A Traveler's Guide: Best Places To Visit In Haridwar
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, and numerous other attractions.
The city of Haridwar welcomes guests with temple bell tolls and monk religious chanting. Haridwar (Hari ka Dwar) is known as one of India’s seven holiest locations, and its name means “Gateway to God”. The city is also known for the “Panch Tirth (five pilgrimages)” which comprises Gangadwar (Har Ki Pauri), Kushwart (Ghat), Kankhal, Biswas Tirtha (Mansa Devi), and Neel Parvat (Chandi Devi). Religious attractions in Haridwar include the Maya Devi Temple, Darsha Mahadev Temple, and Pavan Dham.
For those who have not been able to visit the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu, a duplicate is available in the city. An 8-story temple dedicated to Bharat Mata has been added to the list of Haridwar tourist attractions. The charm of this city stems from its combination of religious significance and a lovely natural landscape. Visitors are amazed when they see the Ganga Aarti in progress, especially in the evening.
Here are the 18 Best Places to visit in Haridwar
1. Ganga Aarti in Haridwar
Ganga Aarti is a religious prayer offered on the banks of the sacred river Ganga at Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri ghat. It is a light and sound ceremony that attracts tourists and devotees from all over the world, with priests performing prayers with bowls of fire and the temple bells ringing. Visitors float “diyas” (little candles) and flowers while reciting mantras and reflecting lights off the rushing river, which is supposed to be blessed by the Goddess Ganga.
2. Har Ki Pauri
Har Ki Pauri is the point at which the Ganga River, which flows through the Himalayas, first enters the lowlands. Har Ki Pauri exudes serenity and calm at all times, but it is the evenings that guests cherish the most. With numerous temples along the riverbank, gifts are given with lighted candles and diyas floating across the river, creating an exquisite spectacle to witness. Chanting mantras and prayers while sages meditate emanates spiritual energy and is an enjoyable memory. The sound of gongs in the background transports one to another world. Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are thought to have visited the spot in Vedic times. The enormous footprints on a stone wall are attributed to Lord Vishnu.
3. Chandi Devi Temple
The Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar is a lovely temple devoted to the Goddess Chanda Devi, nestled on the Shivalik Hills’ Neel Parvat. The Chandi Devi Mandir, also known as Neel Parvat Teerth, is one of Haridwar’s five pilgrimages. It is also known as Siddha Peetha, a location where devotees worship to fulfil their wishes. Because of its location, the Chandi Devi temple is a popular choice among trekking tourists. A ropeway can also be used to reach the temple’s summit, providing a thrilling context.
The historic beauty of Chandi Devi Temple is best enjoyed by hiking to the peak. The luscious foliage of the surroundings will undoubtedly make you sense the heavenly presence. This shrine, which is one of Haridwar’s oldest and most renowned temples, receives a large number of visitors year-round. The Chandi Chaudas, Navratra, and Kumbh Mela festivals are among the most celebratory times here, with incredible celebrations and tremendous participation at the temple. Visiting the Chandi temple during the festival season is a must.
4. Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar
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 Shivalik Hills.
The word Mansa means “wish,” and followers sincerely believe that the goddess Mansa grants all of the wishes of a dedicated and sincere temple visitor. As a result, the magnificent temple is regarded as a ‘Siddh Peetha’, a phrase used to refer to places where aspirations and wishes are fulfilled. The three temples, along with the Maya Devi Temple and the Chandi Devi Temple, make up Haridwar’s three Peethas.
5. Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park, which is famous for its wildlife, particularly tigers and elephants, was recently designated a Tiger Reserve by the Indian government. This national park, named in honour of C. Rajagopalchari, covers three districts in Uttarakhand: Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal. This area is also rich in valuable fossils dating back as far as 10 million years. The forest is known for its Sal, Teak, and other bushes. You should go on a Jeep Safari or an Elephant Safari offered by the Forest Department to see the wilderness and vast diversity of Himalayan life. The 34-kilometre forest track is a prominent attraction here. You can see Asian Elephants, Tigers and King Cobras, Panthers, Bears, Chitals, Sambars, Wild Boars, Kakars, Pythons, Monitor Lizards, and Wild Cats.
