Haridwar is a sacred land where pilgrims come from across the globe
. It is among the most revered pilgrimage centers of India which occupies a prized place in hearts of Hindus. The meaning of Haridwar is Gateway to God'. It is set amidst peaceful and beautiful surroundings at the foothills of the mesmerizing Himalayas. It is believed in the Hindu traditions that one must visit Haridwar at least once in a lifetime. It is a wonderful place where the holy river Ganga enters the Indo-Gangetic plain of North India.
Haridwar is also the venue for the world famous Kumbh Mela which is celebrated in every twelve years. Kumbh Mela is the largest religious gathering in the world which is celebrated for forty days. There is an interesting legend attached to it according to which Haridwar is among those four places where drops of elixir of immortality fell from the picture carried by Lord Vishnu's celestial bird Garuda. This religious center is also the gateway to three major pilgrimage centers of India, Rishikesh, Kedarnath and Badrinath.
The scenic beauty of Haridwar is equally mesmerizing. The views of the holy river Ganga and majestic mountains are the sights to behold. There are several ghats in Haridwar but the most famous is Hari Ki Pauri'. It is believed that taking a bath at this ghat washes away one's sins. The evening aarti performed at this ghat in honor of Goddess Ganga is the biggest draw here. The sound and vibes of the evening aarti at Har Ki Pauri makes one experience peace and spirituality.
There are several temples in Haridwar but the most popular ones are Gorakhnath, Mansadevi, Kankhal, Birbhadreshwar and Daksha Mahadev. Visit these temples and experience the religious side of India.