HARIDWAR
Haridwar is an ancient city and important Hindu pilgrimage site in North India, where the River Ganges exits the Himalayan foothills. Haridwar is a district lies with the Garwhal region of Uttarakhand hills. Haridwar is referred as the gateway to the Garwhal region. Haridwar lies on the right bank of the Ganges and at the foothills of the Shivalik ranges. Haridwar presents a kaleidoscope of Indian culture and development. The present name of the town is spelt in two different ways Haridwar or Hardwar. Both these names have different meanings in it. As per Sanskrit language ‘Hari means Lord Vishnu and Dwar means gateway and together the name stands as ‘The Gateway to Lord Vishnu’. Though this form of the name is believed by the followers of Lord Vishnu as it forms the point where the pilgrim’s start their journey to one of the popular pilgrimage site which is a prominent temple of Lord Vishu ‘Badrinath’. Similarly it is also called as Hardwar which breaks as Hara means Lord Shiva and Dwar means The Gateway. Therefore it spelt as ‘The Gateway to Lord Shiva’. Haridwar also forms the gateway to the famous ‘Chota Char Dham Yatra’ namely (Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunatri). Haridwar is one among the other pilgrimage destinations including Ujjaini, Nasik, and Allahabad. After every 12 years Haridwar hosts Kumbh Mela and every six years Ardh Kumbh. Har Ki Pauri is the center of attraction at Haridwar and is also known as ‘Bramha Kund’ is the place where the Elixir (Amrit) dropped. Haridwar is considered as one of the oldest living cities of India and its name is also mentioned in the ancient Hindu scriptures as it waves through the life and time stretching from the period of Lord Buddha to the recent British advent. Haridwar also serves as a center of attraction for many in terms of learning arts, science, culture and ayurveda. Haridwar also forms the home to number of temples, ashrams and ghats. Haridwar forms an ideal gateway for tourists having spiritual and religious bend of mind.
Local Watchable around Haridwar
Har Ki Pauri Ghat: The most sacred ghat and also the main attraction of Haridwar is Har – Ki- Pauri Ghat. The word Har Ki Pauri means ‘Har’ means ‘Lord Shiva’, ‘Ki’ stands for ‘of’ and ‘Pauri’ means ‘Steps’. It is a belief from the Vedic age that Har –Ki- Pauri is derived and blessed when Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu have visited the Brahmakund and touched the ground by their feet. There is massive stone where a foot imprints still exists which is believed to be of Lord Vishnu. Har Ki Pauri Ghat at Haridwar is the place where thousands of devotees gather during Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh Mela to take a holy dip in the Ganges which is believed to be sacred. Har Ki Pauri Ghat at Haridwar is said to have built by King Vikramaditya during 01st century BC in the memory of his brother Bharthari who visited Haridwar to meditate on the banks of Ganges. Later this Ghat came to known as Har Ki Pauri. There is an area within Har Ki Pauri Ghat known as Brahmakund. During twilight the golden hues of the floral diyas offered by the devotees gets reflected on the Ganges and form the most enchanting sight. There are several temples located near Har Ki Pauri most of which were built during 19th century and are worth visiting. Har Ki Pauri is located on the west bank of Ganges Canal through which the Ganges is diverted to the north and enters the plains.
Ganga Arti: The Ganga Arati is an aged old tradition performed over hundred years which mainly hosted at Har Ki Pauri with tiny flickering lamps are floated off the steps as an offering to River Ganges. During Ganga Arti a huge crowd gathers on the banks of River Ganges where the devotees float earthen diyas on the river with burning flickers and flowers as a symbol of hope and wishes. The priests hold large fire bowls in their hands with the chanting mantras that spread all over the air and the gongs in the temple at the ghat rung in full. Every day the Ganga Arti is performed in the evening from 06.00 pm to 07.00 pm. Altogether pilgrims, tourists and devotees offer their prayers to honour river Ganges.
