Do you find yourself getting your foot in Haridwar and are uncertain what to expect in the place? You are in for a treat, then! Haridwar, being one of the most religious destinations in India, is not only a city of religious values but also an area of natural beauty and tradition. Ranging from the state’s highlight of the Ganges and its ghats to the gripping hills and loud marketplace, there is something for everyone. Time now flies to the interesting places that one cannot afford to miss in Haridwar and its scenic environment.
To help you not get tired of scrolling through different websites in search of your perfect getaway, we are here with a list of the top places to visit in Haridwar, and here we go:
The Best Places to Visit in Haridwar
1. Har Ki Pauri
It is a well-known fact that a tour to Haridwar is not complete without visiting Har-ki-Pauri. Being one of the holiest ghats of India, located on the bank of the Ganges, both the river and this ghat are the places where pilgrims bathe to wash off their sins. The evening Ganga Aarti held here is very moving as the chanting of prayers, the lamps, and devotion fill the air.
2. Mansa Devi Temple
The temple of Mansa Devi is located on the Bilwa Parvat, making this important place of worship a pilgrimage site. A cable car vehicular journey traditionally carrying scenic views of the city and the river leads to the temple. It is a place of worship maintained by believers according to their faith that they get their wishes fulfilled by the goddess.
3. Chandi Devi Temple
Chandi Devi Temple is another hilltop temple that has been dedicated to Goddess Chandi. It can be accessed through a cable car, or one can walk up through beautiful trails. Its location is rather breathtaking, and, in general, the constant feeling of spirituality nullifies stress here.
4. Shantikunj Ashram
To sum it up, for those interested in gaining spiritual awareness and embracing serenity, Shantikunj Ashram is ideal. The state is an important center of the Gayatri Pariwar, which conducts many divine and health improvement programs. The calmness of the place and the rigor of the schedule allow one to have a profound insight into the soul.
5. Bharat Mata Mandir
One of the temples of worship in India, Bharat Mata Temple, has eight rooms, each of which showcases aspects of India. The area is indeed very educational in regard to the Indian heritage, the many legends associated with it, and the people who lived there.
Places to visit near Haridwar
1. Rishikesh
A little further up the Ganges from Haridwar, Rishikesh is famed as the yoga capital of the world and is just a 30-minute drive away. Most famous are the many ashrams for spiritual learning centers, yoga, and the two suspension bridges: Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula. Tour lovers can explore what can be done, like river boarding or rafting, hiking, and some overnight stays.
2. Dehradun
If you are willing to push yourself a little further, Dehradun city is located about 52 km from Haridwar town and is the capital of the newly carved state of trip to Uttarakhand. The city is adorned by beautiful geographical features and is of high historical importance. See Robber’s Cave, the Sahastradhara waterfalls, and the rocking Forest Research Institute in a single-day tour.
3. Rajaji National Park
It is recommended that nature admirers visit Rajaji National Park, about 20 km from Haridwar. A number of wild animals are also found in the park, such as elephants, tigers, and leopards, among others. Jeep safaris are again a perfect means to move around in the region and see the rich floral backdrop and the animals.
4. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Strategically located at a distance of 32 km from Haridwar, the Neelkanth Mahadev is located in the midst of lush green forests. The shrine is excellent for observing the soothing atmosphere of the rocks and the spiritual energy of the place connected with Lord Shiva.
The Best Places to Visit in Haridwar at Night
1. Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
Despite the fact that Har Ki Pauri is a busy place throughout the day, the same place turns into a calm and spiritual area during the night. One must witness the Ganga Aarti, which is lighting the thousand lamps and floating them in the Ganges. Everything is well lit, giving off a rather mystical feeling.
2. Moti Bazaar
Following the Ganga Aarti, head down to Moti Bazaar. This open-air, busy market offers articles of daily use, local duty-free articles, food, and other local specialties. The small alleys are full of lights, fragrances, and noises, so it is an amazingly noisy night.
3. Barra Bazaar
This is one of the largest and most compact markets, and Iro can be strolled for hours; when customers get tired, they should ask for Prakash Lok to be shown, which is very active in the evening. Here, you will be served the tastiest creamy lassi that you have tasted in many months. This milk treat will definitely have a memorable taste on the customers’ palates. Believe me, you will be glad to get this piece of advice about enjoyable resting after a working day.
Romantic Places to visit in Haridwar for a couple
1. Riverside Picnics
For those wanting some time to themselves, Ganges’ Bank is the best place for a picnic and tranquility. One can get to listen to the melodious sound of the river while being bombarded by nature.
2. Rajaji National Park Safari
Jeep safaris in Rajaji National Park are always exciting for couples on the tour. Going to explore the unknown forests and perhaps watch animals makes memorable moments and has an adventurous tone to a trip.
