Haridwar is an ancient and historical city in the northern state of Uttarakhand that is well-known for worshipping and the temples spread across stunning landscapes. It is one of the seven ‘moksha Pura’s’ present in India and is often called the ‘Gateway to the Gods.’ Haridwar is a revered location because it is the point at which the holy river Gange descends from the mountain chain of the Himalayas.
Har Ki Pauri
One of the holiest places to visit in Haridwar is Har Ki Pauri which is said to be the steps of Lord Shiva. The Ganga River is the most sacred river for many Hindus, therefore, anyone wishing to pay their respects to the deity can do so by visiting this site. This place is famous for performing Ganga Aarti which is a ritual held in the evening where small lamps are placed onto the water. Har Ki Pauri is a famous bell temple that is located in Haridwar. The temple attracts thousands of visitors who go through the area to take a bath in the Gange and get rid of their sins.
Chandi Devi Temple
Chandi Devi Temple has its roots in the form of Goddess Chandi, who also worshipped Mahiya which is known to be located on the Neel Parvat Hill. According to legend, it was built in the 8th century under the auspices of Adi Shankaracharya, who is credited with establishing the temple. It is regarded as a significant place of worship. Tourists and residents of India make it a point to visit this location, for it is said that one’s wishes come true every time one visits this temple. One will be able to reach the higher temple levels by either climbing the mountain or using the cable car.
Mansa Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple is erected at the top of the Bilwa Parvat and is also one of the temples dedicated to Goddess Mansa the heart of the goddess who fulfills desires. Visitors are shown the temple using a mountain trek and a ropeway. The temple standing in Haridwar overlooks the breathtaking view of the Ganga. In the hopes that their prayers will be heard, pilgrims frequently tie the holy string on a tree and afterward cut it off when their prayers are answered.
Bharat Mata Mandir
In contrast to other temples, Bharat Mata Mandir, also known as the Mother India temple, is a multi-storied building that signifies the oneness of the country portraying the diversity of the culture. Mother India is revered in multi-storied structures and as a unified country with varied cultures All the floors showcase exhibits dedicated to various freedom fighters and ancient cultures. This location is an interesting site giving insights into Indian cultural and spiritual diversity.
Shantikunj Ashram
Shantikunj is a Universal Centre and the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar. It draws people who want calmness in their minds as well as those who want to practice meditation and holistic healing in the place. The ashram informs how through the art of self-enhancement, one can grow spiritually with self yoga and meditation sessions. The tranquil surrounding of Shantikunj ashram makes it easier for anyone to de-stress their self kateri through any of the aforementioned means.’
Daksha Mahadev Temple
Daksha Mahadev Temple located in the Kankhal area is one of the temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This particular temple has a very interesting history which is associated with the story of King Daksha and Goddess Sati. The Shankar temple rush and congestion are observed to be high during the occurrence of the Shivaratri festival. Due to its historical and mythological aspects, it is a place of interest for people wishing to explore the olden aspects of India.
Ganga Temple
This temple is not very famous for worship but it is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. It’s a quiet place and rest where devotees can offer prayers to the river as a mother. Since the temple is situated near the river, and also because of its calm environment, it is also good for tranquilizing and taking rest and peaceful quiet moments.
Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park is a perfect getaway for those interested in wildlife as it is distinct from the rest of Haridwar. Encompassing an area of over 800 square kilometers, the park shelters elephants, tigers, leopards, and several birds. The national park offers safari trips that enable the visitors to see the breathtaking glory and the dense forest.
Patanjali Yogpeeth
Patanjali Yogpeeth is a famous yoga and ayurvedic clinic and research center which was established by Baba Ramdev, He is head of Patanjali, an organization founded to unite people under yoga and showcase Ayurveda. This center provides health facilities, and programs, teaches yoga, and relatively about Ayurveda. As this center contains a library and museum on ancient Indian science, It is also useful and makes a good rehabilitation for those who are interested in integrative medicine.
Sapt Rishi Ashram
Near Har Ki Pauri, this ashram is said to be the ashram where seven sages meditated (Sapt Rishis) and hence is ideal for one looking for faults to retreat. The atmosphere around is very peaceful coupled with the view of the Ganga making it an ideal spot for meditation and deep thought.
Conclusion
Haridwar city is an area that has a perfect combination of devotion, past civilization, and Nature, be it in search of a blessing from the Great spirits, wanting to find some calmness, or even wanting to have some experience with wildlife Haridwar has it all. Try to extend your stay in this divine city and experience its tranquil, holy, and touristy essence at full length.
The best time to visit Haridwar is between October and March along with the rest of the country since the entire country enjoys pleasant weather. Monsoon can also be a time that is good due to the Ganga’s full flow although it may not be ideal for trekking and other activities since it needs mountains and so forth.
In terms of transportation, Budhar has a lot of options. Budhar is the licensed airport for Jolly Grant and it is more like 35 Kilometers from the city. Haridwar Junction is a significant railway station that has an abundance of trains throughout the country including Haridwar. Buses and taxis are there too for the convenience of the public.
Women traveling by themselves in Haridwar is mostly a safe option when compared to the other instances. But there is still a chance of risk involved as is the case in any other tourist hotspot so standard guidelines should be kept in consideration such as avoiding empty spaces and keeping an eye on valuables.
Of course! The Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is for everyone, it’s a must-do while traveling to Haridwar. Make sure to get there early enough so that you can grab the best spots and enjoy the maximum out of the ritual. You may take photos as long as it does not disrupt the procedure.
One can wear a kurta-pajama, saree, or salwar-kameez.
