Haridwar, literally means 'The gateway to the Gods'. It's the place where the river Ganga descends to the
plain. Haridwar is the place believed to have sanctified by the powerful trinity of Hindu mythology - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.
This is why the place has been a venue for the purification of the mind, body and soul. The Kumbha Mela, happening once every 12
years and the Ardha Kumbha Mela (Coming once every six years) are big draws.
Besides being a religious place, it serves as the center for learning arts, science and culture. It's unique Gurukul
School of traditional education, scenic beauty, lush greenery (full with Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies, gives the place a
unique charm and flavor.
Facts
Area : 12.302 sq. km.
Population : 3,48,142 (1991 census)
Altitude : 294.70 meters above sea level.
Season : Round the year.
Clothing :
Summer - Cottons;
Winter - Woollens ;
Language : Hindi & English
Local Transport : Taxis, Tongas, Tempos, Buses, Cycle-Rikshaws, Auto-Rickshaws
STD Code : 0133
Let us look at the some of the well known spots in Haridwar
Chandi Devi
The temple of Chandi Devi atop the Neel Parvat on the other bank of river Ganga was constructed in 1929 AD by the King
of Kashmir - Suchat Singh. The temple is a 3 km trek from Chandi Ghat. It is believed that the main statue was established by the Adi
Sankaracharya in 8th Century AD. Chandi Devi Temple is accessible by a ropeway, which starts near Gauri Shankar Temple.
Bharat Mata Temple
This is one of the important temples of Haridwar. It has eight stories in which the images of cities, heroes and great
men are installed.
Shanti Kunj
It is the famous ashram of Gayatri. Followers and pilgrims from far and wide converge here for yoga and natural
cures.
Maya Devi Temple
It is an ancient temple of Maya Devi the Adhishtkatri deity of Haridwar, known as one of the Siddhapeethas. It is
believed that the heart and navel of goddess Sati had fallen at this ancient saktipeeth, located to the east of Har-ki-Pauri.
Har-Ki-Pauri
Har-Ki-Pauri the sacred Ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. 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. It is the most important Ghat on the river Ganga, where a holy dip is a must for every
devotee.
Daksh Mahadev Temple
The ancient temple of Daksh Mahadev is situated in the south of Kankhal town. This temple was constructed by Queen
Dhankaur in 1810 AD.
Sapt Rishi Ashram
The Ganga flows in seven streams in front of this Ashram, hence this place is also called Sapt Sarovar.
Kanva Rishi Ashram
The ashram is situated on the banks of the Malini river along the forest road to Kotdwar.
Chila Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajaji national Park)
Haridwar is also a popular destination for adventure lovers. The 240 sq km Chila Wildlife Sanctuary, has 23 species of
mammals and 315 fauna species. Time to visit: 15th November 15th June. No entry before sunrise and after sunset.
Piran Kaliyar
The Dargah of Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahamed `Sabri on the outskirts of Roorkee, around 23 kms, is a
must-visit-place for every visitor. It is situated towards the south of Haridwar.
The Urs is celebrated at this Dargah every year, from the 1st day of sighting the moon to the 16th day during the
Raheeull month of Islamic Calendar.
How to get there:
Airways
The Jolly Grand Airport is around 35 km from Haridwar. For details, see the relevant section under Dehradun.
Railways
Haridwar is well connected with all the important centres in India, either directly or via Delhi.
Roadways
Haridwar is connected with other towns/cities in north India by buses run by the UP Roadways and Transport Corporation
of other states. Private bus operators are also there. Taxi service is also available.
Haridwar is on highway No 45, is connected to all major centers in the region and other parts of the country by
well-maintained roads.
Approximate travel time for some important destinations are as :
Rishikesh : 1/2 hr, Dehradun : 2 hrs, Delhi : 8 hrs, Shimla : 14 hrs, Nainital : 7 hrs, Almora : 10 hrs, Ranikhet : 9 hrs, Tehri : 5
hrs, Uttarkashi : 10 hrs.
Shopping
Uttaranchal Government's Handloom Emporium, Near Bharat Mata Temple, Haridwar is good.
Some of the popular purchase items are Rudrakash, Gangajali (Vessels containing Ganga water), pickles, kumkum (vermilion), Ayurvedic
medicine and precious stones.
Food
All hotels and restaurants in the Haridwar Municipal limits serve only vegetarian food.
Due to big crowds in important pilgrimage centers, it is advisable to plan your trip well in advance to avoid
disappointment.
