The tale of fire and water

Hinduism places great religious value on rivers, especially the Ganga. It is considered the holiest of all rivers and is worshipped as a goddess, known by most as Maa Ganga. The river provides life to the country's northern plains. In the Ganga Aarti rite, flowers are floated downstream in miniature leaf-made boats, and fire is offered to the Goddess Ganga as a lit lamp (diya). The priests perform the nighttime aarti, which involves enormous, flaming lamps, attracting most pilgrims to Har Ki Pauri. The aarti is a perfect symphony of hymns, chants, flowers, floating lamps, and blazing torches, creating a beautiful and borderline hypnotic experience. The ritual begins with a conch shell blowing, followed by chanting 'Har Har Gange'. Priests wave incense, hymns and chants play, gongs and drums ring, and the ritual ends with the 'Har Har Mahadev' chants.

The ancient connection with Hinduism

Haridwar has strong connections with Hindu mythology. Ancient scriptures refer to this place as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, and Kapilsthan. According to the mythology, Haridwar, Nashik, Ujjain, and Prayagraj (Allahabad) are the locations where a few droplets of elixir fell by accident during the celestial bird Garuda's transportation of it after Samudra Manthan. Bramhkund, a small riverside area beside the Har Ki Pauri Ghat, is the exact place in Haridwar where these drops fell.

Ghat's and its nuances

Haridwar is a holy city with four main ghats: the Har ki Pauri, Gau Ghat, Ashti Parvath Ghat, and the Subash Ghat. The Har ki Pauri, the most important, translates to "feet of the lord," comes from the notion that during the Vedic era, Shiva, Vishnu, and Bramha—the sacred trinity of Hindu mythology—visited this location. It is a pier next to the Ganga River constructed in the first century BC by King Vikramaditya. The ghat's current form results from extensive alterations and additions made over the years.

For Hindu devotees seeking a spiritual experience, Haridwar offers a trinity of renowned sacred sites. The first one is the Mansa Devi Temple, dedicated to Mansa Devi, an incarnation of Shakti believed to have originated from Rishi Kashyap. Next is Chandi Devi Temple, situated on Neel Parvat. The temple which completes the trinity of Siddhpeeth is Maya Devi Temple. Lastly, Khankal, one of Haridwar's five important pilgrimage sites, Panch teerth, houses the Daksheswara Mahadev temple.

Other sacred sites and national parks

Haridwar offers more than just the sacred trinity of temples. Shantikunj Ashram, a renowned spiritual retreat, attracts visitors worldwide seeking moral and spiritual growth. The Dalai Lama himself has been a frequent visitor to this ashram, located just five kilometers from Har ki Pauri. For nature enthusiasts, Bhimgoda Tank, offers a peaceful respite. Legend has it that Bhim, one of the Pandavas, created this tank by striking his knee on the earth. Just ten kilometers from Haridwar, Rajaji Tiger Reserve spans a vast 249 square kilometers. This wildlife sanctuary, situated on the eastern banks of the Ganga, is home to a diverse array of animals, including tigers, deer, elephants, and various bird species.

Glimpses of Uttarakhand's different cuisines

As a predominantly Hindu city, vegetarianism is widely embraced in Haridwar. However, to cater to visitors, some establishments do serve non-vegetarian food. Haridwar's cuisine reflects the diverse flavours of Uttarakhand. From traditional North Indian dishes to local Garhwali specialties, there's something for everyone. You can enjoy the delectable chaat and pakodas made with a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, spinach, paneer, and onions. Each bite is a culinary delight.

A city of celebrations

Haridwar is known as a city of celebrations due to its spiritual significance in Hinduism. Many of the celebrations are religious and coincide with important bathing dates in the Hindu calendar such as Kartik Purnima, Shravan Purnima, Ganga Dussehra, and Somvati Amavasya. One of the most notable celebrations is the Kawad Mela, which takes place during the month of Shraavana and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Haridwar also hosts several other festivals with great fanfare and spectacle. Every six years, the Ardh Kumbh Mela is celebrated, and every twelve years, the city hosts the great Kumbh Mela. Additionally, people celebrate Haridwar Mahotsava, a four-day cultural event held annually on the banks of the Ganga. The "Urs" festival, held at Dargah Piran Kaliyar, is another significant occasion where thousands of people from various backgrounds come to seek blessings for their loved ones.

Where to shop and what to buy

Moti Bazaar is one of the most renowned and ancient markets in Haridwar. It can be found on the Northern side of the upper road of the canal. This market offers a wide range of products, including colourful bangles, beads, sweets, Ayurvedic medicine, and much more. Jwalapur market is another popular market that sells traditional as well as modern products. The streets of this market are lined with delicious food stalls. Bara Bazaar, located on the railway road, is known for selling religious and traditional products. This market is also famous for its sale of ornaments. You can find Ayurvedic medicines at an affordable price here.

Haridwar beckons

Haridwar can be visited year-round, but the most popular time is during the Kumbh Mela, which occurs every twelve years. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons of spring (March-May) or autumn (October-November). Come, experience the timeless charm of this spiritual city and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage.