The word Haridwar literally divides into gateway
to lord Vishnu where Dwar is gateway and Hari is the lord. Technically this is
the place where Ganga River touches the plains in the north and then flows on
giving life to wherever she makes her way through the subcontinent. Also
lovingly referred to as the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas this holy town
which is abode to a number of ancient temples and shrines. Nestled within the
lush green foothills of the Himalayas and considered to be the home of the holy
trinity of brahma Vishnu and Mahesh it has also emerged as one of the most
famous places for people who are spiritually and religiously inclined. From
being the site of the enigmatic Kumbh Mela to being the centre of year long
pilgrimages, it is also the gateway for Char Dham Yatra since almost every
pilgrim kick starts their holy pilgrimage from this town. There are numerous
travel agents for Char Dham Yatra available here. With over 300 holy Hindu
temples and innumerable ashrams and of course the awe inspiring beauty of the
surrounding is what makes this place a real treat for everyone.
Best Time to Visit:
The most preferred and appropriate time for you to
visit this gateway to god would be during the autumn winter season or the
summer season however the summers here do get quiet hot and uncomfortable
especially if you plan on going for some sightseeing exploration. The months
are October to march are ideally the best time to visit Haridwar. During these
days the weather clears up, atmosphere becomes pleasant and sightseeing is more
comfortable. In no case should you plan your travel during the monsoon season.
Bing located right next to the vicious Ganga River during the monsoon showers
it tends to flood the nearby places, sightseeing becomes very difficult and on
your way you may even experience some landslides or muddy routes.
Must visit Places in Haridwar:
Har ki Pauri
Haridwar and Har ki Pauri are synonymous to each other since most tourists make a trip to this place only to take a holy dip in Ganga from here. This bathing Ghat which is the site for the spectacular evening Ganga Aarti is kept at par with the Dasashwamedha Ghat of Varanasi in terms of relevance. The importance of this place lies in the fact that it is believed that it was once by lords Vishnu and Shiva and had also once been utilized as a Yagna venue for lord brahma. All these put together makes up for one of the sacred places to visit in India.
Mansa Devi Temple
Perched atop a hill and dedicated to goddess Mansa Devi, an incarnation of Durga Mata this temple visit is a must. Your visit to Haridwar remains incomplete without offering your Darshan here and spending an evening watching the sun go down. Because of its location there is a ropeway service available or some people even choose to cover the distance on foot via trekking. No matter which option you choose to reach the destination you shall definitely be mesmerized.
Rajaji National Park
In case you wish to feel closer whilst having a spiritual experience then this off beat national park is a must visit choice. The unspoiled natural beauty will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated. You can observe a diverse range of plants and animals here via a fun packed elephant of a jeep safari ride. This visit will add a contrasting hint of adventure to your travel plans in Haridwar. It truly is an oasis for bird watchers and is located at just a distance of 10 km from the town centre and makes for the perfect getaway.
Patanjali Yogpeeth
There are a lot of people who make their way to Haridwar on a lookout for spirituality, mediation and yoga and Patanjali Yogpeeth is the best answer for that. Situated by the river one could easily enroll for a lesson here and gain some perspective in life and performing rejuvenating yoga activities taught by expert professionals. This activity allows you to refresh yourself from the within that promises you only positive effects in you.
Travel Tips for Haridwar:
- The food available here is only pure vegetarian since this is a holy town.
- Alcohol selling and consumption is also prohibited to respect the sanctity of this place.
- There are several options to stay for people travelling on a budget due to the presence of cheap hotels, lodges and home stays.
- Rishikesh is located just a few kms away from Haridwar which makes for the perfect excursion option and an adventure destination.
- Shopping here involves buying some traditional and devotional items like Ayurvedic medicines, brassware items, religious things, Gangaajal etc.
