Haridwar is situated within the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. The city is also known as Mayapuri, Gangadwar or Kapuri. It is popularly known as the gateway to gods because it is the gateway to the popular pilgrim sites of Uttarakhand. It is through the city one gets into Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath the famous pilgrim sites in the world.
Haridwar is associated with many sacred things and is considered to be one of the seven sacred places in Hindu religion. It is believed that it is in this place that the people were relieved from the famous sage Kapil’s curse. Prince Bhagirathi performed a penance from this place and a river trickled down from Lord Shiva’s rock. It is this water that salvaged the souls of these people and therefore it is popular among pilgrim tourists who come to bath with the water in order to acquire salvation.
Despite the district being known as a pilgrim destination it is also an interesting place for those who are nature lovers. There are several rivers and streams in the place that serves as tourists attraction sites. Lovers of wildlife will find this as their destination of choice as they will have a chance to visit Rajaji national park that is rich in both fauna and flora.
Tourist cannot also fail to visit this place due to the popular religious festivals which are held throughout the year. The festivals attract masses of tourists who come from all over the world to witness this out spacious events.
The district is also interconnected with good infrastructure that ensures that tourists are able to access all the tourists’ sites easily. There is a domestic airport at Jolly grant airport that is 35 km from Haridwar. The district is also interconnected with a number of national highways and railway stations. Accommodation facilities in the district are of high quality and tourists will cherish their stay in this place.
Tourist Attractions in Haridwar
Har Ki Pauri
It is the most visited site of the holy city. Har ki Pauri is one of the five main holy cities in Haridwar and is associated with so many myths that make it significant as a pilgrim destination. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu appeared in this place during the verdict era. The name is also symbolic with Pauri meaning footsteps and Pauri implying of the lord. The place is named after a belief that there are footprints of the lord at the walls of the river Ganges. Tourists come to this place to touch this water but only under the guidance of the priest.
At this point river Ganges exits the mountains and enters into the plains. This place is considered to be a holy place and tourists from all over the world flock into this place where they dip themselves into the holy water for cleansing of sins.
There are also many rituals that take place in this place. A visit to this place you will find people undertaking initiation rituals, immersion of the ashes of the dead, head tonsuring ritual and prayers appeasing to the ancestors.
The eye catching event in this city is during the evenings prayers. Devotees carry with them large fire bowls in their arms as they offer prayers to different gods. The devotees also offer flowers and earthen lamps to river Ganges. Tourists should not miss to see this wonderful experience that is eye catching and fan to witness.
Daksh Mahadev Temple
This is considered to be the most important temple in the city of Haridwar. The temple is located 6 km from the city of Haridwar and is one of the most ancient temples of lord Shiva. The temple was constructed in 1810 AD by Queen Dhankaur.
The temple is popular among the tourists due to the myth associated with. It is believed that once Daksha Prajapati, the father of the goddess sati organized for Maya Yagna and did not invite his son in law. This provoked the Goddess who could not withstand the insult of her husband to a point that he sacrificed her life in the same fire. The temple is believed to have been built at the same place where the Goddess sacrificed. At the temple there is also a pit that marks the exact place of the sacrificial fire. Tourists from all over the world tour this place just to witness this famous religious site.
Another attraction of this temple is the Idol of Lord Shiva situated at the centre of the temple. This attracts special ceremonies such as Maha Shivaratri, the marriage day of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. The ceremony is accompanied by celebrations which attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world. The temple also receives pilgrims in the month of Sawan (August), believed to be the month of Lord Shiva according to the Hindu calendar. At the temple one can also be able to visit other temples such as Nileshwar Mahadev and Daksha Ghat.
Gurukul Kangri University
The university is located at Haridwar district in the state of Uttarakhand. The university is different from other universities due to the different ancient curriculum offered in the place. This attracts thousands of tourists especially those interested in culture and history.
The university was established as a result of the famous speech that was delivered by Lord Macaulay. In his speech he noted that the university education of India was neglecting the Indian traditions and culture which was paramount in instituting value into the students. The university was therefore established to offer a traditional system of education combined with the modern sciences. The university teaches Vedic and Sanskrit literature.
Another tourist attraction in the university is the Vedi Mandir Museum. The museum preserves archeological items and artifacts. Tourists interested in history should pay a visit to this section of the university which will help one to understand the deep history as well as the culture of the Indian people. Some of these artifacts are old and have a lot of historical meaning about the Indian people and the great emperors who have reigned in the region.
Another popular thing about this university is its location. The university is close to Gange River which is a famous pilgrim sites among tourists. Tourists visiting the university can therefore be able to pay a visit to this wonderful river that carries a lot of religious meaning among the Hindu religion. At the university one can also be able to admire the beauty of this wonderful place of Haridwar.
Triveni Ghat
This is one of the most important religious sites of Rishikesh in the state of Uttarakhand. A tourist can travel from Haridwar to Rishikesh by road or using a train. This place is considered to be the chief bathing Ghat of Rishikesh and tourist are supposed to first take a bath in this holy water before visiting the other holy places in the town.
