Welcome to the Spiritual Dham of India – Haridwar, The abode of Gods
The sacred city of Haridwar offers a colorful and fascinating blend of culture. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in India. Decked with devotees, its air is dipped in a mystical aura. Being one of the seven holiest cities in India, Its propitious location near the holy River Ganga has gained more popularity. Sweet smell of incense sticks and chanting of priests, Sadhus all around the pious Ganga Ghats and the blissful Ganga Aarti every morning and evening makes for a sight so ethereal and fascinating.
With the passage of time, it has become more than just a religious city, where people thronged to perform immersion of the ashes or took a dip in the water to wash away their sins. It has in fact evolved into a Yoga, cultural and spiritual center and has also become a prime hub for learning the Sanskrit language the modern day Haridwar is the reflection of the culture of India and thus offers much to its visitors. Here is the list of the 14 best places that one must see in this holy city.
Quick Information and Facts About Haridwar Tourism
| Most Popular Pilgrimage Destinations in Haridwar |
Chandi Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Har Ki Pauri, Daksha Mahadev Mandir. |
| Most Popular Markets of Haridwar |
Moti Bazaar, Jwalapur, Bara Bazaar, Kankhal |
| Best Time to Visit Haridwar |
October to February |
| Ganga Aarti Timings at Har Ki Pauri |
6:00 pm to 7:00pm, Evening and 5:30 am to 6:30am, Morning |
| Haridwar is Most Famous for |
Temples and Ghats |
| Haridwar Destination Category |
Spiritual Destination |
| Popular Ashrams in Haridwar |
Ma Anandamayi Ashram, Shankar Ashram, Shantikunj, Kanva Rishi Ashram, Saptarishi Ashram, Bholagiri Ashram. |
| Popular Ghats of Haridwar |
Har Ki Pauri, Gau Ghat, Ashti Parvat Ghat, Subhash Ghat, Vishnu Ghat, Kusha Ghat, Chandi Ghat |
List of Top Places to Visit in Haridwar, Uttarakhand
- Har Ki Pauri
- Bharat Mata Temple
- Chandi Devi Temple
- Bara Bazaar
- Bhimgoda Kund Tank
- Daksha Mahadev Temple
- Kanva Rishi Ashram
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar
- Shantikunj
- Patanjali Yogpeeth
- Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary
- Piran Kaliyar
- Maya Devi Temple
Recommended Tour Packages
Har Ki Pauri
One of the most popular places in Haridwar, Har Ki Pauri is a ghat, which was built by King Vikramaditya. It is believed that Vikramaditya ordered for this ghat to be constructed in the memory of his brother Bharthari. The major attraction of Har Ki Pauri is the evening Aarti that is organized each evening with great zeal. It is, in fact, one of those events in Haridwar that one should not miss out on. After the Aarti, devotees float Diyas in the River Ganga, which looks stunning in the evening light.
Highlights
There is also a pious Kund named Brahma Kund which lies at Har Ki Pauri. According to a legend once upon a time a battle was going on between Demons and Gods for the nectar of immortality. On seeing the battle Lord Vishnu disguised in the form of a beautiful woman named Mohini and charmed the demons to get the nectar for the Gods but demons got to know the truth and chased Lord Vishnu for the nectar. In that process, a few drops of the nectar fell out of the urn at a place which is known as Brahma Kund. Today it is thronged by devotees from all over the country.
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Bharat Mata Temple
Swami Satyamitranand Giri laid the foundation of Bharat Mata Temple, which is situated on the bank of Ganga that flows through Haridwar. It is built in the honor of Bharat Mata which represents the entire India. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Haridwar. It is one massive and unique temple in Haridwar and is dedicated to Mother India and has deities of historical legends.
The temple complex is an 8-storey structure with each floor dedicated to different Gods and mythological heroes. While on the first floor there is a statue of Bharat Mata, on the second floor there is a temple (Shur Mandir) that is dedicated to the renowned heroes of India.
