 Haridwar, literally means 'The gateway to the Gods'. It's the place where the river Ganga descends to the plain. A Gateway to the four pilgrimage of Uttarakhand, Haridwar is variously mentioned as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, Mokhsadwar in the ancient Hindu scriptures and epics. A major Shaktipeeth from time immemorial, the place is believed to have both sanctified by the powerful trinity of Hindu mythology - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. This is why the place has been a ever-refreshing mystic venue for the purification of the mind, body and soul. The Kumbha Mela, happening once every 12 years and the Ardha Kumbha Mela (Coming once every six years) are big draws.
One of the oldest living cities, Haridwar has been in people's mind from the period of Buddha to the British advent and now even in the 21st century. Besides being a religious place, it has served as the center for learning arts, science and culture. It's unique Gurukul school of traditional education, scenic beauty, lush greenery (full with Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies, give the place a unique charm and flavor. For the wildlife lovers, the Rajaji National Park is a must among the solemn centers in a Travelmasti discoverer's itinerary of Uttaranchal.
Facts
Area : 12.302 sq. km.
Population : 3,48,142 (1991 census)
Altitude : 294.70 meters above sea level.
Season : Round the year.
Clothing :
Summer - Cottons;
Winter - Woollens ;
Language : Hindi & English
Local Transport : Taxis, Tongas, Tempos, Buses, Cycle-Rikshaws, Auto-Rickshaws
STD Code : 0133
Places to visit
Chandi Devi
The temple of Chandi Devi atop the Neel Parvat on the other bank of
river Ganga was constructed in 1929 AD by the King of Kashmir - Suchat
Singh. The temple is a 3 km trek from Chandi Ghat. Legend has it that
Chanda-Munda the army chief of the local demon king, Shumbha-Nishumbha,
was killed by Goddess Chandi here after which the place got the name
Chandi Devi.
It is believed that the main statue was established by the Adi Sankaracharya in 8th Century AD. Chandi Devi Temple is accessible by a ropeway, which starts near Gauri Shankar Temple.
Bharat Mata Temple
This is one of the important temples of Haridwar. It has eight stories in which the images of cities, heroes and great men are installed.
Shanti Kunj
It is the famous ashram of Gayatri. Followers and pilgrims from far and wide converge here for yoga and natural cures.
Maya Devi Temple
It is an ancient temple of Maya Devi the Adhishtkatri deity of Haridwar, known as one of the Siddhapeethas. It is believed that the heart and navel of goddess Sati had fallen at this ancient saktipeeth, located to the east of Har-ki-Pauri.
Har-Ki-Pauri
Har-Ki-Pauri the sacred Ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. It is believed that Bhartihari eventually came to Haridwar to meditate by the banks of the holy Ganga. When he died, his brother constructed the Ghat in his name which later came to be known as Har-Ki-Pauri. This sacred bathing Ghat is also known as Brahmakund. The reflection of golden hues of floral diyas in the river Ganga is the most enchanting sight in the twilight during the Ganga Arti Ceremony. It is the most important Ghat on the river Ganga, where a holy dip is a must for every devotee.
Excursion
Daksh Mahadev Temple
The ancient temple of Daksh Mahadev is situated in the south of Kankhal town. This temple was constructed by Queen Dhankaur in 1810 AD. Kankhal has several temples and ashrams.
Sapt Rishi Ashram
The Ganga flows in seven streams in front of this Ashram, hence this place is also called Sapt Sarovar.
Kanva Rishi Ashram
42 km. The ashram is situated on the banks of the Malini river along the forest road to Kotdwar.
Chila Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajaji national Park)
Haridwar is also a popular destination for adventure lovers. Chila Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of Rajaji National Park, covers an area of around 240 sq. km. which attracts wildlife lovers with its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio diversity. It has 23 species of mammals and 315 fauna species. One may watch a herd of elephants roaming majestically in the jungle or may find oneself excited by a wildlife of many kinds including tigers, leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan yellow throated marten, samber, cheetal, barking dear, wild boar, langur, ghural, sloth bear, king cobra, woodpecker, etc. The river shelters fish in abundance. Fishing is allowed with permits. Time to visit: 15th November 15th June. No entry before sunrise and after sunset.
