Often referred to as the ‘Gateway of Heaven’, Haridwar is considered as one of the holiest place in the country. Located at the banks of Ganges in Uttarakhand, Haridwar attracts a large number of pilgrims from the country.
As quoted by Varun Paswan, a famous Hindi poet;
“पड़ी हुई है एक किनारे पर
होगी कोई नदी
कोई विस्तार पानी का
अपनी बैठक का कोई झोलदार कोना महज
जहाँ भटक के ना पहुंचा कोई मेहमान
ना ही टिका कोई मेज़बान
दूरियां पार करने को एक पुल है
उसके नीचे जो जलराशि है
वही गंगा कहती है”
Haridwar exhibits a perfect blend of spirituality and holiness. It opens the doors to Char Dham, ie, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri and promises a worthwhile experience to the travellers. The age old streets of the city and countless number of temples transfer travelers into another world.
Places of interest
There are considerable numbers of mythologies associated with Haridwar, which makes it all the more interesting place. You can get first hand information by talking to the localities there. Haridwar is considered as among the seven most holy places in country. Along with Ujjain, Nasik and Allahabad, it is one of the four sites where drops of ‘Amrit’ accidently spilled over while being carried by the divine bird ‘Garuda’. There are number places for tourists;
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| Haridwar-Junction |
Har ki Pauri:
This Ganga ghat was built by King Vikramaditya. It is believed that at this point ganga takes entry into plains after having a rough journey from the mountains. The ghat is believed to have been visited by Lord Vishnu which is indicative by the name of the place. The place ideal to relax and have delicious samosa and chai.
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| Har-ki-Pauri–Haridwar |
Mansa Devi Temple:
The devoted status of Haridwar has also been derived by the presence of this temple. Mansa Devi is one of the shaktipeeth present in the country. It is believed that Goddess Mansa Devi fulfils the wishes of devotees visiting her. It is a must to experience the grandeur of the temple.
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| Mansa-Devi-Temple |
Udan Khatola:
Haridwar has one of the oldest ropeways in the country. It is also called as ‘ropeway to god’ as it transports one to the Chandi Devi temple located on the other side. While on the ropeway you can enjoy the marvellous greenery that Uttrakhand has to offer.
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| Udan-Khatola |
Haridwar is also a site for many religious festivals. Most importantly it is one of the destinations for the Kumbh Mela every 12 years which draws tourist from all over the world. The Ardh Kumbh Mela is held in every 6 years. The Kanwar Mela and Somwati Amavasya are another significant festivals of Haridwar.
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| Kumbh-Mela-in-Haridwar |
