Haridwar is one of the holiest city of India situated in Uttrakhand by the banks of the revered Ganges river. It’s name Hari-Dwar, which translates to ” Gateway of God” highlights it’s spiritual importance as the starting point for the Char Dham, the four sacred shrines. Thus Haridwar attracts millions of pilgrims every year.
Haridwar is not just a city, it is also a spiritual journey. It is of central importance in Hinduism, with legends, rituals and practices deeply rooted in the daily life of the city. The Ganges, considered the holiest river in Hinduism, plays a central role in the city’s spirituality. Few days in this serene city is an experience in itself. Here, is an elaborate itinerary of 3 days to spend in this city of Hari.
Day 1- Immerse in the spirit of the city at Har ki Pauri
Start your day early and take a dip at Har ki Pauri, the famous ghat on the bank of Ganges river. Visit the tempes of various god and goddess at the Jar ki Pauri ghat to seek their blessings. Head towards Mohan Puri Wala or Panditji Puri Wale to finish your breakfast with delicious Puri and Sabzi. Stroll in the lanes of “Moti Bazar” and try various authentic sweets made with clarified butter (ghee). Try the malai samosa. You can also try chilled almond milk ( badam dhoodh) and milk products like rabri and faluda for their refreshing taste. You will get idols of gods, their clothes, copper and brass items and many more. Support the locals and buy some souvenirs. Post lunch, relax for sometime in your hotel.
Next grand event to imbibe the vibe of the city, visit Har ki Pauri Ghat at around 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm to grab a seat near the Ganga river. Witness the vibrant Ganga aarti (timing- 6:30-7:30pm) and chant the mantra of Har Har Gange. Hundreds of floral diyas float into the clean Ganga along with the Ganga aarti sung by the local priests and pilgrims alike. Post the Aarti, one can try various food items at the many food stalls around. Later, finish your dinner at the Chotiwala or Curry leaf as per your preference.
Day 2- Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi and Maya Devi visit
The Mansa Devi temple is located at a height of around 2000 feets, on the Bilwa parvat of the Shivalik hills, A short hike is required to reach the temple or one can take the Udankhatola ride (cable car) to get there. You can get a panoramic view of the whole Haridwar city from the hills of Mansa Devi. Post the temple visit take a car ride and visit the Chandi Devi temple atop of Neel parvat on the eastern summit of Shivalik hills. The only way to get to the Chandi Devi temple is by Udankhatola ride (cable car) as the hills are too steep for a hike. Post this visit the Maya Devi temple to finish the tri Shaktipeeth temple visit. Maya Devi temple is located near the Har ki Pauri ghat and is said to be a place where the heart and naval of goddess Sati fell. In the evening don’t forget to visit Jain chaat Bhandar in Moti Bazar for a appetizing Magic Chaat (an ayurvedic delight).
Day 3- More temples, ashrams and the ancient area of Kankhal- Book an erikshaw and start your day by the visiting the Pawan Dham temple for its unique interior crafted entirely with glass and mirrors depicting various incidents from Ramayana and Mahabharata. After this, visit Shantikunj, a world renowned ashram and the headquarter of Gayatri Parivar. If possible, join the yagna (Vedic fire) ritual during early morning (dress code- yellow sari/salwar for women and yellow dhoti and kurta for men) to cleanse the surroundings and raise the spiritual awareness of those involved. Take the prasadam if feasible. Soak the environment of the ashram for as much as you like. Post this, visit the Bharat Mata Mandir (dedicated to nationalism and spirituality), Shri Ram Mandir and Maa Vaishno Devi temple in the vicinity. Now head towards Kankhal, the birthplace of Maa Sati. Visit Shitala mata temple, Daksha Prajapati temple, Harihar ashram (for mercury Shivalinga) and Geeta Mandir. Lastly, visit Har ki Pauri for the last time to collect some Gangajal.
The best time to visit Haridwar is from October to April for its pleasant weather. Also make sure to dress moderately. It’s is not a nocturnal city so prepare yourself to call it a day by 9 pm. Note that Haridwar is strictly a vegetarian city and thus the non vegetarian food and alcohol is prohibited.
-Triparna
