No spiritual journey is deemed complete without a visit to Haridwar. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and blessed by the holy Ganga, Haridwar is considered the holiest place to cleanse sins. Beyond the ritual dip in the sacred Har Ki Pauri and temple visits, there is much more to explore, and for that, a Luxury Tempo Traveller in Delhi will be a perfect companion. Connect with your spiritual side and immerse yourself in the natural beauty around you. Haridwar presents itself as a perfect vacation destination for tranquillity amidst lively nature or adventure activities offered nearby Rishikesh.
As you plan a darshan, you might find answers to many of your fears and doubts. Not far from Haridwar lies Rishikesh, a paradise for families seeking an adrenaline rush. Consider opting for a Tempo Traveller Rent in Delhi and planning a camping experience with your loved ones here, where numerous attractions and a plethora of activities await. Create a bucket list, mark off the places, and enjoy a memorable journey in these spiritually rich and adventure-filled locales with your dear ones.
Places to Visit in Haridwar with Family
Make sure not to miss out on these places and soak in the spiritual energy of the city. You might be surprised by the variety and may not be aware of some of these hidden gems. Let us explore the top places worth seeing.
1. Har ki Pauri
Har ki Pauri is believed to bear the footprint of Lord Shiva, and it marks the point where the Ganga River enters the plains from the mountains. Also, it is said that Har ki Pauri is one of the four places where drops of nectar fell from the celestial bird. The enchanting sight during the evening Ganga Aarti, with sages sitting on the Ghat, captivates the eyes and stirs a sense of spirituality in everyone. Har ki Pauri holds significance in various mythologies, and taking a dip in the holy Ganga Maiya here is considered purifying. The site also hosts the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh fairs.
2. Chandi Devi Temple
Chandi Devi Temple, dedicated to Chanda Devi Mata, is one of the five major pilgrimage sites in Haridwar. Situated on the Shivalik hills of the Himalayas, this temple offers the opportunity for trekking due to its high-altitude location. As visitors ascend to the temple, the surrounding greenery and captivating views south the soul and make the efforts truly worth it. A significant destination for religious tourists, the temple has historical roots, with its existence dating back to 700 – 800 AD.
3. Bara Bazaar
Situated on the railway road, Bara Bazaar is a renowned shopping destination. Being in a religious city, the market offers a variety of pooja items. Visitors can also purchase handicraft articles as souvenirs. Bara Bazaar is known for items like churan and Rudraksha seeds. Also, you can consider buying delicious milk sweets from this bustling market.
4. Swami Satyamitranand Giri
Swami Satyamitranand Giri laid the foundation of the Bharat Mata Temple, situated on the banks of the Ganga. It is a massive and unique structure that honours Mother India, filled with deities of historical legends. The temple complex boasts an 8-storey structure, where each floor is dedicated to different mythological heroes. The first floor features a statue of Bharat Mata, while the second floor houses the Shur Mandir, a temple dedicated to renowned heroes of India.
5. Bhimgoda Kund
With historical significance, the Bhimgoda Kund or Tank is located approximately 1 km from Har ki Pauri. According to legend, during their journey to the Himalayas, the Pandavas paused there to drink water. Bhimgoda is the spot where Bhima extracted water from the rocks by thrusting his knee (Goda).
6. Kanva Rishi Ashram
A sanctuary for nature lovers and those seeking peace, Kanva Rishi Ashram is located approximately 40 km away from the busy city. Nestled amidst serene nature, the ashram is a retreat that often draws individuals looking to spend time in solitude. Kanva Rishi Ashram serves as a peaceful haven where one can soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
7. Sapt Rishi Ashram
Situated approximately 5 km away from Haridwar, Sapt Rishi Ashram stands out as the ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation of the mind and soul. Retaining an old-world charm, the ashram serves as a centre for Sanskrit learning. Named “Sapt Rishi,” it holds historical significance as the place where seven sages—Kashyapa, Vashisht, Gautam, Jamadagni, Vishwamitra, Bhardwaja, and Atri—once meditated. Located a short distance from the bank of the River Ganga, the ashram offers picturesque surroundings. It is also believed that the Pandavas, while on their way to the Himalayas, crossed this place.
Conclusion
The sacred city of Haridwar presents a vibrant and captivating fusion of culture. The air is filled with the sweet smell of incense sticks and the chants of sadhus along the holy Ganga Ghats. The serene Ganga Aarti, held every morning and evening, creates a heartwarming spectacle. Haridwar has become more than merely a religious city.
Beyond ritualistic activities, now people come here seeking Yoga and a lively culture. It has also emerged as a significant hub for learning the Sanskrit language. Modern-day Haridwar reflects the rich culture of India and offers a diverse experience to its visitors.