ABOUT HARIDWAR

Step into Haridwar, the Gateway to God, where the sacred Ganga flows from the Himalayas and touches the lives of millions. Here, faith isn’t just practised—it’s lived.

Feel the city come alive: sadhus in saffron robes weaving through bustling streets, temple bells ringing in harmony, and the air filled with incense and the mouthwatering aroma of street food. Every corner is a celebration of tradition, every step a journey into spirituality.

Witness the magic of Har Ki Pauri at dusk, when thousands of floating diyas turn the Ganga into a sparkling river of devotion. It’s a sight that stays in your heart long after the sun sets.

Famous Places of Haridwar

  • Har Ki Pauri: The core of Haridwar. According to beliefs, this ghat is the place where lord Vishnu had left his footprint, making it one of the sacred places in India. The devotees then forge into the sacred waters in the early morning in the belief that the river washes away their sins. But at sunset, the Har Ki Pauri is magical, as the Ganga Aarti is performed there. Priests dip in saffron swirls in large lamps, conch shells sound at the river, and rhythmic chants echo while thousands of floating diyas decorate the river’s surface. It is an experience of faith in action.
  • Mansa Devi Temple: The Mansa Devi temple, on the Bilwa Parvat, is dedicated to a Goddess who gives you whatever you want. Pilgrims make prayers to the sacred tree by binding threads around the tree. The climb is an adventure itself, be it a trudge or the thrilling ride via ropeway, soaring above the bustling streets of Haridwar and the Ganga twisting by your side. The scenery above is just breathtaking.

  • Chandi Devi Temple: The Chandi Devi Temple, located majestically on top of Neel Parvat, is considered one of the most important Shakti Peethas. Myths have it that it is here where the Goddess Chandi defeated the demons of Shumbh and Nishumbh. Like Mansa Devi, it can also be reached through a ropeway ride, so it is a religious pilgrimage as well as an adventure trip.

  • Daksha Mahadev Temple: This temple has its deep roots in mythology and is associated with King Daksha, who was the father of Goddess Sati. The temple is believed to be in the same place where the epic yagna (sacrifice) of Daksha took place, which is also central to the Hindu mythology. Its peaceful courtyards and the historical atmosphere are important to the worshippers as a stop.

  • Om Bridge: Om Bridge is a suspension bridge, one of the newest landmarks in Haridwar is uniquely designed in the shape of the auspicious symbol of the Hindu deity ॐ. It spans gracefully across the Ganga, combining the old with present-day engineering skills, and offering panoramic vistas across the sacred river and busy ghats. Stepping on this bridge makes one feel he or she is walking inside a living mantra- peaceful, godly, and magical.

  • Rajaji National Park: To people who want to have something more than spiritual experiences, Haridwar can be a gateway to the wild. Rajaji National Park is a large wildlife park with lush green forests and a great variety of wildlife. It boasts of beautiful elephants, leopards and even the shy tigers, in addition to over 400 species of birds. In this case, jeep safaris allow you to trade the temple bells with birds and adventure.

  • Sapt Rishi Ashram & Ghat: A serene oasis away of the chaos, this ashram has been believed to be the meditation point of seven sages- Kashyapa, Vashishta, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagni, Bharadwaja and Gautama. The cross-side ghat is peaceful and is perfect in listening without speaking or immersing in the Ganga. It is the softer, contemplative side of Haridwar and a place that is inhabited with the art of silence.

Top Attractions

Har ki Pauri

Believed to bear Lord Vishnu’s footprint, this sacred ghat is where devotees take holy dips at sunrise. At sunset, the Ganga Aarti transforms the river with chants, conch shells, and thousands of glowing diyas.

Chandi Devi Temple

Perched on Neel Parvat, this Shakti Peetha marks the site where Goddess Chandi defeated Shumbh and Nishumbh. A ropeway ride offers both spiritual significance and scenic adventure.

Rajaji National Park

A heaven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, Rajaji National Park lies on the outskirts of Haridwar, spreading across the Shivalik ranges and the Indo-Gangetic plains. Known for its rich biodiversity, the park shelters elephants, leopards, tigers, deer, and over 400 species of birds.

Shanti Kunj

Established by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, it promotes moral, cultural, and spiritual awakening. The ashram is dedicated to the teachings of the Vedas and offers programs in yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and self-development.

Why visit Haridwar?

Haridwar embodies the essence of devotion, where faith flows as freely as the Ganga. In every nook, stories are whispered, rituals echo centuries of tradition, and experiences linger long after your visit.

  • Be captivated by the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, where thousands of diyas drift across the river in a stunning display of light and faith.
  • Cross the unique Om Bridge, a fusion of spirituality and contemporary design.
  • Take the ropeway to the hilltop Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi Temples, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Ganga below.
  • Step into the realms of myth and history at the revered Daksha Mahadev Temple.
  • Find peace and contemplation in the serene environment of the Sapt Rishi Ashram.
  • Experience the excitement of nature and wildlife at Rajaji National Park, where the majestic Himalayas meet the plains.
  • Wander through the lively markets of Haridwar—from vibrant handicrafts and spiritual keepsakes to aromatic spices and traditional jewellery, the bazaars vividly reflect the city’s spirit.
  • Savour the authentic street food flavours, each bite infused with the essence of tradition.

Haridwar transcends being merely a religious city—it is a convergence of spirituality, culture, and life. A timeless destination that resonates with the soul, it invites you to feel, believe, and cherish.

Bite Into Haridwar: Must-Try Eats!

Haridwar is not just a place of faith and reverence; it is also a paradise for food lovers. As a holy city, vegetarian cuisine takes center stage, yet the incredible variety and lively flavors will leave you with plenty of options. Each bite here embodies the essence of tradition and the allure of street-side simplicity.

  • Kachoris & Bedmi Poori – The iconic breakfast of Haridwar! Spicy lentil-stuffed or potato-filled pooris, served piping hot with zesty aloo sabzi, transform mornings into a cherished ritual.
  • Aloo Puri – Another beloved breakfast choice, featuring fluffy pooris accompanied by spiced potato curry. It’s simple, fulfilling, and adored by both locals and visitors.
  • Chaats – A visit to Haridwar wouldn’t be complete without savoring its chaats. From papdi chaat to dahi vada, every bite is a burst of tangy, spicy, and refreshing flavors.
  • Pakoras – Crunchy fritters, paired with chutneys and steaming tea, especially during the rainy season, make for the ultimate comfort food.
  • Rabri & Jalebi – Essential for anyone with a sweet tooth! The rich, creamy rabri combined with syrup-drenched jalebis creates a heavenly match.
  • Traditional Sweets – Haridwar is renowned for treats like peda, imarti, sohan papdi, bal mithai, and milk cakes, all available in the lively bazaars. Each sweet has its own story of cultural heritage.
  • Lassi – Served in clay cups, this thick, rich drink is as refreshing as it is tasty, making it the ideal companion for a day of adventure.
  • Seasonal Fruits & Juices – Fresh sugarcane juice, guavas, and other local fruits keep you invigorated as you wander through the city.

In Haridwar, food transcends mere flavor—it embodies culture, tradition, and devotion presented on a plate. Each dish is steeped in history, love, and the spirit of this ageless city.

When to visit

Weather Guide

Summer Season (March-June)

22°C – 40°C

Monsoon Season (July – September)

23°C – 35°C

Winter (December – February)

5°C – 20°C

How to Reach

By Air

Jollygrant Airport: Connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

By Train

Haridwar Junction (HW): connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

By Road

Route via NH334: Regular bus services available