Best tourist places of Haridwar

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.