Mansa Devi Temple: Mansa Devi Temple is one of the most popular and famous place to visit in Haridwar. The Mansa Devi temple is nestled at an elevation of 600 meter from Haridwar perched atop the Bilwa Parvat of the Shivalik Range. This temple is regarded as one of the abodes of Goddess Parvati and is also amongst the three Siddha Peethas situated in the city of Haridwar. As the temple area remains crowded throughout the day, therefore it is advisable to visit the temple early during the day. The route is steep and high with 750 stairs that spread over 03 km which one needs to trek to reach the temple. But for those who cannot avail this trekking route for them cable car facility or ropeway will be the best option. This cable car or ropeway has been named as ‘Mansa Devi Udankhatola’. The ropeway that reaches Mansa Devi Temple remains open from 08.30 am to 06.00 pm. It is believed that the abode of Mansa Devi is form of Shakti (power) that has emerged from the mind of Lord Shiva. A belief goes like that devotees those who pray for their wishes to become true tie thread to the branches of tree located nearby and once their wishes gets fulfilled they comes back to untie the thread. The periphery of Mansa Devi temple offers panoramic view of the Ganges and the valleys of Haridwar as well. Near the Mansa Devi temple monkeys are seen in abundance. The Mansa Devi temple remains open from 07.00 am to 07.00 pm. The total length of the cable car is 540 meter (1,770 ft) and the height it covers is 178 meter (584 ft).
Chandi Devi Temple: The Chandi Devi Temple at Haridwar is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi. The temple is set on the Neel Parvat on the eastern summit of the Shivalik range and offers bird’s eye view of the whole town of Haridwar. The Chandi Devi Temple was built around 1929 by Suchat Singh during his reign as the King of Kashmir. But the main shrine inside the temple is believed to have been installed during 08th century by Adi Sankaracharya. The Chandi Devi Temple is also regarded as of the five pilgrimages (Panch Teeth) located within Haridwar and is one of the three Siddh Peethas in the city. The Chandi Devi Temple is nestled at an elevation of about 2900 meters (9500 ft) and is located around 04 km from Hari Ki Pauri Ghat and 03 km from Chandighat of Haridwar. To reach the temple of Chandi Devi tourists, devotees and visitors can either avail the route of around 03 km by the steep trekking route or other way is by cable car also known as ropeway service which is known as ‘Chandi Devi Udankhatola’. This rope-way service offers Ariel view of river Ganges and the town of Haridwar. The Chandika Devi Temple remains open from 06.00 am to 08.00 pm. At Chandi Devi Temple tourists visits in huge numbers during their visit to Haridwar.
Shantikunj: Shantikunj is a world renowned ashram and headquarter of all worlds Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP) located around 06 km from Haridwar railway station towards Rishikesh/ Dehradun on NH58. Shantikunj is a major tourist attraction in Haridwar among tourists and visitors those seeks spiritual guidance. Shantikunj was established in 1971 by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acahrya. Shantikunj works is devoted to cultural, ethical, moral and spiritual awakening and national integration. Every year several spiritual practice camps are organized at Shantikunj those aims towards expansion of national unity, amity, brotherhood, and extinction of ignorance, jealously, hatred and strife. Many eminent personalities are associated with Shantikunj as a patron founders.
Patanjali Yogpeeth: Patanjali Yogpeeth is one of the largest medical and research institute in India for Yoga and Ayurveda. The Patanjali Yogpeeth is located around 17 km from Haridwar near to Rorkee on Haridwar – Delhi highway. Presently Patanjali Haridwar has gained much popularity in terms of medical tourism for Patanjali Yogpeeth. Patanjali Yogpeeth was named after Baba Patanjali and is also home to the University of Patanjali. Patanjali Yogpeeth provides medical assistance both in terms of yogic and ayurvedic treatment. The campus of Patanjali Yogpeeth is spread over a vast land and has Patanjali University, Food Park and Herbal inside it. The Patajali Yogpeeth campus has a separate Yoga Centre where visitors are taught Yogasans to cure their medical problems. There is a big outlet available within the campus selling Pantanjali products.
