Haridwar Travel Guide

Haridwar India

Haridwar lies in the western part of Uttarakhand state of India. It is located on the bank of river Ganga. Legendary king Bhagirath is said to have brought the river Ganga from heaven to earth in order to provide salvation to his ancestors. It is believed that Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Mahesh (Hindu Gods) have sanctified Haridwar by their presence. It is also said that Lord Vishnu had his foot print on the stone that is set in the upper wall of Har-Ki-Pauri, the place where the Holy Ganges touches it all the times. It is believed by the devout believers that they can go to heaven and get salvation after taking a dip in the sacred Ganga at Haridwar. The natural and scenic beauty of this holy place is amazing complete with lush green forests and small ponds.

Associated with both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, Haridwar is one of the four venues for the Kumbh Mela, held every twelve years. Haridwar is also a centre of herbal medicine, and traditional studies at Gurukul Kangri. The main ghat at Haridwar is known as Hari-ki-Pairi. The Ganga Aarti, celebrated on the Ghat every night, is a spectacular sight with thousands of oil lamps or diyas and marigold flowers floating on the holy Ganges. The five sacred bathing spots in Haridwar are Gangadwara, Kankhal, Nila Parvata, Bilwa Theertha and Kusavarta.

Haridwar, the mystic venue for the purification of the mind, body and soul, has served as a centre for attraction not only for pilgrims but also from tourists all over the world for learning the arts, science and culture.