bigtravelbuzzHaridwar is a holy city in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India. It is situated on the banks of the river Ganges and is considered one of the seven holiest places for Hindus. Here are some things to do and places to visit in Haridwar:
Har Ki Pauri: This is a famous ghat on the banks of the river Ganges, and is considered to be the most sacred spot in Haridwar. It is believed that taking a dip in the waters here washes away all sins.
Mansa Devi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi and is located on top of a hill. You can either climb the stairs or take a cable car to reach the temple.
Chandi Devi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi and is located on top of another hill. You can either climb the stairs or take a cable car to reach the temple.
Ganga Aarti: This is a beautiful ritual that takes place every evening on the banks of the river Ganges. The aarti involves lighting lamps and offering prayers to the river.
Bharat Mata Mandir: This temple is dedicated to Mother India and has a map of India carved out of marble inside the temple.
Sapt Rishi Ashram: This is an ancient ashram located on the banks of the river Ganges. It is believed that seven sages once meditated here.
Rajaji National Park: This national park is located on the outskirts of Haridwar and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards.
Best Time To Visit Haridwar
Haridwar is a holy city located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Haridwar depends on your preference and purpose of visit.
The winter season from November to February is a good time to visit Haridwar as the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 20°C. This is a good time to visit for those who want to explore the city’s attractions without facing the crowds of tourists.
The summer season from March to June can be hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 45°C. However, this is also the peak tourist season in Haridwar as it coincides with important Hindu festivals like Kumbh Mela, Kanwar Mela, and Chardham Yatra.
The monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rainfall and can make it difficult to explore the city’s attractions. However, the city looks beautiful during this season as the surrounding hills turn lush green.
Overall, the best time to visit Haridwar is from November to February when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. However, if you want to witness the city’s vibrant festivals and events, you should plan your visit during the summer season.
How to get around in Haridwar
Haridwar is a small city that is easily navigable on foot or by local transportation. Here are some ways to get around in Haridwar:
Walking: Many of Haridwar’s attractions are located close to each other, making walking a convenient and cost-effective option.
Cycle-rickshaws: These are popular modes of transportation for short distances and can be found at various points throughout the city. Negotiate the fare before getting in.
Auto-rickshaws: These are three-wheeled vehicles that are commonly used for short to medium distances. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Taxis: Private taxis are available for hire throughout the city. You can also book a taxi through a local travel agency or online booking platforms.
Buses: Haridwar has a well-connected bus network that connects to various parts of the city and nearby towns. The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation operates regular bus services from Haridwar to other parts of the state.
When using public transportation, it is advisable to carry small denominations of cash as most of these modes of transportation do not accept credit/debit cards. Also, be cautious of scams and overcharging.
Where to eat in Haridwar
Haridwar is famous for its street food, which is a must-try for visitors. Here are some popular places to eat in Haridwar:
Hoshiyar Puri: Located in the heart of Haridwar, this eatery is famous for its aloo-puri and kachoris.
Chotiwala: This is one of the most popular restaurants in Haridwar, known for its vegetarian thali and aloo puri.
Mohan Ji Puri Wale: Another popular street food joint that serves delicious aloo-puri, kachoris, and lassi.
Mathura Walon Ki Prachin Dukan: This old shop is famous for its sweets, especially peda and barfi.
Bhagwati Chole Bhandar: Located near Har Ki Pauri, this eatery is known for its chole bhature and lassi.
Big Ben Restaurant: A multi-cuisine restaurant that serves Indian, Chinese, and Continental food.
Purohit ji ka Dhaba: This dhaba-style restaurant is known for its North Indian cuisine, especially its dal makhani and butter chicken.
Bikanervala: A popular chain restaurant that serves vegetarian Indian and Chinese food, sweets, and snacks.
These are just a few of the many options available in Haridwar. When trying street food, make sure to eat at places that are clean and hygienic. Also, it is advisable to avoid eating raw or uncooked food, drinking tap water, or eating at places that use tap water for cooking.