Rajaji National Park: One of the most fascinating and breathtaking sightseeing around Haridwar is the Rajaji National Park which is an Indian National Park and a Tiger Reserve that encompasses the Shivalik near the foothills of the Himalayas. Rajaji National Park is spread over an area of 820 sq km and is located around 10 km from Haridwar. The National Park is spread over three districts of Uttarakhand namely Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri. Rajaji National Park was established in the year 1983 by the amalgamation of three sanctuaries namely Rajaji Sanctuary and National Park (est. 1948), Motichur Sanctuary (est. 1964) and Chilla Sanctuary (est. 1977). The name of this park is derived from the then name of Chakrabarty Rajagopalchari who was a prominent leader of India’s Freedom struggle also the second and the last Governor General of India. In the year 2015 Rajaji National Park was declared as a Tiger Reserve. The park is mainly known for its wide distribution of Tigers and Elephants in India. Other noteworthy residents of this national park are Mountain Goat (Ghoral), Chital, Sambar, Barking Deer, Hog Deer, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Leopard, Leopard Cat, Civet, Yellow Throated Marten, Jackal, Hyena, Bengal Fox, Himalayan Black Bear (though very rarely spotted), Rhesus Macaque and Common Langur. More than 300 different species of birds also inhabit this national park to name but a few are Pea Fowl, Vultures, Woodpeckers, Pheasants, Kingfishers, Barbets, Great Pied Hornbill, Oriental Pied Hornbill, Spotted Forktail, Paradise Fly Catcher and many others. Apart from the wide variety of fauna, Rajaji National Park has wide variety floras as well. There are all total eight entry gates to Rajaji National Park and tourists and visitors need to get the permit from Haridwar Forest Department to enter the park. Tourists can avail jungle safari and bird watching at Rajaji National Park. The park remains open from 06.00 am to 11.00 am and 02.30 pm to 05.30 pm. The best time to visit the national park is from November to March.
Chilla Range: Chilla Range forms the core area of Rajaji National Park and is also known as Chilla Sanctuary. Chilla is located around 09 km from Haridwar and the area of Chilla range comprises of Chilla Hydro Electric project, Chilla dam and Chilla Sanctuary. Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 249 sq km and was established in the year 1977. Jeep safari at Rajaji National Park starts from Chilla Range and Motichur range. The Forest Rest House of Rajaji National Park is located in the Chilla Range and is apparently the best tourist rest house maintained by GMVN. This rest house was built in 1886 by the British and later renovated for tourists staying option. Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary is located between Rishikesh and Haridwar near Ganga Bhogpur village.
Maa Anandamoyee Ashram: Maa Anandamoyee Ashram is a place of spiritual importance located around 06 km from Haridwar in Kankhal. Maa Anadamoyee was a Bengali mystic and her mortal remains were buried at Maa Anandamoyee Ashram. The ashram is a 10 to 15 minutes’ drive from the city of Haridwar. The ambience of the ashram is very divine and peaceful. Tourists mostly visit Maa Anadamoyee Ashram to meditate in peace. Though the present ashram is built on a huge area but the original ashram was small which is located nearby and is known ‘Didima’s Samadhi Mandir’. The ashram lies on the banks of Ganga Canal area of Haridwar.
Daksha Mahadev Temple – Kankhal: Daksha Mahadev Temple or Daksheswar Mahadev Temple is a Shiv temple named after King Daksha Prajapati who was the father of Sati. As per purans King Daksha Raj performed a Yajna here in this temple where Sati (Goddess Parvati) jumped into the holy fire and died after being spurned by her father. The Daksha Mahadev Temple is located around 04 km from Haridwar and is a major place of tourist attraction in terms of mythological importance. Apart from the religious significance, the Daksha Mahadev temple is a marvelous piece of architecture with the river Ganges flowing by the side. The present temple was built by Queen Dhankaur in 1810 and again rebuilt in 1962.
Bharat Mata Temple: Bharat Mata Temple also known as Mother India Temple is a 08th storey temple mainly built and dedicated to the patriotic and freedom fighters of India. The temple is located around 05 km from Haridwar and 07 km from Haridwar railway station. The Bharat Mata Temple was established by Swami Satyamitranand Giri and was inaugurated in 1983 by the then prime minister of India Smt. Indira Gandhi. The Bharat Mata temple is very unique in itself as the whole country is worshipped here in the form ‘Mother India’. Each floor of the Bharat Mata temple has different significance. The 01st floor is dedicated to Bharat Mata with a statue of her, 02nd floor is named as Shoor Mandir dedicated to the national heroes, 03rd floor is named as Matru Mandir dedicated to the admiring women of Indian history, 04th floor is named as Sant Mandir that features great saints of different religions, 05th has the assembly hall that features wall paintings depicting peaceful co-existence of different religions, 06the floor is dedicated to Hindu Goddess Shakti, 07th floor features all incarnations of Lord Vishnu and the 08th floor has a shrine of Lord Shiva who is believed to be the supreme god. Lift system are available for visiting each floor. The Bharat Mata temple is 180 feet high and the topmost part of the temple offers panoramic view of Haridwar. The temple remains open from 07.30 am to 05.00 pm.
Saptarishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar: Saptarishi Ashram is an old beautiful ashram lies on the banks of River Ganges and located around 05 km from Haridwar. The Saptarishi Ashram was established by Goswami Guru Dutt in 1743. As per Indian myths once there were seven sages namely Kashyapam, Vashisht, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Bharadwaja and Gautam who decided to meditate on the banks of river Ganges, but by the sound of the gushing river soon their meditation got disturbed. So they decided to trap the flow of Ganges. Later the river split her flow into seven lesser smaller streams forming Sapt Sarovar and thereby makes lesser noise. The place where these seven sages meditated is known as Saptarishi Ashram. The Saptarishi Ashram also offers amazing view of the Ganges and the mountains as well and is also one of the most stunning places to visit in Haridwar.
Maya Devi Temple: Maya Devi Temple is one of oldest temple in Haridwar and is also regarded as one of the 51 Sakti Peetha. It is believed that the heart and naval part of the goddess fell in the region where this is built. The temple lies at the Har Ki Pauri Ghat at Haridwar. The Goddess Maya is a three headed and four armed deity and is an incarnation of Shakti. The Goddess inside the temple is believed to be the deity of Haridwar as because the old name of Haridwar was ‘Mayapuri’. The temple of Maya Devi is the oldest ‘Shakti Peeth’ of Haridwar. As the temple is situated in central area of Haridwar, hence it is easily accessible by auto rickshaw. Maya Devi Temple is of the three Shakti Peeth located in Haridwar, the other two are Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple. It is a small temple and a must visit spot at Haridwar.
Jai Ram Ashram: Jai Ram Ashram is one of the most eminent ashram located in Haridwar founded by Adi Guru Shri Jai Ram Maharaj in 1891. The Jai Ram Ashram operates a Homeopathic Dispensary, Satsang Bhawan and Sanskrit College at Rishikesh. The ashram is situated at Bhimgoda, Haridwar. The ashram also runs a charitable hospital that provides free medical assistance and medicine. There is a well maintained garden with colourful fountains and blooming flowers that adds added beauty to the temple. Jai Ram Ashram houses many sculptures those resemble to various characters of Hindu mythology. The ashram is located around 03 km from Haridwar railway station.
Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple: Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient and one of the most popular temples located in Haridwar. Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple is situated on the valleys of Bilva Parvat and is located close to Haridwar railway station. The temple lies amidst dense woods and hilly terrains. This is a small temple that houses a Shiva Linga and Nandi built in stone. Other idols inside the temple are of Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman and Mata Rani. It is believed that Goddess Parvati did penance in this temple to get Lord Shiva as her husband.
Prem Nagar Ashram: Prem Nagar Ashram is a manifestation of serenity and one of the most popular retreats for saints and sages. Prem Nagar Ashram is located around 03 km from the main town of Haridwar and was established by Yogiraj Satgurudev Shri Hans Ji Maharaj in 1943 and further developed Shri Mata Ji and Shri Satpal Maharaj Ji. The ashram is an ideal place for meditation. Prem Nagar Ashram is surrounded by beautiful gardens with varieties of flowers and trees in abundance, among these floras the Panch Pallav grove which is a combination of five trees those grows together naturally. The ashram also offers great views of Chandi Devi Temple and Mansa Devi Temple. The ashram organizes medical camps for the underprivileged. Yoga and meditation as part of the daily activities practiced in this ashram. The light and sound show organized every Wednesday and Sunday evening is worth watching.
Sri Santosh Puri Ashram: Sri Santosh Puri Ashram is a place dedicated to the practice of Yoga and holistic practices in Haridwar. The ashram was founded by Baba Santosh Puri in the year 1978 and is located around 07 km from Haridwar. The ashram is surrounded by forests and River Ganges that gives an eternal peace for meditation. The ashram is located at Haripur Kalan, Haridwar. Sri Santosh Puri Ashram conducts various programs of Yoga and spiritual activities for students, it also provides therapy through Pranic healing, Rekhi, gives lectures on ayurvedic cooking and gives classes on Hatha Yoga, Karma Yoga and meditation.
Shankar Ashram: Shankar Ashram is also similar to other ashrams located at Haridwar that provides personalized instructions and individualized spiritual retreats. Shankar Ashram is situated at Khanna Nagar on NH 58 at Haridwar. The garden inside the Shankar Ashram is an ideal place to relax. Shankar Ashram is located around 04 km from Haridwar railway station.
