Haridwar is the sacred capital of India, with millions of tourists flocking here. Situated on the ghats of Ganges, the literal translation of Haridwar is “Gateway To God,” which is not just a spiritual centre, but a place where you can set on a journey of self-discovery. The serenity that this place oozes is something you will never find anywhere. A trip to the places to visit in Haridwar will open a new door to a new world for you.
Places to Visit In Haridwar
Whether seeking spiritual solace or adventure in nature, Haridwar offers a diverse range of experiences that captivate the heart and spirit. Here are the best places to visit in Haridwar:
1. Har Ki Pauri
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Without saying, Har Ki Pauri must be your beginning trip to Haridwar. The name Har Ki Pauri translates to “Steps of Lord Shiva,” and it is believed that both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu visited this place. Another significance of this place comes from the fact that the holy Ganga River enters the plain area after exiting the mountains, and is considered that taking a dip here does spiritual cleansing. Another very eventful highlight of the place is the morning and evening aartis that take place every day despite the weather accompanied by loud chants of mantras, which creates an ambience of sacredness.
Location: Bhimoga, Haridwar
2. Chandi Devi Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Perched on the top of the Neel Parvat, the Chandi Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, an incarnation of Durga. The construction of the temple is credited to the King of Kashmir, Suchan Singh and being one of the Shakti Peethas, this temple holds immense importance amongst Hindus with millions of devotees flocking to this temple to seek blessings from the Goddess. A myth that is associated with the temple is that this is the site where Goddess Chandi defeated Shumbha and Nishumbha, the demon kings, and she rested here after the win. You can reach the temple by trekking for 3 km or by taking a cable car ride.
Location: Haridwar, Pathari Forest Range, Uttarakhand
Timings: 5 AM – 5:30 PM, 6 PM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: None
3. Mansa Devi Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Another revered temple in Haridwar is Mansa Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi, who is believed to grant the devotees their wishes. Amongst the Panch Tirthas of Haridwar, this temple’s importance is known nationwide and its association with Hindu Mythology just add to its significance. As per the legend, the goddess emerged from Lord Shiva’s mind and is said to be Naga Vasuki’s sister. You can reach the temple either by trekking or taking a cable car from where you can have a panoramic view of the city.
Location: Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: None ALT Text: Image of a Hoopoe (Upupa epops) in Rajaji National Park Uttarakhand
4. Rajaji National Park
Photo: Nitulakshmi / Wikimedia Commons
Rajaji National Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, spreading across three districts of Uttarakhand, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. Known for its rich biodiversity, the park is home to elephants, tigers, deer, and a variety of bird species including the Himalayan Pied Woodpecker, Indian Roller, and Great Hornbill. The best way to explore the park is by embarking on thrilling jeep and elephant safaris and you most likely be able to spot one or two wildlife species. The 34 km jungle track offers an adventurous trekking experience, allowing you to appreciate the park’s natural beauty.
Location: Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Timings: 6 AM – 9 AM, 3 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹150 onwards
5. Shanti Kunj
Photo: Arastu Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Shanti Kunj is a renowned ashram and the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP). This peaceful sanctuary is dedicated to spiritual growth and cultural heritage. Founded by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, the ashram advocated the philosophy of establishing a harmonious environment and mental wellness. The ashram features various temples, including the Gayatri Mata Temple and the Akhand Deep. People worldwide come here to indulge in yoga sessions, meditation, and Yagya ceremonies that promote peace and wellness.
Location: Shanti Kunj, Shantikunj Rd, Motichur, Haridwar, Motichur Range, Uttarakhand
Timings: 4 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: None
6. Bharat Mata Mandir
Photo: Hiroki Ogawa / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique temple as you are likely to come across very few temples dedicated to Bharat Mata in India and one is located in Haridwar. Constructed in 1983, this temple is situated on the banks of the Ganga River and personifies India as a mother. The temple is multi-storey and on each floor, you will come across different properties of India’s history, cultural and spiritual aspects, but the main highlight of the temple is the large map of ancient India. There is also an idol of Bharat Mata dressed in traditional attire, holding India’s Flag.
Location: भारत माता मंदिर सप्त ऋषि, रोड, Bhoopatwala, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249404
Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM
Entry Fee: None
7. Daksha Mahadev Temple
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Perhaps the only temple which is dedicated to Daksha Prajapati, father of Goddess Sati. The temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be the site where Sati immolated herself in the Yagan that was organised by Daksha. As per the legends, Daksha organised a huge Yagya and invited everyone except for Sati and Lord Shiva, her husband. Angered by the actions and the insults, Sati immolated herself and this angered Lord Shiva, who then performed the destruction dance, Tandava.
Location: Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, Kankhal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249407
Timings: 10 AM to 10:30 PM
Entry Fee: None
8. Patanjali Yogpeeth
Photo: Alokprasad / Wikimedia Commons
Patanjali Yogpeeth is a premier yoga and Ayurveda institute, making it a must-visit for wellness enthusiasts. Founded by Baba Ramdev, the institute promotes holistic health and well-being through ancient practices. The campus features two sections, offering various courses and workshops focused on yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda. You can engage in yoga sessions, explore the facilities, and learn about traditional healing methods. The serene environment fosters relaxation and rejuvenation. Patanjali Yogpeeth serves as a hub for those seeking to deepen their understanding of holistic health. It offers a unique experience, blending spirituality and wellness in Haridwar.
Location: Maharshi Dayanand Gram Delhi-Haridwar, National Highway, near Bahadarbad, Uttarakhand 249405
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: None
9. Bhimgoda Bridge
Photo: Neerajpandeyin / Wikimedia Commons
One of the famous places in Haridwar, Bhimgoda Bridge is a historical site deeply rooted in Hindu Mythology. The name Bhimgoda is derived from the name of Bheema, one of the five Pandavas and legends say that Bhim created this Kund with his knee to provide water to his wife Drapadi brother. Today, the bridge is very much functional and is used by people to reach Har Ki Pauri and other parts of the city. While you pass from the bridge, stunning views of the Ganga River and lush greenery surround the area. With its location, it gives a bird’s eye view of the entire region.
Location: Bhimgoda, Devpura, Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: None
10. Saptrishi Ashram
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Saptrishi Ashram is a sacred shrine across the country precisely amongst Hindus, for housing seven great sages like Vashishta, Atri, Jamadagni, Vishwamitra, Bharadwaja, Gautam and Kashyapa inviting people to experience the pure aura it still hosts. As the ashram is located at the banks of the Ganges, it also adds a spiritual charm to the place. Legend has it that when these rishis were in meditation, Ganga split into 7 parts to not disturb them. The ashram serves as the sacred scape for meditation, learning, and yoga.
Location: Bhoopatwala, Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Timing: 24*7
Entry Fee: None
Haridwar, the spiritual city, opens doors for its visitors to the world of devotion. It combines the distinctive aura of serenity and power of religion perfectly and you will feel it throughout the city. When planning to visit Haridwar, you must include all these places to have an enriching experience and the best way to do it is to plan it with TripXL to explore the ebay places to visit in Haridwar with your family and friends.
Cover Photo: Abhishek Debsharma / Wikimedia Commons