The third floor is known as the Matri Mandir and is dedicated to the achievements of women such as Radha, Mira, Savitri, Draupadi, Ahilya, Anusuya, Maitri and Gargi. The fourth floor is devoted to saints from various religions, including Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism and this floor is called Sant Mandir.
On the sixth floor, an assembly hall with walls depicting the symbolic coexistence of all religions practiced in India and paintings portraying the history and beauty of various provinces are kept. The various forms of the Goddess Shakti can also be seen on the sixth floor. The seventh floor is dedicated to all the incarnations of Lord Vishnu and the eighth floor is devoted to Lord Shiva.
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Chandi Devi Temple
Built by King Suchat Singh, Chandi Devi Temple is perched on Neel Parvat. To reach the temple one has to trek 3kms from Chandighat or take the cable car. According to legends, it is the same place where Goddess Chandi killed Chanda-Munda, an army chief of the Demon Kings Sumbha and Nishumba.
It is also believed that the main deity in the temple was established by the great saint Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. Devotees from all across the world come here to seek divine blessings. Chandi Devi Temple is a must visit place in Haridwar.
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Bara Bazaar
Situated on the Railway Road, Bara Bazar is a popular point of tourist interest in Haridwar. Since Haridwar is a religious town, all you can expect here are the items that are required in a Pooja (Worship). However, at Bara Bazar you are likely to find handicraft articles as well, these in fact, can very well be taken back home as souvenirs. Rudraksha seeds, Churan (digestive powders) and a variety of sweets made from milk can also be brought from the shops in Bara Bazar. Ayurvedic medicines are also quite a popular buy in the market.
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Bhimgoda Kund Tank
Having historical importance, the Bhimgoda Kund/Tank is situated about 1 km from Har ki Pauri. Legend has it that while proceeding to the Himalaya, the Pandavas stopped by to drink the water here in Haridwar, and Bhimgoda is the place where Bhima drew water from the rocks by thrusting his knee (Goda). It is a major historical tourist attraction in Haridwar and is visited by many people all through the year.
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Daksha Mahadev Temple
Daksha Mahadev Temple is a tribute to a Hindu mythological legend. It is one of the most visited religious tourist attractions in Haridwar.
According to the legend, King Daksha Prajapati, who was the father of Dakshayani/Sati, organized a yagna, in which he deliberately did not invite Lord Shiva. However, upon learning about the yagna, Sati insisted Shiva to go with her to which he refused.
However, Sati was determined to attend the event. On seeing her arrive at the yagna, her father, Daksha became furious and started to hurl insults at her and Lord Shiva. Sati tried to placate her father, but failed.
Finally, when she could take it no more, she flew into a rage and took the form of Goddess Adi Parashakti and introduced herself to Daksha as the Eternal Power. She declared that she would give up her mortal life by jumping into the sacrificial fire.
Learning about the incident, Lord Shiva became enraged and decapitated Daksha in his Virbhadra avatar, the destructive incarnation. However, later Lord Shiva relented and restored all that was destroyed and brought back to life all those he had slain including King Daksha whose head he substituted with that of a goat. Daksha was humbled by both Shiva’s show of strength as well as his grace. He completely changed and became an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva.
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Kanva Rishi Ashram
A haven for nature lovers and peace seekers, Kanva Rishi Ashram is situated about 40 km away from the bustling Haridwar city. Tucked amidst the tranquil nature, Kanva Rishi Ashram often attracts those who want to spend some time in solace.
It is indeed one of the most preferred getaways from Haridwar and a popular one as well. If you are looking for a place away from the chaos of city life then for some moments Kanva Rishi Ashram is a blissful abode of peace where you can drink serene drops of tranquility. You must visit this place to enjoy the best of Haridwar Tourism.
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Mansa Devi Temple
Presiding over the Bilwa Parvat is the temple of Mansa Devi. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Haridwar and can be reached by a cable car.
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa (the goddess who fulfils wishes) and has two prime idols of the Goddess in the main temple; one with three mouths and five arms, while the other one has eight arms.
