Haridwar located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the north Indian state of Uttaranchal represents the point where the Ganga reaches the plains. Haridwar is an ageless pilgrimage destination, held in reverence for centuries. Several temples and ashrams are found in this town and a visit to Haridwar is like stepping into a comletely different world.
Tourist Attractions:
Har Ki Pauri:
Har Ki Pauri is one of the most sacred ghats in India. It is said that this ghat was built by Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. Also known as Brahmakund, the Ghat is magnificently illuminated in the evening during a Maha Aarti performed on this ghat. It is an event which is a must, not be missed by any visitor.
Mansa Devi:
Located on top of a hill called the Bilwa Parvat, the Manas Devi Temple is worth visiting. The temple can be reached by the rope way or one can take the normal trekking route to the top. The top of the hill gives you an excellent view of Haridwar.
Chandi Devi:
On the top of a hill called the Neel Parvat which is on the other side of the river Ganga, the Chandi Devi temple was constructed by the King of Kashmir, Suchat Singh, in 1929 AD. Chandi Devi is a 3 km trek from the Chandi Ghat.
Sapt Rishi:
At one place Ganga divides herself into seven small streams. This place is known as the Sapt Rishi and provides a very pleasing sight.
Maya Devi:
Maya Devi Temple is one of the Shaktipeeths in India. This ancient temple of Maya Devi is also the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar. It is said that when Lord Shiva was carrying his wife Sati, who had burnt her self to keep the honour of her husband, then the heart and navel of Sati had fallen at this place.
Daksha Mahadev Temple:
At a distance of 4 kms from Haridwar is a town called Kankhal. It is said that the king of this place King Daksha Prajapati performed a yagya. His daughter, Sati was married to Lord Shiva. But Daksha was not happy with this marriage and did not invite Shiva-Sati in the Yagya.
But Sati came and was insulted by her father. She could not take the insult and burnt herself in the yagya kund. On knowing this Shiva’s followers killed Daksha. But later Mahadeo (Shiva) brought Daksha to life. The Daksha temple is a mark to this legend. This place is one of the five sacred places in Haridwar.
Haridwar is a beautiful city and Har ki Pauri is a nice place to visit. I especially lovedits atmosphere at night. I though loved the temple of Mansadevi the most. The views from the top are enchanting.