Haridwar

To experience Haridwar is to know that beyond the superficial sophistry of politically correct contemporary Hinduism lies a faith as simple as the contours of a lily in full bloom, as old as the abode of the Gods amidst the northern snows. Not for nothing is Haridwar called the "Gateway to the Gods". Haridwar Situated at the base of the Shivalik hills of Uttar Pradesh, an aura of divinity surrounds this sacred town where the Ganga is believed to wash away the sins of millions who take a dip in its holy waters. Tradition traces the origins of the town to the great penance performed by King Shweta. Lord Shiva's father-in-law, Daksha Prajapati also performed a yagna here. Again, it is here that the Devas brought the pitcher of nectar to foil the designs of the Rakshasas. Besides being an important pilgrim center of the Hindus, Haridwar is a major adventure sports circuit offering possibilities for river rafting, tracking and mountaineering. Haridwar is also known world over for its herbal remedies and Ayurveda (the ancient Indian science of medicine).

Chandi Devi Temple:situated atop the Neel Parvat, gives a panoramic view of the entire town. The temple was built in the year 1929 by the then king of Kashmir Suchat Singh. According to a legend, Adi Shankaracharya established the main statue here during the eighth century AD. You can either trek the 3-km path to get to the temple from Chandi Ghat or take the ropeway that starts from the nearby Gauri Shankar Temple.

Bharat Mata Temple:A massive eight-storey structure consecrated in 1983. Each floor of the temple houses statues of different mythological and historical legends, religious deities, leaders and heroes who played important role in the formation of the modern India. The temple was founded by Swami Satyamitranand Giri. The first floor of the temple has the statue of Bharat Mata or Mother India with a map of India on a raised platform. Likewise, the other floors also contain renowned figures of Indian history and mythology while the fifth floor serves as the assembly hall.

Shanti Kunj:It is the most important centre for the Gayatri followers all over India. The temple here houses 24 images of Gayatri. Shanti Kunj is also famous for yoga practices.

Har-Ki-Pauri:It is a sacred ghat built by the then King Vikramaditya in the memory of his brother Bhartrihari. This sacred bathing ghat is also known as Brahmakund. Thousands of devotees come here to take a holy dip in the river Ganga during the Kumbh Mela. Just near the ghat is the Gangadwar Temple, which is regarded as the most important temple.

Maya Devi Temple:It is said that a vital part of Goddess Sati had fallen at this place during the process of divine dismemberment. The temple is also regarded as one of the Siddhapethas dedicated to the Adhisthatri Devi.

Bazaars:This city is also famous for its local bazaars or markets. The main Haridwar bazaar is a long, winding street, probably the oldest part of the town, free of all vehicular traffic. The road is no more than four yards wide. The shops spill over with sweets, pickles, bead necklaces, clay images of the gods, Shiva lingams, sacred texts, ritual designs, and pictures of the gods, gurus and gotamas in vibrant technicolour. You can also indulge in some items made of shells, pearls, rudraksha beads, and cane, jewellery like bangles, chains, ear and nose rings, etc.

Other attractions :Chila Wildlife Sanctuary,Kanva Rishi Ashram,Neel Kantha,Rishikesh,Sapta Rishi Ashram,Triveni Ghat.