Famous street stalls in Haridwar
Haridwar is famous for its street food, and there are numerous street stalls offering a variety of delicious snacks and dishes. Here are some famous street stalls in Haridwar that you should try:
Kachori wala: Located near the Vishnu Ghat, this stall is famous for its spicy and crispy kachoris.
Puri Sabzi wala: Located near Har Ki Pauri, this stall is known for its mouth-watering aloo puri and chole bhature.
Lassi wala: This is a small shop located near Har Ki Pauri that serves thick and creamy lassi.
Mohan Ji Puri wale: A popular street food joint that serves delicious aloo-puri, kachoris, and lassi.
Hoshiyar Puri: Located in the heart of Haridwar, this eatery is famous for its aloo-puri and kachoris.
Chhole Bhature wala: This stall is located near Bara Bazaar and is known for its spicy and tangy chole bhature.
Peda wala: This old shop is famous for its sweets, especially peda and barfi.
Bade Bhai ka Brothers Dhaba: A popular food joint that serves North Indian dishes like paratha, chana masala, and lassi.
These are just a few of the many street stalls in Haridwar that offer delicious food. When trying street food, make sure to eat at places that are clean and hygienic.
Where to stay in Haridwar
Luxury accommodation
Haridwar offers a range of luxurious accommodations for visitors looking for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Haridwar:
Aalia Resort: A luxurious resort located on the banks of the Ganges river, offering a spa, outdoor pool, and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
Radisson Blu Hotel Haridwar: A five-star hotel located near Har Ki Pauri, offering a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Ganga Lahari: A boutique hotel located near Har Ki Pauri, offering beautifully designed rooms, a spa, and a rooftop restaurant with a stunning view of the Ganges river.
Regenta Orko’s Haridwar: A luxurious hotel located near the railway station, offering spacious rooms, a spa, and a rooftop restaurant.
Hotel Ganges Rivera: A luxurious hotel located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat, offering well-appointed rooms, a spa, and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
The Haveli Hari Ganga: A heritage hotel located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat, offering spacious rooms, a spa, and a rooftop restaurant with a beautiful view of the Ganges river.
Fortune Park Haridwar: A luxurious hotel located near the industrial area, offering spacious rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options.
These are some of the best luxury accommodations in Haridwar that offer a comfortable stay with top-notch amenities and services.
Where to stay in Haridwar
Budget accommodation
Haridwar offers a range of budget accommodations for visitors looking for a comfortable and affordable stay. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Haridwar:
Hotel Ganga Azure: A budget hotel located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat, offering clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel City Heart: A budget hotel located near the railway station, offering basic amenities like clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Himgiri Residency: A budget hotel located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat, offering clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Khanna Palace: A budget hotel located near the railway station, offering clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel King: A budget hotel located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat, offering clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Ganga Darshan: A budget hotel located near the Har Ki Pauri ghat, offering clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Sachin International: A budget hotel located near the railway station, offering clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
These are some of the best budget accommodations in Haridwar that offer a comfortable stay at an affordable price.
Travel Tips Haridwar
Haridwar is a holy city located in the state of Uttarakhand in India, and it attracts millions of visitors every year. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to Haridwar:
Dress modestly: Haridwar is a holy city, and visitors are advised to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious places.
Respect local customs and traditions: Haridwar has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and other religious places.
Avoid peak season: Haridwar can get crowded during peak season, which is from October to March. It’s advisable to visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Plan ahead: Haridwar is a popular destination, and it’s advisable to plan your trip in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. Book your accommodation and transportation well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Take care of your belongings: Haridwar is a safe city, but it’s advisable to take care of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Try the local street food: Haridwar is famous for its street food, and it’s a must-try for visitors. However, make sure to eat at places that are clean and hygienic.
Use public transportation: Haridwar is a small city, and it’s easy to get around using public transportation like buses and auto-rickshaws. Avoid using private taxis, as they can be expensive.
Take a dip in the Ganges river: Taking a dip in the holy Ganges river is a must-do for visitors to Haridwar. However, be careful of the strong currents and follow the local customs and traditions.
These travel tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable visit to Haridwar.