Haridwar’s Religious Culture and Attractions
Traveling from Delhi to Haridwar by bus was an exciting adventure for me. I had always wanted to explore the spiritual town of Haridwar, and taking a bus from Delhi was the most convenient option for me. I boarded the bus from Majnu Ghati (Delhi), in the night. The bus was a Volvo A/C which had comfortable seats and was well-maintained. The journey took us around 6 hours, including a few stops for refreshments and restrooms. The road was smooth and the driver drove at a steady pace, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for all the passengers. As we approached Haridwar, we could see the holy river Ganges flowing by the side of the road, which added to the scenic beauty of the journey.
When we reached Haridwar, the bus dropped us off at the Haridwar bus terminal, which is located in the heart of the town. From there, it was a short walk to the famous Har Ki Pauri ghat, where we could take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges and witness the evening aarti ceremony. Haridwar the ”Gateway of Gods’’. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this majestic ghat is known as “The Steps to Heaven.” Each morning and evening, locals gather on the ghats to take part in the Ganga Aarti – a Hindu ritual that involves floating Diya lamps and chanting mantras along the river.
History of Haridwar:
The history of Haridwar dates back to ancient times. According to Hindu mythology, the city is associated with the legend of King Bhagirath, who is said to have brought the River Ganges to earth. The story goes that King Bhagirath performed intense penance and meditation to please Lord Shiva, who granted him the boon of bringing the Ganges from heaven to earth. Another legend associated with Haridwar is that of the churning of the ocean, or Samudra Manthan, which is described in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. According to the legend, the gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain the elixir of immortality, or Amrita. During the churning, several divine objects, including the River Ganges, emerged from the ocean.
Haridwar has been a prominent religious center for centuries. It is mentioned in ancient texts like the Puranas and the Mahabharata, and has been visited by saints, sages, and pilgrims for thousands of years. The city has been ruled by various dynasties throughout history, including the Maurya’s, Guptas, Mughals, and British. In the 19th century, Haridwar became a center of learning and spiritual practice, with the establishment of several ashrams and educational institutions.
Today, Haridwar remains a popular destination for pilgrims and spiritual seekers from all over the world. The city is home to numerous temples, ashrams, and holy spots, and is known for its vibrant festivals and religious ceremonies. It continues to be an important cultural and spiritual center in India, preserving its rich history and traditions for future generations.
Here are some of the religious and cultural attractions of Haridwar:
- Har Ki Pauri: Har Ki Pauri is a sacred ghat on the banks of the Ganges River in Haridwar. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges at this ghat can purify one’s soul. Every evening, a grand aarti ceremony is held here, which is a must-see attraction for visitors.
- Mansa Devi Temple: Mansa Devi Temple is another famous temple located on a hilltop in Haridwar. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The temple is situated a top the Bilwa Parvat (Bilwa Hill) on the banks of the Ganges River and can be reached via a steep climb of around 1.5 kilometers or by taking a cable car ride, which offers a panoramic view of the city.
- Chandi Devi Temple: Chandi Devi Temple is a famous Hindu temple located on the Neel Parvat hilltop in Haridwar. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Chandi, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Visitors can reach the temple by a ropeway ride, which offers a breathtaking view of the city.
- Kumbh Mela: Haridwar is one of the four cities where the Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years. The Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu pilgrimage and the largest gathering of people in the world, where millions of devotees gather to take a holy dip in the Ganges River.
- Ganga Aarti: Ganga Aarti is a grand prayer ceremony held every evening on the banks of the Ganges River in Haridwar. The aarti is performed by priests with lamps and flowers, and it is a mesmerizing sight to witness.
- Haridwar market: Haridwar is also known for its bustling marketplaces, where visitors can find a wide range of religious and cultural artifacts, including souvenirs, clothes, and handicrafts.
Overall, Haridwar is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of India.
Budget Breakdown:
My Travel Expenses (8 April 2023)
Auto= 30/- Rs
Ropeway= 145 /- Rs
Bus Ticket= 900/- Rs
Dinner= 150/- Rs
Auto=100/- Rs
Hotel=650/- Rs
Breakfast=120/- Rs
Lunch= 120/- Rs
——————–
Total= 2160 /- Rs