10 Best Places to Visit in Haridwar for Every Traveller
Discover the Spiritual Heart of India with Evaara Haridwar, meaning “Gateway to the Gods,” is one of India’s seven holiest cities and a destination that captivates every type of traveler. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, adventure enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this ancient city on the banks of the sacred Ganges offers experiences that touch the soul. Evaara, your trusted hospitality partner in Haridwar, brings you this comprehensive guide to the 10 best places that make Haridwar an unmissable destination. Strategically located near all these attractions, Evaara hotels provide the perfect base for exploring Haridwar’s spiritual and cultural treasures. Let’s embark on this divine journey through the city’s most iconic destinations. 1. Har Ki Pauri – The Footsteps of Lord Vishnu The Crown Jewel of Haridwar No visit to Haridwar is complete without experiencing the mesmerizing energy of Har Ki Pauri. This sacred ghat, whose name translates to “Footsteps of Lord Hari (Vishnu),” is the spiritual epicenter where mythology meets devotion in the most spectacular fashion. What Makes It Special: Evaara Advantage: Stay at Evaara hotels located within walking distance of Har Ki Pauri. Our staff can guide you on the best times to visit, help you understand the rituals, and even arrange for pandas (priests) if you wish to perform specific ceremonies. Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5-7 AM) for tranquility or evening (6-7 PM) for the grand aarti 2. Mansa Devi Temple – The Wish-Fulfilling Goddess Perched Atop the Bilwa Parvat Dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, believed to be born from the mind of sage Kashyap, this hilltop temple is one of Haridwar’s Shakti Peethas and one of the most visited shrines in North India. The Experience: What to Expect: Evaara’s Tip: Visit early morning to avoid long queues at the ropeway. Wear comfortable shoes even if taking the cable car, as there’s some walking within the temple complex. Book your stay at Evaara and our travel desk can arrange ropeway tickets in advance during peak seasons. Timings: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Cable car operates from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM) 3. Chandi Devi Temple – The Demon Slayer’s Abode Guardian Goddess of Haridwar Located atop the Neel Parvat on the opposite bank of the Ganges, Chandi Devi Temple is another significant Siddha Peetha where Goddess Chandi, after slaying the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha, rested and meditated. Historical Significance: Built in 1929 by Suchat Singh, the king of Kashmir, the temple’s main deity is believed to have been installed in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya himself. The temple holds immense religious importance and is considered one of the must-visit Shakti temples. Getting There: Temple Experience: Evaara Insight: Many pilgrims complete the “Devi Darshan”—visiting Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi, and Maya Devi temples in one day. Guests at Evaara hotels can plan this circuit efficiently with our local expertise and transportation assistance. Best Season: October to March for pleasant weather during the trek 4. Maya Devi Temple – The Oldest and Most Sacred Where Goddess Sati’s Heart Fell This ancient temple is believed to be where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Shiva carried her body in grief and rage. This makes Maya Devi Temple one of the 51 Shakti Peethas scattered across the Indian subcontinent. Why It’s Unique: Unlike the hilltop temples, Maya Devi Temple is located in the heart of Haridwar city, making it easily accessible to all visitors. It’s considered the original presiding deity of Haridwar, and the city was even known as “Mayapuri” in ancient times. Temple Architecture: Spiritual Significance: The temple is particularly powerful for devotees seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and removal of obstacles. Many locals begin their important endeavors with a visit to Maya Devi Temple. Cultural Experience: Evaara’s Recommendation: Visit Maya Devi Temple early in the morning when the temple has just opened. The morning aarti is intimate and deeply moving. Evaara hotels are conveniently located near this temple, making it easy for early morning visits. Entry: Free | Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM 5. Shantikunj Ashram – The Modern Spiritual Haven Where Ancient Wisdom Meets Contemporary Practice Founded by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya in 1971, Shantikunj is the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar and one of the largest spiritual institutions in India. This sprawling ashram complex represents a unique blend of spiritual learning, scientific research, and social reform. What Shantikunj Offers: Spiritual Programs: Educational Facilities: Unique Features: Visitor Experience: Shantikunj welcomes visitors from all backgrounds, religions, and nationalities. You don’t need to be a Hindu or even religious to appreciate the peaceful environment and universal teachings shared here. Many international visitors find the ashram’s approach refreshingly modern and inclusive. Accommodation: The ashram offers basic accommodation for nominal charges for those wishing to stay and participate in multi-day programs. However, many prefer staying at comfortable hotels like Evaara while attending daytime programs at Shantikunj. Evaara’s Perspective: Guests at Evaara often combine spiritual practices at Shantikunj with comfortable accommodation and hospitality. We can arrange guided visits and provide information about special programs happening during your stay. Location: About 6 km from Har Ki Pauri | Entry: Free | Photography: Restricted in certain areas 6. Rajaji National Park – Where Wilderness Meets Spirituality A Paradise for Nature and Wildlife Enthusiasts Just 10 km from Haridwar’s spiritual center lies an entirely different world—the Rajaji National Park, spread across 820 square kilometers of the Shivalik ranges. Named after C. Rajagopalachari, independent India’s first Governor-General, this national park offers a refreshing contrast to Haridwar’s temples and ghats. Wildlife and Flora: Star Attractions: Bird Watching Paradise: With over 315 bird species, Rajaji is a birdwatcher’s dream: Safari Options: Jeep Safaris: Elephant Safaris: Best Time to Visit: What to Bring: Evaara’s Wildlife Package: Evaara offers special packages that combine spiritual Haridwar with adventure at Rajaji. We arrange permits, safari bookings, experienced guides, and packed meals for early morning departures. After an exciting day in the wilderness, return to the comfort of Evaara’s
