Haridwar is a city in Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the seven holiest places for the Hindus. This city is located on the banks of River Ganga at the foothill of Shivalik Range. It is one of the 4 sites where Kumbh Mela held every 12 years. Journey of River Ganga starts from this place. It is the major Shaktipeeth. During Kumbh Mela period thousands of devotees come to this place. People believe that taking the dip at this place during Kumbh Mela will wipe off all the sins. Along with Hindus, Haridwar is sacred place to Sikhs also as founder of the religion, Guru Nanak come to this place for 2times.
What to see in Haridwar:
Kumbh Mela: It is a mass Hindu pilgrimage of faith in which Hindus gather to bath in a sacred river. Kumbh Mela conducts here for every 12 years in Haridwar.
Hari Ki Pauri: It is one of the most sacred Ghats. Other name of this place is Brahmakund. It is believed that, in the memory of brother Bhartrihari, this was built by King Vikramaditya.
Mansa Devi Temple: It is one of the Siddhpeerthas. Mansa Devi is worshipped here. It is located at the top of the Bilwa Parwat.
Chandi Devi: It is believed that, in 8th century main idol was kept by Adi Shankracharya. This was constructed by King of Kashmir Suchat Singh in 1929 AD.
Kankhal: In Haridwar this is a small colony. This place was mentioned as Kanakhala in Mahabharata and Vayu Purana. It is one of the Panch Tirth.
Daksheswara Mahadev Temple: Lord Shiva worshipped in this temple. It is located in Kankhal. This temple was built in 1810 by Queen Dhankaur. In 1962, a temple was rebuilt.
Maya Devi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Maya Devi. It is sometimes referred to as Shakti Peetha. Deity of the temple has 4 arms and 3 heads. Temple was dates back to 11th century.
Doodhadhari Barfani Temple: It is one of the beautiful temples of Haridwar. This temple complex consists of Hanuman Temple, Rama Sita temple. All are built with white marble.
What to see around Haridwar:
Rajaji National Park: It is located 10kms away from Haridwar. This park covers 3 district of Uttarakhand. Those 3 districts are Pauri Garhwal, Dehradun and Haridwar. Earlier there are 3 sanctuaries namely Rajaji, Motichur and Chilla. Now these are merged as one sanctuary with the name Rajaji National Park. Major fauna attractions of this park are Asian Elephant, leopard, Jungle Cat, Goral, Indian Hare etc. Major flora attractions of this place are acacia, dalbergia, bridelia, terminalia, Adina, Mallotus etc.
Rishikesh: It is located 24kms away from Haridwar. This is the gateway to Chota Char Dham Pilgrimage. Chota Char Dham includes Yamunotri, Badrinath, Gangotri and kedarnath. This place revolves around festivals and prayers. International Yoga festival celebrates annually in the month of February.
Sureshvari Devi Temple: It is located in Ranipur which is located 10kms away from Haridwar. Goddess Sureshwari is worshipped here.
Getting to Haridwar: Haridwar is well connected with road and railways. From Delhi, Gangotri, Yamnotri, Uttarkashi, Tehri, Mussoorie, Dehradun etc buses come to this place. From all the major cities trains come to this place. Nearest airport is located at Dehradun i.e. Jolly Grant which is 226kms away from the city.
Getting around Haridwar: Taxis, Autos, Buses, cycle rickshaws are available to visit in and around places of Haridwar.
Best time to visit Haridwar: Best time to visit this place is between September to June.
Where to stay in Haridwar: Plenty of hotels are available to stay in Haridwar. Few luxury hotels are also available here. Along with hotels, Dharmasalas are also available to stay in this place.
Where to eat in Haridwar: Limited restaurants are available to eat in Haridwar. Only vegetarian food is available.