Haridwar is a special place where the Ganges River comes out from the mountains of the Himalayas. It’s like a mix of spirituality, history, and culture all in one. Many people come here for religious reasons, making it an important pilgrimage spot. In Haridwar, you’ll find a blend of things to do that connect you with both your spiritual side and the everyday world. It’s a unique experience that’s both peaceful and full of life. So, let’s dive into this simple guide to traveling to Haridwar in 2024.
Best Time to Visit Haridwar
When planning a spiritual retreat or seeking a serene escape, the best time to visit Haridwar is undoubtedly between October and February. This period offers an ideal climate for exploring the city’s sacred sites and participating in the vibrant Kanwar Mela and Diwali festivities. During these months, the weather is pleasantly cool, perfect for strolling along the Ganges and attending the evening Ganga Aarti. It’s also a time of celebration, with festivals like Makar Sankranti and the Maha Kumbh Mela (held every 12 years) bringing a unique energy to this holy city.
How to Reach Haridwar
Haridwar is conveniently accessible from various parts of India, including Delhi. Here’s how you can reach Haridwar from Delhi:
Delhi to Haridwar Distance
The Delhi to Haridwar distance is a mere 135 miles, making it a convenient road trip for those looking to immerse themselves in the spiritual aura of Haridwar. The journey unfolds via NH334, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 40 minutes under mild traffic conditions, offering a serene transition from the urban hustle to the peaceful Ganges banks.
Delhi to Haridwar Train
Traveling from Delhi to Haridwar by train is easy and beautiful. The Vande Bharat Express is super fast and takes about 3 hours and 21 minutes to reach there. There are also other trains like the Jan Shatabdi Express and the Mussoorie Express that you can choose from. They have different travel times, so you can pick the one that works best for you. There are lots of trains every day, so you’ll find a convenient option for a comfy journey to Haridwar, the city known for its spiritual significance.
Delhi to Haridwar Bus
Traveling from Delhi to Haridwar by bus is exciting and full of beautiful sights and spiritual vibes. It’s about 135 miles between the two cities, and the trip usually lasts about 5 hours. Here are some important things to know:
- Bus Operators: Various well-known bus operators run buses between Delhi and Haridwar, ensuring a safe and comfy trip. Some of them are Zingbus, IntrCity SmartBus, Laxmi Holidays, and City Land Travels.
- Timings and Fares: Buses depart from Delhi all day long. For example, the NueGo bus leaves at 00:30, and the SHRI KRISHNA TRAVELS bus leaves at 01:20. The last bus leaves Delhi at 11:58 PM. Ticket prices start from INR 369 and may change depending on the bus company.
- Volvo Buses: If you like Volvo buses, you can check out the timings from Delhi to Haridwar on redBus. These buses give a comfortable ride while passing through the beautiful landscapes of North India.
- Primo Service: For a safe journey, you can choose the Primo service provided by redBus. These buses have top-notch amenities, including high hygiene standards and punctuality. When booking your ticket, look for the Primo tag for an extra level of service.
7 Best Places to Visit in Haridwar
When you visit Haridwar, you’ll find many amazing places that show what this special city is all about. Here are 7 places you should definitely to Visit in Haridwar:
1. Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar
Har Ki Pauri is a famous spot in Haridwar where people gather for spiritual activities. It’s located along the banks of the holy Ganges River. Here, you can see the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where lamps are floated on the river, creating a beautiful sight. Many believe that taking a dip in the waters here washes away their sins. It’s a peaceful and sacred place where people come to connect with their spirituality.
- Location: Kharkhari, Haridwar
- Timings: 24X7 (Ganga Aarti: 5:30 am – 6:30 am and 6 pm – 7 pm)
- Entry Fee: No entry fee.
- See on Map: Click here
2. Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar
The Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar is a famous place where people go to pray and seek blessings. It’s dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, who is believed to fulfill wishes. To reach the temple, many pilgrims climb up the hill or take a cable car for a scenic journey. Once there, you can offer prayers and take in the beautiful views of the city and the Ganges River below. It’s a peaceful and spiritual place that leaves visitors feeling blessed.