Triveni Ghat is the convergence of the three holy rivers Yamuna, Ganges and Saraswati. The place is therefore considered to be a holy place according to the Indians who follow Hindu religion. Devotees come to this place to offer prayers as well as milk. Pilgrims believe that this water has the ability to purify sins and therefore tourists visit this place to dip themselves into this water in order to receive salvation and remission of sins.
Another major tourist attraction in this area is the Aarti ceremony held in the evening. The sight of the lamps floating in to the water is a captivating scene. The devotees sit on the step of Ghat holding a blazing plate of ghee. After the sound of drums, bells and prayers they release tiny oil lamps on a leaf boats which floats on the water. The floating lamps are a beautiful view to any tourists who come from all over the world to witness this memorable moment. There are other very many rituals and ceremonies held in this place and therefore tourists interested in understanding the culture of the Indian people should pay a visit.
Sapt Rishi Ashram
The ashram is located at Haridwar in Uttarakhand district. The ashram is five km from the famous place of Har Ki Pauri. The place is highly regarded among the Hindus who believe that the holy Ganges River split into her seven streams from this place. They believe that the great sages meditated from this place. The seven sages as recorded in the Hindu mythology are Kashyapa, Vashisht, Gautam, Jamadagni, Vishwamitra, Bhardwaja and Atri.
This ashram is highly respected among Hindus as it carries a lot of religious meaning in their life. Saints, sages and pilgrims from all over the world visit this place to meditate as they learn good lessons in life.
The place is also popular among tourists due to the Yoga classes held in this ashram. Tourists visiting this place have an opportunity to learn the skills from the most qualified yoga masters in this city. The Yoga classes give one an opportunity to meditate and acquire balance in life. The classes are open to Hindu believers as well as other tourists from all over the world.
Tourists who are seeking for spiritualism should visit this place due to the cool environment in this place that allows you to meditate as you seek to reflect on your spiritual life.
Another aspect that makes this place famous is its accessibility. Tourists can be able to access buses from the bus stand 5.5 km away from the ashram. There is also a railway station close to the place hence tourists have an option of using rail or road.
Wildlife in Haridwar
Tourists visiting Haridwar will not only have an opportunity to visit the religious shrines in the area but they will have a chance to see some of the rare wild animals in the world. Tourists should not miss an opportunity to visit Chila wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary is located 8 km from Haridwar city and a journey to this park is a unique experience altogether. The park occupies an area of 240 sq km and is rich in both fauna and flora.
The park contains 23 different varieties of mammals and 315 species of fauna. Some of the wild animals that can be seen in the park include wild elephants, cobras, leopards, Sambar, tiger, barking deer, jungle cat, wild boar, woodpecker, sloth bear, Langur, Ghural and the Himalayan yellow throated marten.
The park is located at the bank of river Ganges and therefore tourists who enjoy fishing can do so in that river. However, before fishing tourists are advised to get permission from the administration. Another popular adventure includes elephant riding. It is one memorable experience for any tourists who visit this place.
The park is also a home to many species of birds. Tourists who love bird watching will love the experience in this place. Another popular thing about the park is the forest at the park. Tourists can move around the park admiring the greenery of the forest as well as enjoying the cool serene environment around the park. The most ideal time to visit the park is from mid-November to mid-June.
Fairs and Festivals
The city of Haridwar is known all over the world due to the fairs and festivals associated with the place. Haridwar is commonly regarded as a holy city and therefore people from this area hold very many religious festivals. These festivals attract thousands of tourists who flock into this city to witness these events. The enthusiasm of this people while they are holding these festivals is another aspect of admiration while on this land. These festivals include:
Kumbh Mela
The festivals take part after every twelve years and they are accompanied with great joy. From legends it is believed that nectar (Amrit) was to give powers to either gods or the demons to become immortal. Hindus believe that some of the nectar fell down when the two were fighting. One of the places where the nectar fell down was Haridwar. Hindus come to this place during this festival in order to be cleansed from their sins.
Ganga Dussehra
The festival is celebrated in the tenth day in the month of Jyestha according to the Hindu calendar. The Hindu believes that the sacred river Ganges descended on earth on this day. During this time those who are physically unwell are given this water which is believed to have healing powers. This festival attracts thousands of tourists who come looking for salvation from this water.
Other notable festivals celebrated in this land include Holi, Diwali, kartik Purnima and many others. An experience of these festivals helps one to understand the rich culture of this people as well as their religion.
Adventure in Rishikesh
Despite the city being famous due to its religious sites the city is also a home to a number of adventures. The place is a wonderful place for various adventures such as water rafting, trekking and camping.
Water Rafting
This is done in the white waters of Ganges River, the river that is considered to be holy. The experience of riding in this wild water is just fantastic. Tourists need to have life jacket while rafting in this water in order to avoid any accidents that may occur. The sport is mainly carried out in the tributaries of Ganga River and requires professional qualification. This sport is mostly admired by tourists and gives a terrific experience to the participants.
Trekking
This is another adventure that tourists can participate in while in Rishikesh. Trekking is done in the great Himalayan Mountains through routes such as Rishikesh to Joshimath. The sport helps one to explore the wonderful Himalayan ranges.
