The name 'Haridwar' literally means 'Gateway to God'. Mentioned in Vedic literature as Mayapuri, Haridwar is believed to be the place where a drop of Ambrosia feel, when ocean was being churned by gods (devatas) and devils (rakshashas). Thus, it is a venue for Kumbh Mela, organized once in every 12 years. The next Maha Kumbh Mela is due in 2010. Vidura, the wise uncle of Pandavas, studied at Haridwar and famous Kapil Muni performed his penance here.
You can also see the site where Goddess Sati immolated herself, as she could not bear the fact that her own father had insulted her husband. However, the aarti of Ganga ji at Har ki Pauri in the evening is the most enchanting site that you must not miss at Haridwar.
Places to See
One of the four venues of Kumbha Mela, Haridwar is basically a pilgrimage place. The main religious spots and tourist attractions in the town include:
- Chandi Devi
- Bharat Mata Temple
- Shanti Kunj
- Har-Ki-Pauri
- Bhimgoda
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Vaishno Devi Temple
- Gurukul Kangri University
- Daksh Mahadev Temple
Shopping
Right from railway station to Har ki Pauri (main bank of Haridwar), you can find shops full of worship paraphernalia for pilgrims such as jewellery to adorn idols of deities, and brass and copper pooja utensils. You can also buy walking sticks, stoneware, glass bangles, bottled Ganga water, blankets to donate to the poor, and sweets at Haridwar.
Where to Stay
One of the four venues of Kumbha Mela, Haridwar is the last stopover in Indo-Gangetic plains at the base of Himalayas. Thus, it offers stay options ranging from cheap economy hotels and accommodations with basic facilities to luxury hotels fitted with all modern amenities and sporting elegant settings. We recommend:
- Sagar Ganga Resort
- Haveli Hari Ganga
- Country Inn & Suites
- Hotel Classic Residency
- Taj Ginger Hotel
- Hotel Park View
- Le Grand Hotel
- Ginger Hotel
How to Reach Haridwar
A major pilgrimage destination in itself, Haridwar is an important base to travel to Rishikesh and Four Holy Destinations or Chaar Dhaam of Hindus - Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
By Road: National Highway 54 and regular bus services connect Haridwar to Delhi, Dehradun, Nainital, and other major cities in Uttaranchal and nearby areas.
By Rail: A major railway stopover point in the Northern Railways, Haridwar has regular trains connecting it to Delhi, Dehradun, Ujjain, Gorakhpur, Kolkata and other Indian cities. Some of the main trains running on this route are Ujjaini Express, Mussoorie Express, Uttaranchal Express, Dehradun Express, Upasana Express and Janshatabdi Express.
By Air: The nearest airport to Haridwar is Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun, 35 km from the city. Presently, only Air Deccan operates flights between Dehradun to Delhi.
