Haridwar

Haridwar or Hardwar is a holy city of Hindus situated in the state of Uttaranchal in India. The name stands for Gateway of the Gods. The city is one of the seven holiest cities of the Hindus in India.

Holy Ganga River enters Gaumukh near Haridwar and follows to the Indo Gangetic plain of Norther India. Haridwar is one of the four sites where elixir or Amrit was spilled over after Smudra Manthan when being carried away by Garuda the heavenly bird.

Hence Hardwar is the major pilgrimage center of the Hindu and Kumbh Mela is held here once every three years. Other places where Kumbh Mela is held are Ujjain, Allahabad and Nasik.

The most sacred spot where nectar fell is known as Har-ki Pauri or Brahma Kund. It is believed that taking a dip here helps the holy attain moksha. The destination is also an entry point for the Chardham tours or pilgrimage to four holy places. Many sages have been said to have lived here or did penance.

Other places of Interest are:

Temples of Chanda Devi, Mansa Devi, Maya devi, Doodhadhari Barfani, Sureshvari Devi and

Daksheswara Mahadev.

Neel Dhara Bird Sanctuary

Sati Kund

BhimGoda Tank

Jairam Ashram

Jairam Ashram

Parad Shivling

Ramanad Ashram

Ram Mandir

and few other places.

There are many hotels in Haridwar which offer a luxury stay during pilgrimage. Some hotels offer Char Dham tours to pilgrims. The destination is also well know for Rudraksha bead necklaces and pendants used by the holy men as rosary for prayers.

Hardiwar is well connected by road network from Delhi and Dehradun. The nearest air port is Dehradun. The best time to visit is during the Maha Kumbh Mela held after every three years.