Haridwar is one of the holiest cities in India. The abode of holy river Ganges, it is situated in the bounteous state of Uttarakhand. Haridwar is made of two words - 'Hari' meaning God and 'Dwar' meaning Gateway, thereby denoting gateway to God. According to Hindu mythology, it is one of the four places, where the elixir of immortality fell. The place where the portion fell is known as Brahma Kund at Hari ki Pauri. The Kumbh Mela is also celebrated here, wherein lakhs of pilgrims take holy dip into the waters of Ganges. Also referred as the epitome of spirituality and devotion, it is one of the places granting Moksha (salvation) to human souls.

Tourist Attractions

Haridwar is one of the major pilgrim spots in the country. As a result, there are a number of temples and shrines and located here, which are visited by devotees from all over the globe. One of the major tourist attractions is Hari ki Pauri, which is the most popular bathing ghat here. It was built by King Vikramaditya in the memory of his brother Bhartihari. It is also known as Brahmakund. Hundreds of devotees take a holy dip in the waters of Ganges from here everyday. The number increases to lakhs during the time of Kumbh Mela.

The sight of Ganga Aarti in the evening is enchanting for the visitors. The Ghat carries the footprints of Lord Vishnu, continuously splashed over by the waters of river Ganges. The devotees float Diyas or small earthen lamps in the water after the Aarti. The important shrines in Haridwar include Chandi Devi Temple. It was constructed in 1929 by King of Kashmir, Suchat Singh, in the honor of Goddess Chandi. Situated on top of the Neel Parvat, the temple can be reached on foot or through ropeway.

Mansa Devi is another temple, which is quite famous in Haridwar. It is situated atop Bilwa Parvat and is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi. It is a popular tourist destination as the goddess is said to fulfill devotees' wishes. The ancient temple of Daksha Mahadev is a tribute to the legend as per which, Lord Shiva's wife Sati immolated herself, after her father Daksha Prajapati, insulted Shiva. Also, there is Sati Kund situated here, where she immolated herself.

Bhimagoda Tank is another historical site near Hari ki Pauri. It is believed that it is the same place from where, Bhima, one of the Pandavas, drew water by thrusting his knee into the ground. On the main river Ganga, at the Bhimagoda Barrage, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is situated. It is home to many migratory birds and a bird's watchers paradise. Other places worth visiting in Haridwar are Pavan Dham, Bharat Mata Mandir, Doodhadhari Barfani Temple, Sureshwari Devi Temple, Jairam Ashram, Maya Devi Temple, etc.

How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant near Dehradun. There is only one airline operational from here, Deccan Airways, which has flights to and from Delhi.

By Rail: Haridwar is an important rail head in Uttarakhand and is well connected to all the rest of the country via effective rail network.

By Road: Haridwar lies on one of the National Highways and is therefore well connected to all the major cities of the state and the country. There is an effective bus and taxi service operational from here.