Kutchi Lal Rameshwar Ashram: Kutchi Lal Rameshwar Ashram was mainly built for those pilgrims who come to Haridwar from Kutch (Gujrat). Earlier the pilgrims those who are not accustomed with the language and the locality of Haridwar, for them Kutchi Lal Rameshwar Ashram was built. This ashram was started by Bhagvan Odhavram and is situated near Sapt Sarovar. Kutchi Lal Rameshwar Ashram is located around 07 km from Haridwar railway station.
Bholagiri Ashram: Bholagiri Ashram is another place of spiritual importance in Haridwar. Bholagiri Ashram is located near Birla Ghat which is beside River Ganges and thus makes this space spiritual and peaceful as well. At Bholagiri Ashram Bhajan and Kirtan are done on every day basis and bhandaras are also organized during special occasions. Bholagiri Ashram is located around 06 km from Har Ki Pauri and 01 km from Haridwar railway station.
Soham Ashram: Soham Ashram is a community founded by Shri Swami Maheshanand Ji Maharaj that aims to provide knowledge in Vedas and Sanskrit. Soham Ashram is located at Bhupatwala which is around 02 km from Hari Ki Pauri Ghat in Haridwar. There is a Gurukul inside the Soham Ashram which is registered with Sanskrit branch of India. The garden inside the ashram is an ideal place to meditate in peace.
Gau Ghat: Gau Ghat is one of the sacred sites along the banks of River Ganges in Haridwar. Gau Ghat is one of those Ghat in Haridwar which is less crowded in comparison to other ghats. Gau Ghat is situated on the southern part of Subhas Ghat and is around 02 km from Haridwar railway station. Pilgrims mostly visit Gau Ghat to take a holy dip in the Ganges in order to rid of their sins and also to offer solace to their demised family members. Reaching Gau Ghat is quite convenient from the highway as auto rickshaws are easily available. Gau Ghat is the place where the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi and Jawarharlal Neheru were cremated.
Doodhahari Barfani Temple: Doodhahari Barfani Temple is one of the best temples in Doodhahari Barfani Ashram in Bhuptawala of Haridwar. Doodhahari Barfani Temple is one of the most interesting temples in Haridwar built in white marble stone and located around 04 km from Har Ki Pauri ghat. The temple lies on Haridwar – Rishikesh on NH 58. Doodhahari Barfani Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, Mother Sita, Laxman and Hanuman Ji. The temple is also known for serving and caring of cows. This is a well maintained temple with garden inside the premises. The architectural style of the temple is also worth mentioning. An easy calm waits inside the temple and tourists can sit here and relax for hours.
Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar: Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is a famous bird watching point situated at the Bhimgoda Barrage located around 3.5 km from Haridwar railway station. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is quite popular among bird watchers and photographers as the spot becomes breathtakingly beautiful during winters when numerous avid migratory birds flew here. The Shivalik range are quite visible from Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar and is also a well-known spot among nature lovers and trekkers as it is situated close to many trekking routes in Haridwar. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is blessed with floras and faunas in abundance. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is a known spot for Siberian Cranes spotted mainly during winters. The name of Neel Dhara is derived from the Ganges canal that flows through this spot. Sunset view from Neel Dhara is one of the best sights to enjoy. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is a must visit spot in Haridwar between November to January. Birds like Siberian Cranes, Great Cormorants, Great Crested Grebes, Himalayan Bulbul, Black Drongos, White Browed Fantail Flycatchers and many more are commonly spotted at Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar.
Pawan Dham: Pawan Dham is a social nonprofit organization established by Swami Vedantanand Maharaj which is running since 1970 and is one of the most visited pilgrim sites of the Hindus located in Haridwar. Pawan Dham is mainly known among tourists for its intricately designed colourful glass work and artistically designed walls located around 02 km from Haridwar and 03 km from Har Ki Pauri. The elaborately decorated idols inside the temple are worth watching. One of the presiding deities in the temple is a Vishvarupa or universal form of Lord Krishna. The walls of Pawan Dham depict various incidents of Ramayana and Mahabharata intricately designed in glass work. All the idols were tastefully and proportionately rendered which in itself is an accomplishment for Indian temple idols. Pawan Dham is a must visit spot at least once in Haridwar.