- Location: Bilwa Parvat, Haridwar
- Timings: 5 am to 9 pm
- Entry Fee: Free; cable car rides have a separate charge.
- See on Map: Click here
3. Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar
The Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar is a famous spot where people go to pray and seek blessings. It’s located on top of a hill, so you can enjoy a nice view of the city from there. Many believe that visiting this temple brings good luck and fulfills wishes. To reach the temple, you can either trek up the hill or take a cable car ride. It’s a peaceful place where you can feel close to the divine and find some inner peace.
- Location: Neel Parvat, Haridwar
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm
- Entry Fee: No entry fee; cable car charges apply.
- See on Map: Click here
4. Maya Devi Temple, Haridwar
The Maya Devi Temple in Haridwar is a very important place for Hindus. It’s dedicated to Goddess Maya Devi, the power of Lord Shiva. People believe that this temple is one of the oldest in Haridwar. It’s said that the heart and navel of Goddess Sati, Lord Shiva’s wife, fell here. Many people come here to pray and seek blessings. The temple has a peaceful atmosphere, and visiting it is a special experience for many.
- Location: Birla Ghat, Haridwar
- Timings: 7 am to 7 pm
- Entry Fee: No entry fee.
- See on Map: Click here
5. Bharat Mata Mandir, Haridwar
Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar is a special temple dedicated to Mother India. It’s a unique place where you can see a big map of India on the floor and statues of famous people from Indian history. People come here to feel proud of their country and to pay respect to Mother India. The temple is a peaceful spot where you can learn more about India’s rich heritage and culture. It’s a must-visit place in Haridwar for anyone who loves their country and wants to learn more about it.
- Location: Motichur, Haridwar
- Timings: 7:30 am to 5 pm
- Entry Fee: No entry fee.
- See on Map: Click here
6. Shantikunj, Haridwar
Shantikunj is a peaceful place in Haridwar where people go to find calmness and spirituality. It’s like a serene haven away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here, you can learn about meditation and yoga, and find inner peace. Many visitors feel refreshed and rejuvenated after spending time here. Shantikunj is a special spot where you can connect with yourself and experience tranquility.
- Location: Motichur, Haridwar
- Timings: 24X7
- Entry Fee: No entry fee.
- See on Map: Click here
7. Kankhal, Haridwar
Kankhal in Haridwar is a peaceful place known for its spiritual significance. It’s famous for the Daksheswara Mahadev Temple, where people come to seek blessings. This ancient temple has a rich history and beautiful architecture. Visitors can also find the Anandamayi Ma Ashram, a serene retreat for spiritual seekers. Kankhal offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection and connecting with the divine.
- Location: South Haridwar
- Timings: 24X7
- Entry Fee: No entry fee.
- See on Map: Click here
5 Best Hotels in Haridwar (Affordable)
1. Regenta Orkos, Haridwar
- Rating: 9/10 (Tripadvisor)
- Address: Motichur, Haridwar
- Price Range: Information not available
- Facility: Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, airport transportation, fitness center
2. Antarman Ganges
- Rating: 8/10 (Tripadvisor)
- Address: Mayapur, Haridwar
- Price Range: Information not available
- Facility: Airport transfer, free Wi-Fi, front desk service, spa
3. Ganges Blossam – A Four Star Luxury Hotel & Resort
- Rating: 7.3/10
- Address: Haripur Kalan, Haridwar
- Price Range: Avg price per night $37
- Facility: Car park, 24-hour front desk, restaurants, room service, family room
4. Hotel Gopi Dham Ashram Haridwar
- Rating: 10/10
- Address: Haridwār, near Mansa Devi Temple
- Price Range: Avg price per night ₹917.96
- Facility: 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service, free WiFi
5. Arjun – A Boutique Hotel
- Rating: 9.6/10
- Address: Haridwār, near Mansa Devi Temple and Har Ki Pauri
- Price Range: Avg price per night ₹3,751.20
- Facility: Room service, 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, terrace
Best 10 Hotels in Haridwar Near Railway Station
