About Haridwar,

Haridwar, meaning the Gateway to God, is one of the most sacred cities in India and a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand. Located along the banks of the holy Ganga River, it is one of the four places where the Kumbh Mela is held, attracting millions of devotees from across the world.

The city is filled with ancient temples, ghats, and spiritual centers, making it a hub of Indian culture and traditions. The iconic Har Ki Pauri Ghat is the main landmark, where the evening Ganga Aarti fills the air with devotion. For pilgrims, the hilltop temples like Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi are important stops, while history lovers will enjoy visiting the Daksha Mahadev Temple.

But Haridwar is not just about spirituality. It is also a gateway to nature and wildlife, with the famous Rajaji National Park nearby, home to elephants, tigers, and rich birdlife. Whether you are seeking faith, peace, history, or adventure, Haridwar offers a soulful experience.

1. Har Ki Pauri Ghat:

Har Ki Pauri is the most sacred ghat in Haridwar and the spiritual heart of the city. It is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint here, making it one of the holiest bathing spots in India. Every evening, thousands of devotees gather for the Ganga Aarti, where priests light lamps, chant mantras, and devotees release diyas into the flowing river. The atmosphere is electrifying and peaceful at the same time, creating a memory that stays with every traveler. Taking a dip at Har Ki Pauri is considered highly auspicious and an important ritual for pilgrims, Read More …

• Best Time to Visit: October–April (10°C–25°C).
• Distance from City Center: Located at the heart of Haridwar, approx. 2 km from Haridwar railway station.
• Timings: Open all day; Ganga Aarti at 6:00 PM.

Things to Do:

• Witness the evening Ganga Aarti.
• Take a dip in the holy Ganga.
• Sit by the river steps and meditate.
• Explore nearby markets for prasad, idols, and souvenirs.

2. Chandi Devi Temple:

Situated on the Neel Parvat hill, Chandi Devi Temple is one of the most revered shrines in Haridwar. Dedicated to Goddess Chandi, it is believed to have been built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya. According to legend, the goddess rested here after killing demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. The temple offers panoramic views of Haridwar city and the Ganga River. Devotees can reach the temple either by a scenic ropeway ride or by trekking uphill, making it a combination of spirituality and adventure, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: October–March (cool weather).
• Distance from City Center: Approx. 4 km from Haridwar city center.
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

Things to Do:

• Take the ropeway ride for aerial views.
• Offer prayers to Goddess Chandi.
• Capture beautiful photographs of Haridwar city.
• Enjoy trekking if you prefer walking.

3. Mansa Devi Temple:

Located on the Bilwa Parvat hill, Mansa Devi Temple is another highly revered temple in Haridwar. It is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees. The temple is a part of the Panch Tirths (Five Pilgrimages) in Haridwar. The ropeway ride to the temple is an exciting experience, offering panoramic views of the city and the river. Thousands of devotees visit daily, tying sacred threads on trees as a symbol of their prayers, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: October–April (11°C–26°C).
• Distance from City Center: Approx. 3 km from Haridwar railway station.
• Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

Things to Do:

• Take the ropeway to the temple.
• Offer prayers and tie sacred threads for wishes.
• Enjoy panoramic views of Haridwar.
• Combine visit with Chandi Devi Temple (both are close).

4. Daksha Mahadev Temple:

The Daksha Mahadev Temple in Kankhal is one of the oldest and most important temples in Haridwar. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is linked to the legend of King Daksha and Goddess Sati. It is said to be the site of Daksha Yagna, a turning point in Hindu mythology. The temple architecture is simple but filled with spiritual energy, making it a must-visit for history lovers and pilgrims. The nearby Daksha Ghat also holds significance for performing rituals, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: All year round, especially during Mahashivratri.
• Distance from City Center: Approx. 4 km from Haridwar city center (in Kankhal).
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

Things to Do:

• Offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
• Explore Daksha Ghat nearby.
• Learn about the temple’s mythology.
• Visit other temples in Kankhal.

5. Rajaji National Park:

Rajaji National Park is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers, located just a short drive from Haridwar. Spread over 820 sq km, it is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and more than 300 species of birds. The park is popular for its jeep safaris, which allow tourists to explore the dense forests and spot wildlife in their natural habitat. It is also a great destination for photography, nature walks, and eco-tourism. A visit to Haridwar is incomplete without exploring this wild side of Uttarakhand, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: November–June (cool to moderate weather).
• Distance from City Center: Approx. 10 km from Haridwar bus stand.
• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (safari timings vary).

Things to Do:

• Go on a jeep safari to spot wildlife.
• Enjoy bird watching.
• Capture the beauty of Himalayan foothills.
• Visit different park zones for varied landscapes.

Suggested Itinerary (2 Days in Haridwar):

Day 1: Har Ki Pauri Ghat → Mansa Devi Temple → Chandi Devi Temple.

Day 2: Daksha Mahadev Temple (Kankhal) → Rajaji National Park safari → Evening Aarti at Har Ki Pauri.