Haridwar, the “Gateway to God,” is one of the holiest cities in India and holds deep spiritual, historical, and cultural significance. 🛕
Located in the state of Uttarakhand along the banks of the sacred River Ganges, Haridwar is where the river descends from the Himalayas into the plains, and where lakhs of devotees gather annually to seek spiritual cleansing.
The city is best known for its sacred ghats, vibrant Ganga Aarti, divine temples, and ashrams. Additionally, Haridwar offers scenic views, wildlife experiences, and a slice of authentic North Indian culture. Let’s explore the top places to visit in Haridwar and what you can do at each of them.
Top Places to Visit in Haridwar
1. Har Ki Pauri 🛕
Har Ki Pauri is the most revered and iconic ghat in Haridwar, often considered the spiritual epicentre of the city. The name ‘Har Ki Pauri’ literally means ‘Steps of Lord Shiva’ – Har refers to Lord Shiva, and Pauri means steps. However, according to another popular legend, it is also the place where Lord Vishnu is believed to have left his footprint on a stone wall, which is still visible and worshipped by devotees.
This ghat holds immense religious importance as it is believed to be the spot where the sacred River Ganga touches the plains for the first time after descending from the Himalayas. For Hindus, taking a dip in the Ganges at this very site is considered to cleanse all sins and pave the way for salvation.
What to Do: ✅
- Witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti at dawn and dusk.
- Take a holy dip in the river to cleanse your sins.
- Watch thousands of lamps float on the river during the evening ritual.
- Visit Brahmakund, the most sacred section of the ghat.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot for the aarti, especially during festivals.
2. Mansa Devi Temple 🕍
Perched atop the Bilwa Parvat, part of the Shivalik Hills, the Mansa Devi Temple is one of the most revered shrines in Haridwar. Dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, an incarnation of Shakti, the temple attracts thousands of devotees each day who come to seek blessings and have their wishes fulfilled. The word ‘Mansa’ comes from ‘manas’, meaning mind or heart, and it is believed that the goddess grants all sincere wishes made with pure intentions.
What to Do: ✅
- Ride the cable car (ropeway) for panoramic views of the city and river.
- Offer coconuts, flowers, and sacred threads to the deity.
- Tie a sacred thread on the temple railings as a wish-making ritual.
Travel Tip: Try visiting early morning to avoid queues, especially during weekends and Navratri.
3. Chandi Devi Temple 🚩
The Chandi Devi Temple, built in the 8th century by King Suchat Singh, sits majestically atop Neel Parvat, one of the scenic hills in Haridwar. Dedicated to Goddess Chandi, a fierce form of Shakti, the temple is believed to be the exact spot where the goddess rested after defeating the demons Shumbh and Nishumbh in Hindu mythology.
Recognised as one of the three Siddh Peeths in Haridwar, it holds immense spiritual importance for devotees who come here to seek strength, protection, and blessings. The temple’s hilltop location offers not just a divine experience, but also stunning views of the Ganges and the surrounding landscape, making it both a religious and scenic attraction.
What to Do: ✅
- Enjoy the trek through the forest trail or opt for a scenic ropeway ride.
- Take in the breathtaking view of Haridwar and its surroundings.
- Meditate in the peaceful temple surroundings.
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4. Maya Devi Temple 🙏
The Maya Devi Temple is one of the most ancient and spiritually significant temples in Haridwar, dating back to the 11th century. It is considered a Shakti Peeth, a sacred site where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen after her self-immolation during the Daksha Yagna.
Specifically, it was here that the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell, making it a powerful center of divine feminine energy. Dedicated to Goddess Maya, the presiding deity of Haridwar, the temple is visited by thousands of devotees who come to seek strength, blessings, and spiritual awakening in a deeply serene and historic setting.
What to Do: ✅
- Seek blessings from Goddess Maya Devi.
- Explore the temple’s ancient architecture and peaceful vibes.
5. Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple 🛕
The Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, located in the serene Kankhal area of Haridwar, is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is associated with the Daksha Yagna, a pivotal event where King Daksha, father of Goddess Sati, conducted a grand yagna (sacrificial ritual) but deliberately did not invite Lord Shiva.
This led to Sati’s self-immolation in protest, and a furious Shiva later destroyed the yagna and beheaded Daksha. The temple stands as a powerful symbol of that mythological episode and is revered by devotees for its spiritual significance, peaceful ambience, and intricate architecture.
What to Do: ✅
- Offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
- Visit the nearby yagna kund (fire pit) and read about the temple’s mythological significance.
- Explore the quiet lanes around the temple.
6. Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar 🧘
The Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar are among the most tranquil and spiritually rich places to visit in Haridwar. Additionally, according to legend, this is the very spot where the seven great sages (Sapt Rishis)-Kashyapa, Vashisht, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagni, Bharadwaja, and Gautama-performed deep meditation.
In addition to this, to avoid disturbing their penance, the River Ganga is believed to have split into seven streams at this location, hence the name Sapt Sarovar (Seven Streams).
What to Do: ✅
- Meditate in the serene ambience.
- Walk along the ghats by the Sapt Sarovar.
- Observe the peaceful lifestyle of the resident sages.
How to Reach Haridwar by Train 🚂
Haridwar is extremely well connected to major cities across India via a robust railway network. Haridwar Junction (Station Code: HW) is the primary railway station. Major Trains to Haridwar:
- From Delhi: Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, Mussoorie Express, Nanda Devi Express
- From Mumbai: Bandra Terminus-Haridwar Express
- From Kolkata: Doon Express
- From Chennai: MDU-CDG Superfast Express
- From Amritsar: Amritsar-Haridwar Jan Shatabdi
Best Time to Visit Haridwar 🕐
- October to March: Cool and comfortable weather-ideal for sightseeing and festivals.
- April to June: Haridwar can be hot during this time but still manageable.
- July to September: Monsoon season; the Ganga is at its most vibrant.
Local Food to Try in Haridwar 🍽️
- 🍛 Kachori Sabzi & Jalebi – Start your day the Haridwar way with this iconic breakfast combo! Crispy kachoris stuffed with spiced lentils are served with tangy aloo sabzi and followed by hot, syrupy jalebis – a sweet-spicy treat that locals swear by.
- 🥔 Aloo Puri – Found at almost every street corner near the ghats, this comfort food features fluffy puris paired with a rich, flavorful potato curry. It’s filling, soul-satisfying, and perfect after a morning dip in the Ganga.
- 🥤 Lassi & Kulhar Chai – After temple hopping, cool off with a tall glass of creamy, chilled lassi or sip on hot masala chai served in a traditional kulhar (clay cup).
- 🍬 Local Sweets – Don’t miss the delicious pedas, rabri, and other traditional sweets sold in age-old sweet shops. Made with pure ghee and love, these melt-in-the-mouth delights are perfect for gifting or enjoying after a meal.
Final Thoughts 🚂
Haridwar is not just a destination; it’s an experience that transforms you. Plan your trip today, book your train tickets in advance, and prepare for a spiritual and cultural journey like no other.
👉 Haridwar is calling-are you ready to answer? 🚂
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