Parad Shivling: Parad Shivling as the name suggests is a Shiva Linga made of mercury and it weighs about 150 kilogram. Parad Shivlinga is situated in Harihar Ashram in Kankhal, Haridwar. The ashram is located around 02 km from Haridwar. Apart from this Shiva Linga made of mercury, other attractions are a big temple known as (Maha Mrityunjoy temple) dedicated to Lord Shiva and a big Rudraksha tree (Elaeocarpus ganitrus) located inside the ashram premises. The Parad Shivling is also known by the name Paradeshwar Mahadev. The Parad Shivling is easily approachable by car.
Bhimgoda Tank: Bhimgoda Tank is a reservoir located within walking distance ahead of Har Ki Pauri. The Bhimgoda Tank is named after Bhima (the second of the five Pandavas) after he drew water from the rocks by thrusting his knees on the ground. Apart from the tank there are three temples placed one after the other. Bhimgoda Tank has some historical values and is also one of the tourist attractions situated in Haridwar.
Bhimgoda Barrage: Bhimgoda Barrage also referred as Bhimgoda Weir or Bhimgoda Head Works is a barrage or Dam built on the upper Ganges Canal during 1800. Bhimgoda Barrage is located within a distance of 03 km to the north of Haridwar. Bhimgoda Barrage or Dam was constructed to produce artificial flow of currents on water which was used to divert some water from River Ganges into a canal for the purpose of irrigation. Bhimgoda Barrage is 455 meters long and contains 15 spillways gates and 07 under sluice gates. The initial Barrage was completed in 1854 and replaced twice, the final one was completed in 1983. Bhimgoda Barrage is a popular tourist attraction in Haridwar for the presence of Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar located beside it.
Ramanand Ashram: Ramanand Ashram is the main ashram of Ramanand Sampraday in Haridwar. Ramanand Ashram is located in Shravan Nath Nagar near Haridwar railway station. Shri Ramanand Swami is considered to be an incarnation of Uddavji who was a very close friend of Lord Shri Krishna. Uddhav Sampradhay was founded and headed by Shri Ramanand Swami and he adopted the Vishishtadvaita doctrine of Vaishnavas which was advocated by Shri Ramanuja, a Vaishnavite saint.
Sati Kund: Sati Kund is a Yagna Kund or sacrificial fire in which Sati (Goddess Parvati) immolated herself soon after Maharaja Daksh (father of sati) insulted Lord Shiva. Sati Kund is situated at Khankhal, it is the same place where Daksh Mahadev Temple is situated and is located around 04 km from Haridwar. Sati Kund is a well-known place of mythological importance and pilgrims from all over India visits this place. Sati Kund look like a dried up Kund or a step well, fairly larger in size.
Sureshwari Devi Temple: Sureshwar Devi Temple is an old temple of Haridwar dedicated to Goddess Sureshwari Devi an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Sureshwari Devi Temple is located at Ranipur in Haridwar that lies amidst dense greenery of Rajaji National Park all over. This ancient temple has a rich traditional history behind its existence. The temple of Sureshwari Devi is set atop a hilltop and tourists need to climb stairs to reach the temple entrance. A visit to the Sureshwari Devi Temple provides lots of peace and solitude in the midst of a jungle. The Sureshwari Devi Temple is located around 02 km from the entrance of Rajaji National Park. Tourists and visitors often spot Deer, Boars, Peacocks, Elephants and many more. A minimum entry fee is charged for the entry.
Bara Bazaar: Bara Bazaar is one of the most popular shopping places in Haridwar located around 03 km from Har Ki Pauri ghat. Bara Bazaar is the most colourful and main market place of Haridwar. Bara Bazaar is visited by both domestic and foreign tourists as well. Bara Bazaar is mostly famous for selling paraphernalia and decorative ornaments as well. Bara Bazaar remains open from 09 am to 10 pm. A special sweet named ‘Pedas’ which is locally made from milk is available at Bara Bazaar. As Haridwar is a religious place, Bara Bazaar is a one stop market for all types of religious items.
Vaishno Devi Temple: Vaishno Devi Temple at Haridwar is a temple dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi and the temple is a replica of the original Vaishno Devi temple of Jammu and Kashmir. Vaishno Devi Temple is situated at Jagadish Nagar, Jawalpur which is located around 05 km from Haridwar railway station and 03 km from Har Ki Pauri Ghat. The temple of Vaishno Devi enshrines the idols of three prominent deities namely Laxmi, Saraswati and Kali. There are narrow cave and tunnels inside this temple those leads to the inner sanctum that houses the main shrine of Goddess Vaishno Devi. While entering the temple tourists will not face hassle and congestion. People are made to enter in one single line and exit. The Vaishno Devi Temple is situated on the National Highway towards Rishikesh. Vaishno Devi Temple remains open from 08.00 am to 08.00 pm.
