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Haridwar also spelled as Hardwar is an ancient city of Uttarkhand. Located in the Northern India, Haridwar has gained its prominence for being a pilgrimage hub for the Hindu pilgrims. Enclosed by sacred river Ganga, Haridwar is one of the 7 spot where drop of elixir of life which was erupted after the legendary Samundra Manthan. There are many sacred and ancient temples in Haridwar which attracts travelers from far and wide. Haridwar is often known for being the gateway towards the holy Char Dham. Within the religious hierarchy of India, Haridwar is much more significant than Rishikesh. The distance between Haridwar to Rishikesh is 25km.
Mansa Devi Temple, situated in the Holy City of Haridwar is a sacred Hindu Temple. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Manasa. The Goddess is said to grant all the wishes and the devotees make their wishes by tying a piece of thread on the branches of the tree located in the temple complex and come back to the temple to untie it after the wish is granted. Mansa Devi Temple is perched atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Sivalik Hills. It is one of the three peethas of Haridwar.
Founded in 11th century is Maya Devi Temple of Haridwar. Decided to the Adhisthatri deity Maya, the Maya Devi Temple of Haridwar is one of 51 Shakti Peethas were Devi Sati’s navel and heart is said to have fallen. Maya Devi Temple is also one the three Siddh Peethas of Haridwar where wishes of devotees are fulfilled.
Har ki Pauri is a famous ghar of Haridwar located in the banks of river Ganga. It is one of the major landmarks of this ancient city. In native language, Har Ki Pauri means “The Lord’s Footsteps”. The most highlighting feature of Har ki Pauri is the footprint of Lord Vishnu. Every year thousands of devotees visit Har Ki Pauri of Haridwar to be the part of the biggest fair of India, Kumbha Mela and Ardha Kumbha Mela.
Chandi Devi Temple, built in 1929 is a sacred Hindu Temple of Haridwar dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi. It is perched in the hill top of Neel Parvat on the Eastern summit of the Sivalik Hill. Chandi Devi Temple also known as Neel Parvat Teerth is one of the Panch Tirth (Five Pilgrimages) located within Haridwar. It is also one of the three Siddh Peethas of Haridwar where wishes of devotees have been fulfilled. Chandi Devi Temple is located at a distance of 3km from Har Ki Pauri. Visitors can reach this sacred temple either on ropeway or through an hour long trekking route.
Shanti Kunj located at distance of 6km from Haridwar Railway Station is a place to find spiritual guidance in Haridwar. It is one of the prime tourist attractions of Haridwar. Shanti Kunj is situated between the holy Ganga Ghat and the Sivalik hills of East Himalayas. Founded in 1971, Shanti Kunj has emerged as an important centre to gain the knowledge about the spiritual regeneration in the light of very old Indian heritage.
Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, founded in 1977 is a wild reserve of Uttarkhand. Also known as Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 10km from Haridwar. Endowed with rich flora and fauna, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary is the home to many species of animals like Elephants, Tigers, Bears and Small Cats. During winter season visitors can spot vibrant species of migrating bird in Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary of Haridwar.
Bhimgod Kund of Haridwar, located at a distance of 1km from Har ki Pauri is a historical significant place. According to legends while proceeding towards Himalaya, the Pandavas stopped here in Haridwar to drink water, and Bhimgod is the place where Bhima, one of the five Pandavas drew water from the rocks by thrusting his goda (knee). From that day forward Bhimgod Kund has attracted many devotees and tourists towards Haridwar.
How to Reach Haridwar: Haridwar is also known for having an excellent rail network which connected it with the major cities of India. Visitors can directly board train from Delhi to Haridwar or Dehradun to Haridwar. The closest airport from Haridwar is located in Dehradun at a distance of 41km. Dehradun is one of the nearest hill stations from Haridwar. Visitors can also take bus service to reach Haridwar.
Best time to visit Haridwar: Bestowed with pictorial views of daunting mountains, the best time to visit the holy city of Haridwar is during February, March, and August – October. May to October is said to be Yatra Season in Hardwar.