6. Shanti Kunj Haridwar
Shantikunj, a famous ashram and the headquarters of All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP) is located in Haridwar. This pilgrimage centre, which serves as a school for social and spiritual awakening, has revealed the true path and brought long-lasting satisfaction to crores of people. It is a great facility for imparting training to the masses based on divine spiritual concepts and aspires to revive Rishi traditions.
7. Bharat Mata Mandir Haridwar
The Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar is dedicated to India as a country, hence its name derives from its mission. Its name translates as “The Moth India Temple”. The multi-story temple in Sapt Sarovar is not a religious temple, but rather one that honors the countless freedom fighters and patriots who fought for India’s independence. The gorgeous temple Bharat Mata Mandir also reflects India’s distinct characteristics and vast culture. The Bharat Mata Mandir emphasizes the country’s unity and diversity.
8. Daksha Mahadev Temple
Daksha Mahadev, located in Kankhal, Haridwar, is one of the oldest temples and a popular pilgrimage destination for Shaivites. The temple’s primary deities are Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati. The temple is named for King Daksha Prajapati, the father of Goddess Sati. It is also known as Daksheswara Mahadev Temple and includes the Yajna Kund and the Daksha ghat on the left side of the main temple, where pilgrims can take a plunge in the holy Ganga. The temple is especially famous for its elaborate Shivratri celebrations.
9. Patanjali Yogpeeth Haridwar
Patanjali Yogpeeth is a medical and research institute in Yoga and Ayurveda based in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. It is also known as one of India’s and the world’s largest yoga institutes. The institute is named after Rishi Patanjali, the renowned inventor of Yoga, and is Baba Ramdev’s flagship endeavour. If you are interested in Ayurveda and Yoga, this is one of the best sites to visit in Haridwar.
10. Saptrishi Ashram
Guru Goswami Dutt built Sapt Rishi Ashram, one of Haridwar’s most prominent ashrams, in 1943. This ashram is famous for having hosted seven great sages: Kashyapa, Vashishta, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Bharadwaja, and Gautam. It is also recognized for its quiet atmosphere, which is suitable for meditation. It is also thought that Ganga separated herself into seven currents at this location. This is a must-see destination for yoga enthusiasts and those seeking spiritual peace and serenity.
11. Vaishno Devi Temple Haridwar
The Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar is a copy of the Vaishno Devi temple in Kashmir, with tunnels and caves leading to the inner sanctum, which houses Goddess Vaishno Devi’s shrine. The divine temple is home to three deities: Lakshmi, Kaali, and Saraswati. The Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar is a popular destination for both religious pilgrims and nature lovers due to the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
12. Pentagon Mall
The Pentagon Mall in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, is an entertainment and shopping centre nestled within the SIDCUL area that adds a modern touch to this sacred city. With a variety of retail establishments, gaming zones, and entertainment options, the mall is an excellent spot to spend time with friends or family.
The Pentagon Mall, which spans around 7,50,000 square feet, has five floors and has a variety of Indian and foreign clothes and apparel stores, boutiques, department stores, home décor and furniture stores, electronic goods stores, and more. There is also a game zone with an arcade and sports area, as well as a cutting-edge multiplex cinema hall where tourists may watch the most recent films. There is also a food court with various fast-food restaurants where visitors can grab a bite to eat. The mall also provides office space for national and multinational corporations.
13. Fun Valley Water Park
Fun Valley is a beautiful water park set in the valley of Haridwar. It has about 21 exhilarating water rides, roller coasters, aqua dancing, DJ, and other attractions. In addition, it offers an amusement park with a variety of adrenaline-pumping tourist spots.
14. Bhimgoda Tank
Bhimgoda Tank is a sacred water tank located near Birla Ghat in Haridwar. The tank was named after Bhima, one of the five Pandava brothers. The tank has been renovated with Ganges water and is encircled by well-kept, beautiful plants. Water fountains and flower beds add to the beauty of the area, making it the best places to visit in Haridwar destination.
15. Maya Devi Temple
The Maya Devi temple in Haridwar was built in the 11th century and is one of India’s oldest temples. The temple is devoted to the Hindu goddess Maya and is one of the three Shaktipeeth, considered to be the location where Goddess Sati’s heart and navel landed. Goddess Maya is thought to be a manifestation of Adi Shakti, the Goddess of divine strength. During Navratra and Kumbh Mela, a great number of Goddess devotees come to seek her blessing.