3. Vishnu Ghat is the perfect place for couples looking for a little solitude.
Vishnu Ghat is one more beautiful and calm place in Haridwar, which is a romantic spot for the couple. Located on the banks of the pious Ganga Tag, this ghat is slightly off the tourist map compared to the upbeat Har Ki Pauri. There are various activities that this place offers to visitors, including a walk along the river or a bath in water believed to have divine intervention. The Ganges’ water, which cascades discreetly, and the sacred platform Vishnu Ghat help the couples focus on each other and relax after having left the noises of the city.
4. Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve (JJCR): A Romantic Nature Trip for Two
Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve (JJCR), which is near the famous city of Haridwar, can be regarded as the perfect romantic paradise for those couples who dream to enjoy the natural beauties of India. This wetland reserve area contains a great number of plant and animal species; therefore, it is popular with tourists and bird watchers. People get a chance to take leisurely strolls, take a look at birds, or just simply admire the calmness of the lake with the tall trees in the background. The calm atmosphere created in JJCR fits for lovers and quiet time together without the loud nuisance of the city street.
Places to visit in and around Haridwar
1. Kankhal
To get a feel for the area’s history, one can take a tour through the ancient town of Kankhal, which is only 4 kilometers from Haridwar. The temple, which is specific to Hindu mythological legend, is known as Daksha Mahadev Temple, and the architectural planning and designing of the temple are also talked of in high regard.
2. Patanjali Yogpeeth
It was initially started by Baba Ramdev and is involved in practicing and teaching yoga and Ayurveda, besides being a wellness center. It is good for people to revive themselves and also get information on natural ways of handling the body.
3. Rafting stretch from Brahmpuri to Rishikesh
White water rafting stands out as the most popular sporting event in the region of Haridwar. Thus, it has turned into one of the most favorite and rather adventurous places for rafting, with a medium- to very tough and rough water strip at the Ganges. Numerous enthusiastic and thrill-seeking tourists, including Indian and international tourists, visit this place to enjoy the true adventure of whitewater rafting.
4. Fun Valley Water Park
Fun Valley Water Park is richly suited for couples and kids and provides a taste of fun to the people of Haridwar. Located in Da Nang and Hue City, it has approximately 21 thrilling water rides and roller coasters and offers fun. Apart from the above kinds of exercises, the park has aqua dancing, a disco station, and other adventurous activities that are likely to challenge fun lovers.
5. Crystal World
Any family trip to Haridwar would not be considered complete until a visit to the famous Crystal World had been made. This is one of the most famous places of interest in Haridwar, and here children can also enjoy a number of exciting rides, making your holidays enjoyable. Crystal World has a broad range of rides and attractions, which total over 40, which implies that the park can provide entertainment for its clients endlessly with added factors, for instance, water rides and attractions. An added attraction during your stay would be the Aqua Drive and Parachute Ride.
Hidden Gems Near Haridwar
1. Piran Kaliyar Sharif
Vicinity Haridwar is a place known as Piran Kaliyar Sharif, which is the spelling of a dargah that is associated with the Sufi saint Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir Kalyari. Religious discourse shows it to be a center where people of all creeds and colors come to be blessed.
2. Sapt Rishi Ashram
Sapt Rishi Ashram is on the outskirts of Haridwar and is a quiet accommodation right beside the Ganges. This place is said to have had seven sages meditating here, and currently, the environment of the ashram is quiet, which is appropriate for any form of meditation or yoga.
3. Kushavarta Ghat: The Most Sacred Ghat in Haridwar
Kushavarta Ghat is referred to as one of the holiest ghats in Haridwar and is among the famous tourist places in the city. It is known to be utilized in asserting the funeral rites and other related ceremonies of the deceased body. Known to have been built probably in the 18th century by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar, the ghat also links to the great pre-Vedic saint Dattatreya, who is believed to have spent much of his time here. Everybody is welcome to swim in its holy water.
Conclusion
Thus, dear reader, we have come to the end of the intriguing tour focusing on the places of interest in Haridwar. One has the serenity of the Har Ki Puri, the adventure of Fun Valley, or the isolation of Vishnu Ghat, all available under one roof, yes, in the city of Haridwar. Every place is as special as the next one, guaranteeing you a lifetime of memories. Well, that’s it for me now. It is your turn to learn more. For your trip, gather your belongings and your family members, and go out for a tour to look out at the beauty of Haridwar. From spiritual sanctuaries and business quarters to adventures and relaxation zones, there is something for each person here. Remember to also share your experiences and your favorite moments with Capture a Trip; we would love to hear your experiences! Happy travel!