Known as Uttarakhand’s Char Dham Gateway, the little town Haridwar is located at the bank of the river Ganges (Ganga). Being a holy place, this place is a hub for people for pilgrims from across the globe. It is not only visited by Indians but by foreigners too. India has almost seven holy cities that people brag about. Haridwar is one of them. It is close to Delhi and therefore, one of the best destinations for people living nearby. It won’t be wrong to call it one of the most loved weekend getaways from Delhi. It is believed to be the halt city of the four dhams that welcomes people with the evening aarti beside the riverbank. Something that definitely strikes everyone’s attention is the har ki pauri’s aarti and the Ganga Snan (or a dip in the river Ganges). It is time you plan a getaway near Delhi with family.
What to do in Haridwar?
1. Har ki pauri
One of the most popular destinations in Haridwar, it welcomes every traveler to this place. It is believed that people who take a dip into this river Ganges get rid of all their sins. Not just family but youths and office employees also visit this place. Apart from this, there are at least 3 more Ghats in Haridwar that you can visit.
2. Mansa Devi
Located atop the popular Bilwa parvat, Mansa Devi temple if one of the most popular tourist attractions in Haridwar. This temple is predominantly crowded by families. If it is a weekend trip with family from Delhi, you must take a look around. One can prefer reaching the top either trekking or ropeway.
3. Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is home to many animals such as tigers, elephants, birds of all kinds and colors, and even bears. Love animals and want to witness their free-spirited existence? You got to be here. It won’t be less than an adventure trip.
4. Chandi Devi temple
Haridwar has got its name as there are many temples. One of them is Chanda Devi. You will love to be there for the view from the top and the feel you have while there. Just like Mansa Devi temple, you can choose to trek or reach there by ropeway/Cable Car.
5. Vaishno Devi Temple
If you haven’t got an opportunity to go to Vaishno Devi temple in Kashmir, worry not! You can be in Haridwar and feel the vibe. There is a replica of the temple in Haridwar that you can’t resist visiting.
6. Fun Valley Waterpark
People may feel that Haridwar is a holy place and adventure may be out of place. They may be wrong there! Haridwar is an amalgamation of soothing feel and adventure too. You can enjoy your adventure trip with friends in this park.
Budget
You won’t need a hefty amount while travelling to Haridwar. If you are on a solo trip, you can expect anywhere between Rs 1000 to Rs 2000 for a two days trip to Haridwar. If you are in a group, the cost may vary from Rs 4000 to Rs 5000 for two days.
How to Reach Haridwar?
Do you stay in Delhi? If yes, you can travel by train, car, bus or by flight. The mode of transport gets easier for people from all other places too. One can choose from any of the means mentioned. A typical train journey from Delhi will take around 5 to 6 hours, bus journey 9 hours and by car 4 to 5 hours. Delhi is only 200 kilometers away. Hence, people like to travel in their car to Haridwar. Are you planning for a trip with friends or family? The nearest airport is Dehradun. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar itself. What more can you ask for?
Nearby Places to Haridwar
When in Haridwar, you will feel extremely pious. Did you know that you can also have a different side of your experience if you visit some of the nearby places such as Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Nainital and Dehradun? You will make your pilgrim trip into an adventure trip for sure.
Best Time to Travel Haridwar
The best part about choosing Haridwar is that you need not wait for a specific time. You can be there any time of the year and enjoy your moments with friends and family. You will be the first to revisit the place sooner than expected.