Haridwar is a holy city located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism and attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Here are some lesser-known facts about this sacred city.

Major Facts and Existences of Haridwar in Short

  1. Name origin: Haridwar derives its name from two Sanskrit words: Hari (meaning Lord Vishnu) and Dwar (meaning gateway). Thus, Haridwar is also known as the “Gateway to Lord Vishnu.”
  2. Kumbh Mela: Haridwar is one of the four cities in India where the Kumbh Mela is held. This massive Hindu pilgrimage, attended by millions of people, is held every 12 years in Haridwar, and the last one was in 2021.
  3. Chandi Devi Temple: The Chandi Devi Temple is located atop the Neel Parvat hill, and it is believed that the goddess Chandi fulfills the wishes of her devotees who trek to this temple.
  4. Ganga Aarti: The Ganga Aarti is a daily ritual held at Har Ki Pauri, which is the most famous ghat in Haridwar. It is a spectacular sight to watch hundreds of devotees offering prayers to the river Ganges, which is considered a sacred river in Hinduism.
  5. Legends and mythology: According to Hindu mythology, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places, and it is believed that the gods left their footprints in Haridwar. It is also believed that Lord Shiva’s hair fell here and the river Ganges originated from the spot.
  6. Wildlife: Rajaji National Park, a famous wildlife sanctuary, is located near Haridwar. The park is home to several species of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer.
  7. Yogic heritage: Haridwar is known for its yogic heritage, and it is believed that several famous yogis and sages meditated and attained enlightenment here.

Overall, Haridwar is a city of immense spiritual and cultural significance, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Hinduism, yoga, and Indian culture. If you want to learn more about Haridwar, Uttarakhand then you can visit Uttrakhand Tourism Government Portal.

It is estimated that millions of devotees visit Haridwar every year. During the Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years, the number of pilgrims can go up to tens of millions. In general, the number of visitors to Haridwar fluctuates throughout the year, with the highest number of visitors during the peak pilgrimage season which usually coincides with festivals and important holy days in Hinduism.

Celebrities visited Haridwar from all over the world

Several world celebrities have visited Haridwar over the years, primarily for spiritual and cultural reasons. Here are a few notable names:

  1. Mark Zuckerberg: The founder of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, visited Haridwar in 2014, and he was seen participating in a traditional Hindu ceremony on the banks of the river Ganges.
  2. Hugh Jackman: The famous Hollywood actor, Hugh Jackman, visited Haridwar in 2011, where he took a dip in the river Ganges and also visited the Har Ki Pauri ghat
  3. Steve Jobs: The late Apple founder, Steve Jobs, visited Haridwar in the 1970s, where he is said to have spent time meditating and seeking spiritual enlightenment.
  4. Julia Roberts: The Hollywood actress, Julia Roberts, visited Haridwar in 2009, where she participated in a Hindu ceremony and also visited an ashram in Rishikesh, which is located near Haridwar.
  5. Russell Brand: The British comedian and actor, Russell Brand, visited Haridwar in 2017, where he was seen participating in a Hindu ritual on the banks of the river Ganges.

These are just a few examples, and many other celebrities from around the world have visited Haridwar and other holy cities in India over the years.

Also Read: CRYSTAL WORLD: UTTARAKHAND’S LARGEST ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION

Best Time to visit Haridwar

The best time to visit Haridwar is from February to April and August to October, which are the spring and autumn seasons respectively. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature ranges from 15°C to 35°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

The monsoon season, from July to September, can also be a good time to visit Haridwar as the rainfall transforms the surroundings into lush greenery, and the water level of the river Ganges is high, making it a beautiful sight to behold. However, it’s important to keep in mind that heavy rainfall can cause landslides and disrupt travel plans.

The winter season, from November to January, can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 6°C. However, this season can be a good time to visit for those who enjoy winter sports and activities.

It’s important to note that Haridwar can get crowded during peak pilgrimage seasons, such as during the Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years, and during important Hindu festivals. So, it’s advisable to plan your trip accordingly and make necessary arrangements in advance.

Nearby Places of Haridwar

  1. Rishikesh: Rishikesh is located just 25 km from Haridwar and is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” It is also home to several ancient temples, ashrams, and adventure sports activities such as river rafting and bungee jumping.

  2. Dehradun: Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand and is located around 52 km from Haridwar. It is known for its pleasant climate, beautiful landscapes, and educational institutions. 
  3. Mussoorie: Mussoorie is a popular hill station located around 80 km from Haridwar. It is known for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and adventure sports activities such as trekking and rock climbing. 

  4. Rajaji National Park: Rajaji National Park is located around 20 km from Haridwar and is home to several species of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer.
  5. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is located around 30 km from Haridwar and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva drank the poison that emerged during the churning of the ocean at this place.

These are just a few examples of nearby places that you can visit along with Haridwar. Uttarakhand has several other scenic destinations and cultural sites that are worth exploring.

Best Hotels and Restaurants in Haridwar:

Here are some of the best hotels and restaurants in Haridwar:

Hotels:

  1. Aalia Resort: A luxurious resort located on the banks of the river Ganges, offering scenic views and a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant.
  2. Haveli Hari Ganga: A heritage hotel located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat, offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and traditional Indian hospitality.
  3. Radisson Blu Haridwar: A modern hotel located on the outskirts of the city, offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.

Restaurants:

  1. Chotiwala Restaurant: A popular restaurant chain known for its vegetarian North Indian and South Indian cuisine, including thalis and dosas.
  2. Mathura Walon Ki Prachin Dukan: A popular eatery known for its traditional Indian sweets and snacks, including lassi, peda, and samosas.
  3. Big Ben Restaurant: A multi-cuisine restaurant located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat, offering a range of Indian and international dishes, including Chinese, Continental, and Thai cuisine.

Way to Reach Haridwar from Delhi

There are several ways to reach Haridwar from Delhi:

  1. By Train: The easiest way to reach Haridwar from Delhi is by taking a train. There are several trains that run between Delhi and Haridwar, and the journey takes approximately 4-5 hours. Some popular trains on this route are the Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, and the Haridwar Express.
  2. By Bus: Another way to reach Haridwar from Delhi is by taking a bus. There are several government and private buses that operate between Delhi and Haridwar, and the journey takes approximately 5-6 hours.
  3. By Car: You can also drive from Delhi to Haridwar, which takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic. The route is well-connected and the roads are in good condition.
  4. By Air: If you’re looking for a faster mode of transport, you can take a flight from Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 20 km from Haridwar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Haridwar.

Conclusion

There are several other hotels and restaurants in Haridwar, catering to different budgets and tastes. It’s always advisable to read reviews and check ratings before making a booking or visiting a restaurant to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Visiting Haridwar can be a life-changing experience, especially for those who are spiritually inclined. The city is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of India. From the holy waters of the Ganges to the majestic temples on the hilltops, there are several sights in Haridwar that can leave one spellbound.

A visit to Haridwar is not just about sightseeing, but also about experiencing the local way of life. The city has a vibrant street food culture, and visitors can sample some of the delicious local delicacies. The Ganga Aarti is a must-attend event, as it offers a chance to witness the spirituality and devotion of the locals.

Overall, a visit to Haridwar can be a transformative experience, and is highly recommended for those looking for a spiritual and cultural awakening.

Haridwar is a holy city located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism and attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Here are some lesser-known facts about this sacred city.

Similar Posts