Haridwar
Haridwar is considered as the gate way to God. It is here in Haridwar that the river Ganga emerges from the hill in plain. The serene, holy Ganga has made the city visitor's paradise and God's abode. It is among the seven sacred cities of India and a popular gateway to char dham. Haridwar is one of the four venues of the Kumbh mela, and today it is gaining industrial importance because of BHEL, as it has got a huge plant there. Main Attractions
The main attraction of Haridwar is Har ki pauri, the famous ghat. Here, every day thousands of devotees take bath in the river Ganga, and this really makes their mind and body fresh and pure. Saffron clad sadhus deep in meditation, families performing funeral rites, bare-chested pandits worshiping the sun are some very common and amazing sights of Har ki pauri. The Aarti in the evening at Har ki pauri should not be missed. Earthen diyas with marigold flowers floating on the river Ganga gives a feeling of spiritual ecstacy. Other attractions of Haridwar are Manasa Temple, Chandi Temple, Anandamayee Ashram, Rudraksha Temple and Ramkrishna Moth. The rope way to Mansa temple is an extremely exciting journey.
Excursion
Just half an hour away from Haridwar is Rishikesh, an ideal spot for river rafting. The ancient temples of Rishikesh also attract pilgrims. It is a place where ancient and religious traditions exist happily together with youthful adventurous sports. Neelkanth Mahadev temple, a four hour walk from Lakshman Jhula is truely a not to be missed travel destination away from the madding crowd. Rajaji National Park is a place for wild life lovers near Haridwar. Another near by place of Haridwar is Patanjali Yog Pith , the famous Ashram of Ramdev Ji. People who have interest in Yoga and Ayurveda can make a visit to the place.
The center of Haridwar is compact with tiny shops and food stalls. Bara bazar on Upper Road is famous for glass bangles, walking sticks, mind boggling idols of various gods, artificial jewellary, brass and copper puja utensils. All types of paratha, puri aloo, and rabri methai are the major attractions of the food stall. And the foods are very reasonable and fresh. Back home the best gift from Haridwar is a bottle of Ganga jal.
Getting There
Haridwar is easily accessible by bus or by train from all the centre of India either directly or via Delhi.
Accommodation
Haridwar has got lots of lodges and hotels. So there is no scarcity of place and the tariff is also very reasonable.
