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Haridwar
Haridwar (also known as Hardwar) is a holy city in the state of Uttaranchal in northern India. Haridwar is located on the foot hills of Shivaliks. It is on the banks of River Ganga. The Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains with Haridwar being the first major town on the plains. Haridwar is also known as the Gateway to the Gods, Haridwar is considered one of the seven holiest places according to Hindus, as the devas are said to have left their footprints there. Here pilgrims float diyas on the Ganges, to commemorate their deceased ancestors. The city also stands as a gateway to three other important pilgrimage destinations: Rishikesh, Badrinath, and Kedarnath. In Haridwar you will see a great statue of Shiva at the fork of the river. If you are there for a short visit, it is definitely worth to visit the temple on top of the mountain, with a wonderful view.
Though the Ganges does not lose its rapids completely nevertheless it becomes very quite and calm here. The water is clean and people prefer taking bath on the numerous ghats built on the river shores. It is said that taking bath here purifies the soul and opens the way for the ultimate freedom, Nirvana.
Haridwar has earned fame as being the place which has been blessed by the trinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. It is also one of the major Shaktipeeths.
Haridwar has since ages been a source of Ayurvedic medicines and has been providing herbal remedies. Haridwar one of the first towns to be developed on Ganges is still lush and green with forest and trees. With Rajaji Park in the vicinity Haridwar has also been the destination for the wildlife and nature lovers. The city acquires a unique charm in the evening when the ghats become breath takingly beautiful with thousands of Diyas and Marigold floating in the waters of Ganges.
Haridwar has very rich ancient religious and cultural heritage. In the ancient scriptures of India, this place is well known by the name of Mayapur. This city is also well known for many other things apart from the holy river Ganges. Haridwar has privilege of having IIT at Roorkee, formerly known as University of Roorkee, founded in 1847 as a first technical institute of India. The city has one of the "navratna PSUs of India" i.e BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals India Ltd.). The tomb Piran Kaliar of Shabir Shahib in Roorkee is a living example of religious harmony in India which is visited by the people of all religious sects from all over the world. There is another University in the city called Gurukul Kangri Vishva Vidyalaya apart from the head quarter of Uttaranchal State Public Service Commission also being established at Haridwar. Besides this, Kumbh fair is organized at the interval of every 12 years in this city in which about 1 crore pilgrims from all over the world participate.
Though the Ganges does not lose its rapids completely nevertheless it becomes very quite and calm here. The water is clean and people prefer taking bath on the numerous ghats built on the river shores. It is said that taking bath here purifies the soul and opens the way for the ultimate freedom, Nirvana.
Haridwar has earned fame as being the place which has been blessed by the trinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. It is also one of the major Shaktipeeths.
Haridwar has since ages been a source of Ayurvedic medicines and has been providing herbal remedies. Haridwar one of the first towns to be developed on Ganges is still lush and green with forest and trees. With Rajaji Park in the vicinity Haridwar has also been the destination for the wildlife and nature lovers. The city acquires a unique charm in the evening when the ghats become breath takingly beautiful with thousands of Diyas and Marigold floating in the waters of Ganges.
Haridwar has very rich ancient religious and cultural heritage. In the ancient scriptures of India, this place is well known by the name of Mayapur. This city is also well known for many other things apart from the holy river Ganges. Haridwar has privilege of having IIT at Roorkee, formerly known as University of Roorkee, founded in 1847 as a first technical institute of India. The city has one of the "navratna PSUs of India" i.e BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals India Ltd.). The tomb Piran Kaliar of Shabir Shahib in Roorkee is a living example of religious harmony in India which is visited by the people of all religious sects from all over the world. There is another University in the city called Gurukul Kangri Vishva Vidyalaya apart from the head quarter of Uttaranchal State Public Service Commission also being established at Haridwar. Besides this, Kumbh fair is organized at the interval of every 12 years in this city in which about 1 crore pilgrims from all over the world participate.
| State | : | Uttrankhand |
| Location | : | Haridwar District |
| District Area | : | 2360 sq km |
| Altitude | : | 249.7 meters |
| Population | : | approx. 14,44,213 |
| Literacy | : | 70% |
| STD Code | : | 0133 |
| Best time to visit | : | September to June |
| Rainfall | : | Between 18.0 to 1140.0 (mm/month) |
| Temperature | : | Summer: 40°C Max, 15°C Min Winter: 17°C Max, 6°C Min |
| Climate | : | Hot in summers and Cold in winters |
| Clothing | : | Summer: Light cottons Winter: Woolens |
| Local Languages | : | Hindi, Punjabi, Garhwali and English |
Har Ki Pauri (1.5 km)
This sacred Ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. It is believed that Bhartrihari eventually came to Haridwar to meditate by the banks of holy Ganga. When he died, his brother constructed a Ghat in his name which later came to be known as Hari-Ki-Pari. This sacred bathing ghat is also known as Brahmakund. The reflection of golden hues of floral diyas in the river Ganga is the most enchanting sight in the twilight during the Ganga Arti ceremony . Attending the Ganga Arti which is performed here everyday after sunset is an unforgettable experience as most of the tourists say.
