Haridwar: The Gateway to God
Haridwar is famously known as the 'Gateway to God'. Although the name Haridwar refers to the 'Abode of Lord Vishnu', millions of devotees from across the world visit this holy city every year. Historically, the city was also known as Gangadwára in ancient times. Located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, it is adorned with exquisite and historic temples. It is also celebrated as the gateway to the four significant pilgrimages of Uttarakhand. Along with this, Haridwar marks the entry point to the sacred origins of the Yamuna and Ganga rivers. Visitors from around the world come to witness the magnetic, trance-inducing evening ‘Aarti’. The temples of Haridwar are revered for their healing and auspicious powers, earning the faith and devotion of countless followers.
The Chinese traveller Huan Tsang mentioned Haridwar in his travel accounts as ‘Mo Yu Lo’ in 629 AD. The Turkish invader Timur Lang attacked the city on 13 January 1399. In the 16th century, Ain-i-Akbari, the Constitution of Akbar, referred to Haridwar as Mayapuri. The Bhimgoda Dam was built in 1840, and the first railway line reached Haridwar in 1886. Later, the establishment of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) marked the city’s progress toward modernisation. Since 2000, Haridwar—earlier part of Uttar Pradesh—has been one of the proud districts of Uttarakhand.
Places to See in Haridwar:
Har ki Pauri Ghat: This sacred ghat is one of the major landmarks of Haridwar. It is also called Brahmakund. The world-famous Kumbh Mela, held every twelve years, is celebrated at Har ki Pauri. King Vikramaditya is believed to have built this ghat in memory of his brother Bharthari, who meditated on the banks of the Ganga. The enchanting evening Aarti at twilight mesmerises visitors as thousands of lit diyas reflect on the flowing water of the Ganga River.
Chandi Devi Temple: Built in 1929 by the King of Kashmir, Suchat Singh, this revered temple is situated atop Neel Parbat. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya installed the main idol. The temple is considered a Siddh Peetha as it is believed to fulfil devotees’ wishes.
Bharat Mata Mandir: Also known as the Mother India Temple, it was inaugurated in 1983 by the late Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The temple witnesses a high influx of devotees every year. Each floor of the shrine features sculptures of various deities, and it also honours India’s freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: This revered temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located near the Nar-Narayan mountain ranges. According to legend, Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison 'halahala' during the churning of the ocean by Gods and Demons to obtain ‘amrita’. The event of ‘samudramanthan’ is artistically depicted through the idols in the temple.
Shantikunj: The headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP), known as Shantikunj, is located in Haridwar. Established by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, it attracts several seekers—both Indian and foreign—looking for spiritual learning and healing.
Excursions from HaridwarTravellers can explore nearby destinations such as Rishikesh (20 km), Rajaji National Park (24 km), Roorkee (32 km), Dehradun (54 km), and Mussoorie (81 km).
When to Reach
The best time to visit Haridwar is between October and February, when the weather is most pleasant.
How to Reach
Air: The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is located 35 km from Haridwar.
Rail: Haridwar Railway Station is well-connected to major Indian cities such as Chennai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Indore, and Mumbai.
Road: Haridwar is connected to several major cities via National Highway 45.
