Haridwar Pin codes, History, Places to Visit and Temples

Discovering the Hidden Gems of Haridwar City: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're a traveler looking to explore the heart of India, then Haridwar City is a destination you simply cannot miss. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, this vibrant city is a blend of ancient spiritual traditions and modern-day developments. Haridwar City, also known as Haridwar, is a major Hindu pilgrimage site and is regarded as one of the seven holiest places in India. In this guide, we'll take a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of Haridwar City, explore its many attractions, and help you plan your itinerary for a memorable journey.

Haridwar City is located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand and is situated at an altitude of 314 meters above sea level. It is known for its ancient temples, holy ghats, and the Ganga Aarti, a daily ritual where people gather at the banks of the river Ganges to witness the offering of lamps to the deities. The city is also famous for its natural beauty and wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

History of Haridwar City

Haridwar City has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed that the city was once part of the Kuru Kingdom, which was ruled by the Pandavas in the Mahabharata era. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu visited the city in different eras, leaving behind their imprints in the form of temples and shrines.

Geographical Location of Haridwar City

Haridwar City is located on the banks of the river Ganges and is surrounded by the Shivalik range of the Himalayas. It is located at a distance of 220 kilometers from the national capital, Delhi, and is well connected by road, rail, and air.

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Best Time to Visit Haridwar City

The best time to visit Haridwar City is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The summers are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 35 to 45 degrees Celsius. Monsoons, which usually last from July to September, can be unpredictable, with heavy rainfall causing flooding in some areas.

Getting to Haridwar City

Haridwar City is well connected to major cities in India through rail, road, and air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is located 35 kilometers from the city. The nearest railway station is Haridwar Junction, which is connected to major cities in India. Buses and taxis are also available from Delhi and other major cities in India.

Temples in Haridwar City

Har Ki Pauri

Har Ki Pauri is the most popular and sacred ghat in Haridwar City. It is believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu left his footprint, and it is also the site of the daily Ganga Aarti. The ghat is decorated with hundreds of lamps during the aarti, creating a magical atmosphere that draws visitors from all over the world.

Chandi Devi Temple

Chandi Devi Temple is located on top of the Neel Parvat hill and is dedicated to Goddess Chandi. The temple can be reached by a cable car ride, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. The temple is famous for its vibrant architecture and the annual Chandi Devi Fair, which is held in April.

Mansa Devi Temple

Mansa Devi Temple is located on top of the Bilwa Parvat hill and is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The temple can be reached by a cable car ride, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the river Ganges.

Maya Devi Temple

Maya Devi Temple is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Haridwar City. It is dedicated to Goddess Maya, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Shakti. The temple is famous for its intricate architecture and the ancient stone idols of Hindu deities.

Daksha Mahadev Temple

Daksha Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be the site of his marriage to Goddess Sati. The temple is famous for its stunning architecture and the beautiful carvings of Hindu deities on its walls.

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Places to Visit in Haridwar City 

Shantikunj Ashram

Shantikunj Ashram is a spiritual and cultural center that was founded by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya. The ashram is famous for its yoga and meditation programs, and it also offers courses on Vedic studies and philosophy.

Sapt Rishi Ashram

Sapt Rishi Ashram is a famous ashram located on the banks of the river Ganges. It is believed to be the site where seven sages meditated in ancient times. The ashram is famous for its peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful views of the river Ganges.

Ganga Aarti

Ganga Aarti is a daily ritual that takes place at the Har Ki Pauri ghat. It involves the offering of lamps to the deities and is accompanied by devotional songs and music. The aarti is a must-see attraction for visitors to Haridwar City and is a mesmerizing experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the outskirts of Haridwar City. It is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer. The park is also famous for its rich flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Food and Cuisine in Haridwar City

Haridwar City is known for its delicious street food and local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include Aloo Puri, Kachori, Chaat, Samosa, and Lassi. The city also has many restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of Indian and international cuisines.

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Accommodation in Haridwar City

Haridwar City offers a range of accommodation options, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and luxury resorts. Some of the popular hotels in the city include Hotel Ganga Darshan, Hotel Ganga Lahari, and Hotel Alpana.

Shopping in Haridwar City

Haridwar City is a shopper's paradise, offering a wide range of traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and religious items. Some of the popular shopping destinations in the city include:

Bara Bazaar

Bara Bazaar is the oldest and most famous market in Haridwar City. It is a bustling hub of activity and is famous for its wide range of items, including religious artifacts, clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts.

Jwalapur Market

Jwalapur Market is located on the outskirts of Haridwar City and is famous for its wholesale market. It is a great place to shop for spices, textiles, and other local products at reasonable prices.

Moti Bazaar

Moti Bazaar is another popular market in Haridwar City that offers a wide range of items, including jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. It is famous for its beautiful pearls, which are available in a variety of colors and designs.

Har Ki Pauri Market

Har Ki Pauri Market is located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat and is famous for its religious items, including rudraksha beads, idols, and puja items.

Festivals in Haridwar City

Haridwar City is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations. Some of the popular festivals celebrated in the city include:

Kumbh Mela

Kumbh Mela is the largest religious gathering in the world and is held every 12 years in Haridwar City. Millions of pilgrims from all over the world gather in the city to take a holy dip in the river Ganges and seek blessings from the deities.

Kanwar Yatra

Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage that takes place during the month of Shravan (July-August). It involves the carrying of holy water from the river Ganges to various Shiva temples across the country.

Diwali

Diwali is a popular festival celebrated in Haridwar City and across India. It is known as the festival of lights and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal.

Conclusion

Haridwar City is a beautiful and sacred city that offers a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. From the holy river Ganges to the ancient temples and ashrams, the city has a lot to offer to visitors. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a nature lover, or a foodie, Hardwar City has something for everyone.