Swami Vivekananda Park: Swami Vivekananda Park is considered to be one the most beautiful and serene parks in Haridwar. Swami Vivekananda Park is a triangular shaped park lies on the banks of river Ganges surrounded by lush greenery on all sides and a statue of Swami Vivekananda. But the main attraction of the park is the huge statue of Lord Shiva that stands tall inside the park. Swami Vivekananda Park offers great view of Mansa Devi Temple and Har Ki Pauri Ghat in a single frame. The park is located around 200 meters from Har Ki Pauri Ghat. The park is nicely maintained and tourists find the park quite relaxing and peaceful.
Bhuma Niketan: Bhuma Niketan is considered as a popular pilgrim spot in Haridwar. Bhuma Niketan Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and is surrounded by colourful fountains. The founder of Bhuma Niketan Temple was Swami Bhumananda Teerth Ji and the temple runs on the ideologies of Guru Adi Shankaracharya. Bhuma Niketan Temple houses the idols of many Gods and Goddesses but the prime attraction are the idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati placed right at the entrance. Inside the Bhuma Niketan tourist will be refreshed by the knowledge of Ramayana, Mahabharata, Char Dham Yatra, Mount Kailash and Vaishno Devi. The Bhuma Niketan Temple is situated at Saptrishi Marg, Haridwar. Bhuma Niketan Temple is also known as Bhuma Niketan Ashram that also provides shelter to many. The ashram is a charitable trust and helps those who are in dire needs from providing shelter, food, marriages and others. Ticketing system is there for tourists to enter Bhuma Niketan Temple.
Vishnu Ghat: Vishnu Ghat is one of the most peaceful and serene ghats located in Haridwar. As the name suggests, Vishnu Ghat was named after Lord Vishnu. Vishnu Ghat is regarded as one of the cleanest ghats in Haridwar and situated within walking distance from Har Ki Pauri Ghat. Being less crowded compared to other ghats in Haridwar, Vishnu Ghat is often preferred by many tourists. Vishnu Ghat has almost the same importance like Har Ki Pauri Ghat. Many known hotels and restaurants are located near Vishnu Ghat and it is a well maintained ghat in Haridwar. The actual river flows to the east of Vishnu Ghat but due to safety measures and the flow of the river have been diverted by the government, though iron barriers are made for safety of the pilgrims.
Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple: Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most visited temples in Haridwar located near Chandi Devi Temple. Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple has an amazing architecture and the ambiance is serene and tranquil with nice picturesque beauty all around. Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple is located around 2.5 km from Har Ki Pauri Ghat and is easily accessible by tourists visiting Haridwar. This temple lies on Naziabad road just beside the entrance of Mata Chandi Devi Temple.
Moti Bazaar: Moti Bazaar is the main market place in Haridwar located near Kotwali on Upper Road. Moti Bazaar is a long stretch of about 01 km with shops on both sides of the road. Moti Bazaar is mainly famous for its local goods and tons of street food options available. Numerous types of items are found at Moti Bazaar like clothes, shoes, utensils, religious items, wooden articles, decorative, blankets, winter garments, brass idols, foods and many more. Moti Bazaar is spread between Ganga Ghats to Upper Road of Hari Ki Pauri. The most ideal time to visit Moti Bazaar is between 05.00 pm to 08.00 pm.
Birla Ghat: Birla Ghat is amongst many other ghats on the banks of river Ganges in Haridwar. Birla Ghat is usually less crowded compared to other ghats and offers majestic view of the Ganges. Birla Ghat is located close to Haridwar railway station. The Bhola Giri Ashram is located near to Birla Ghat. Iron chains are installed for tourists and pilgrims to safely bath in the Ganges. Birla Ghat is a small bathing ghat compared to other ghats in Haridwar with lots of shops located nearby. Birla Ghat is believed to be one of the oldest ghats in Haridwar.