Here’s a table of the 10 Best Affordable Hotels in Haridwar near the Railway Station with their ratings, current price range for one person, and facilities:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price (INR) | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pilibhit House, Haridwar – IHCL SeleQtions | 9.5 | 28,000 | Terrace, Restaurant, Near Mansa Devi Temple |
| Hotel Krishna Ji | 8.6 | 2,200 | Free WiFi, Restaurant, Close to Har Ki Pauri |
| The Abhyudyam Ganga | 8.4 | 3,700 | Terrace, Free Parking, Restaurant |
| Perfect Stayz Dwarkesh | 8.2 | 1,300 | Shared Lounge, Terrace, City Views |
| Hotel Sethi Legacy | 8.2 | 2,800 | Close to Mansa Devi Temple, Near Railway Station |
| Hotel Ganga Heights | 8.1 | 1,500 | Free Bikes, Shared Lounge, Terrace |
| Goroomgo Riddhi Siddhi Haridwar | 9.3 | 1,200 | Shared Lounge, Great Service, Food |
| Hotel Aditya | 8.0 | 1,000 | Central Location, Family Rooms |
| Ganga Sadan | 7.8 | 2,500 | Private Ghat, Ayurvedic Spa |
| Hotel The Rio | 7.5 | 900 | Modern Amenities, Multi-Cuisine Restaurant |
NOTE: Please note that the prices are dynamic and subject to change. It’s always a good idea to check the latest prices and availability on the hotel booking sites. The hotels listed offer a range of facilities and have been rated well by guests, making them a great choice for travelers looking for comfort and convenience near Haridwar Railway Station.
Things to do in Haridwar
| Serial No. | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Attend Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri | Witness the captivating evening ritual on the banks of the Ganges. |
| 2 | Visit Mansa Devi Temple | Explore this revered temple atop Bilwa Parvat for panoramic views of Haridwar. |
| 3 | Take a dip in Ganges | Purify your soul with a holy bath at Har Ki Pauri or other ghats along the river. |
| 4 | Explore Rajaji National Park | Embark on a wildlife safari and spot diverse flora and fauna in this sanctuary. |
| 5 | Visit Chandi Devi Temple | Trek or take a cable car to this hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi. |
| 6 | Experience Yoga and Meditation | Join yoga classes or meditation sessions at various ashrams and centers. |
| 7 | Shop at Moti Bazaar | Discover traditional handicrafts, religious artifacts, and souvenirs. |
| 8 | Visit Bharat Mata Mandir | Pay homage to Mother India at this unique temple dedicated to the nation. |
| 9 | Explore Haridwar’s Street Food | Indulge in local delicacies like aloo puri, kachori, and jalebi in bustling markets. |
| 10 | Visit Sapt Rishi Ashram | Seek tranquility in the serene surroundings of this ancient hermitage. |
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FAQ’s
What is Haridwar famous for?
Haridwar is renowned for its spiritual significance, sacred ghats, and the Ganges River.
How can I reach Haridwar?
You can reach Haridwar by train from major Indian cities, or fly to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport and take a taxi.
What is the best time to visit Haridwar?
The ideal time to visit is from October to February for pleasant weather.
Is it safe to take a dip in the Ganges at Haridwar?
Yes, but avoid monsoon season due to strong currents.
What are the must-visit temples in Haridwar?
The must-visit temples in Haridwar include Mansa Devi Temple atop Bilwa Parvat, offering panoramic views, and Chandi Devi Temple accessible by trekking or cable car, dedicated to Goddess Chandi.
Are there any adventure activities in Haridwar?
Yes, Haridwar offers adventure activities such as white-water rafting in the Ganges and trekking to nearby hills like Neelkanth and Chandi Devi.
What cultural festivals are celebrated in Haridwar?
Haridwar celebrates the vibrant Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, along with the mesmerizing and spiritually enriching Kanwar Yatra.
Can I visit Haridwar in one day?
Yes, a day is enough to see the main attractions, but a longer stay is better for a full experience.
What are some popular places to visit in Haridwar?
Some popular places to visit in Haridwar include Har Ki Pauri for Ganga Aarti and Mansa Devi Temple for panoramic views and spiritual solace.
Is Haridwar a good family vacation spot?
Yes, Haridwar is an excellent family vacation spot due to its spiritual ambiance, cultural richness, and a variety of activities suitable for all ages.
