10 Best Places to Visit in Haridwar for Every Traveller

Haridwar in Uttarakhand is one of India’s most visited pilgrimage cities. Every year, millions of devotees arrive here to take a dip in the Ganga. However, Haridwar is not only for pilgrims. Travellers find thriving colourful bazaars, old temples, food stalls, and a base for exploring nearby hill stations like Rishikesh and Mussoorie.

If you are planning a trip, here is a guide to the best places to visit in Haridwar.

1. Har Ki Pauri

The city’s most well-known ghat is Har Ki Pauri. It is where the evening Ganga Aarti takes place, with priests using lamps and chants to perform rituals. A lot of people come to see the event, and the sight of the diyas floating down the river will stay with them forever. Pilgrims also take morning baths here because they think it will wash away their sins.

2. Mansa Devi Temple

Mansa Devi Temple sits on Bilwa Parvat and is dedicated to Goddess Mansa. Pilgrims tie threads on the temple’s trees with their wishes, which makes the visit meaningful. From the base to the top, you can take a ropeway. From the top, you can see a wide, impressive view of the city and the Ganga.

3. Chandi Devi Temple

Chandi Devi Temple, built in the 8th century, is another important shrine. Pilgrims believe Goddess Chandi killed the demons Shumbh and Nishumbh here. The temple is one of the Siddh Peeths and holds great religious meaning to followers.

4. Bharat Mata Mandir

Unlike most temples, Bharat Mata Mandir is dedicated to the idea of India itself. Each of its eight floors showcases different themes, from freedom fighters and saints to cultural traditions. Bharat Mata Mandir is dedicated to India and not to a deity. Each of its eight floors showcases different themes, from freedom fighters and saints to cultural traditions.

5. Daksha Mahadev Temple

Daksha Mahadev Temple is in Kankhal, which is a short drive from Haridwar. Its roots can be found in a tale about Sati and her father, Daksha. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and gets quite crowded during Shivratri.

6. Shantikunj Ashram

Shantikunj is the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar and is both an ashram and a research centre. Visitors come here for meditation, spiritual training, and to experience simple community living.

7. Bara Bazaar

Bara Bazaar is one of the busiest areas in Haridwar. The shops in the market sell religious items like rudraksha beads, brass idols, and ayurvedic products. However, it is known for its food too. The lanes are filled with stalls serving kachoris, jalebis, and sweet thick lassi in clay cups.

8. Moti Bazaar

Moti Bazaar runs along the main ghat area and is another popular stop for shopping. The lanes are full of small shops with everything from sweets to handicrafts. Pilgrims buy souvenirs, idols, and puja essentials before heading to temples.

9. Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park lies close to Haridwar and is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer. The park is spread over a large area and offers jeep safaris. For travellers who want to balance spirituality with nature, Rajaji is a good half-day excursion.

10. Bhimgoda Tank

Bhimgoda Tank is a small reservoir close to Har Ki Pauri. According to mythology, it was created by Bhima from the Mahabharata when he struck the ground with his knee. Today, it serves as a water storage tank but continues to attract visitors for its link to the legend.

How to Plan One of These Trips

A trip to Haridwar can be planned over two to three days. The first day can be spent visiting Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi, and Chandi Devi. The second day can include Daksha Mahadev Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir, and Shantikunj. Markets like Bara Bazaar and Moti Bazaar fit well into evenings. Those with an extra day can explore Rajaji National Park or head to Rishikesh.

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