Paragliding
For those tourists who wish to fly like eagles they should pay a visit to Rishikesh. An experience of this sport in the open sky of Rishikesh is a terrific experience that would make your stay in this place a memorable experience.
Camping
Along river Ganga there are quite a number of camping facilities. As tourists engage in various adventure sports they are given an opportunity to camp in this wonderful place. The camping facilities are of different standards to ensure that they are affordable and comfortable. Tourist will be able to enjoy their stay in this place as they take a rest from the normal routines of life.
Best Hotels in Haridwar
Park View Hotel
It is a three star hotel located in Haridwar town. The hotel is situated at Haridwar-Rishikesh highway five kilometres from the railway station hence it is easily accessible. Just as the name suggests, the hotel offers some of the best picturesque of Rajaji national park from some guest rooms.
The hotel contains 30 modern rooms which are fitted with modern facilities such as air conditioner, hot and cold shower, mineral water in bottles, room service, multi channel TV, direct phone calls.
The hotel also offers wedding/ conferences facilities with guests served with high quality food. The wedding hall can hold 300 persons, while the conference hall has a capacity of 150 persons.
One can dine with different varieties of food which are served in the hotel. There is the china, India and continental food. The staffs in the hotel are disciplined and offer the best services which match the standard of this hotel.
Godwin Hotel Haridwar
The hotel is approximately four kilometres from Haridwar town and offers one of the most luxurious rooms in the town. The hotel is located close to some of the most famous tourist’s site of Haridwar and Rishikesh hence making a preferred destination for all kinds of tourists.
The four star hotel has 120 rooms which are divided into different categories. There are executive, premiere, queen twin rooms and presidential suites. The rooms are equipped with different facilities such as air conditioning, cable and satellite TV, telephone, Wi-Fi internet connection, kitchenette, refrigerator, fruit basket, tea/coffee maker, newspaper, bathrooms equipped with all bathroom amenities and hot/cold showers. The hotel also offers honey moon rooms which are designed to fit the needs of couples in honeymoon.
Other facilities offered in the hotel include business/conferences facilities, swimming pools, health club, baby-sitting, physically challenged facilities, laundry services and tour guide services which are chargeable.
Hotel Ambrosia Sarovar Portico – Haridwar
Is one of the best known hotels in this city. The hotel is located at Haridwar Roorkee highway and is an ideal place to business travelers as well as tourists on vacation. This is because the hotel is located at very strategic place that is cool and serene. The hotel has facilities to host weddings, business meetings and conferences as well as enjoying on their high standard food and beverages.
The hotel offers the best accommodation facilities in the city. There are 70 elegantly furnished rooms and suites fitted with modern facilities to enhance a comfortable stay to all their visitors. All the rooms have facilities such coffee/tea maker, electronic safe, 24 hours room service, writing desk, air conditioning, cold/ hot shower, bathroom amenities, satellite TV and Wi-Fi internet connection.
Other facilities offered in the hotel include a health club, spa, tour and travel desk and restaurant.
Haveli Ganga Hotel
The hotel is strategically located close to the wonderful attraction sites of Haridwar. The three star hotel is situated at the bank of river Ganga the holy river and 500 meters from Har Ki Pauri pilgrim site. It stands at the gateway to Dev Bhumi the abode of gods.
There are 20 spacious well-appointed rooms in the hotel that guarantees comfort to all the visitors. The rooms are air conditioned and accompanied with private bathrooms which are accessible any time of the day. All the rooms give a good picturesque of the Ganges River. All the rooms have a multi-channel TV and a direct dial phone.
Other facilities which can be enjoyed in the hotel include spa, massage and other therapies, steam room and a coffee shop. At the dining area of the hotel guests can be served with Indian or continental cuisines. There are also a variety of beverages for tourists to choose from.
Hotel Hari Heritage
The hotel is located in the Rishikesh highway close to the famous Shantikunj. The hotel is strategically located and offers high standards facilities that make it a suitable choice for any tourist who minds about comfort and luxury.
The hotel has a total number of 25 rooms which are divided into different categories. There are 7 deluxe, 5 super deluxe, 3 premium, 3 executive, 6 royal and one family room. All the rooms are well equipped with some standardized amenities such as flat screen TV, work desk, newspaper, bathroom showers and a direct dial telephone. Some of the rooms have private balconies that allow you to relax as you admire the beauty of this wonderful town.
Other facilities offered in the hotel include pick and drop facility, 24 hours power backup, 24 hours room service, credit card facilities, travel assistance, conference and banquet facilities and a good parking space.
Tourist Map Information of Haridwar City
This city is located in the state Uttarakhand in northern part of India. The city is 214 km from Delhi the capital city of India and 386 km from Agra. The city is considered to be the religious city of India due to the temples and other religious sites in the city.
The city is well connected with air, train and road. The nearest domestic airport is Jolly Grant located in Dehradun town. From this place one can pick a taxi cab that can take you to the city of Haridwar. The only international airport close to the city is Delhi. Tourists using this international airport can access the city by road or on rail. The national high way no 45 connects the city with Delhi the capital city. There is also a railway station that can take you to the city conveniently. The national highway and other motorable roads connect the city to other different cities in India.
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