Haridwar: Gateway to the Gods

Haridwar, one of the holiest cities in India, is a spiritual haven nestled in the state of Uttarakhand, also spelt Hardwar, is a city and municipal corporation in the district. Formerly known as “Mayapuri”, whose name translates to “Gateway to God”, is considered one of Hinduism’s seven holiest places. Haridwar is where the sacred Ganges River emerges from the Himalayas and begins its journey across the plains. The city is renowned for its religious significance, ancient temples, and vibrant cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and travellers alike. Haridwar is located in the Doab region, where people traditionally speak Khariboli.

Historical and Religious Significance

Haridwar holds a prominent place in Hindu mythology and scriptures. It is one of the seven Sapta Puri, the holiest pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. According to legend, it is one of the four places where drops of the elixir of immortality (Amrit) fell during the celestial battle between the gods and demons. This event is commemorated by the Kumbh Mela, a massive religious gathering held every twelve years, attracting millions of devotees from around the world.

• Haridwar is an ancient city with mentions in ancient Hindu scriptures. It has a rich religious and cultural heritage, with old havelis and mansions featuring murals and stonework.
• Archaeological findings suggest that a terracotta culture existed in Haridwar around 1700 to 1800 B.C.
• From 322 to 185 BC, the Mauryans ruled in Haridwar. The Kushans then took over around the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. King Harshvardhan ruled there from 590 to 647 AD.
• Timur Lang from Central Asia overran the city around 1336 AD.
• The city probably owes its present-day existence to Maharaja Man Singh of Amber in Rajasthan, who laid the foundations and renovated the ghats, especially Har Ki Pauri.
• Thomas Coryat, an English traveller, visited the city during Emperor Jahangir’s reign (1596–1627), mentioning it as ‘Haridwara,’ the capital of Shiva.

Top Attractions in Haridwar

1. Har Ki Pauri: The most famous ghat in Haridwar, Har Ki Pauri is believed to be the precise spot where the Ganges leaves the mountains and enters the plains. The evening Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual of light and sound, draws thousands of visitors daily.
2. Chandi Devi Temple: Situated atop the Neel Parvat hill, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi. It can be reached via a cable car ride or a scenic trek, offering breathtaking views of the city and the river below.
3. Mansa Devi Temple: Another significant temple, Mansa Devi Temple is perched on the Bilwa Parvat hill. Devotees tie threads to the sacred tree within the temple premises, hoping their wishes will be fulfilled.
4. Maya Devi Temple: One of the oldest temples in Haridwar, it is dedicated to Goddess Maya, the city’s presiding deity. It is believed to be the spot where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell. The oldest temple of Haridwar.
5. Bharat Mata Mandir: This unique temple is dedicated to Bharat Mata (Mother India) and showcases a rich tapestry of India’s history, culture, and heritage across its eight floors.
6. Shanti Kunj: Features the Gayatri Temple, which houses 24 photos of Gayatri.
7. Sapt Rishi Ashram: A serene and spiritual place for meditation and learning.
8. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar: A place to watch exotic migratory birds.

Experiencing the Spiritual Vibes

Participating in the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is a transformative experience. As the sun sets, priests perform the ritual with large fire lamps while chanting hymns, and the sight of floating diyas (lamps) on the river creates an ethereal atmosphere.

Adventure and Nature

While Haridwar is primarily known for its spiritual significance, it also offers opportunities for adventure and nature lovers. The Rajaji National Park, located nearby, is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. The park is ideal for wildlife safaris and bird watching.

How to Reach?

This city has a well-developed transportation system that includes rail, road, and air transport.

1. Rail Transport:

• The railway station connects to major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai, Varanasi, Delhi, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, and Indore.
• Several trains operate between Haridwar and Delhi, including the AC Special Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, Shatabdi Express, and Mussorie Express.
• Local trains also frequently run between Haridwar and other cities in Uttarakhand like Dehradun and Rishikesh.

2. Road Transport:

• NH 45 runs through this junction, providing road access to Uttarakhand cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Nainital.
• NH7, which runs from Delhi to Mana, passes through Haridwar, connecting it to Ghaziabad, Muzzafarnagar, Roorkee, and Badrinath.
• NH 74 connects Haridwar to Bareily, Pilibhit, Kichcha, Kashipur, and Nagina.
• State and private bus services are available from cities along these routes, with buses to Delhi operated by companies like Kalpana Travels, Metro Travels, Crown Travels, and A.G. Holiday.
• Local transportation options include private taxis, local buses, auto rickshaws, and cycles [1, 8]. Local buses are an inexpensive option for getting around the city.

3. Air Transport:

• The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is about 41 km from Haridwar and has flights to major cities in India.
• From the airport, you can take local road transport like buses or taxis to reach Haridwar.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Haridwar is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. However, if you wish to witness the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela or the Ardh Kumbh Mela, plan your trip accordingly based on the event’s schedule.

Where to Stay

This city offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses and dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses) to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. Staying near Har Ki Pauri provides easy access to the main attractions and a chance to immerse in the city’s spiritual ambiance.

Local Cuisine

Haridwar’s local cuisine is primarily vegetarian, reflecting its spiritual and cultural ethos. Don’t miss trying the local delicacies like aloo puri, kachoris, jalebis, and the famous Haridwar ka peda. Street food stalls and small eateries along the ghats offer authentic flavors.

Haridwar is more than just a pilgrimage site; it’s a city that embodies the spiritual heart of India. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or natural beauty, Haridwar offers a unique blend of experiences that leave a lasting impression on every visitor. From the sacred rituals on the ghats to the serene landscapes and ancient temples, Haridwar is a destination that resonates with the soul. Haridwar is a blend of religious significance, cultural heritage, and industrial development, making it a unique and important city in India.

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