Located on the Ganges River, this ancient Hindu pilgrimage city draws visitors to its sacred Har-ki-Pauri ghat, Chandi Devi Temple, and daily evening Ganga aarti ceremonies.
Haridwar marks the point where the Ganges River leaves the Himalayas and enters the plains of northern India. As one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, its spiritual heart beats at Har Ki Pauri, where thousands gather each evening for the Ganga Aarti ceremony. You can climb to hilltop temples, explore the busy lanes of Bara Bazaar, learn about Ayurvedic medicine at Patanjali Yogpeeth, or spot wild elephants at nearby Rajaji National Park.
The Sacred Ganga Aarti
At sunset, priests at Har Ki Pauri ghat perform the Ganga Aarti ceremony using brass lamps while chanting Sanskrit mantras. Hundreds of small diyas (oil lamps) float down the river, creating reflections on the water. The ceremony starts at 6:00 PM in winter and 7:00 PM in summer. You'll hear the sound of a conch shell announcing the start, followed by bells and drums. Find a spot on the main ghat or surrounding steps at least 30 minutes before the ceremony begins.
Main Temples of Haridwar
Take a cable car to Mansa Devi Temple on Bilwa Parvat, or walk up the steep path (45 minutes). The temple has two main shrines and overlooks the city and the Ganges. Another cable car leads to Chandi Devi Temple on Neel Parvat, built in 1929. If you prefer hiking, the 3-kilometer trail takes about 1.5 hours. At ground level, visit Maya Devi Temple, which houses a stone carving of a three-headed goddess.
Kumbh Mela Festival
The Kumbh Mela transforms Haridwar every 12 years, with millions of pilgrims coming to bathe in the Ganges at Har Ki Pauri. Plan for the next festival in 2028. A smaller celebration, Ardh Kumbh, happens every six years between the main events. During these times, the city's population can multiply tenfold.
Planning Your Visit
Spring (March-April) and autumn (September-October) bring mild weather and manageable crowds. Summer temperatures reach 44°C, while winters can drop to -1°C. Book your stay at least three months ahead during major festivals. The city comes alive during morning hours (5:00 AM - 9:00 AM) and evening hours (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM), when most religious activities take place.
Getting Around Haridwar
Catch direct trains from Delhi (4-5 hours) or choose from 150 daily buses. From Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (35 kilometers away), take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer. Within Haridwar, auto-rickshaws run on fixed routes between major landmarks. Cycle rickshaws work well for short distances in the old city areas.
Local Rules and Customs
The city follows strict religious practices. You won't find meat or alcohol anywhere in Haridwar. Wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders - long pants and sleeved shirts are ideal. Women should carry a scarf for temple visits. Most shops close from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. ATMs cluster around the railway station and Har Ki Pauri, but many small vendors only accept cash.