Another reason for the temple being famous is the spectacular view from the cable car.
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Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar
Located about 5 km away from Haridwar, Sapt Rishi Ashram is one place that every tourist should see. It is indeed the best place to explore in Haridwar when it comes to relaxation and rejuvenation of your mind and soul.
Maintaining an old-world charm, this ashram is the Sanskrit learning point. Sapt Rishi Ashram is so named, as it was the place where seven sages, namely Kashyapa, Vashisht, Gautam, Jamadagni, Vishwamitra, Bhardwaja and Atri once meditated.
The ashram is at a short distance from the bank of the River Ganga and is also quite a picturesque place. It is also believed that Pandavas while going to Himalaya crossed this place as well.
Also Read: Chardham Yatra of Uttarakhand
Shantikunj
It is the headquarters of one of the most famous spiritual and social organizations, the All World Gayatri Pariwar in India. Situated at the bank of River Ganga and at a distance of about 5 km from Haridwar Railway Station, Shantikunj is approached by a large number of people seeking spiritual guidance. Therefore, it comes in the top list of Haridwar tourist places as it adds to your spiritual journey in the city.
The key features of Shantikunj are:
- Social Reforms
- Psycho-Social Engineering
- Disaster Management
- Self-reliant Development of Rural India
- Comprehensive Training Programs
- Revival of Vedic Culture
- Reinvestigation of Vedic literature & Methods of Sadhana
- Sixteen Sanskar (Sacramental Rites)
- Vichar Kranti Abhiyan (Thought Revolution Movement)
- Innovative research in Ayurveda
- Tirthas (Pilgrimage Centers)
- Worshipping the deity of human life through threefold path of Upasana, Sadhana and Aradhana
- Ascent and Empowerment of Women and Transformation of Youth- Shiksha and Vidya (Education, Knowledge and Righteous Intellect)
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Patanjali Yogpeeth
Needless to give an introduction of Patanjali Yog Peeth as it is one of the most popular and largest Yoga institutes in India run by Yog Guru Baba Ramdev.
Situated on the Delhi-Haridwar Highway, Patanjali is the famous ashram and many people flock here every day for one purpose or the other. It is absolutely a must visit place to enjoy holidays and Haridwar Tourism.
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Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary
Popularly known as the Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary, Chilla Wildlife Reserve is located at a distance of just 18 km from Haridwar. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions to visit in Haridwar.
This wildlife reserve in Uttarakhand is home to many wildlife species like Elephants, Tigers, Bears and Small cats. It is enriched with a variety of flora that results in making this 249 sq km wildlife sanctuary quite scenic. This wildlife sanctuary surely proffers an exhilarating and memorable experience for both nature and wildlife lovers.
Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Uttarakhand
Piran Kaliyar
Piran Kaliyar is located in the southern part of Haridwar city and it is one of the best hidden gems to explore in Haridwar. The Dargah is dedicated to Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahamed ‘Sabir’ who was a saint of Chishti order in the 13th century. You should not miss this place if you are in Haridwar. Thousands of devotees come to seek divine blessings and spiritual wisdom. The Dargah was built by the sultan of Delhi Ibrahim Lodi.
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Maya Devi Temple
Maya Devi Temple is one of the most visited Pilgrimage destinations to visit in Haridwar. The temple of Maya Devi is dedicated to goddess Sati who was the daughter of Daksha Prajapati. It is one of the three Shakti Peethas in Haridwar.
It is a place where the heart and navel of goddess Sati fell when she immolated herself in the holy Yagna of Daksha Prajapati as he didn’t invite her husband Lord Shiva for the ritual. The temple houses the idols of Goddess Kali, Goddess Kamakhya and Goddess Maya. The best time to visit this temple is during the auspicious Kumbh Mela Festival and Navratri Festival.
