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Haridwar Travel Guide 2025
Haridwar, one of India’s holiest cities, is nestled along the sacred Ganges River in Uttarakhand. Known for its spiritual significance, it attracts pilgrims and tourists seeking divine blessings and cultural experiences. The city’s highlight is the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a mesmerizing ritual where thousands gather to witness the river illuminated by floating lamps. Haridwar is also home to ancient temples like Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi, and Maya Devi, offering breathtaking views and spiritual solace. The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, draws millions of devotees for a holy dip in the Ganges. Apart from its religious charm, Haridwar boasts a vibrant local market, Ayurvedic centers, and scenic ghats. Adventure seekers can explore nearby Rajaji National Park for wildlife safaris. Whether for spiritual awakening, cultural immersion, or nature exploration, Haridwar offers a truly divine experience, making it a must-visit destination in India.
Har Ki Pauri
The most sacred ghat in Haridwar, known for its grand Ganga Aarti and spiritual ambiance.
Mansa Devi
A revered hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, accessible via a scenic ropeway ride.
Chandi Devi
Situated atop Neel Parvat, this temple offers breathtaking views and is an important pilgrimage site.
Rajaji National Park
A wildlife sanctuary home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and diverse bird species.
Shantikunj
A spiritual and yoga center promoting Vedic knowledge, meditation, and self-development programs.
Kankhal
A historic Shiva temple linked to King Daksha, an important site in Hindu mythology.
Aloo Puri
A delicious combination of fluffy puris and spiced potato curry, served hot at local eateries.
Kachori Sabzi
Crispy deep-fried kachoris filled with lentils or potatoes, paired with a tangy and spicy sabzi.
Singhori
A traditional sweet made with khoya, wrapped in Malu leaves, offering a rich and unique flavor.
Products for Shopping in Haridwar
- Woolen Clothes – Shawls, sweaters, and caps from Tibetan Market
- Wooden Handicrafts – Carved souvenirs, walking sticks, and keychains
- Handmade Candles – Scented and decorative candles from Mall Road shops.
- Tibetan Souvenirs – Prayer wheels, singing bowls, and jewelry
- Local Honey & Jams – Organic honey, fruit jams, and herbal teas
Markets for Shopping in Haridwar
- Mall Road – Popular for woolens, souvenirs, and candles.
- Kulri Bazaar – Best for wooden artifacts and trendy clothes.
- Library Bazaar – Great for budget shopping and Garhwali sweets.
- Tibetan Market – Known for Tibetan souvenirs and winter wear.
- Landour Bazaar – Famous for handmade jams and bakery items.
By Air
Haridwar’s nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, 35 km away, with taxis and buses available for a one-hour journey.
By Train
Haridwar Junction Railway Station connects major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi, with frequent express and superfast trains available.
By Bus
Haridwar has excellent bus connectivity with Delhi, Dehradun, Rishikesh, and other cities, offering regular government and private bus services.
Local Transport
- Local Taxi & Auto easily available for local ride with reasonable price.
- App based Ola, Uber & Rapido is available for local ride.
Nearby Places
Please see below locations which are nearby to Haridwar.
- Dehradun – 54 km | Known for Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Tapkeshwar Temple, and Forest Research Institute.
- Dhanaulti – 90 km | A peaceful hill station with Eco Park, Surkanda Devi Temple, and adventure activities.
- Kanatal – 92 km | A scenic retreat with apple orchards, camping, and stunning Himalayan views.
- Chamba – 87 km | A quiet town offering breathtaking landscapes and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Tehri Dam – 95 km | One of India’s largest dams, great for boating and water sports.
- Rishikesh – 25 km | Famous for Ganga Aarti, yoga retreats, river rafting, and adventure sports.
- Mussoorie – 85 km | The Queen of Hills, known for Mall Road, Kempty Falls, and lush green hills.
Safety
Safety Tips for Haridwar
- Carry Warm Clothes – Temperatures drop, especially in winter.
- Drive Carefully – Mountain roads can be steep and foggy.
- Be Wildlife Aware – Avoid forested areas at night.
- Stay Alert in Crowds – Watch for pickpockets at Har Ki Pauri and crowded area.
Language & Culture
Haridwar embodies spirituality with Hindi and Garhwali as primary languages. The city thrives on Ganga Aarti, Kumbh Mela, yoga, and religious traditions, offering a deeply devotional and culturally rich experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Haridwar is October to March, with pleasant weather for sightseeing and spiritual activities. The Kumbh Mela (every 12 years) and Kanwar Yatra (July) attract millions of devotees.