Things To Do In Haridwar

Haridwar is called the ‘the home of Lord Vishnu’ and hordes of visitors travel here for their yearly holy excursion. Being an iconic tourist spot, Haridwar promises a wide variety of healing centres, temples, nature-based activities, along with food spots for people with diverse incomes and flavours. The magical location and rich religious history of Haridwar is the reason for this Uttarakhand city to be a recurrent vacation spot for visitors from all over the world.

Here's our list of how to make the most of your visit, with the top things to do in Haridwar.

It would be criminal to visit Haridwar and not visit the Brahma Kund at Har-ki-Pauri ghat. Forget religious beliefs, just being a part of the energy of the masses and washing oneself in the fabled Ganga water is a unique feeling, especially at sunrise. It is a highly recommended activity in Haridwar for locals and foreigners alike, as it truly captures the essence of the place.

The Ganga Aarti carried out at Har-ki-Pauri ghat at sunset is truthfully a sight to behold. A group of sadhu’s pray in tandem while chanting in repetition, all at the time of conducting elaborate prayer ceremonies in a harmonized manner, while numerous “diyas” drift along the Ganges. This is another must do activity when in Haridwar.

Being one of the holiest destinations in the country, visitors will be spoiled for choice with regards to temple visits. The gorgeous Chandi Devi temple, Daksheshwara Mahadev temple, Maya Devi temple, Vaishno Devi temple and Mansa Devi temple are just some of the renowned ones and are must-visits, irrespective of whether you are religious or not.

It’s no secret that India is the spiritual home of yoga and meditation. Hence, it should also come as no surprise that people flock to Haridwar in search of mindfulness and calm. With various ashrams dispersed throughout, they offer the ideal transcendent escape for visitors seeking it. Kripalu Ashram, Bhaj Govindham and Saptrishi ashram are the most prominent ones, with the Saptrishi ashram having 42 rooms rented out to devotees and pilgrims alike.

Similar to meditation and yoga, the ancient medical practice of Ayurveda continues to attract a strong fan following to Haridwar. Checking out a recognised Ayurvedic treatment centre in Haridwar is on most travellers lists. Aurovalley ashram, Santosh Puri ashram, and Patanjali ashram are the most prominent.

For those looking for something a bit different to do in Haridwar, a trip toe Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is recommended. Situated 3.5 km from the city centre, this charming abode houses assorted migrant birds in the wintertime. The landscape and natural topography make for a photographer’s delight.

The Rajaji National Park covers 1,150 sq. km and is positioned about 10 km away from Haridwar. The park is renowned for its elephants, with a smattering of tigers and leopards also present in the northern half of the jingle. The dense jungle is a paradise for naturalists and wildlife lovers. 

For travellers keen on picking up mementos, Moti Bazar, Jwalapur, Bara Bazar and Kankhal are dispersed through the town, selling typical local handiworks, sacred knick-knacks, and Ayurvedic remedies.