| Sightseeing:
The main sight-seeing here revolves around the Ganga River and the temples on the banks. The sacred bathing Ghat of Har-ki-Pauri, along the banks of the River Ganga is the pulse of this city. Thousands of pilgrims come here to take a dip in the holy river, which is an enchanting sight when lit up with oil-lamps during the evening ceremony of Ganga Arti.
The Chandi Devi Temple, 6kms from Haridwar, and 3kms by trek from Chandi Ghat, is a famous landmark. It was built in 1929 and is located on the hill of Neel Parvat, on the riverbanks.
The Mansa Devi Temple is on the hilltop of Bilwa Parwat, and is home to twin idols of the Goddess Mansa. The Maya Devi Temple is an ancient 11th century temple, and is considered as one of the Siddhapeethas. Another important temple of Haridwar is the eight storeys high Bharat Mata Temple.
You can also visit the ashrams of Jairam, a little ahead of Bhimagoda near Har-ki-Pauri, which is home to life like statues, and Sapt Rishi and Sapt Sarovar, a place where the river Ganga was said to have separated into 7 currents.
Other activities:
You could shop at the Jwalapur market, one of the important markets of Haridwar. The pure-veg restaurants and sweetmeat shops offer a mouthwatering variety of delicacies.
The Rajaji National Park is 10kms away and home to a variety of flora and fauna. The GMVN guesthouse at Chilla is a quiet and peaceful place at the entrance of the jungle. Or head to Rishikesh for some white water river rafting.
Tourism Info:
Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board
3/3 Industrial Area, Patelnagar
Dehradun- 248 001
Uttarakhand
Ph: 91-135-2624147, 2721289
Said to be one of the oldest cities, Haridwar's
existence dates back to as early as the days of Buddha. The name of
this holy city means 'Gateway to God' in Hindi. It is considered as one
of the holiest amongst the seven places of pilgrimage for Hindus, and
is a popular gateway to the Char Dhams (the four pilgrimages of Uttarakhand).
Haridwar
is the first town where the River Ganga descends to touch the plains.
It has been also addressed as Mayapuri, Gangadwar and Mokhsadwar in the
various Hindu scriptures. A city of rich cultural and religious
heritage, and also venue for the famous Kumbha Mela that takes place
once in every 12 years, today it is gaining significance as an
industrial city as well. |
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