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Top Things to Do in Haridwar Sightseeing Tour
Haridwar apart from being a spiritual destination is a best weekend getaway from Delhi as this place never gets dull due the presence of abundance of thrilling activities and fun. If you are looking for a place for relaxation along with fun then travelling to Haridwar is worth it. Lot of exciting activities in Haridwar will make your day. Some of the top thing to do in Haridwar are –
- Dive Deep into the holy waters of Ganga – Holy bath in the river Ganges has a religious significance. It frees the devotees from the karmic backlogs of life. It is one of the best things to do in Haridwar.
- Don’t miss the Ganga Aarti in the Ganga Ghat. Every evening Ganga Aarti is performed in the honor of Goddess Ganga. That sight is ethereal.
- Haridwar is known for its mesmerizing temples. To enjoy the best of Haridwar Tour, Temple hopping is a must. Embrace spirituality and become one with the almighty.
- Relax and meditate in the Ashrams and Yoga centers in Haridwar. It is much needed when you are living in a world full of chaos.
- Birdwatching and Photography in Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is the best place for fun in Haridwar. It is one of the best activities to do in Haridwar.
- Soothe your shopper soul in the colourful markets of Haridwar. Moti Bazar, Jwalapur, Bara Bazar and Kankhal are the best places for shopping in Haridwar.
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There is still much more than one can see in Haridwar and all that we have discussed is just a trailer of what you are going to experience in this beautiful city. One can visit Haridwar any time of the year; however, it is best to avoid it during the monsoon. There are many ashrams and budget hotels that offer a pleasant stay in Haridwar; to avoid inconvenience, make sure you book well in advance. If you have any query, we are eagerly waiting for you to ask in the comment section.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What are the top places to visit in Haridwar from Delhi in one day?
Mansa Devi Temple, Crystal World, Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Sapt Rishi Ashram, Bara Bazar, Local Markets, Rajaji National Park, Pawan Dham are some of the top places in Haridwar to visit from Delhi in one day.
Q.What are the best places to visit at night in Haridwar?
Top places to visit at night in Haridwar are –
- Har ki Pauri Ghat
- Mansa Devi Temple - Night Trek
- Markets of Haridwar
- Chandi Devi Temple
- Swami Vivekananda Park
- Ganga Aarti at Ganga Ghat - After evening, you can spend some time sitting on the banks of river Ganga.
Q.What are the top places to visit for couples in Haridwar?
Top places to visit for a couple in Haridwar are –
- Ganga Ghat to witness Ganga Aarti
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Chandi Devi Temple
- Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary
- Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar
- Fun Valley Water Park
- Crystal World
- Bara Bazar
- Rajaji Tiger Reserve
- Har ki Pauri
Q.What is the distance of Haridwar from Delhi, Nainital, Mussoorie & Dehradun?
- Haridwar distance from Delhi- 207 KM
- Haridwar distance from Nainital- 234 km via NH734
- Haridwar distance from Mussoorie- 81 KM
- Haridwar distance from Dehradun- 52 KM
Q.What are the top attractions for Children in Haridwar?
Some of the top attractions for children in Haridwar are –
- Crystal world
- Rajaji Tiger Reserve
- Har ki Pauri
- Swami Vivekanand Park
- Fun Valley Water Park
- Bara Bazaar
- Mansa Devi Temple
Q.What is the distance of Mansa Devi Temple from Haridwar?
The distance of Mansa Devi Temple from Haridwar is 4.4 Kms.
Q.Which season is best to visit Haridwar?
Winter Season - October to February are the best time of the year to visit in Haridwar as the weather is absolutely pleasant for sightseeing and other fun activities.
Q.How are the accommodation facilities for tourists in Haridwar?
Haridwar has amazing accommodation facilities for tourists of all kinds. It offers a wide range of staying options with soul soothing hospitality. From 5-star hotels, luxury hotels to budget hotels and guest houses, the city of Haridwar offers various types of hotels around the major tourist attractions of Haridwar.
Q.What is the Ganga Arti time in Haridwar?
Ganga Aarti in Haridwar starts from 6:00pm and ends at 7:00pm in the evening and in morning it starts from 5:30am and ends at 6:30 am at Har Ki Pauri.
About the author
She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.
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