The Destination
Haridwar, nestled at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is one of the holiest cities in India. The name itself means 'Gateway to God', and true to its name, Haridwar is where the sacred River Ganges descends from the mountains and touches the plains for the first time. This ancient city holds immense spiritual significance and is a magnet for devotees, sages, and seekers from all over the world.
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Best Season to Visit
The best time to visit Haridwar is during the winter months, from October to February. The weather is cool, pleasant, and perfect for sightseeing, participating in religious ceremonies, and enjoying the serene natural beauty of the area. Visiting during the festive periods like Kumbh Mela or Diwali offers an added bonus, as you can experience Haridwar at its most vibrant and spiritually charged. However, if you enjoy the monsoon’s lush beauty and quieter surroundings, July to September can also be an enchanting time to experience the city, albeit with occasional travel disruptions due to rains.
Best Buys
Shopping in Haridwar is an experience that connects you directly to its spiritual soul. The narrow, bustling lanes are lined with shops offering a range of religious artefacts such as Rudraksha malas, idols, brass utensils for rituals, and incense sticks. Moti Bazaar and Bara Bazaar are the city’s most popular shopping destinations, ideal for picking up souvenirs that carry the essence of Haridwar’s spiritual heritage.
You can also find Ayurvedic medicines, natural wellness products, organic cosmetics, and herbal teas — a nod to Haridwar’s reputation as a centre of Ayurveda and holistic health. Traditional sweets like peda and burfi are a must-try, and for those looking for wearable keepsakes, colourful bangles, sacred threads, and handmade prayer beads make meaningful purchases.
Temperature
Summer (April to June): Temperatures can rise as high as 40-44°C. Summers are hot and dry, though the spiritual pull of the city ensures a steady flow of visitors.
Monsoon (July to September): Monsoon brings moderate to heavy rainfall, refreshing the landscape but making the ghats slippery and access to some areas limited.
Winter (October to February): Winters are pleasantly cool, with temperatures ranging between 7°C to 22°C, offering the most comfortable climate for exploration.
Festivals
Kumbh Mela: Held every twelve years, it is one of the largest religious gatherings on Earth. Pilgrims from all over the world flock to Haridwar to take a holy dip in the Ganges during this auspicious event.
Ardh Kumbh Mela: Occurring six years after every Kumbh Mela, the Ardh Kumbh carries equal religious significance and draws massive crowds.
Kanwar Yatra: During July and August, millions of devotees (Kanwariyas) collect Ganga water to offer to Lord Shiva at their home temples.
Location
Haridwar is located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, approximately 220 kilometres from New Delhi. It is easily accessible by road and rail, with frequent trains and bus services connecting it to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Rishikesh.
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 45 kilometres away, offering both domestic and limited international connectivity. Haridwar’s proximity to the Himalayan foothills also makes it a perfect starting point for those embarking on pilgrimages or treks further into Uttarakhand.
Best Activities
Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: Witnessing the evening aarti with hundreds of devotees, the glow of countless lamps, and the chants resonating in the air is an experience of a lifetime.
Temple Tours: Visit the revered Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, and Daksha Mahadev Temple, each offering a rich history and divine atmosphere.
Ashram Stays and Yoga Retreats: Engage in spiritual learning, meditation, and yoga at renowned institutions like Shantikunj and Patanjali Yogpeeth.
Wildlife Exploration: A short drive away, Rajaji National Park offers wildlife safaris where you might spot elephants, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Market Walks: Explore the local markets for religious artefacts, handmade crafts, and traditional sweets.
Clothing
Summer: Light, breathable cotton clothing is advisable to stay comfortable in the heat.
Monsoon: Quick-dry clothes, waterproof footwear, and an umbrella are essentials due to the rainy weather.
Winter: Pack warm clothing such as sweaters, jackets, and scarves, as the temperatures can drop considerably in the evenings and early mornings.
Popuplation
310,000+
Altitude
314 metres (1,030 feet) above sea level
Languages
Hindi is the primary language spoken in Haridwar. Garhwali is commonly spoken by locals, and English is also understood, especially in tourist areas.
One Earth Ganga Stone Haridwar
Nestled in the spiritual heart of Haridwar, One Earth Ganga Stone offers an exceptional blend of modern amenities and timeless tranquillity. Designed for travellers seeking peace without compromising on comfort, our hotel promises an enriching stay just moments away from...
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