16. Bara Bazaar
The Bada Bazar in Haridwar is a bustling alley market full of religious artefacts and other paraphernalia for both locals and foreign best places to visit in Haridwar tourists who visit the holy city in large numbers. This market is primarily known for purchasing Rudraksha and Ayurvedic medications. The Bara Bazar is also an excellent spot to shop for wooden items and handicrafts, and to taste the delectable Peda (a milk-based dessert) that is available in quantity here.
17. Adbhut Mandir, Haridwar
Adbhut Mandir, located in Haripur Kalan, Haridwar, is a prominent Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple, which covers three acres of land, began construction in 2000 and took 16 years to complete. As a result, the temple stands out for its unique architecture and style. The temple, founded by Mahamandleshwar Bhooma Pithadhiswar Swami Achyutanand Ji Maharaj, was inaugurated in 2016 by Uttarakhand’s then-chief minister, Mr. Harish Chandra Rawat. The temple, with its backdrop of green hills, blue mountains, and a tumbling river, provides tranquillity and calm, unlike any other site. It is visited by both visitors and the devout.
18. Swami Vivekanand Park
Swami Vivekanand Park is one of the few rides in Haridwar, situated near Har ki Pauri. The mesmerising park is triangular and features lush green lawns and blooming beds, as well as a large statue of Swami Vivekananda, the park’s focal point. Swami Vivekanand Park also boasts a massive statue of Lord Shiva, which can be seen from afar. This park is perfect for day picnics and running activities. People often go to Swami Vivekanand Park, which is located near Har ki Pauri on the banks of the Ganga, to relax while admiring the breathtaking view of Har ki Pauri. The park is spotless and well-maintained by the local government. Apart from visitors, people also frequent Swami Vivekanand Park to simply relax and watch the world go by.
Conclusion
Haridwar is a thriving city with a rich cultural legacy and spiritual importance. The city’s numerous attractions combine history, nature, and spirituality. Haridwar has something for everyone, from the enchanting Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri to the serene feelings of Rajaji National Park. Whether you are looking for spiritual enlightenment, natural beauty, or cultural encounters, Haridwar is a must-see location in India.
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People also ask about Best Places To Visit In Haridwar
1. What is the most famous Haridwar?
One of India’s greatest pilgrimages, Haridwar, or the ‘gateway to gods’, is located where the Ganga, the most sacred of all Indian rivers, enters the Indo-Gangetic plains. Haridwar, located in the Himalayan foothills, is a city of temples and ashrams, with a religious atmosphere that surrounds everyone.
2. What is the particular cuisine of Haridwar?
Chole Bhature is one of Haridwar’s must-try meals. This delicious recipe blends fluffy bhature, a fermented wheat flour bread, with spicy chickpea curry. The bhature is deep-fried to perfection, leaving a crunchy outer layer and a delicate, fluffy interior.
3. What God is Haridwar famous for?
Lord Vishnu is claimed to have left his footprint on the stone situated on the upper wall of Har-Ki-Pauri, where the Holy Ganga always touches it. Devout believers think that by taking a swim in the sacred Ganga at Haridwar, people can achieve a chance and enter heaven.
4. What time is Ganga Aarti in Haridwar?
The daily Ganga aarti at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar begins at 5:30 a.m. in the summer and 6:30 a.m. in the winter. The daily Ganga aarti begins at 5:30 p.m. in the winter and at 6:30 p.m. in the summer. The timing to execute rituals varies between summer and winter, depending on sunrise and sunset.
5. What time is great in Haridwar?
The best months to visit Haridwar are October through February when the weather is cool and the average temperature ranges from 7 to 22 degrees Celsius. These are also the months when significant festivals such as Dussehra and Diwali are observed, resulting in an inflow of devotees and pilgrims.
6. What is the language spoken in Haridwar?
Haridwar’s major language is Hindi (87.3%), with Urdu accounting for 9.7%. Small minority groups speak Punjabi and Garhwali as well. show According to the 2011 Indian Census, Hardwar district is the mother tongue of the inhabitants.
7. Which is Haridwar's main temple?
Manasa Devi Temple. The Mansa Devi Temple is a well-known Hindu temple dedicated to the Goddess Mansa Devi and one of the most important sacred sites to visit in Haridwar. The Goddess is thought to be a manifestation of Shakti, which sprang from Lord Shiva’s consciousness.