Haridwar or Hardwar is a historic place of India, having immense religious significance for the Hindu religion. It is the place, where a lot of believers come to wipe out their impurities by dipping into the holy Ganges and then head forward to the ancient Hindu temples, located at the lap of Himalaya, Kedarnath and Badrinath. There are some controversies or differences in opinions regarding the name of the place. It is called Haridwar as it is considered as the gateway of Bishnu temple Badrinath. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu is also known as Hari. Some people also call this place as Hardwar, considering the place as the gateway to the temple of Kedarnath. Kedarnath is the temple of Lord Shiva and in Hindu scriptures, Lord Shiva has been often called as ‘Hara’.
Haridwar is connected with the rail networks with major Indian cities. One can also opt for air services to reach Haridwar. The nearest airport of Haridwar is Jolly Grant Airport, from where it takes a drive of 25 KM to reach the city center of Haridwar. Being a holy destination for the followers of Hinduism, Haridwar experiences rush of tourists throughout the year. But, during winter, the weather becomes mild and thus, it becomes a favorable place for the tourists who are planning for Haridwar Holidays. However, during winter, water level drops of the river Ganges due to ice formation. As the summer sets in, ice starts melting and Ganges becomes powerful.
Festivals of Haridwar
It is indeed a luring option to plan for Haridwar holiday during festive times. Religious festivals are celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm in this place. Hindu festivals, like Holy, Navratri, Dussera, etc. are celebrated with jovial spirits. During these festivals, thick crowds can be expected. Thus, if you are looking forward to a calm, enticing and memorable trip to Haridwar, then it is suggested to avoid the festive months. One of the biggest festivals that have been organized periodically in this place is the famous Kumbh Mela. Record breaking crowd can be observed during Kumbh Mela in Haridwar.
Things to Do in Haridwar
In your holidays in Haridwar, you will find plenty of things to do in this place. You can pay visits to the local temples and other major landmarks, like Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, etc. You can opt for a short journey to Rishikesh, which is a divine, serene and heavenly hill station of the state of Uttarakhand. One can also opt for visiting Missouri, which is yet another charming as well as romantic holiday destination of the state of Uttarakhand. Apart from these local sighseeing or short trips, you can also consider the following things to do in your Haridwar holiday:
- Holy Dip in Ganges: A must do – if you are in Haridwar. Without enjoying a holy dip in the Ganges, you would not be able understand the essence of this religious place.
- Aarti in Evening: In front of the river Ganges, evening aarti or worshipping rituals have been carried out. Observing these rituals would drive you towards the divinity.
- Vegetarian Foods: Due to religious faiths, Haridwar is considered as a place, where you would not get any non-vegetarian dishes. However, the delicious charm of the local vegetarian foods will surely keep your taste buds satisfied.
Choose your Haridwar holiday packages wisely and get ready to visit the land of nirvana.