Best tourist places of Haridwar
Jun 15, 2024, 12:48 IST
Haridwar, located in the state of Uttarakhand, India, is one of the holiest cities for Hindus and a popular tourist destination. It is known for its temples, ghats, and the sacred Ganges River. Here are some of the best tourist places to visit in Haridwar:
1. Har Ki Pauri
- Significance: One of the most famous ghats in Haridwar, believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu left his footprint.
- Activities: Attend the Ganga Aarti, a daily evening ritual that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists. It is a mesmerizing sight with the river lit up by floating diyas (lamps).
2. Chandi Devi Temple
- Significance: Dedicated to Goddess Chandi, the temple is situated atop the Neel Parvat on the Eastern summit of the Shivalik Hills.
- Access: You can reach the temple by a 3 km trek or by a cable car ride, known as Chandi Devi Udankhatola.
3. Mansa Devi Temple
- Significance: Another prominent temple, dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, located on the Bilwa Parvat.
- Access: Accessible by a ropeway or a trek, offering panoramic views of the city and the Ganges River.
4. Maya Devi Temple
- Significance: One of the Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Maya Devi, who is believed to be an incarnation of Shakti.
- History: This ancient temple is considered to be the place where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell.
5. Daksha Mahadev Temple
- Significance: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is named after King Daksha Prajapati, the father of Sati (Shiva’s first wife).
- History: The temple holds a significant place in Hindu mythology and is an important pilgrimage site.
6. Sapta Rishi Ashram and Sapta Sarovar
- Significance: According to legend, seven great sages (Saptarishis) meditated here, and the Ganges split into seven streams to avoid disturbing them.
- Activities: A peaceful spot for meditation and reflection.
7. Shanti Kunj
- Significance: The headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar, a spiritual and social organization.
- Activities: Participate in spiritual activities, meditation, and learn about the teachings of the Gayatri Pariwar.
8. Patanjali Yogpeeth
- Significance: One of the largest yoga institutes in India, founded by Baba Ramdev.
- Activities: Attend yoga classes, Ayurvedic treatments, and explore the herbal garden and research facilities.
9. Rajaji National Park
- Significance: A large national park and tiger reserve located near Haridwar.
- Activities: Go for wildlife safaris, bird watching, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Shivalik range.
10. Bhimgoda Kund
- Significance: A water tank associated with the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata.
- History: It is believed that Bhima, the second Pandava, struck his knee on the ground to bring out water from the rocks.
11. Vaishno Devi Temple
- Significance: A replica of the Vaishno Devi temple in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Activities: Experience the trek to the temple and the serene environment around it.
12. Gurukul Kangri University
- Significance: An institution of higher learning that was founded in 1902 to revive the ancient Indian Gurukul system.
- Activities: Visit the university campus and museum which showcases archaeological findings and artifacts.
13. Swami Vivekanand Park
- Significance: A serene park dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, offering a peaceful environment.
- Activities: Ideal for relaxing walks and enjoying the view of the Har Ki Pauri ghat.
14. Parad Shivling
- Significance: A unique Shivling made of mercury, housed in Harihar Ashram.
- Activities: Visit the ashram to see this rare and sacred object.
These sites offer a mix of spirituality, history, natural beauty, and adventure, making Haridwar a diverse and captivating destination for travelers.