Chandi Devi (6 km)
The temple of Chandi Devi atop the Neel Parvat on the other bank of river Ganga was constructed in 1929 A.D. by the king of Kashmir- Suchat Singh. It is a 3 km trek from Chandighat. Legend has it that the army chief Chanda-Munda of a local demon King Shumbh- Nishumbha was killed by goddess Chandi here after which the place got the name Chandi Devi . It is believed that the main statue was established by the Adi Shankracharya in 8th century A.D. One can reach here by Trolley through ropeway or on foot. Ph. no. of 'Udan Khatola' (Ropeway) is 01334-220324, Time-8.30 AM to 6 PM.
Mansa Devi Temple (3.5 km)
The temple of Goddess Mansa Devi is situated at the top of Bilwa Parwat. Here one statue of the Goddess has three mouths and five arms while the other statue has eight arms. The beautiful view of the city can be seen from this place. The temple can be reached by trolley through ropeway or on foot.
Kavand Mela
The fair is held ten days before Shivteras, during the Hindu months of Shravan & Phalgun.
Daksha Mahadev Temple (4 km)
The ancient temple of Daksha Mahadev is situated in the south Kankhal town. The mythological story about this place is that King Daksha Prajapati, father of Sati (Lord Shiva 's first wife) performed yagya at this place. Daksha Prajapati did not invite Lord Shiva and Sati felt insulted . Therefore she burnt herself in the yagya Kund. This incident provoked the disciples and followers of Mahadev who killed King Daksha, but later on Lord Mahadev (Shiva) brought him back to life. Daksha Mahadev temple is thus a tribute to this legend. The Daksha temple is an attribute to this legend. This place is one of the five sacred places in Haridwar.
Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Srovar (7 km)
It is said that Ganga had split herself in seven currents at this place so that the Sapt(seven) Rishis worshipping there would not be disturbed. This place is known as the Sapt Rishi and provides a very pleasing sight.
Maya Devi
It is one of the Shaktipeeths in India. This ancient temple of Maya Devi is also the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar. It is said that when Lord Shiva was carrying his wife Sati, who had burnt her self to keep the honour of her husband, then the heart and navel of Sati had fallen at this place.
Gurukul Kangri University (4 Km)
This university is known for its unique system of education. It is located on the Haridwar-Jwalapur bypass road. This old institution follows the ancient tradition of Guru-Sishya pattern of education. The institution also has the Ved Mandir Museum which is has a very good collection of archaeological exhibits and displays artifacts which are of historical value.
Bhimgoda Tank
This tank is at a distance of about 1 km from Harki Pairi. It is said that while Pandavas were going to Himalayas through Haridwar, Bhim made this tank with the blow of his knee.
Parad Shivling (2 Km)
Situated in Harihar Ashram, Kankhasl. Shivling weighing about 150 kg and Rudraksha tree are main attractions here.
Beauty Point
On the Mansa Devi temple road, about two kilometer from Haridwar is a point which provides an excellent view of Haridwar and the near by greenery. This place is called the beauty point as the sight from here of the surrounding is very exciting and enthralling.
Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar
This place is an enchanting bird watching point particularly during the winters. There are various species of birds which can be spotted here. Around Laljiwala on the banks of river Ganges one can expect the Siberian Cranes, which are one of the prized visitor to this Pakshi Vihar.
Excursions - Places around Haridwar
Rishikesh
24 kms from Haridwar is Rishikesh. This place is known as the Tapo Bhumi or the place for meditation of the Gods. Rishikesh is one of the best located pilgrimage centers along the right bank of the Ganga. The holy river emerging from high mountains not far from here, runs deep and silent through the thickly wooded hills of the Tehri that straddle this region. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty and undiscovered wildlife await here. Not to mention the peace and tranquility of a landscape associated with 'munis' and meditation. Today Rishikesh has become a center for learning and research in yoga and meditation- the renowned Indian methods for mental and physical health. The week-long International Yoga festival which attracts participation from all across the world is held here annually in the month of February on the banks of serene Ganga.
Dehradun
This hill station is located in the Shivalik hills. Just 54 kms from Haridwar. The thick woods and scenic beauty of the place is enough to capture the imagination of any tourist. A place liked by many retired civil and defense officers to settle down, now the capital city of newly formed Uttaranchal state is known for many central govt. institutes of national importance and is also a place worth visiting.
Mussoorie
The queen of hill stations, the city with Mall, is just 89 kms from Haridwar. The salubrious climate and deep woods makes it an ideal hill station.
Piran Kalier
On the outskirts of Roorkee is the Dargah of Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahmed 'Sabir'. It is a must for any visitor to visit this place. The place is known as Piran Kalier and is located 23 kms South of Haridwar. This Dargah is famed for its mystical powers and is visited in large numbers both by Hindus and Muslims. In fact this place is an living example of Hindu-Muslim unity. During the Rabeeull month of Islamic calender, an Urs is celebrated from the first day of sighting the moon to the sixteenth day.
Chila
At Chila is located the Rajaji National Park a popular destination for nature and adventure lovers. The pristine scenic beauty and rich biodiversity of the park has been attracting wildlife lovers from India and abroad The park has 23 species of mammals and about 315 avifauna species.
Rajaji National Park
Haridwar is also a popular destination for nature and adventure lovers. The Rajaji National Park is about 820 sq. km. in area; attracts wildlife lovers with its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio diversity. Three sanctuaries of the Shivalik range of western U.P. -Rajaji, Motichur and Chilla were amalgamated into a large protected area and named Rajaji National Park in year 1983It has 23 species of mammals and 315 avifauna species. One may watch a herd of elephants roaming majestically in the jungle or may find oneself excited by wildlife of many kinds including tigers, leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan yellow throated marten, samber, cheetal, barking deer, wild boar, langoor, ghural, sloth beer, king cobra, woodpecker etc. The river shelters fish in abundance. For further information on the subject, one may contact the Director's office, 5/1 Ansari Marg, Dehradun-248001, Phone no. 0135-621669.
Sureshwari Devi
This is a temple of Goddess Durga. Situated in the peaceful forest area of Rajaji National park.
Kodiyala
The place is very popular for rafting loving tourists. Known for turbulent white water.
Deoprayag
This is again one of the sacred places for the Hindus. At this place the aggressive Alaknanda merges with the gentle flowing Bhagirathi. The place is 95 kms from Haridwar.
This sacred Ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. It is believed that Bhartrihari eventually came to Haridwar to meditate by the banks of holy Ganga. When he died, his brother constructed a Ghat in his name which later came to be known as Hari-Ki-Pari. This sacred bathing ghat is also known as Brahmakund. The reflection of golden hues of floral diyas in the river Ganga is the most enchanting sight in the twilight during the Ganga Arti ceremony . Attending the Ganga Arti which is performed here everyday after sunset is an unforgettable experience as most of the tourists say.
Chandi Devi (6 km)
The temple of Chandi Devi atop the Neel Parvat on the other bank of river Ganga was constructed in 1929 A.D. by the king of Kashmir- Suchat Singh. It is a 3 km trek from Chandighat. Legend has it that the army chief Chanda-Munda of a local demon King Shumbh- Nishumbha was killed by goddess Chandi here after which the place got the name Chandi Devi . It is believed that the main statue was established by the Adi Shankracharya in 8th century A.D. One can reach here by Trolley through ropeway or on foot. Ph. no. of 'Udan Khatola' (Ropeway) is 01334-220324, Time-8.30 AM to 6 PM.
Mansa Devi Temple (3.5 km)
The temple of Goddess Mansa Devi is situated at the top of Bilwa Parwat. Here one statue of the Goddess has three mouths and five arms while the other statue has eight arms. The beautiful view of the city can be seen from this place. The temple can be reached by trolley through ropeway or on foot.
Kavand Mela
The fair is held ten days before Shivteras, during the Hindu months of Shravan & Phalgun.
Daksha Mahadev Temple (4 km)
The ancient temple of Daksha Mahadev is situated in the south Kankhal town. The mythological story about this place is that King Daksha Prajapati, father of Sati (Lord Shiva 's first wife) performed yagya at this place. Daksha Prajapati did not invite Lord Shiva and Sati felt insulted . Therefore she burnt herself in the yagya Kund. This incident provoked the disciples and followers of Mahadev who killed King Daksha, but later on Lord Mahadev (Shiva) brought him back to life. Daksha Mahadev temple is thus a tribute to this legend. The Daksha temple is an attribute to this legend. This place is one of the five sacred places in Haridwar.
Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Srovar (7 km)
It is said that Ganga had split herself in seven currents at this place so that the Sapt(seven) Rishis worshipping there would not be disturbed. This place is known as the Sapt Rishi and provides a very pleasing sight.
Maya Devi
It is one of the Shaktipeeths in India. This ancient temple of Maya Devi is also the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar. It is said that when Lord Shiva was carrying his wife Sati, who had burnt her self to keep the honour of her husband, then the heart and navel of Sati had fallen at this place.
Gurukul Kangri University (4 Km)
This university is known for its unique system of education. It is located on the Haridwar-Jwalapur bypass road. This old institution follows the ancient tradition of Guru-Sishya pattern of education. The institution also has the Ved Mandir Museum which is has a very good collection of archaeological exhibits and displays artifacts which are of historical value.
Bhimgoda Tank
This tank is at a distance of about 1 km from Harki Pairi. It is said that while Pandavas were going to Himalayas through Haridwar, Bhim made this tank with the blow of his knee.
Parad Shivling (2 Km)
Situated in Harihar Ashram, Kankhasl. Shivling weighing about 150 kg and Rudraksha tree are main attractions here.
Beauty Point
On the Mansa Devi temple road, about two kilometer from Haridwar is a point which provides an excellent view of Haridwar and the near by greenery. This place is called the beauty point as the sight from here of the surrounding is very exciting and enthralling.
Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar
This place is an enchanting bird watching point particularly during the winters. There are various species of birds which can be spotted here. Around Laljiwala on the banks of river Ganges one can expect the Siberian Cranes, which are one of the prized visitor to this Pakshi Vihar.
Excursions - Places around Haridwar
Rishikesh
24 kms from Haridwar is Rishikesh. This place is known as the Tapo Bhumi or the place for meditation of the Gods. Rishikesh is one of the best located pilgrimage centers along the right bank of the Ganga. The holy river emerging from high mountains not far from here, runs deep and silent through the thickly wooded hills of the Tehri that straddle this region. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty and undiscovered wildlife await here. Not to mention the peace and tranquility of a landscape associated with 'munis' and meditation. Today Rishikesh has become a center for learning and research in yoga and meditation- the renowned Indian methods for mental and physical health. The week-long International Yoga festival which attracts participation from all across the world is held here annually in the month of February on the banks of serene Ganga.
Dehradun
This hill station is located in the Shivalik hills. Just 54 kms from Haridwar. The thick woods and scenic beauty of the place is enough to capture the imagination of any tourist. A place liked by many retired civil and defense officers to settle down, now the capital city of newly formed Uttaranchal state is known for many central govt. institutes of national importance and is also a place worth visiting.
Mussoorie
The queen of hill stations, the city with Mall, is just 89 kms from Haridwar. The salubrious climate and deep woods makes it an ideal hill station.
Piran Kalier
On the outskirts of Roorkee is the Dargah of Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahmed 'Sabir'. It is a must for any visitor to visit this place. The place is known as Piran Kalier and is located 23 kms South of Haridwar. This Dargah is famed for its mystical powers and is visited in large numbers both by Hindus and Muslims. In fact this place is an living example of Hindu-Muslim unity. During the Rabeeull month of Islamic calender, an Urs is celebrated from the first day of sighting the moon to the sixteenth day.
Chila
At Chila is located the Rajaji National Park a popular destination for nature and adventure lovers. The pristine scenic beauty and rich biodiversity of the park has been attracting wildlife lovers from India and abroad The park has 23 species of mammals and about 315 avifauna species.
Rajaji National Park
Haridwar is also a popular destination for nature and adventure lovers. The Rajaji National Park is about 820 sq. km. in area; attracts wildlife lovers with its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio diversity. Three sanctuaries of the Shivalik range of western U.P. -Rajaji, Motichur and Chilla were amalgamated into a large protected area and named Rajaji National Park in year 1983It has 23 species of mammals and 315 avifauna species. One may watch a herd of elephants roaming majestically in the jungle or may find oneself excited by wildlife of many kinds including tigers, leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan yellow throated marten, samber, cheetal, barking deer, wild boar, langoor, ghural, sloth beer, king cobra, woodpecker etc. The river shelters fish in abundance. For further information on the subject, one may contact the Director's office, 5/1 Ansari Marg, Dehradun-248001, Phone no. 0135-621669.
Sureshwari Devi
This is a temple of Goddess Durga. Situated in the peaceful forest area of Rajaji National park.
Kodiyala
The place is very popular for rafting loving tourists. Known for turbulent white water.
Deoprayag
This is again one of the sacred places for the Hindus. At this place the aggressive Alaknanda merges with the gentle flowing Bhagirathi. The place is 95 kms from Haridwar.
The climate in this holy religious place is temperate all through the year. Summer (March – May) has a temperature band of 15°C to 40°C. Winter is little chilly with minimum night temperature of about 6°C. The day temperature in winter never crosses 17°C, making the season pleasant and sunny.
Haridwar hosts many religious festivals as a place of religious significance. Ramanavami (March-April), Buddha Poornima (May), Kanwar Mela (July), Karthika Poornima (November) and Diwali (October) are some festivals celebrated here with much festivities. It is estimated that nearly 3 million people attends Kanwar Mela in July.
It can be visited anytime of the year, monsoon can make commute difficult.
Haridwar hosts many religious festivals as a place of religious significance. Ramanavami (March-April), Buddha Poornima (May), Kanwar Mela (July), Karthika Poornima (November) and Diwali (October) are some festivals celebrated here with much festivities. It is estimated that nearly 3 million people attends Kanwar Mela in July.
It can be visited anytime of the year, monsoon can make commute difficult.
By Air:
Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is a domestic airport located at about just 20 km away from city center and 35 Kms from Haridwar. Taxi cabs are available from airport to Haridwar city, which cost about Rs 400. The airport operates daily flights to Delhi. Nearest International airport is Delhi, which is about 200 km away. Delhi airport is well connected to most of the domestic airports and foreign airports.
By Railway:
Haridwar is well connected to the major cities of India with regular and express trains. The major trains are 4309/4310 Ujjain-Haridwar-Dehradun, 2019/2020 Bombay-Haridwar-Dehradun, 4041/4042 Delhi-Haridwar-Dehradun, 4265/4266 Varanasi to Haridwar to Dehradun, 3009/3010 Howrah-Haridwar-Dehradun, 2017/2018 Delhi to Haridwar-Dehradun (Shatabdi Ex.),4213/4214 Allahabad-Haridwar-Dehradun (Link ex.), 5005/5006 Gorakhpur-Haridwar-Dehradun, 4711/4712 Sri Ganganagar-Hardwar.
By Road:
Haridwar is well connected by tourist bus services and state owned bus services. All cities in and around Haridwar are connected by state buses. Many deluxe buses are available at a regular interval from Delhi to Haridwar with a fare less than Rs 500 per head. It lies on the National Highway no. 45 and road network is good. The distances in km from some cities are Delhi-214, Agra-386, Ambala-168, Badrinath-325, Dehradun-52, Kedarnath-250, Saharanpur-81, Nainital-386. There are regular buses from Delhi in every 30 minutes. You can take the Delhi Transport Corporation(DTC) or private deluxe coaches.
Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is a domestic airport located at about just 20 km away from city center and 35 Kms from Haridwar. Taxi cabs are available from airport to Haridwar city, which cost about Rs 400. The airport operates daily flights to Delhi. Nearest International airport is Delhi, which is about 200 km away. Delhi airport is well connected to most of the domestic airports and foreign airports.
By Railway:
Haridwar is well connected to the major cities of India with regular and express trains. The major trains are 4309/4310 Ujjain-Haridwar-Dehradun, 2019/2020 Bombay-Haridwar-Dehradun, 4041/4042 Delhi-Haridwar-Dehradun, 4265/4266 Varanasi to Haridwar to Dehradun, 3009/3010 Howrah-Haridwar-Dehradun, 2017/2018 Delhi to Haridwar-Dehradun (Shatabdi Ex.),4213/4214 Allahabad-Haridwar-Dehradun (Link ex.), 5005/5006 Gorakhpur-Haridwar-Dehradun, 4711/4712 Sri Ganganagar-Hardwar.
By Road:
Haridwar is well connected by tourist bus services and state owned bus services. All cities in and around Haridwar are connected by state buses. Many deluxe buses are available at a regular interval from Delhi to Haridwar with a fare less than Rs 500 per head. It lies on the National Highway no. 45 and road network is good. The distances in km from some cities are Delhi-214, Agra-386, Ambala-168, Badrinath-325, Dehradun-52, Kedarnath-250, Saharanpur-81, Nainital-386. There are regular buses from Delhi in every 30 minutes. You can take the Delhi Transport Corporation(DTC) or private deluxe coaches.
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