Haridwar is an ancient city and a major Hindu pilgrimage destination in Uttarakhand, India, where the River Ganges flows out of the Himalayan foothills. One of the most famous sites here is Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat, where a beautiful nightly ritual called Ganga Aarti takes place, with lamps floating down the river. During festivals like the Kanwar Mela, the city is filled with worshippers.
The hilltop temples of Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi are accessible by cable car or steps, offering stunning views of the plains on either side of the Ganges. Another important temple is the Maya Devi Temple, located near Birla Ghat. South of Haridwar, in Kankhal, you’ll find the Daksheswara Mahadev Temple, surrounded by sacred ashrams and a historic banyan tree.
Nearby, Rajaji National Park in the Shivalik Hills provides jungle safaris where you can see tigers, elephants, leopards, and over 300 species of birds. The park also offers rafting on the Ganges.
places to visit in Haridwar
Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park is a large wildlife reserve located in the Shivalik Hills of Uttarakhand, near the Himalayan foothills. Covering an area of 820 square kilometers, it spans across three districts: Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. The park is a sanctuary for various wildlife species, including tigers, elephants, and leopards. It is known for its rich biodiversity and offers visitors a chance to explore its natural beauty through safaris. Rajaji National Park is also home to many bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.
Mansa Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi. It is one of the key pilgrimage sites in the city, attracting many devotees every year. The temple is located on the Bilwa Parvat, offering a panoramic view of Haridwar and the surrounding areas. Pilgrims often take a cable car or climb the steps to reach the temple. It is believed that Goddess Mansa fulfills the wishes of her devotees. The temple is particularly busy during the Navratri festival.
Har Ki Pauri
Har Ki Pauri is a famous ghat located on the banks of the Ganges River in Haridwar. It is a sacred site and a central point for religious rituals in the city. Devotees come here to take a dip in the holy river, which is believed to cleanse sins. Every evening, the Ganga Aarti takes place here, where lamps are floated on the river in a beautiful ceremony. Har Ki Pauri is one of the most iconic landmarks in Haridwar and is deeply revered by Hindus.
Chandi Devi Temple
Chandi Devi Temple is another significant Hindu temple located in Haridwar, dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi. Situated on top of the Neel Parvat, the temple offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Pilgrims can reach the temple by a cable car ride or by hiking up the hill. The temple is believed to be a powerful place of worship, and it is said that Goddess Chandi fulfills the desires of her devotees. It is one of the Panch Tirths of Haridwar, making it an important destination for spiritual seekers.
Maya Devi Temple
Maya Devi Temple in Haridwar is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Maya, the mother of the universe. It is located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat and is considered one of the Shakti Peethas. The temple is believed to be where Goddess Sati’s heart fell during the divine sacrifice, and it holds immense religious significance. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for peace and prosperity. The temple’s serene atmosphere and spiritual significance make it a peaceful spot for visitors.
Daksheswara Mahadev
Daksheswara Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Kankhal, a town near Haridwar. This temple is famous for its connection to the mythological story of King Daksha Prajapati and his daughter Sati. It is believed that Daksha performed a yajna (ritual) here, where he insulted Lord Shiva, leading to Sati’s self-immolation. The temple is an important site for devotees of Lord Shiva and holds a deep historical and spiritual significance.
Bharat Mata Temple
Bharat Mata Temple is a unique Hindu temple in Haridwar dedicated to Bharat Mata, the personification of India. The temple houses a large map of undivided India carved in marble, showcasing the country’s rich history and heritage. The temple aims to inspire feelings of patriotism and devotion to the nation. Visitors come here to pay homage to Bharat Mata, reflecting on India’s cultural and spiritual legacy. The temple’s peaceful ambiance makes it a place for both spiritual reflection and national pride.
Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple
Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a small, quiet temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the outskirts of Haridwar. The temple is surrounded by a serene natural environment, making it a peaceful retreat for devotees. It also has smaller temples dedicated to other Hindu gods. The temple is less crowded than the major sites in Haridwar, offering a more tranquil experience. It is a great place for visitors who want to connect with nature and spirituality away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Vaishno Devi Mandir
The Vaishno Devi Mandir in Haridwar is a replica of the famous Vaishno Devi Temple located in Jammu & Kashmir. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. The temple features caves and tunnels that lead to the shrine, creating a spiritual experience for visitors. Devotees come here to offer prayers and seek blessings from the goddess. The temple provides a similar atmosphere to the original Vaishno Devi shrine, making it an important pilgrimage site in Haridwar.
Shantikunj
Shantikunj is a prominent spiritual ashram located in Haridwar, dedicated to promoting peace and spirituality. The ashram offers various spiritual camps, classes, and daily sacramental rituals for visitors. It is a place where people come to learn about meditation, yoga, and Hindu philosophy. The peaceful surroundings and serene atmosphere make it an ideal location for reflection and inner peace. Shantikunj attracts many spiritual seekers looking to deepen their spiritual practice and knowledge.
Best Time To Visit Haridwar
The best time to visit Haridwar is from November to March when the weather is cool and comfortable. This is the ideal period for sightseeing and exploring the city. During the summer months, Haridwar can get very hot and humid, with temperatures rising up to 40°C. Although the weather isn’t perfect, this season offers the chance to participate in festivals like Ram Navami and Buddha Purnima. The monsoon season brings moderate rainfall and increased humidity, which can cause roadblocks, making it difficult to travel. It is best to avoid visiting during the monsoon. The winter season, from October to February, brings pleasant weather, making it an excellent time to visit and enjoy the city.
