Haridwar, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a charming destination brimming with spirituality and natural beauty. Renowned for its sacred Ganges River, it attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. The city offers a serene escape with its numerous temples, ghats (riverfront steps), and lush greenery. Whether you seek spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or adventure, Haridwar has something for everyone. Its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes make it a must-visit destination for all travelers.

7 Sacred Places to Visit in Haridwar

Haridwar, the revered “Gateway to the Gods,” is a holy city that nestles along the sacred Ganges River in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. Known for its spiritual significance, vibrant ghats (riverside steps), and ancient temples, Haridwar beckons pilgrims and travelers from all corners of the world. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through 7 sacred places to visit in Haridwar, describing their historical and religious importance, accessibility, nearby attractions, and the enchanting experiences they offer.

Har Ki Pauri

Har Ki Pauri, the iconic ghat of Haridwar, is the beating heart of the city’s spiritual essence. This sacred bathing ghat is a sight to behold, especially during the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti (River Ganges ritual worship) held every evening. The sight of thousands of diyas (earthen lamps) illuminating the ghats, accompanied by the melodious chanting of hymns, creates an unforgettable experience.

How to reach: Har Ki Pauri is located in the heart of Haridwar, easily accessible by local transportation or on foot.

Nearby attractions: Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Brahma Kund

Opening hours: Open 24/7

Entry fee: Free entry

Mansa Devi Temple

Perched atop the Bilwa Parvat (Bilwa Mountains), the Mansa Devi Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi, an incarnation of Shakti (divine feminine energy). The temple offers breathtaking views of the Ganges River and the surrounding landscapes, making it a popular destination for both spiritual and scenic reasons.

How to reach: The temple is located approximately 5 kilometers from Haridwar and can be reached by hired transportation, cable car, or a short trek.

Nearby attractions: Chandi Devi Temple, Bilwa Tirtha, Doodhadhari Barfani Temple

Opening hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Entry fee: Free entry, but a small fee may be charged for the cable car ride.

Chandi Devi Temple

The Chandi Devi Temple, another prominent shrine in Haridwar, is dedicated to the goddess Chandi, an avatar of the goddess Durga. This ancient temple is perched atop the Neel Parvat (Neel Mountains) and offers stunning views of the Ganges River and the surrounding Himalayan ranges.

How to reach: The temple is located approximately 3 kilometers from Haridwar and can be reached by hired transportation, cable car, or a short trek.

Nearby attractions: Mansa Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir

Opening hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Entry fee: Free entry, but a small fee may be charged for the cable car ride.

Brahma Kund

Brahma Kund is a sacred kund (pond) believed to be the place where Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe according to Hindu mythology, performed the Brahma Yajna (a sacred ritual). This revered site attracts devotees who come to take a dip in the holy waters, seeking spiritual purification and blessings.

How to reach: Brahma Kund is located in the heart of Haridwar, easily accessible by local transportation or on foot.

Nearby attractions: Har Ki Pauri, Ganga Aarti Ghat, Gaya Ghat

Opening hours: Open 24/7

Entry fee: Free entry

Bharat Mata Mandir

The Bharat Mata Mandir, also known as the Mother India Temple, is a unique and awe-inspiring temple dedicated to Mother India. This temple features a massive relief map of undivided India carved out of marble and other materials, showcasing the country’s diverse geography and cultural heritage.

How to reach: The temple is located approximately 3 kilometers from Haridwar and can be reached by hired transportation or local buses.

Nearby attractions: Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Har Ki Pauri

Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Entry fee: Free entry, but a small fee may be charged for camera usage.

Maya Devi Temple

The Maya Devi Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Maya Devi, believed to be the mother of Lord Buddha. This temple is a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, attracting devotees from all walks of life.

How to reach: The temple is located approximately 4 kilometers from Haridwar and can be reached by hired transportation or local buses.

Nearby attractions: Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir

Opening hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Entry fee: Free entry

Ganga Aarti Ghat

While Har Ki Pauri is the most famous ghat for the Ganga Aarti, the Ganga Aarti Ghat is another prominent site where this mesmerizing ritual takes place. The sight of hundreds of diyas floating on the Ganges River, accompanied by the melodious chanting of hymns and the rhythmic beating of drums, creates a truly spiritual experience.

How to reach: The Ganga Aarti Ghat is located in the heart of Haridwar, and easily accessible by local transportation or on foot.

Nearby attractions: Har Ki Pauri, Brahma Kund, Gaya Ghat

Opening hours: Aarti timings vary, but it is typically held in the evening.

Entry fee: Free entry

Haridwar is a city that exudes spirituality and serenity, offering visitors a profound connection with the divine. From the iconic ghats along the Ganges River to the ancient temples perched atop the Shivalik Hills, each destination in Haridwar promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a devout pilgrim wanting spiritual solace or a curious traveler eager to immerse yourself in India’s rich cultural heritage, Haridwar will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

FAQs

Q1: What is the great time for places to visit in Haridwar? 

A: The best time to visit Haridwar is during the winter months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and cool.

Q2: What are some of the great places to visit in Haridwar? 

A: The best places to visit in Haridwar include Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir, and Rajaji National Park.

Q3: What adventures can we do in Haridwar? 

A: Adventures in Haridwar include river rafting in the Ganga, trekking in the nearby Himalayan foothills, and camping in Rajaji National Park.

Q4: What is the approximate cost of visiting Haridwar?

 A: The approximate cost of visiting Haridwar for a couple of days, including accommodation, food, and local transportation, can range from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000.

Q5: What can we do on a 3-day visit to Haridwar? 

A: On a 3-day visit to Haridwar, you can attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, visit the temples, take a heritage walk, and go river rafting.

Also Read:

7 Best Places to Visit in Vrindavan – A Spiritual Odyssey

6 Places to Visit in Mathura- The Spiritual Heart of India

 References:

https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/haridwar
https://haridwar.nic.in/tourism/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haridwar

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general purposes only. Please verify details before visiting, as conditions may change. We are not responsible for any inaccuracies.