue skies and thundering clouds replace the warm winds. Spells of rainfall keep on refreshing the environment, making the daytime ventures quite enjoyable and revitalizing. Since monsoons are not preferred for tourism, you can avail the special offers and discounted deals on accommodations and tour packages. Dark clouds keep dominating the skies in August, because of which the holy lands are drenched with heavy rains. The rainfalls lend a serene touch to the ambiance and provide a much-needed relief from the blistering heat. Haridwar looks even more amazing after being washed by storms, and rain lovers will have a great time during monsoons. It is necessary to carry proper rain gear while venturing outdoors.

Monsoons continue into September. The intermittent rains and cloudy days make it inconvenient for sightseeing activities, but rain lovers can make the most out of the enchanting ambiance created by the refreshing showers. If you want to treat your eyes with the panoramic views of Haridwar, this is the best time to visit this region and witness the fantastic vistas unifying with nature. October enjoys pleasant weather with an ample amount of sunshine during the daytime while the nights are significantly more relaxed. The places near the shores are quite windy, and you can see many people worshipping and bathing in the Ghats. Even the festival of Diwali is celebrated in Haridwar around October. Monsoons are considered as a difficult time to travel to Haridwar, mainly because of the increased possibilities of roadblocks during the season and also because of the activities being shut down. However, the month of July holds religious significance in Haridwar as the Kanwar Mela is celebrated in this month.

Haridwar in Summer (March - June) 

The month of March is pleasant for spending holidays in Haridwar, as the weather is neither too cold nor too hot. The skies are painted in blue during the daytime, becomes orange during dawn and splattering red during sunsets. You get the best views of Haridwar from Lakshman Jhula. Ramnavami celebrations in Haridwar can be enjoyed during this time as well. April marks the arrival of plenty of sunshine and days start getting warmer due to the rise in temperature. However, the ambiance of this weather is ideally warm enough to go on outdoor trips. The clear blues skies will make your excursions even more joyful. Whether you chose to take a holy dip or go out for exploring the mesmerizing sights, the weather will not be a hindrance in your venture.

The month of May is characterized by warm mornings and breezy nights. The temperature remains at a pleasant level during the daytime, so you can still enjoy your outdoor trips. The invigorating river streams add a cooling effect to the warm ambiance. If you have plans for pilgrimage tours, the evening is the best time to go out as you can attend Arti on the shores and take a holy bath as well. The weather gets typically hot in June. This month is all about lots of sunshine and mildly overcast days. Also, during the month of June, the Saavan festival in Haridwar invites thousands of devotees, so make sure you come in a bit early to enjoy the festival. Outdoor travels are quite arduous because of the sunny days. Plan your visits to the ancient temples and old monuments in the evenings, as it is somewhat manageable? thanks to the cool breeze. If you do want to go out during the daytime, make sure to wear protective sun-gears and apply an ample amount of sunscreen.


                                 AFFORDABLE HOTELS IN HARIDWAR


Patnimal Guesthouse
  0.9 km from city center
Starting from
INR 2,100

Ganga Retreat
  1.3 km from city center
Starting from
INR 1,165


Heavens Guest House
 3.5 km from city center
Starting from
INR 900


Treebo Trip New Park Premium Plaza
  5.7 km from city center
Starting from
INR 1,725


Hotel Krishna Ji
0.5 km from city center
Starting from
INR 2,380


Standard Accommodation at La Casa
 0.7 km from city center
Starting from
INR 1,782


RIVERSIDE PARADISE
1.0 km from city center
Starting from
INR 2,673


BedHubs
0.7 km from city center
Starting from
INR 447

Hotel Pardesi's
0.6 km from city center
Starting from
INR 1,299

Bliss Home Near River Ganges With Hill View
  6.8 km from city center
Starting from
INR 1,782

Trimrooms Haridwar
  5.3 km from city center
Starting from
INR 849

                                                 Things to Do in Haridwar​?

Gateway to the Char Dham, Haridwar is the welcome junction of Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand. Masses of people frequent Haridwar every year to pay their respects to the holy river Ganga. The bustling lanes of Haridwar will have you roaming for a long time because there’s a unique sight to see at every corner of the town. However, beware of rhesus monkeys who are notoriously famous for harassing people along the ghats. Along with the holy cities of Prayagraj, Ujjain, and Nashik, Haridwar also happens to be a destination where the mammoth Kumbh Mela is organized. Busiest during the religious pilgrimage of Kumbh Mela, Haridwar become a photographer’s paradise because of unique and lively sights seen during this event.

1) Har ki Pauri Ghat
Translating to ‘Footstep of God’, this is a holy bank on the river Ganga. Brimming with life and colors, the place is teeming with people wanting to take a dip in the holy waters to wash off their sins. Every evening at sundown, the ghat is a sensory spectacle when the Ganga aarti is performed. With bells ringing and flaming torches being moved in a harmonious synchronization by the Pandits, evening at the ghat is the experience of a lifetime. Push yourself out of bed in the early hours of the day and head to the ghat to witness the surreal beauty of the sun rising from the river.

2) Temple Hopping

Ringing bells and mantra chantings emanate off every street in the temple city of Haridwar. Adorned with several temples dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses, the city is touched by the hand of God himself. Whisper a prayer at the hilltop temple of Mansa Devi which is very popular as the Goddess is considered to be wish-fulfilling. You can either walk up the hill or take the cable car and enjoy a bird's eye view of the lively city. The Maya Devi temple on the riverbank and the Chandi Devi temple on Neel Parvat are some of the other important temples that call for your attention.

3) Ashrams

If you’re looking for a peaceful abode for meditation, the city is home to a number of ashrams radiating vibrant positivity and a refreshing atmosphere. Shanti Kunj Ashram is set in a beautiful garden and provides lodging, meals, and sessions of spiritual activities. Reward yourself with an unwinding Yoga session at the popular  Patanjali Yogpeeth.

4) Adventure Tours

Apart from its spiritual and religious character, Haridwar also has a lot to offer to people who seek a pumped-up day. The city has earned a name when it comes to enthralling activities such as trekking, bird-watching, and rafting. Visit Rajaji National Park, which has a large population of wild elephants and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a tiger!

5) Food Trail

No trip is complete without trying the lip-smacking street food of the region. Lucky for you, Haridwar is renowned for its local food especially the aloo puri at Mohanji Puriwale and the kachoris at Kashyap Kachoriwala. Head to Pandit Sevaram Sharma Doodhwale in Moti Bazar for delicious Rasmallai and Kulhad dudh. Don’t forget to treat your sweet-tooth with sugary delights from Mathura Walon Ki Prachin Dukaan.

Travel Tips
Budget: Rs. 1,000 per person for 2 nights (inclusive of 3-star hotel and breakfast)
Distance From Delhi: Haridwar - 250 km
Traveller Type: Family, Friends