Haridwar Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities, food, and cultural attractions in Haridwar with our ultimate travel guide. Learn the local customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options to make the most out of your trip.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Haridwar

Haridwar is a sacred city located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, in Himalayan North, India. It is one of the seven holiest places for Hindus and attracts millions of pilgrims every year. In addition to its religious significance, Haridwar is also known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. With this ultimate travel guide to Haridwar, discover the best places to visit, activities, food, and cultural attractions in the city. Learn the local customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options to make the most out of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Haridwar

Haridwar has various places to explore, including culturally important attractions, natural attractions, and hiking/biking routes. Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Haridwar:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Har Ki Pauri Ghat: This is one of the most important places for Hindu devotees in Haridwar, where they come to take a dip in the River Ganges. It is also home to the evening aarti, a beautiful ceremony where devotees offer their prayers to the river.

  • Mansa Devi Temple: This is one of the most famous temples in Haridwar that is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mansa Devi. It is located on the Bilwa Parvat hill and provides panoramic views of the city.

  • Chandi Devi Temple: This is another important temple in Haridwar that is located on top of the Neel Parvat hill. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Chandi Devi and can be reached by a cable car or a steep trek.

  • Gurukul Kangri University: This is a prestigious educational institution in Haridwar that is founded on the principles of traditional Indian gurukuls. The campus is spread over 100 acres and has various temples, meditation halls, and a museum.

Natural Attractions of Haridwar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rajaji National Park: This is a beautiful national park located near Haridwar that is home to various wildlife species. It is a great place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts to explore the flora and fauna of the Himalayan region.

  • Neer Garh Waterfall: This is a beautiful waterfall located near Haridwar that is surrounded by lush greenery. It is a great place for a picnic or a day trip.

  • Haridwar Temple Trail: This is a scenic trekking route in Haridwar that takes you through various temples and ashrams. It is a great way to explore the religious and cultural heritage of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Haridwar

Haridwar has various trekking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding countryside. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Chandi Devi Temple Trek: This is a moderate trek that takes you to the Chandi Devi Temple, located on the Neel Parvat hill. It offers panoramic views of the city and the Ganges river.

  • Kunjapuri Temple Trek: This is a challenging trek that takes you to the Kunjapuri Temple, located on top of a hill. It offers stunning views of the sunrise and the surrounding mountains.

  • Biking in Rajaji National Park: This is a great way to explore the beauty of the national park while also getting some exercise. You can rent a bike in Haridwar and explore the various trails and paths in the park.

Best Things to Do in Haridwar: Activities and Tours

In addition to the places to visit and the hiking/biking routes, Haridwar also has various activities and tours that are worth experiencing. Here are some of the best things to do in Haridwar:

  • Evening Aarti at Har Ki Pauri Ghat: This is a beautiful ceremony where Hindu devotees offer their prayers to the River Ganges. It is a must-see experience for anyone visiting Haridwar.

  • White water rafting in the Ganges: This is a thrilling adventure activity that is popular in Haridwar. You can go rafting in the River Ganges and experience the rush of the rapids.

  • Ayurvedic treatments and massages: Haridwar is known for its Ayurvedic treatments and massages that offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. You can visit one of the many Ayurvedic centers in the city and pamper yourself.

Week-Long Itinerary for Haridwar

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Haridwar, here’s a sample itinerary that you can follow:

Day Activity
1 Explore Har Ki Pauri Ghat and attend the evening aarti
2 Trek to Chandi Devi Temple and explore the temple and its surroundings
3 Visit Mansa Devi Temple and explore the nearby markets
4 Go rafting in the Ganges river and explore the natural beauty of the region
5 Visit Rajaji National Park and explore the flora and fauna of the Himalayan region
6 Visit Gurukul Kangri University and attend a meditation or yoga session
7 Visit Neer Garh Waterfall and spend a relaxing day picnicking and enjoying the scenery

Food and Drink Scene of Haridwar

Haridwar is famous for its street food and local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kachori: This is a popular snack in Haridwar that is made of fried pastry filled with lentils, spices, and potatoes.

  • Aloo Puri: This is a popular breakfast dish in Haridwar that consists of deep-fried bread and potato curry.

