
Haridwar
or 'the Gateway to the Gods' is one of the seven holiest places according to
Hindu mythology. Ganga, the holy river of the Hindus enters the plains from
here. Haridwar's scenic beauty is a blend of height and plains, the air
echoes the sounds of chanting mantras. The city abounds in temples of Hindu
Gods and Goddesses. Haridwar has a lot of spiritual retreats or Ashrams
carrying on the lineage of providing the way to body soul perfection via
various yoga and meditative techniques.
Sightseeing at Haridwar -
Har Ki Pauri : Har Ki Pauri is one of the most sacred bathing ghats
at Haridwar. The best time to visit this spot is at sunset when you can see
the 'Aarti' of Ganga being performed.
Chandi Devi : Across the main Ganga river, on the other bank is the
Neel Parvat. The famous Chandi Devi Temple is situated atop it. One has to
trek at least 3 Kms. on the hill to reach it. Other temples in close
vicinity on the hill itself are the temples of Gauri Shankar, Neeleshwar
Mahadev and Anjani Devi.
Bhimgada Tank : On the way to Rishikesh, this
tank is said to have been made by Bhim with the blow of his knee, when the
Pandavas were going to the Himalayas through Haridwar.
Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar : Legends abound in India. Here,
it is said, Ganga splits herself in seven currents so that the Sapt (seven)
Rishis worshipping there would not be disturbed.
Canal Centenary Bridge : Located near Har-ki-Pauri, this bridge
commands a beautiful view of the canal and all the ghats.
Other Attractions are - Kavand Mela, Daksha Mahadev
Temple, Maya Devi and Shantikunj Ashram. Dehradun is at a distance of two
hour drive. Rishikesh is just 24 Kms from Haridwar.
Best Season To Visit : Temperature usually hovers around 40°C
during summers. Winters see the mercury dipping to as low as 6°C.
October to March is very pleasant season for the tourists.