Kushavarta Ghat: Kushavarta Ghat is considered as one of the most sacred ghat lies on the banks of River Ganges in Haridwar. Kushavarta Ghat was constructed during 18th century by Maratha Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. It is believed that Kushavarta Ghat is strongly related to Dattatreya who was a saint during ancient period. Pilgrims visits Kushavarta Ghat to perform their rituals dedicated to their ancestors. Kushavarta Ghat is located 500 meters south of Har Ki Pauri Ghat and 01 km from Haridwar railway station.
Piran Kaliyar: Piran Kaliyar is considered as one of the most offbeat attractions of Haridwar. Piran Kaliyar is the Dargah of the 13th century Sufi Saint Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir Kalyari also known as Sarkar Sabir Pak and Sabir Kalyari. Piran Kaliyar is situated at Kaliyar Village near Haridwar on the banks of Ganges Canal. Piran Kaliyar Sharif is located around 20 km from to the south of Haridwar and 07 km from Roorkee. Piran Kaliyar Dargah was built by Ibrahim Lodhi during 16th century and it is a symbol of Hindu, Muslim unity. The tomb is nicely maintained with peaceful and calm ambiance all around. The architecture is also worth admiring. An annual fair Urs is hosted at the Dargah.
Fairs and Festivals in Haridwar
Kumbh Mela: Kumbh Mela is a huge fair held every twelve years at Haridwar. The date of Kumbh Mela is determined as per Hindu astrology and has a great religious significance. Kumbh Mela is a big commercial event and attracts people from all religious faiths. It is so far the largest fair and a great festival held in Haridwar. The Kumbh Mela traces its origin back in the ancient legend of Samudra Manthan. Kumbh Mela fair is once in a lifetime experience for every visitor those are curious about Hindu religion and philosophy. For photographers Kumbh Mela offers wide opportunities to capture images of various moods of religious life. During Kumbh Mela the surrounding atmosphere of Haridwar burst with chanting gongs, Vedic hymns and mantras all over. Kumbh Mela leaves an impeccable experience in the minds and souls of travelers.
Ardha Kumbh: Ardh Kumbh Mela is organized every six years at Haridwar. Like Purna Kumbh Mela, Ardh Kumbh Mela also attracts huge influx of tourists as it is also a fair of great religious significance with commercial importance as well.
Other Fairs and Festivals in Haridwar: Apart from Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh Mela, there are other fairs and festivals organized at Haridwar. ‘Haridwar Mahotsava’ is a 03 to 04 days cultural festival organized on the banks of River Ganges.
How to Reach/ Getting There:
By Air: The nearest airport to Haridwar is Jolly Grant Airport located at Dehradun. Jolly Grant Airport is located around 36 km from Haridwar, both hired and reserved cars are available from the airport. Jolly Grant Airport is well connected with Delhi by regular flight services. From the airport by car it takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to reach Haridwar.
By Train: Haridwar railway station is the nearest railhead to Haridwar town. From Howrah Doon express leaves Howrah Jnc every day at 08.30 pm, Upasana express (Tuesday and Friday) leaves Howrah Jnc at 01.00 pm, Kumbh express leaves Howrah Jnc (except Tuesday and Friday) leaves from Howrah Jnc at 01.00 pm. All these trains reach Haridwar. Haridwar is also well connected with Delhi and other major cities of India by regular train services.
By Road: Haridwar has strong road networks with major cities of India like Delhi, Haryana, UP, Punjab and other parts of Uttarakhand. Numerous buses of both state transport and private buses run within these cities. Tourists can also avail bus service to visit the nearby places to Haridwar. Both hired and shared car services are also available. Haridwar is well connected with NH 58.
Best Time to Visit: Haridwar can be visited throughout the year. October to February is the winter season, March to June is the summers and July to September is the monsoon. The climate remains clear during winter season. Summers in Haridwar remains mild and moderate while the winters are quite chilly and sometimes the weather also becomes unpredictable.
Distance of major tourist destinations from Haridwar
Haridwar – Rishikesh: 24 km
Haridwar – Dehradun: 52 km
Haridwar – Delhi: 203 km
Haridwar – Lashkar: 28 km
Haridwar – Lucknow: 595 km
Haridwar – Uttarkashi: 172 km
Haridwar – Janki Bai Choti (Yamunatri): 240 km
Haridwar – Gangotri: 272 km
Haridwar – Rudrapyarag: 163 km
Haridwar – Gauri Kund: 233 km
Haridwar – Badrinath: 326 km
Haridwar – Mussoorie: 86 km