Located at the site where the Ganges emerges from the Himalayas is Haridwar, the holiest city in Uttarakhand.

Pilgrims arrive here in absolute droves to bathe in the Ganges which often flows incredibly fast.  The numbers of people who converge here are chaotic, but still provide a memorable site and it has a reverent feel despite the chaos.  One stunning sight is every evening when the river comes alive with flickering offerings as they float off down river.

Tourism in Haridwar

Literally meaning Gateway to God, Haridwar is a holy city where the Ganges River emerges.  The religious fervour that is found here through the millions of pilgrims is humbling to say the least.  Because of the holiness of the site Haridwar is situated in the perfect place for many of the festivals that India is famous for.  The Kumbha Mela being the most famous, the last time it was held it drew a record 70 million in 2003. Baisakhi, Kanwar Mela, Somwati Amavasya, and Kartik Purnima are several others among the many.  Unfortunately Haridwar's infrastructure cannot stand up to the demand that is sometimes placed on it by such festivals, so it is by far best to book hotel, accommodation etc well in advance.  It is also noteworthy that at these times there is a large strain also on the roads and it is best to avoid travelling on them if you wish to avoid some serious traffic jams.

Haridwar is one of the four sites where the drops of elixir of immortality called Amrit accidentally spilled from a pitcher that was being carried by a celestial bird known as the Garuda.  The other three sites are Ujjain, Nasik and Allahabad. And this brought about the birth of the festival Kumbha Mela which celebrates the event.  Millions congregate to perform ritualistic bathing on the banks of the Ganges which equates to washing away ones sins.  Interestingly the spot where the Amrit fell is considered to be the Brahma Kund which literally translates into footsteps of the lord.  It is the most sacred of Ghats in Haridwar.

Sacred Bathing Spots and Temples             

There are five sacred bathing spots in Haridwar which are Gangadwara, Kankhal, Nila, Parvata, Bilwa, Theertha and Kusavarta.  At the main Ghats hari-ki-Pairi there is a footprint that is considered Vishnu’s in a stone on a wall.  Many people want to come to Haridwar to visit Gangadwara temple which is considered by many to be the most important temple of those that can be found in Haridwar.

A moving Moment in Haridwar

One of the most stunning sights that can be seen in Haridwar is the Ganga Aarti which is celebrated at 7pm every night at every temple all at the same instant. Hundreds converge on the banks of the river to participate with their offerings of flowers and lamps which are set upon the river following the ceremony.  This is admittedly one of the most moving sites one will come across in India and it is a stunning sight to watch the lit lamps travel along the river.