Home / Destinations / Haridwar
Haridwar
Uttarakhand, India Pilgrimage Gateway Best: Sep - Apr 4.7 / 5 Rating
Sacred Ganga ghat
Evening river ritual
Hilltop temple by ropeway
Ancient Shakti shrine
Start of the yatra
Himalayan wildlife nearby
Haridwar, meaning the Gateway to God, is one of the seven holiest places for Hindus and the point where the sacred Ganga leaves the Himalayan foothills and enters the plains. It is the gateway to the Char Dham pilgrimage of Uttarakhand.
The spiritual heartbeat of the city is Har Ki Pauri, the revered ghat where the evening Ganga Aarti draws thousands of devotees who release lamps onto the flowing river. The chants, bells and floating diyas create an atmosphere of pure devotion.
Surrounded by the temples of Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi perched on the hills, and famous as a host of the great Kumbh Mela, Haridwar blends timeless ritual with the fresh mountain air of the Himalayas.
| State | Uttarakhand |
| District | Haridwar |
| Language | Hindi, Garhwali |
| Best Season | September - April |
| Famous For | Har Ki Pauri, Ganga Aarti, Kumbh Mela |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (35 km) |
| Nearest Railway | Haridwar Junction |
| Ideal Duration | 1 - 2 Days |
The most sacred ghat of Haridwar, believed to bear the footprint of Lord Vishnu. The nightly Ganga Aarti here is the soul of the city.
A hilltop temple reached by a scenic ropeway, dedicated to the wish-fulfilling goddess Mansa Devi, with sweeping views over the city.
An ancient Shakti Peeth on Neel Parvat, reached by ropeway or a trek, dedicated to the goddess Chandi.
One of the oldest temples in Haridwar and a revered Shakti Peeth, dedicated to the presiding deity of the city.
A short drive away, home to elephants, tigers and rich Himalayan birdlife - a natural escape from the pilgrim crowds.
A vast modern centre for yoga, Ayurveda and wellness, drawing visitors from across the world.
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED) is the nearest, about 35 km away, with flights from Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities.
Haridwar Junction is a major railhead directly connected to Delhi (4-5 hrs), Rishikesh, Dehradun and many cities across India.
On NH-334, Haridwar is ~220 km from Delhi (5-6 hrs). Rishikesh is just ~25 km (45 min). Regular buses and taxis are available.
Haridwar is pleasant for most of the year; the months after the monsoon and through spring are ideal for the aarti, temple visits and nearby excursions.
.jpg)
.jpg)
The Har Ki Pauri aarti gave me goosebumps. The ropeway to Mansa Devi was a highlight for the kids. Beautifully arranged trip.
Cold but magical evenings by the Ganga. The hotel was walking distance from the ghat which made everything convenient.
Perfect start to our Char Dham journey. Smooth transfers and a knowledgeable guide made all the difference.