  • Lassi: This is a popular local beverage in Haridwar that is made of yogurt, sugar, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Thandai: This is a refreshing drink made of almonds, poppy seeds, fennel, and milk. It is especially popular during the Holi festival.

  • Bhang: This is a cannabis-infused milkshake that is served during the Holi festival. It is legal and widely consumed during the festival.

Where to Stay in Haridwar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Haridwar has various accommodation options that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are some recommendations:

  • Luxury hotels: Ganga Lahari, Aalia Resort, and Aman Ganga Resort are some of the best luxury hotels in Haridwar.

  • Mid-range hotels and guesthouses: Haveli Hari Ganga, Trishul Hotel, and Hotel Ganga Lahari are some of the best mid-range hotels and guesthouses in Haridwar.

  • Budget hostels and guesthouses: Bunkotel, Zostel Haridwar, and Gayatri Sadan are some of the best budget hostels and guesthouses in Haridwar.

What to Buy in Haridwar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Haridwar is famous for its spiritual and religious products, including Ayurvedic products, Rudraksha beads, and brass statues. Here are some recommendations:

  • Ayurvedic products: You can buy various Ayurvedic products in Haridwar, such as herbal teas, oils, and powders.

  • Rudraksha beads: Rudraksha beads are considered sacred in Hinduism and are said to have spiritual and healing properties. You can buy them in Haridwar.

  • Brass statues: Haridwar is famous for its brass statues of Hindu gods and goddesses. You can buy them in various sizes and designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Haridwar

Haridwar is a sacred city and has certain customs and traditions that tourists should be aware of. Here are some tips:

  • Dress appropriately: Haridwar is a conservative city, and tourists should dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious places.

  • Remove footwear before entering temples: In Hinduism, it is customary to remove footwear before entering temples. Tourists should also follow this custom when visiting temples in Haridwar.

  • Respect the local culture: Haridwar is a spiritual city, and tourists should respect the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Haridwar

The best time to visit Haridwar is between October and March when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature is mild. However, if you want to witness the famous Kumbh Mela festival, which takes place once in 12 years, you can plan your visit accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Haridwar

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Haridwar:

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious places.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Visit during the Maha Kumbh Mela festival for a unique experience.

Don’t:

  • Consume non-vegetarian food in public.
  • Drink alcohol in public.
  • Litter or pollute the River Ganges.

Safety and Health

Haridwar is a safe city for tourists. However, tourists should take basic precautions to ensure their safety and health. Here are some tips:

Safety in Haridwar

  • Avoid crowded places during peak hours.
  • Keep your valuables safe.
  • Follow traffic rules and avoid jaywalking.

Health in Haridwar

  • Drink only bottled water.
  • Avoid street food and eat at hygienic places only.
  • Carry mosquito repellent and sunscreen.

Getting to Haridwar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Haridwar is well-connected to various cities in India and has several transportation options. Here are some ways to reach Haridwar:

Airports Near Haridwar

  • Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (Dehradun Airport): 21.7 miles / 35 km

Bus Stations Near Haridwar

  • Haridwar Bus Stand:4 km

Other Options

  • Haridwar Junction railway station: 1.5 km (0.9 mi) from Har Ki Pauri

How to Get Around in Haridwar

Haridwar is a small city, and you can easily explore it on foot or by cycle rickshaw. You can also hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to navigate around the city.

Where to Go Next from Haridwar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Haridwar is located in the Himalayan region and has several nearby destinations and excursions that are worth exploring. Here are some recommendations:

  • Rishikesh: This is a spiritual city located near Haridwar that is famous for its ashrams and yoga centers.

  • Mussoorie: This is a hill station located near Haridwar that is known for its natural beauty and scenic views.

  • Dehradun: This is the capital city of Uttarakhand and is known for its museums, temples, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Haridwar is a spiritual and cultural city that has something to offer to all kinds of travelers. It is a great place to explore the spiritual and natural heritage of India and experience its unique culture and traditions. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip to Haridwar and make the most out of your visit.

Har-ki-pauri Har-ki-pauri Maya Devi Temple Maya Devi Temple