Piran Kaliyar
The Dargah of Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahamed `Sabri on the outskirts of Roorkee, around 23 kms, is a must-visit-place for every visitor. It is situated towards the south of Haridwar. The place is known as Piran Kalier. This place is one of the living examples of unity between the Hindu and Muslim religions. Famed for its mystical powers that fulfill the desires of the devout, the Dargah is visited by millions of Muslims and Hindus alike from India and abroad.
The Urs is celebrated at this Dargah every year, from the 1st day of sighting the moon to the 16th day during the Raheeull month of Islamic Calendar.
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is one of the best-located pilgrimage centers along the right side of the bank of the Ganga. The holy river emerging from the high mountains not far from here, runs deep and silent through the thickly wooded hills of the Terai that straddle this region. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty and undiscovered wildlife await here. Not to mention the peace and tranquillity of a landscape associated with `munis and meditation. According to legend, sage Raibhya Rishi, undertook staunch penance at Rishikesh to please God. In answer to his meditation, god appeared here, manifested as `Rishikesh and the place thus came to be called after him. Today, Rishikesh has become a center for learning and research in yoga and meditation the renowned Indian methods for mental and physical health.
The International Yoga Festival which attracts participation from all across the world is held here annually for one week in the month of February (2nd to 7th) on the banks of the serene Ganga.
The rope-bridge `Lakshman Jhoola stands majestically here, as a landmark. This is where Lord Rama's brother Lakshman is said to have crossed the river on a jute rope. The old Lakshman temple is situated on the western bank. Other attractions like the school of Yoga and Meditation and white water rafting camp at Shivpuri, 15 km. up stream, extends an irresistible invitation.
Triveni Ghat
It is an interesting placed to be at dawn, when people make offerings of milk to the river and feed fishes. After sunset, priests set floating lamps on the water during the Aarti Ceremony. Nearby is the Bharat Mandir, the oldest temple.
Neelkanth Mahadev
According to mythological accounts, during Sagar Manthan, Lord Shiva drank all the effluent venom here, which turned his throat blue. Hence, Shiva also became famous as Neelkanth. A four hour walk from Lakshman Jhoola, this temple is situated at a height of 1700 meters. Quite truly, a not-to-be-missed travel destination away from the madding crowd.
Festivals
Maha Kumbh – 1998
Haridwar – one of the oldest and holiest pilgrim centers of India, is all set to receive nearly eight to ten million devotees during the Maha Kumbh in April 1998. The history of the Kumbh Mela dates back to the creation of the Universe. Mythological legends state that the Gods and the Demons once churned the oceans to retrieve the Kumbh (pot) containing the nectar of immortality (Amrit). As Dhanwantari, the divine healer appeared with the `Kumbh’ containing nectar in his palms, a great fight followed between the Gods and the Demons to wrest the pitcher. During the fierce battle in the sky, a few drops of nectar fell at four different places: Prayag (Allahabad), Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain. Since then these four sacred placesA have witnessed the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh fairs periodically, every twelfth and sixth year when pilgrims and devotees converge to commemorate this divine event.
According to belief of astrologers during this battle the planet too played an important role. In fact, the Kumbh fair takes place when the Jupiter enters Aquarius and the Sun enters Aries. This planetary position is said to medicate the waters of the Ganga and turn it into nectar on these days thereby attracting millions to purify their inner self through holy bathing rituals. Spiritually position of planet during the Kumbh fair is good for concentration and medication.
Held every twelve years, the Kumbh fair has come down to us through time as an institution of great significance. It is a unique event that blends religious and social features alike.
With the entire atmosphere saturated with chiming bells, incense and flower fragrance, Vedic hymns and mantras… the Maha Kumbh experience can only be described as pure enchanting for the soul.
Accessibility
Airways
The Jolly Grand Airport is around 35 km from Haridwar. For details, see the relevant section under Dehradun.
Railways
Haridwar is well connected with all the important centres in India, either directly or via Delhi. For details see the section under Dehradun. Computerized reservation facility is also available at Haridwar (Railway Enquiry : 131) Approximate fares (AC Chair car) in direct trains connecting Haridwar
Roadways
Haridwar is connected with other towns/cities in north India by buses run by the UP Roadways and transport corporation of other states. Private bus operators are also there. Taxi service is also available .
