Must-See Experiences: Top Things to Do in Haridwar & Rishikesh
The twin spiritual capitals of India—Haridwar and Rishikesh—offer a journey that transcends typical tourism. Nestled where the Ganges descends from the Himalayas into the plains, these sacred cities provide experiences that feed the soul, challenge the body, and inspire the mind. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, adventure thrills, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful escape from urban chaos, this region delivers in abundance. And when it comes to experiencing these wonders with the perfect balance of authenticity and comfort, Evaara by the Ganges serves as your ideal home base—offering luxury riverfront accommodation in Haridwar that places you at the heart of everything while providing a serene sanctuary to return to after each day’s adventures. Sacred Haridwar: Where Heaven Meets Earth 1. Witness the Mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri No visit to Haridwar is complete without experiencing the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri—arguably one of India’s most spectacular spiritual ceremonies. As dusk falls, thousands gather on the ghats as priests in saffron robes perform synchronized rituals with massive brass lamps. The flames dance against the darkening sky, their reflections shimmering on the Ganges as devotional songs fill the air with ancient Sanskrit chants. The ceremony isn’t merely a visual spectacle—it’s a visceral experience that connects you to thousands of years of continuous tradition. For first-timers, staying at the best hotels in haridwar near ganga river for family like Evaara by the Ganges offers the advantage of easy access to Har Ki Pauri while providing a peaceful retreat after the intense sensory experience. Insider Tip: Arrive 30-45 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot. The aarti typically begins at sunset, with timing varying by season. 2. Take a Holy Dip in the Ganges For Hindus, bathing in the Ganges at Haridwar is believed to wash away sins and purify the soul. But even for non-religious visitors, the experience of immersing yourself in these sacred waters carries profound symbolism—a washing away of the old, a renewal of spirit. The main bathing ghats include Har Ki Pauri, Gau Ghat, and Subhash Ghat. Early morning is the most auspicious and peaceful time, when mist rises from the water and the first light paints the sky in pastels. Safety Note: The Ganges’ current can be strong. Stay in designated bathing areas and be mindful of depth. Many prefer to simply dip their feet or sprinkle water as a symbolic gesture. 3. Explore Ancient Temples Haridwar is home to numerous temples, each with unique significance: Mansa Devi Temple: Perched atop Bilwa Parvat hill, accessible by cable car, this temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi offers panoramic views of Haridwar and the surrounding landscape. The tradition of tying threads on the temple tree while making wishes creates a colorful, moving display of collective hope. Chandi Devi Temple: Another hilltop shrine, reached via cable car or a challenging hike, dedicated to Goddess Chandi. The journey itself becomes a pilgrimage, with each step carrying spiritual significance. Daksh Mahadev Temple: This ancient temple tells the mythological story of King Daksha and Lord Shiva, with elaborate carvings depicting the tale. 4. Shop in Traditional Bazaars The markets near the ghats—particularly Bara Bazaar and Moti Bazaar—offer sensory overload in the best way. Shops overflow with religious items, traditional clothing, handicrafts, and Ayurvedic products. The air is thick with incense smoke, and vendors call out their wares in melodic pitches that have remained unchanged for generations. What to Buy: Rudraksha beads, brass prayer bells, traditional Indian sweets (especially Haridwar’s famous gulab jamun and ladoos), ayurvedic medicines, and spiritual books. 5. Experience Rajaji National Park For nature enthusiasts, the best resort near Rajaji National Park—Evaara by the Ganges—provides convenient access to this pristine wilderness. Rajaji National Park spans over 820 square kilometers of Himalayan foothills, home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 400 bird species. Activities: After a day of wildlife adventure, returning to your luxury accommodation to unwind is the perfect end to an exciting day. 6. Take a Heritage Walk Haridwar’s old city contains narrow lanes filled with history. Heritage walks (which Evaara can arrange) take you through these traditional neighborhoods, explaining architectural features, historical significance, and cultural practices that continue today. Adventurous Rishikesh: Yoga Capital Meets Adventure Hub Just 25 kilometers from Haridwar, Rishikesh offers a different energy—younger, more international, combining spirituality with adventure sports. 7. White Water Rafting on the Ganges Rishikesh has become synonymous with white water rafting. The stretch from Shivpuri to Rishikesh offers rapids of varying difficulty—from beginner-friendly to challenging runs that will test experienced rafters. Popular Stretches: Rapids Names: Each rapid has colorful names—”Golf Course,” “Three Blind Mice,” “Return to Sender”—reflecting their character and challenge level. Between rapids, the river calms, allowing you to float peacefully through dramatic gorges while eagles soar overhead. 8. Explore Iconic Suspension Bridges Rishikesh’s suspension bridges are landmarks: Laxman Jhula: Built in 1929, this 450-foot iron suspension bridge swaying over the Ganges has become an iconic image of Rishikesh. According to legend, this is where Laxman (Lord Rama’s brother) crossed the river on jute ropes. Ram Jhula: A larger, newer suspension bridge offering similar views and experiences. Walking across these bridges—dodging motorcycles, cows, and throngs of pilgrims and tourists—while looking down at the turquoise Ganges flowing far below is thrilling and slightly terrifying in equal measure. 9. Attend Yoga Classes Rishikesh earned its reputation as the “Yoga Capital of the World” for good reason. Countless ashrams and yoga schools offer drop-in classes, week-long courses, or month-long teacher training programs. For those staying at Evaara by the Ganges, the wellness and yoga retreat by the Ganges experience brings authentic practice to you. The resort’s expert instructors offer traditional yoga that goes beyond Western fitness interpretations, incorporating pranayama (breath work), meditation, and philosophical teachings. Popular Yoga Centers in Rishikesh: 10. Visit the Beatles Ashram The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram—where The Beatles stayed in 1968—has been abandoned for decades and is now a surreal combination of crumbling architecture, lush vegetation, and vibrant graffiti art. It’s a fascinating place exploring the intersection
