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Embarking a sacred pilgrimage in Uttarakhand’s pride: Haridwar

2 Days | Haridwar

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Route distance :

66.61 km

Route distance :

66.61 km

Haridwar: a spiritual haven and cultural delight

Haridwar is a famous pilgrimage spot in Uttarakhand, through which the holy water of the River Ganges first enters the plains. Despite being under the leadership of different rulers from diverse ethnic backgrounds, the city continues to preserve its cultural and religious traditions. This brief, two-day tour package can be a perfect escape from bustling city life, making you feel close to the Hindu culture and traditions and learn more about your Mythology. Every minute spent in Haridwar will be filled with cultural richness, from adrenaline-pumping safaris to visits to the ancient ghats.

Exploring Haridwar’s spiritual tapestry

Day 1
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  • Embark on a spiritual odyssey around Haridwar

  • Highlights

    Bhimgoda Tank, Swami Vivekananda Park, Har Ki Pauri, Birla Ghat, Sati Kund, Daksh Mahadev Temple

Commence your two-day sojourn in Haridwar by exploring its cultural richness, heritage, and spiritual essence. Your tour will start with a visit to the Bhimgoda Tank. It is a sacred tank christened after Bhima, the second of the five Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata. A dam situated in close proximity is also a wonder worth watching. As per Hindu mythology, the Bhimgoda came into existence when Bhima banged his knee into the ground to quench his thirst. So, the tank has the holy Ganges water flowing into it. Next, you can travel to the serene amusement park, Swami Vivekananda Park. It is a triangle-shaped park surrounded by flowering beds and lush green lawns. The presence of the Swami Vivekananda statue here is its significant attraction. You will also find a massive Lord Shiva statue in the park. Locals usually go here for jogging in the morning or for picnics on weekends. Har Ki Pauri lies in proximity. So, continue your spiritual exploration at the spot where you will see many devotees gathering for ritual practices.

The next destination is the solitary and quaint Birla Ghat. It is a pristine riverbank and is one of the oldest Haridwar ghats. Legends say you can wash away all your sins by taking a dip in the ghat. You will find several eateries around the ghat. So, indulge in local dishes for the authentic flavor. In close proximity are the Sati Kund and the Daksh Mahadev Temple. The temple is christened after King Daksh Prajapati (father of Sati, Lord Shiva’s wife). It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and lies South of Kankhal town. Legends state that once, Daksh held a fire ritual at this site but did not invite Lord Shiva. Hence, Goddess Sati felt humiliated and immolated herself in the fire. The site is called the Sati Kund. Conclude your day by heading back to Har Ki Pauri for an evening aarti.

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A mix of spirituality, divinity, adventure, and retail therapy

Day 2
A View of Chandi Devi Temple Haridwar
  • A wholesome day of exploration and retail therapy

  • Highlights

    Vishnu Ghat, Chandi Devi Temple, Rajaji Tiger Reserve, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, Moti Bazar, Pentagon Mall

Start your day with a visit to the Vishnu Ghat. It is a bathing ghat situated alongside the River Ganges and is another one of the many sacred ghats in Haridwar. Named after Lord Vishnu, Vishnu Ghat is where Lord Vishnu bathed. Since only Lord Vishnu’s followers visit this place, it is not the most crowded. So, you can take a dip with complete peace.

As the day progresses, ascent to Chandi Devi Temple. It is dedicated to Goddess Chanda Devi and lies atop the Neel Parvat Hill on the Eastern summit of Shivalik Hills. The place is called Siddh Peetha and is considered one of North India’s Shakti peethas. Mythology states if devotees pray wholeheartedly, their wishes will come true. You can either trek or take a cable car ropeway to the temple, but the beauty of the temple is best experienced as you hike your way to the top.

The next spot in your trip will be Rajaji Tiger Reserve. It is a famous national park in Uttarakhand and houses 600 elephants, 16 tigers, and 250 leopards. You can spot the wildlife, flora, and fauna by taking a Jeep safari. Continue your adventure thirst by heading to the Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar. It is the perfect spot for birdwatching. You can spot many migratory and native Himalayan birds here.

Next, you can traverse Moti Bazar and indulge in shopping and retail therapy. You will find some authentic paintings, copper and brassware, clay deity idols, and more. Stone carvings and handicrafts are the most sold items here. Enjoy local treats at the most famous restaurant in Haridwar, Chotiwala. Kulhar Milk, Aloo Poori, and Papdi Chaat are must-try delicacies. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Pentagon Mall, wherein you can shop, eat, and get entertainment, a perfect culmination of the two-day trip.