If you’re planning a visit to Haridwar, then you’re in for a treat. Haridwar is one of the seven holiest cities in India, situated in the state of Uttarakhand. With its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, Haridwar has been attracting visitors from around the world. From the banks of the Ganges to the historic temples, there are many places to visit in Haridwar that will leave you spellbound. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 places to visit in Haridwar.
Har Ki Pauri
Har Ki Pauri is the most popular and important place to visit in Haridwar. It is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint on a stone here. The ghat is located on the banks of the Ganges, and people come here to take a dip in the holy waters to cleanse their sins. The evening aarti here is a spectacular sight, and it’s a must-visit when in Haridwar.
Chandi Devi Temple
The Chandi Devi Temple is situated on top of the Neel Parvat, and it’s one of the most visited places in Haridwar. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, and it’s believed that the Goddess fulfills the wishes of her devotees who visit her temple. To reach the temple, one has to take a cable car ride that offers a breathtaking view of the city.
Mansa Devi Temple
The Mansa Devi Temple is located on top of the Bilwa Parvat, and it’s one of the most popular temples in Haridwar. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, and it’s believed that the Goddess fulfills the wishes of her devotees who tie a thread on the branches of a tree inside the temple. To reach the temple, one can take a cable car or climb up the hill on foot.
Maya Devi Temple
The Maya Devi Temple is one of the oldest temples in Haridwar and is dedicated to Goddess Maya Devi, who is an incarnation of Shakti. The temple is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated on the banks of the Ganges, and it’s a must-visit when in Haridwar.
Daksha Mahadev Temple
The Daksha Mahadev Temple is located in the Kankhal region of Haridwar and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s believed that the temple was built by King Daksha, who was the father-in-law of Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for its beautiful architecture and is a must-visit for all Lord Shiva devotees.
Shantikunj
Shantikunj is a spiritual retreat center and ashram, located in the outskirts of Haridwar. It’s a hub of spirituality and offers various courses and workshops on spirituality and yoga. The center is surrounded by lush green gardens and is a perfect place for those seeking peace and tranquility.
Pawan Dham
Pawan Dham is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and it’s famous for its intricate glasswork. The temple is located near the railway station and is a popular tourist attraction in Haridwar. The entire temple is made of glass and mirrors, and it’s a beautiful sight to behold, especially when the sun’s rays fall on the glasswork, creating a rainbow of colors.
Bhimgoda Kund
Bhimgoda Kund is a picturesque water tank located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat. It’s believed that the Pandavas from the Mahabharata epic visited this place during their exile. The water in the kund is crystal clear, and people come here to take a dip in the holy waters.
Bharat Mata Mandir
The Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. It’s a multi-story building, and each floor is dedicated to a specific deity or personality that played a significant role in India’s history. The temple is a symbol of national unity and is a must-visit when in Haridwar.
Sapt Rishi Ashram
The Sapt Rishi Ashram is located on the banks of the Ganges, and it’s believed that seven sages meditated here in ancient times. The ashram is surrounded by lush green forests, and it’s a perfect place for meditation and spiritual retreat.
Conclusion
Haridwar is a beautiful city that’s full of history and culture. From the banks of the Ganges to the historic temples, there are many places to visit in Haridwar that will leave you spellbound. In this article, we’ve covered the top 10 places to visit in Haridwar. We hope this article helps you plan your trip to Haridwar and explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.
FAQs
- What is Haridwar famous for? Haridwar is famous for its rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and the banks of the holy Ganges.
- When is the best time to visit Haridwar? The best time to visit Haridwar is from October to March, as the weather is pleasant during this time.
- How to reach Haridwar? Haridwar is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, and the nearest railway station is Haridwar Junction.
- Can I take a dip in the Ganges in Haridwar? Yes, you can take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges in Haridwar. The Har Ki Pauri ghat is the most popular place to take a dip.
- Is Haridwar safe for tourists? Yes, Haridwar is a safe city for tourists. However, like any other place, it’s important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings.