Haridwar -Gateway to gods
A paradise for nature-lovers, Haridwar presents kaleidoscope of Indian culture and civilization. Haridwar also termed as ‘Gateway to Gods’ is known as Mayapuri, Kapila, Gangadwar as well. The followers of Lord Shiva(Har) and followers of Lord Vishnu(Hari) pronounce this place Hardwar and Hardwar respectively as told by some. It is also a point of entry to Dev Bhoomi and Char Dham (Four main centers of pilgrimage in Uttarakhand) Viz. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.
Legendary king Bhagirath is said to have brought the river Ganga from heaven to earth in order to provide salvation to his ancestors. It is also said that Haridwar has been sanctified by the presence of three Gods; Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Lord Vishnu is said to have his foot print on the stone that is set in the upper wall of Har-Ki-Pauri where the Holy Ganga touches it all the times . Devout believers feel that they can go to heaven by getting their salvation after a dip in the sacred Ganga at Haridwar.
Haridwar is also one of the four places; where Kumbh Mela occurs after rotation of every twelve Years and Ardh Kumbh after every six years. It is said that drops of Amrit (Elixir) fell in to the Brahmkund of Har-Ki-Pauri, therefore considered that a dip in the Brahmakund on this particular day which is very auspicious and when Jupiter (Brahaspati) comes to the sign Aquarius (Kumbh) once in every twelve years the Maha Kumbh fair is celebrated at Haridwar. Yet beyond the mystic aura and mythology, Haridwar casts another magic spell on the visitor. Being one of the oldest living cities, Haridwar finds its mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as it waves through the life and time stretching from the period of the Buudha to the more recent British advent. Haridwar has not only remained the abode of the weary in body, mind and spirit, but also served as centre of attraction for many, for learning the arts science and culture. Haridwar’s long standing position as a great source for Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies as well as its unique Gurukul school of traditional education, the scenic beauty and lush greenery…all give the city unique flavors and charm; a must among the sojourn centers in a discoverer’s intinary of Uttarakhand – A destination for all seasons.
Hotspots of Haridwar
The temple, also known as Bilwa Tirth is one of the Panch Tirth (Five Pilgrimages) within Haridwar.
Har Ki Pauri is a major landmark place and a famous ghat on the banks of river Ganga in Haridwar.
One of the Places to visit in Haridwar is Maya Devi Temple which is dedicated to Goddess Maya Devi.
Saptarishi( the Seven Sages) Ashram derived its name from the Hindu mythology as per which seven great sages.
Known as one of the quieter, solitary ghats at Haridwar, the Birla Ghat is one of the oldest ghats in the pilgrim city.
Daksha Mahadev Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the town of Kankhal, Haridwar Uttarakhand India.
Chandi Devi temple, built by Adi Shankaracharya in 8th century A.D is one of the most ancient temples of north India
The temple is one of the oldest doms in the state of Uttarakhand. The ornamental Idols are the biggest attraction within the shrine.
Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is a famous Bird Sanctuary in Haridwar. It is located on main Ganges on the Bhimgoda Barrage.
Rajaji National Park is an Indian national park and tiger reserve that encompasses the Shivaliks, near the foothills of the Himalayas.
Accomodations
Hotel Ganga Heights
Located within 1.7 km of Mansa Devi Temple and less than 1 km of Har Ki Pauri..
Hotel Himalaya
Located in Haridwar, it is minutes far from Hemkund Lake and Har Ki Pauri.
Hotel Shivaye
The Shivaye is situated at a short distance from the extraordinary landmark of Haridwar, the Hari Ki Pudi.