Haridwar is an important Hindu pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand, north India. The popular Har ki Pauri Ghat and evening Ganga Aarti are popular attractions here. It remains occupied by pilgrims round the year. Places of religious interests like Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple are worthy of a visit during one's stay in Haridwar
How to Reach Haridwar
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun serves as the nearest airport to Haridwar. Visitors can take a direct flight to Dehradun from Mumbai or Delhi or connecting flights from anywhere in India. Local vehicles can be availed from outside the airport to reach Haridwar by road from Dehradun.
How to Reach Haridwar by Air
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun serves as the nearest airport to Haridwar. Visitors can take a direct flight to Dehradun from Mumbai or Delhi or connecting flights from anywhere in India. Local vehicles can be availed from outside the airport to reach Haridwar by road from Dehradun.
How to Reach Haridwar by Road
Haridwar can be reached easily by road from Delhi, Haryana, UP, Punjab and other parts of Uttarkhand. A number of state transport and private buses connect Haridwar with these places. Bus service is available at frequent basis and fares are also economical. Visitors can board these buses depending upon their suitable timing.
How to Reach Haridwar by Rail
Haridwar has its own railway station which connects the pilgrimage town well with rest of India. It is directly linked with cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Dehradun, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Patna, Gaya, Varanasi, Bhubaneswar, Puri and Kochi by a good number of express trains.
Best places to visit in Haridwar
Haridwar – One of the seven holy cities for the Hindus
Located under the foothill of the mesmerizing Himalayas, visiting the renowned pilgrim destination of Haridwar shall be a mind-blowing experience. The tranquil environment of this destination soothes every heart. A lot of pilgrims visit Haridwar every day to witness the Ganga Aarti on the serene banks of river Ganges to offer prayers. They believe that taking a holy dip in this sacred river can wash away all their worldly sins and purify their body and mind. Take a look at the best places to explore during your pilgrimage trip to Haridwar.
- Har Ki Pauri - a divine place
Hari Ki Pauri is among the most sacred places in Haridwar. It is a well-known ghat in this destination located on the banks of River Ganges. The best time to visit this place is in the evening when thousands of lamps lit in the stunning backdrop of the majestic mountains.
The literal meaning of Har Ki Pauri is the steps of Lord Shiva, and thousands of devotees flock this place every day to offer prayers. It is a place where many festivals occur including the enchanting Kumbh Mela. Har Ki Pauri is the place where the sacred nectar is believed to be fallen during the Dev-demon battle. This holy place is ideal for pilgrims who seek spirituality.
- Mansa Devi Temple - another significant place for the Hindus
Located atop the beautiful Bilwa Parvat, the Mansa Devi Temple is a must-visit destination in Haridwar. Travelers who wish to reach this temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi need to take 2 kilometers to walk from the foothill. Ropeway facility is also available which is helpful for those who cannot walk to reach the temple.
Whether you opt for walking or use ropeway, you can enjoy panoramic views of the mighty River Ganges and the holy city of Haridwar on the way to this temple on the Shivalik Hills. Apart from a renowned pilgrimage center, this place is also popular among adventure seekers because of the trekking opportunities that it offers. The marvelous Chandi Devi Temple is located close to the Mansa Devi Temple worth visiting.
Rishikesh
- Rishikesh – A city known for spirituality and adventure
Rishikesh is another renowned pilgrimage center in India located in the Uttarakhand state. Also known as the ‘gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas’, this holy city fascinates travelers from across the globe with its religious attributes and scenic nature. Rishikesh, the 7th largest city in the country, is also among the most sought-after destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Situated on the panoramic banks of River Ganges, this city is also the birthplace of yoga.
Many people reach this destination to practice yoga and meditate. There are many temples, ashrams and yoga centers in this holy city. People who plan a trip to Haridwar also include this sacred city in their pilgrimage travel itinerary. Whether you seek for adventure or spirituality, Rishikesh is an ideal place for you.
- Laxman Jhula – A suspension bridge
Laxman Jhula is one of the most important attractions in Rishikesh. It is believed that Lakshman, Lord Rama’s brother, crossed the River Ganges once by using a jute rope and this bridge is constructed in the same place.
This suspension bridge was built in 1939, and today it is a great attraction for the pilgrims to Rishikesh. The renowned Tera Manzil Temple is near to Laxman Jhula. Some of the interesting things that you can enjoy at this place are shopping and visit the nearby restaurants to relish delicious dishes.
Things to do in Rishikesh
Rishikesh, the famous pilgrimage center is not just a spiritual getaway but also a favorite spot for many adventure enthusiasts. You can enjoy many thrilling activities in this destination such as white water rafting, rock climbing, trekking and cliff diving. Even if there are plenty of activities to do in Rishikesh, white water rafting on the rapids of the river Ganges is the most popular thing that you can enjoy here. Take a look at the best things that you can do in this getaway.
Whitewater rafting
Rishikesh is the best place to enjoy rafting adventures. Sailing on the rapids of River Ganges on a rubber boat shall be a mind-blowing activity to do when you are in the sacred city of Rishikesh. It is a thrilling activity that gained a wonderful momentum in the adventure sports scenery in India.
Travelers who visit Rishikesh do not leave the city without enjoying a little bit of white water rafting. Choose either the summer or monsoon season to enjoy white water rafting in this destination. Check the adventure tour packages of Colourful Indian Holidays if you plan to enjoy adrenaline-rushing activities in Rishikesh.
Cliff - Jumping
Another thrilling activity to experience in Rishikesh is cliff jumping. Travelers who reach this holy city for enjoying rafting ensure not to miss out this exciting activity. Cliff Jumping is a perfect way to test both your mental and physical abilities. It is more or less the same as that of base jumping.
You love the idea of climbing up a hill and then jump off from there for some adrenaline-rushing action. You can know the strength of your body by jumping from a height of nearly 30-40 feet. Cliff-jumping is truly an adventurous and fun-filled sport ideal to make yourself busy during your Rishikesh holidays.
