The 12 Best places to visit in Haridwar-
Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar, India
The sacred ghat of Har Ki Pauri, also known as Lord Shiva’s steps, is situated on the banks of the Ganga River and is one of the first things to see in Haridwar. It’s interesting to note that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are reported to have visited this location in Vedic literature, and you can also view what is believed to be Lord Vishnu’s enormous footprint on a wall. This location often referred to as Gangadwar, marks the point at which the Ganga River first emerges from the mountains and enters the plain.
The mythological bird Garuda is said to have dropped Amrit (elixir) at Har Ki Pauri, which is regarded as the most sacred ghat in the entire city. It is said that if you take a plunge here, then all your wishes would come true.
Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar
The Mansa Devi Temple popularly referred to as the Bilwa Tirth because of its location atop the Shivalik Hills’ Bilwa Parvat, is another well-liked attraction in Haridwar. This Siddh Peeth is devoted to Goddess Mansa, who is thought to be a manifestation of Goddess Shakti and who was allegedly born from Lord Shiva’s intellect.
Given that followers sincerely believe that Goddess Mansa grants all of their requests, it is one of the most venerated temples in North India (the name of the deity means wish). Either hiking or getting a taxi will get you to this hilltop temple.
In Haridwar, the Chandi Devi Temple
To have their wishes granted, hundreds of devotees travel to Chandi Devi Temple, another Siddh Peeth devoted to Goddess Chandi, a manifestation of Goddess Durga. Neel Parvat in the Shivalik Hills, which was the site of the mythical battle where the goddess vanquished the demons Chand-Mund and later Shumbh-Nishumbh, is where this temple is located. Adi Shankaracharya is credited with creating the idol in the eighth century, while Kashmiri King Suchan Singh is thought to have built the shrine.
Both walking and riding the ropeway (Chandi Devi Udankhatola), which provides a bird’s-eye view of Haridwar, are options for getting to the temple. The Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, is a well-known religious site next to this one.
Kankhal, Haridwar Kankhal, Haridwar
The renowned Daksha Mahadev Temple and Maa Anandamayi Ashram are located near Kankhal, one of the Panch tirths in Haridwar, a small settlement. Numerous devotees frequent the former, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, particularly during the holy month of Sawan. The latter is a spiritual hub that was constructed in memory of the mystic leader Maa Anandamayi of Bengal. The revered Patanjali Yog Peeth, one of the Panch Tirths, and the holy ghat of Kushavarta, one of the largest yoga centers in the world, are both located in Kankhal. The distinctive Parad Shivalinga in the Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple in Harihar Ashram, which is on Kankhal Road, is its claim to fame.
Maya Devi Temple
Maya Devi Temple, which is devoted to Goddess Maya, who is the principal deity of Haridwar and in honour of whom the city was formerly known as Mayapuri, completes the trio of Siddh Peeths in Haridwar. The temple was erected on the spot where Goddess Sati’s heart and navel fell, according to mythical literature.
It was constructed in the 11th century on Har Ki Pauri Ghat and is one of the oldest temples in the entire nation. Even though the temple receives regular visits from hundreds of worshippers hoping to obtain the goddess’ blessings and has their desires fulfilled, Navratri and Kumbh bring in significantly more people.
Shantikunj, Haridwar
Shantikunj in Haridwar is one of the most well-known spiritual and moral enlightenment centers in the world. It serves as the global headquarters for the All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP), which has millions of adherents. In addition to spiritual and moral upliftment, the center promotes national integration as well as cultural and ethical principles. Additionally, Shantikunj has a residential university and a research institute (Brahmavarchas Shodh Sansthan) (Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya). Many well-known people from throughout the world have stopped by this must-see destination, including the Dalai Lama. Additionally, you are welcome to stay here for up to two days for free, but you must participate in all of their daily activities, such as bhajans and aartis.
Sapt Rishi Ashram in Haridwar
One of the well-liked attractions in Haridwar is the Sapt Rishi Ashram, which is situated beside the river. Along with Hindu followers, the ashram receives a lot of people looking for a serene location for yoga and meditation. This location’s serene atmosphere attracted the renowned seven sages, giving rise to its name, which combines the words “sapt” for “seven” and “rishi” for “sage.”
According to legend, the seven sages Kashyapa, Vashishta, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Bharadwaja, and Gautam were meditating along the banks when they were disturbed by the sound of the running river and recorded it. Later, to lessen the impact, Ganga divided the flow into seven streams (Sapt Sarovar).
Haridwar’s Bharat Mata Mandir
Bharat Mata Mandir, also known as the Mother India Shrine, is a distinctive multi-story temple in Haridwar that honors patriots and liberation heroes. The 180-foot-tall temple, which has 8 stories, was inaugurated by the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1983. It honours the spirit of unity in diversity, which genuinely captures the true character of our magnificent country. Eight floors, each with a different theme: Bharat Mata, honouring Mother India; Shoor Mandir, honoring Indian heroes; Matru Mandir, honouring notable women; Sant Mandir, honouring saints; Assembly Hall, exemplifying religious harmony; the sixth floor, honouring Goddess Shakti; the seventh floor, honouring Lord Vishnu; and the eighth floor, honouring Lord Shiva.
Pawan Dham in Haridwar
The Geeta Bhawan Trust Society of Moga oversees Pawan Dham, a historic temple and social non-profit. Highlights of this famous landmark include the gorgeous idols decked with priceless jewels and stones, along with the intricate architecture, stunning interiors, and excellent glasswork. The stunning statue of Lord Krishna, who is depicted teaching Arjun, is the main draw. Due to its elaborate mirror and glasswork, the temple is frequently referred to as the Glass Temple and is extremely well-known among both domestic and international tourists in addition to Hindu believers.
In Haridwar, Bara Bazar
Although Haridwar does not have any upscale malls, the crowded Bara Bazar has everything you might need. The countless stores in this bustling market provide a variety of goods including religious memorabilia, Ayurvedic medicines, timber goods, handicrafts, and ornaments. Two of the most popular items purchased by tourists, especially foreigners, are rudraksha and peda (sweets).
Along with stores, there are a lot of eateries where you may have delicious samosas, kachori-sabzi, chole-bhature, etc. You can visit several local markets in addition to Bara Bazar to enjoy Haridwar’s old-world charm, including Moti Bazar, Kankhal Bazar, and Jwalapur Bazar.
Indra Dham
A visit to Haridwar would not be complete without seeing the renowned Ganga Aarti. It takes place every day in Kharkhari, close to Krishna Dham, in the mornings and nights. Throughout the year, the aarti draws large people from all across the nation. You will get to see the most divine side of the Hindu faith in this location, and trust us, you will adore every minute of it.
Crystal Universe
The biggest entertainment complex in Uttarakhand is now open! Have you made a prediction yet? Well, Crystal World is the topic at hand. It combines two renowned museums, a water park, and an entertainment park. Who wouldn’t want to unwind and have fun all at once? This is the ideal location for kids and could be the best family outing ever! It is entirely up to you whether you want to go on exciting rides, eat, or simply float about in the water. Don’t hold off on anything this fantastic, though. Execute your plan as soon as possible!