Haridwar is on highway No 45, is connected to all major centers in the region and other parts of the country by well-maintained roads. Distances to some important cities are:
- Agra (386 km)
- Ambala (168 km)
- Badrinath (320 km)
- Dehradun (52 km)
- Delhi (214 km)
- Gangotri (282 km)
- Kedarnath (250 km)
- Meerut (141 km)
- Mussoorie (90 km)
- Nainital (386 km)
- Saharanpur (81 km)
- Yamnotri (255 km)
Bus
Approximate travel time for some important destinations are as :
- Rishikesh : 1/2 hr, Dehradun : 2 hrs, Delhi : 8 hrs, Shimla : 14 hrs, Nainital : 7 hrs, Almora : 10 hrs, Ranikhet : 9 hrs, Tehri : 5 hrs, Uttarkashi : 10 hrs.
- It is preferable to stay overnight at Rishikesh for the Char Dham Yatra - Badrinath, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Yamunotri.
- Wildlife lovers, wishing to visit Rajaji National Park at Chilla, should catch a Kandi-bound bus from Garhwal Motor Owner's Union (GMOU)
- Roadways Bus Stand, opp. Railway Station.
- Yatra Bus Stand, Rishikesh.
- GMVN Limited, Haridwar, near Rahi Motel.
Taxi
Taxi Service is also available courtesy Haridwar Taxi Union
Shopping
- Moti Bazaar, Upper Road, Jwalapur,
- Uttaranchal Government's Handloom Emporium, Near Bharat Mata Temple, Haridwar
- Some of the popular purchase items are Rudrakash, Gangajali (Vessels containing Ganga water), pickles, kumkum (vermilion), Ayurvedic medicine and precious stones.
Food
- All hotels and restaurants in the Haridwar Municipal limits serve only vegetarian food. Liquor is prohibited.
- Motel Rahi's Restaurant : A variety of delicious preparations run by UP Tourism.
- Bestee Restaurant : Located in the Shiv Murti area. Noted for shakes e.g. Cheeku shake, snacks e.g. veggie rolls and cutlets.
- Bridge Mathura Walla : Located in the Bara Bazaars. Famed for its sweets like, rasmalai, rabri and halwa.
- Aahaar Restaurant : Famed for Punjab & South Indian Cuisine located on the Railway Road.
- Chotiwala : Try some dosas here. Located on the Railway Road.
- Mohan's Fast Food : Near Chitra Cinema, on Railway Road, Try Plazza, Vada, Pao Bhaji and Ice Cream, here.
- Other important joints are Sindhi Bhandar on Railway Road, Handi on BHEL Road etc.
Accommodation
- Hotel Himgiri International, Devpura.
- Hotel Aarti, Railway Road.
- Hotel Aditya Deluxe, Vishnu Ghat, Haridwar.
- Hotel Shiva, Haridwar-Delhi By-pass road, Kankhal.
- Hotel Mansarover International, Upper Road.
- Classic Hotel, Jwalapur Road.
- Hotel Suvidha Deluxe, Srawan Nath Nagar.
- Hotel Midtown, Railway Road.
- Hotel Kailash, Near Shiv Murti, Railway Road.
- Hotel Holy-Day-Inn, Srawan Nath Nagar.
- State Govt. Tourism Accommodation
- Tourist Bungalow, Belwala.
- Modern Reception Center, Railway Road.
- A number of restaurants providing a variety of Indian cuisine are available. Non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks are prohibited in Haridwar.
Banks
- State Bank of India, BHEL Main Gate, Sector 5, BHEL.
- Bank of Baroda, Upper Road.
- Canara Bank, Railway Road.
- Central Bank of India.
- Punjab National Bank, Upper Road.
- Post Office
- Head Post Office, Upper Road.
Hospitals
- Har Milap District Hospital, Upper Road.
- Chain Rai Female Hospital, Upper Road.
- Ram Krishna Mission Hospital, Kankhan.
- Ganga Mata Charitable Eye Hospital, Sapt. Sarovar Link Road, Haridwar.
- Tripathi Nursing Home, near Railway Crossing, Jwalapur by pass road.
- Government Hospital, Dehradun Road.
- Kohli Hospital, Tilak Road.
- Nirmal Ashram Hospital, Maya Kund.
Tourism Offices
- Regional Tourists Office, State Government, Rahi Motel.
- Tourist Reception Counter, Main Hall, Railway Station.
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