Haridwar, meaning “Gateway to God,” is one of India’s seven holiest cities, nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in Uttarakhand’s Himalayan foothills. This spiritual hub offers a unique blend of religious devotion, cultural experiences, and natural beauty that attracts pilgrims and travelers alike.
Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Haridwar
1. Experience Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
The daily evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is Haridwar’s iconic experience. Arrive before dusk to witness this mesmerizing river worship ceremony where priests perform rituals with incense, conch shells, and hundreds of flickering lamps that float on the Ganges. The atmosphere becomes electric with chants, bells, and spiritual energy.
Best Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially during weekends and festivals.
2. Take a Holy Dip in the Ganges
Participate in this sacred tradition at cleaner, less crowded ghats like:
- Birla Ghat – Clean and well-maintained
- Gau Ghat – Peaceful and serene
- Vishnu Ghat – Historical significance
Important: Follow local customs, wear appropriate clothing, and be mindful of rituals.
3. Temple Hopping Adventure
Haridwar boasts magnificent temples, each with unique significance:
- Mansa Devi Temple – Perched on Bilwa Parvat, accessible by cable car (Udan Khatola) or trekking
- Chandi Devi Temple – Located on Neel Parvat, offering breathtaking views
- Maya Devi Temple – One of the Siddhapeeths, dating back to the 11th century
- Bharat Mata Mandir – Unique temple dedicated to Mother India with map depictions
- Daksh Prajapati Temple Complex – Historical significance in nearby Kankhal district
4. Explore Rajaji National Park
Just a 15-minute drive from the city center, Rajaji National Park offers:
- Jungle safari tours in Rajaji Tiger Reserve
- Spotting elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and over 400 bird species
- Jhilmil Jheel Jeep Safari for wetland wildlife viewing
- Guided wildlife exploration tours
5. Shop in Vibrant Bazaars
- Bara Bazar – For religious paraphernalia and handicrafts
- Moti Bazar – Traditional shopping street for souvenirs
- Arya Nagar Road – Modern shopping options
Must-buy: Ayurvedic medicines, rudraksha beads, brass idols, religious books, and traditional clothing.
6. Culinary Delights & Street Food
Haridwar offers delicious vegetarian cuisine:
Must-Try Dishes:
- Kachori with sabzi
- Aloo puri
- Jalebi with rabri
- Chole bhature
- Traditional Indian sweets like peda and gulab jamun
Recommended Spots: Local street stalls near Har Ki Pauri and temple areas.
7. Visit Shantikunj Gayatri Parivar
This spiritual, educational, and social organization offers:
- Meditation and yoga sessions
- Spiritual discourses
- Ashram stays for immersive experiences
8. Adventure Activities Nearby
- Crystal World – Amusement park with roller coasters, swimming pools, and waterslides
- Rafting in Rishikesh – Just 30 minutes away
- Trekking to surrounding hill temples
- SCAD Freefall Jump Experience in Rishikesh (Asia’s first)
9. Festival Experiences
Time your visit with major festivals:
- Holi (March) – Festival of Colors
- Ganga Dussehra (June) – Celebrates Ganga’s descent
- Kartik Poornima (November) – Full moon festival
- Kumbh Mela (every 12 years) – Millions gather for this mega festival
10. Ashram Living Experience
Stay at a popular ashram to experience:
- Simple, spiritual lifestyle
- Yoga and meditation sessions
- Satsang (spiritual discourses)
- Vegetarian meals
- Communal living with fellow seekers
Evaara by the Ganges: Luxury Resort Experience
About Evaara Resort
Evaara by the Ganges is a 4-star riverfront resort offering a perfect blend of luxury and spirituality. Located near Rajaji National Park, this beautifully designed residential society converted into a luxury resort provides a serene escape while maintaining close proximity to Haridwar’s spiritual centers.
Location: Near Rajaji National Park, Shyampur Noamabad, Haridwar (approximately 22.2 km from city center, 15-minute drive to Har Ki Pauri)
Accommodation Options:
- 1 BHK Apartments – Perfect for couples
- 2 BHK Apartments – Family-friendly
- 3 BHK Apartments – Groups and larger families
Resort Amenities:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free private parking
- Beautiful garden area
- Restaurant serving local and international cuisine
- 24-hour front desk service
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning in all rooms
- Laundry facilities
- Room service
Special Features:
- Direct Ganga Access – Experience the river up close
- Jungle Safari Packages – Access to wildlife exploration tours at Rajaji National Park
- Family-Friendly – Spacious living areas perfect for quality time
- Tranquil Setting – Escape from city hustle while being accessible
- Scenic Views – Beautiful views of nature and river
Booking Details:
- Check-in: 2:00 PM
- Check-out: 11:00 AM
- Early check-in/late check-out: Available upon request
- Property does not accommodate bachelor/bachelorette parties
Nearby Attractions from Evaara:
- Rajaji National Park – 15-minute drive
- Vishnu Ghat – 15-minute drive
- Har Ki Pauri – Approximately 30-minute drive
- Temples – Easy access to Haridwar’s major temples
Travel Tips for Enjoying Haridwar
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March – Pleasant weather, ideal for temple visits and outdoor activities
- Avoid monsoon season – Heavy rains can disrupt travel plans
What to Pack:
- Modest, comfortable clothing (kurtas, salwars, light fabrics)
- Traditional wear for temple visits (optional, but respectful)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Cash (many smaller vendors don’t accept cards)
- Camera with good low-light capability for Ganga Aarti
- Water bottle (stay hydrated)
Getting Around:
- On foot – Best for exploring the city center and ghats
- Auto-rickshaws – Convenient for temple hopping
- Taxis – Recommended for longer distances
- Cable cars – Required for some hill temples (Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi)
Cultural Etiquette:
- Remove shoes before entering temples
- Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees)
- Seek permission before photographing people or rituals
- Respect religious ceremonies and practices
- Avoid leather items in temple premises
- Maintain silence during prayers and rituals
Health & Safety:
- Drink bottled or purified water
- Apply mosquito repellent, especially evenings
- Use sunscreen for daytime exploration
- Be cautious of monkeys around temples
- Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
Sample 3-Day Haridwar Itinerary
Day 1: Spiritual Immersion
- Morning: Holy dip at Birla Ghat or Vishnu Ghat
- Late Morning: Visit Maya Devi Temple
- Afternoon: Explore Bharat Mata Mandir
- Evening: Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
- Night: Dinner at local restaurant, stroll along ghats
Day 2: Temple & Nature Exploration
- Morning: Cable car to Mansa Devi Temple
- Afternoon: Visit Chandi Devi Temple
- Late Afternoon: Shopping at Bara Bazar
- Evening: Ashram visit for meditation session
Day 3: Wildlife & Relaxation
- Morning: Jungle safari at Rajaji National Park
- Afternoon: Relax at Evaara Resort pool
- Evening: Cultural show or local cuisine tasting
- Night: Reflection by the Ganges
Conclusion
Haridwar offers a transformative travel experience where spirituality meets natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking religious fulfillment, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful retreat by the sacred Ganges, this holy city promises memories that last a lifetime. From the divine energy of Ganga Aarti to the luxurious comfort of resorts like Evaara by the Ganges, every aspect of Haridwar invites you to slow down, connect with your spiritual self, and embrace India’s rich cultural heritage.
Stay at Evaara by the Ganges for the perfect blend of comfort and connection to the sacred river, and explore Haridwar’s treasures to truly experience why this city remains one of India’s most cherished spiritual destinations.
