Skip to content

Uttar Pradesh

Default screen resolution  Wide screen resolution  Increase font size  Decrease font size  Default font size 
You are here:    Home arrow Attractions arrow Haridwar
Haridwar
Haridwar of Uttar Pradesh is literally the ‘Gateway to the Gods’ and is also known as Gangadwar, Mayapuri and Tapovan. Legend says that the suryavnshi Prince Bhagirath performed penance here to salvage the souls of ancestors who had perished with the curse of sage Kapila. His penance was answered with the trickling of River Ganga from Lord Shiva’s locks which revived the sixty thousand sons of King Sagara.

Not only is Haridwar a religious place, it is also the center for learning science, arts and culture. It can be reached by air, rail or road while its local transport services include bus services, auto rickshaws, tempos, taxis, Tongas and cycle-rickshaws.

The Har Ki Pauri of Haridwar is the most sacred ghats of India which was built by Vikramaditya in memory of his brother. Maha Aarti is performed here in the evenings and is an event all visitors should witness. Mansa Devi is the temple on Bilwa Parvat that offers an excellent view of Haridwar and can be reached using the rope way or by trekking.

The Kavand Mela is held in Haridwar ten days prior to Shivteras during the Hindu months of Shravan and Phalgun. Chandi Devi is another temple on Neel Parvat that was constructed by the King of Kashmir, Suchat Singh in 1929. The point where river Ganga divides into seven small streams is called Sapt Rishi and is a pleasing sight.

Maya Devi is a shaktipeeth of India and the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar. Legend says that this is where the heart and navel of Lord Shiva’s wife Seta’s heart and navel had fallen when lord Shiva was carrying her after she had burnt herself to retain her husband’s honor. Daksha Mahadev temple is where Sita burnt herself when her father king Daksha failed to invite Lord Shiva and his daughter for his yagya. This is today one of the holy places of Haridwar.

Besides these holy places, Haridwar is famous for Gurukul Kangri University which follows the ancient tradition of Guru-Sishya pattern of education. Bird lovers should visit the Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar where there are various species of birds. The Ardh Kumbh is what attracts thousands of tourists to Haridwar every six years. Legend says that a dip in river Ganges during the Kumb gives you Moksha or Nirvana.