HARIDWAR TOUR HIGHLIGHTS :

Haridwar which was previously known as Mayapuri is a city near Dehradun in the state of Uttarakhand.  It is situated right at the banks of River Ganga and is considered as a holy place for Hindus. The most significant event which happens in Haridwar is The Kumbh Mela which happens once every 12 years where millions of people gather to take a plunge in the holy river of Ganga to wash away their sins.

According to the legends it is believed that Haridwar is one of the places where during Samudra Manthan celestial bird Garuda accidentally drops few drops of Amrit and so it is considered sacred.

Another legend also states that it was in Haridwar that Goddess Ganga descended when Lord Shiva released her from the Himalayan mountains via the locks of his hair and the first place where it enters the plains is Haridwar previously in ancient times also known as Gangadwar.

BEST TIME TO VISIT HARIDWAR

The best time to visit Haridwar is from February to April where the temperatures are very comfortable. In the months from March to May where the temperatures will be on the higher side ranging from 30 – 38-degree C.

The months of November to January are colder with temperatures ranging from 8 – 22-degree C.

The months of June to September are months of monsoon season which is not a typical time to travel but the lush greenery all around will make it a wonderful travel experience.

The months of February to April are ideal with temperatures ranging from 12-30 degree C with days being pleasant and nights cooler thus travelling, exploring places becomes pleasurable.

PLACES TO VISIT IN HARIDWAR

HAR KI PAURI - this is the place where Ganga enters the plains from Himalayas. At this place people can take a holy dip in the sacred river and during the evening can experience the famous Ganga aarti and take in the mesmerizing sights of holy chants and ringing of bells.

MANSA DEVI TEMPLE – Is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi. It is believed that a person’s sincere wish or desired are fulfilled once they visit this temple. One can go via foot or use the service of ropeway to reach the temple.

SHANTIKUNJ ASHRAM – is a famous and prominent ashram which offers various camps and classes.

SAPT RISHI ASHRAM – 5 kms away from Haridwar is Sapt Rishi Ashram where it is believed that the 7 sages meditated and now one can take in the peace and tranquillity.

PAWAN DHAM TEMPLE – located 3km from Har ki Pauri is also known as Glass Temple as its famous for its intricate idols, glasswork and murals depicting our rich Indian culture.

BHARAT MATA TEMPLE – a temple spanning eight floors is dedicated to Indias various freedom fighters. Each floor has a special theme dedicated to various deities and legends.

RAJAJI NATIONAL PARK – Located just 10 kms from Haridwar, Rajaji National Park is home to many indigenous flora and fauna like spotted deer,  Sambar, Tiger, Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear and sloth. It’s a perfect place for animal lovers to go on a pre booked safaris to take in these creatures in their natural habitat.

NEEL DHARA PAKSHI VIHAR – situated 3.5 kms away from Haridwar this place esp in winters is a paradise for bird watchers offering glimpses of various migratory birds

HOW TO REACH HARIDWAR

As Haridwar is a major tourist destination it is very well connected by major cities like Dehradun which is only 40 kms away.

BY AIR - The nearest Airport to Haridwar is Dehradun Airport which is just 37 kms away and the nearest International Airport is New Delhi International Airport which is 228 kms away.

BY RAIL – Haridwar railway station is well connected with frequent trains from major destinations of India.

BY ROAD – Haridwar is well connected by roads to various Indian cities like Dehradun, Delhi, Chandigarh etc with frequent private and shared taxi services.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CARRY –

CLOTHING – Travelling during winters one will require to be dressed in warm yet comfortable clothing. Layering your clothes hence becomes important and practical.

Wearing thermal tops and bottoms is a must esp. when travelling during winter months along with some woolen or thermal socks. Over the thermals one can wear layers of other clothing items to keep warm.

A woolen cap or a beanie will keep one warm especially when winds are strong.

A waterproof jacket, gloves and shoes are very important while undertaking outdoor activities like skiing, trekking etc.

If travelling in summer season than a simple yet comfortable jacket will be sufficient.

Important thing to note is that shorts, miniskirts, night suits and torn jeans aren’t allowed inside some temple hence it would be better if they are avoided.

ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS – a government id proof such as Aadhar card, passport or driving license is required at all hotels or guest houses while you check in. additionally some permits might be required while visiting some national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

MEDICINES – if you are on any lifelong medicines definitely carry those. Along with it one can carry a few basic medicines for fever and pain relief and some basic first aid stuff like band aids, antiseptics and ointments.

MISCELLANEOUS – other items like umbrella, raincoats, sturdy backpack to keep some raincoats etc. and sunscreen can be carried too.

FAQs ABOUT HARIDWAR

Q – HOW MANY DAYS ARE IDEALLY REQUIRED TO VISIT HARIDWAR?

A – A 2–3-day trip is enough which will provide ample time to do sightseeing’s. Alternatively, one can combine with Rishikesh or hill stations like Mussoorie or Auli too for a more wholesome travel experience.

Q – CAN SHOPPING BE DONE IN HARIDWAR?

A – Moti Bazar is Haridwar is the main market place to shop. One can buy idols of various Hindu deities along with other items used for pujas or to be kept in mandirs. Apart from this one can also buy winter clothing items, handicrafts and some souvenirs to take back home.

Q – WHERE IN HARIDWAR DOES GANGA ARTI HAPPEN?

A - Ganga Arti happens at Har ki Pauri daily at 6.45 pm where tourists in large number gather to take in the mesmerizing sights of holy chants and ringing of bells. To stand right in the front one must reach at least a good 1-2 hrs in advance.

TESTIMONIALS –

Says Ashish – The Ganga Arti at Har ki Pauri is a memory of lifetime for me and not to be missed.

Says Mr. Mehta – it was a perfect weekend destination for our family where we combined Haridwar with Rishikesh.

BOOKINGS –TOURS AND PACKAGES CAN BE CUSTOMIZED ACCORDING YOUR NEED AND SPECIFICATIONS.