Haridwar is one of the most important cities of Uttarakhand in North India. It lies at the foot of the great Himalayan mountain range and takes the banks of the holy river of Ganga.
Haridwar boasts of an ancient past as it hosts millions of pilgrims, seekers, and travelers across diverse cultures with a rich heritage traceable since the inception of mankind.
Haridwar literally means “gateway to god” and it is the most amazing spiritual experience you may have. Anyone visiting Haridwar will be left spellbound by its breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating culture which is a unique combination of ancient traditions.
Haridwar is rich in cultural heritage with many sights that will reach your soul. The beauty of this divine city lies only in diving deep into its unique mix of spirituality and tradition.
This guide is your ticket into 20 top places to visit in Haridwar – some of these are holy spots, others are cultural and nature delights waiting for you!
1. Har Ki Pauri:
First of all, we embark at Har Ki Pouri which is the most sacred ghat in Haridwar. The place is said to be where Lord Vishnu left his footprint on the stone during the cosmic churning of the ocean. They visit this place for the bathing of their sins to seek liberation.
2. Mansa Devi Temple:
The Mansa Devi Temple perches atop the Bilwa Parvat and is dedicated to the goddess Mansa who grants wishes to her worshipers. Temple is accessible for visitors either with the use of a rope car or just on foot, which offers a stunning outlook of Haridwar city.
3. Chandi Devi Temple:
Besides, another significant temple in Haridwar known as Chandi Devi Temple rests on the Neel Parvat and is dedicated to the goddess Chandi. A pilgrimage to this shrine typically involves strenuous climbing or using the ropeway but pays off in terms of spiritual fulfillment.
4. Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple:
This temple in the town of Kankhal is devoted to Lord Shiva. According to tradition, King Daksha sacrificed here and Sati burnt herself here.
5. Maya Devi Temple:
One of the Shakti Peethas is the Maya Devi Temple which was erected in honor of Maya, an aspect of Shakti. It is believed that this was the place where Lord Shiva did his Tandava dance and where Goddess Sati’s heart and navel fell.
6. Bharat Mata Mandir:
The Bharat Mata Mandir or this temple is dedicated to Mother India and this place stands for national unity and patriotism. The picture showcases a political map of the whole pre-independent India which demonstrates the ethnic and climatic diversity present in the state.
7. Shantikunj:
Shantikunj is an international spiritual and social movement headed by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya. A center for knowledge gathering, meditation, and realization of self as well as societal transformation.
8. Sapt Rishi Ashram:
The name of this respected ashram derives from the fact that it is believed to be one of the places where the seven great sages mediated. Serenity and quietness best describe a place for thoughtful meditation and self-reflection.
9. Pawan Dham:
Pawan Dham is a richly decorated temple, known for its elaborate mosaic of glasswork and mirrors. It stands as a wonder, a symbol of the skills of the local artisans.
10. Gau Ghat:
The cow worshipping goes by the name goeseva at Gau, while Gau has been famed with a famous spot called the Gau Ghat which is situated on the banks of the river Ganga where the devout offer food and care while respecting the deity within the beast.
11. Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple:
The Shivalinga of Lord Shiva’s temple was naturally established.
12. Bhimgoda Kund:
Bhimgoda Tank is a holy reservoir that was derived from the name of one of the Pandavas brothers who participated in the Mahabharata war, Bhima. By way of legend, it is assumed that it was Bhima who struck the earth with his foot to provide water for his mother Kunthi.
13. Rajaji National Park:
Rajaji National Park is a heaven for nature lovers and has diverse plant and animal species within its environs. This is a place of serenity for wildlife lovers with lovely trails for walks and safari ventures.
14. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar:
These bird sanctuaries are heaven for avid birdwatchers with many migratory and residential species. A tranquil spot for a nature walk in peace.
15. Vaishno Devi Temple:
It is a copy of the world-famed Vaishno Devi Temple located in Jammu and Kashmir where one can see and feel a snapshot of the sacred holy trip right in the Holy city of Haridwar.
16. Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple:
This old temple is devoted to lord Shiva’s temple and it is known for its peacefulness of the atmosphere.
17. Anandamayi Ma Ashram:
The ashram is a spiritual retreat that is dedicated to Anadamayi Mai, an honored person who preached the way of realization.
18. Kumbh Mela:
Kumbh Mela is a vast Hindu religious event that takes place in one of the four cities, which include Haridwar. It is a singular occasion that attracts more than millions of people to participate in holy baptism at the Ganges River.
19. Ganges Aarti:
However, the most captivating is the daily ritual of Ganesh Aarti at the famous Har Kee Paurus in the city. The sacred river is surrounded by devotees and tourists, who pay obeisance through the spectacle of oil lamps and sounds from conch shells.
20. Moti Bazar:
You can visit some local culture and buy souvenirs at Moti Bazar. The place is crowded with goods such as crafts, ornamentation, clothes, and various spiritual items.
Conclusion
A visit to Haridwar that is both spiritually and culturally diverse is truly unique. Haridwar offers something for all types of travelers searching for spiritual enlightenment, immersed in the culture, or relaxing back to nature. May you experience a closer bond with your inner self and marvel at each sight in this holy city where the river Ganga flows through.
Thank you for your comment