Haridwar is a holy city situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, at the foothills of the Himalayas. The city is considered one of the holiest cities in India and is a popular destination for both spiritual seekers and tourists. Haridwar is steeped in Hindu mythology, and its significance is rooted in its historical and spiritual offerings. In this blog, we will explore the significance of the holy city of Haridwar and its many attractions.

Spiritual Significance of Haridwar

• Gateway to the Char Dhams: Haridwar is the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage to four sacred shrines in Uttarakhand, including Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. The city is the starting point for this holy journey, and many pilgrims begin their pilgrimage from here.

• The Confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati Rivers: Haridwar is situated at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati Rivers, which is considered a sacred spot in Hinduism. It is believed that taking a dip in the river Ganges here washes away one's sins, and the water is considered to have healing properties.

• Har Ki Pauri: Har Ki Pauri is a famous ghat (stepped embankment) on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar. It is considered one of the most sacred spots in the city and is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu left his footprint.

• The Kumbh Mela: Haridwar is one of the four cities that host the Kumbh Mela, the world's largest religious gathering. The Kumbh Mela is held once every 12 years and attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world.

• Temples: Haridwar is home to many temples, including the Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, and the Daksheswara Mahadev Temple. These temples are considered sacred and attract devotees from all over the world.

Tourist Attractions in Haridwar

Apart from its spiritual significance, Haridwar is also known for its scenic beauty and tourist attractions. The city offers many attractions to tourists, including:

• Cable Car Ride: The cable car ride to the Mansa Devi Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Haridwar. The cable car takes visitors to the top of a hill, where the temple is situated.

• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Haridwar is surrounded by wildlife sanctuaries, including the Rajaji National Park, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, and Motichur Wildlife Sanctuary. These sanctuaries are home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.

• Ashrams: Haridwar is home to many ashrams, including the Shivananda Ashram, Parmarth Niketan, and the Yoga Niketan. These ashrams offer yoga and meditation retreats and are popular among spiritual seekers.

• Ganga Aarti: The Ganga Aarti is a daily ritual held on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar. The ritual involves offering lamps to the river Ganges and is considered a spiritual experience.

• Chila Dam: Chila Dam is a popular spot for boating and picnicking. The dam is situated on the outskirts of Haridwar and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Conclusion

 Haridwar is a holy city that has been attracting spiritual seekers for centuries. It is a city of immense spiritual significance and is considered one of the holiest cities in India. The city's historical and cultural offerings are rooted in Hindu mythology, and it is a popular destination for both spiritual seekers and tourists. The city's main attractions include its location at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati Rivers, Har Ki Pauri, and the Kumbh Mela. It also boasts many temples, wildlife sanctuaries, ashrams, and scenic spots like the Chila Dam. Visitors to Haridwar can immerse themselves in the city's rich spiritual and cultural offerings and witness its natural beauty. Haridwar is a unique destination that offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India.

Author

Darshita Nautiyal

(The images used in this podcast are not owned by Anime Devta, they are just to help the readers)