A city that is believed to have its origin in Hindu mythology, Haridwar is an ancient as a place can be. Centuries old temples, fascinating religious ceremonies, locals that are too happy to tell you of Hindu folklore. Lose yourself to the serenity that surrounds the Ganga ghats around sunrise or watch the fascinating arti in evening, it is the stuff that spiritual experiences are made of. Other than its religious significance, it is a fast emerging centre of yoga, meditation and Ayurvedic practices. Visit it for an experience that is nothing less than once in a lifetime. As a city that is believed to have its origin in Hindu scriptures, there is no dearth of interesting, largely religious, places to visit in Haridwar. Some of the must-visits in the city are Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple (both are highly revered as siddha peethas), Daksha Mahadev Temple, the ancient shrine of Piran Kaliyar and Har ki Paudi. A visit to Rajaji National Park, Patanjali Yogpeeth and Shantikunj Ashram is perfect for ones searching for something offbeat in the city.

HAR KI PAUDI

This is one of the main attractions for those traveling to Haridwar and Rishikesh for religious purposes. This is believed to be the exit point of the Ganges from the mountains and entry into the plains. The ghat is also known as Brahma Kund, and was built by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Brithari who often meditated on the banks of river Ganga. History records an imprint of Lord Vishnu’s foot on one of the stones present on the ghat, which is where this religious site takes its name from. This is regarded the most sacred and auspicious point to bathe in the Ganga during the Kumbh which is held every 12 years, and taking a dip is a sacred practice believed to rid those who do of their worldly sins.

PATANJALI YOG PEETH

Located in Haridwar, this is the centre for Yoga and Ayurveda activities in India. Named after Maharishi Patanjali who invented Yoga 5000 years ago, the ashram is run under the guidance of Swami Ramdev Ji Maharaj who has revived Yoga and helped in spreading it across the world. Patahnajali Yog Peeth provides visitors with several facilities including Yoga classes where you’re taught ancient techniques like Tattva Yoga, Kriya Yoga, Hatha Yoga and Ashtana Yoga. Visitors can stay at the on-site accommodation and avail of the natural health therapies, ayurvedic treatments, a canteen, an OPD centre and therapy offered to patients with long term diseases. Set amidst well maintained and hygienic environs, this is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning yoga or immersing yourself in meditation.

MANSA DEVI TEMPLE

Mansa Devi Temple is one of the most famous places to visit in Haridwar. One of the three siddha peethas in the city, it is located atop Bilwa Parvat of the Shivalik range of Himalayas. The temple is supposedly one of the abodes of Hindu Goddess Parvati, the other being Chandi Devi Temple. Hundreds of devotees visit it everyday for it is highly reverential for Hindus. The numbers increase by manifolds during Navratra celebrations and Kumbh Mela. It is advisable to visit it early in the day to avoid crowd. Impressive views of the entire city from the temple, its trek and the ropeway to it will bowl you over.

CHANDI DEVI TEMPLE

This is one of the most ancient temples in Haridwar. Perched atop Neel Parvat in the Shivaliks, it was built at the behest of King Suchat Singh of Kashmir in 1929. A much revered Siddha Peetha, the temple’s sanctum houses the main idol that dates back to 8th century. The temple site is believed to be the resting place of Goddess Chamunda during her battle with demons named Shumbha and Nishumbha. The temple is surrounded by dense forest and makes for a perfect vantage point for photographers. It can be accessed via a three km trek or a ropeway that connects it to the city.

RAJAJI NATIONAL PARK

Distinct for its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio-diversity, the Rajaji National Park in the is situated along the foothills of the Shivalik range and exhibits the Shivalik ecosystem. Rajaji is one of northern India’s major wildlife reserves, and is one of the best places to see the flora and fauna of the terai region. The park has been named after the late freedom fighter Sri C. Rajgopalachari, who was popularly referred to as ‘Rajaji’. The park was created back in 1983, after integrating three sanctuaries – Rajaji, Motichur and Chilla – into a large protected area. Take an elephant ride in the morning or evening, and get ready to spot as many as 23 species of mammals and 315 birds.

SHANTIKUNJ

Shantikunj is one of the most prominent spiritual centres/ashrams in Haridwar. Open to people of all religions, it organises discourses on world peace, unity and love. Visitors can attend the daily yajna (ritual) that is organised to promote world peace. Various discourses and workshops are also held on the same. Its beautifully landscaped gardens are quite a lure and houses a food complex that sells essentially organic and Ayurvedic food. At just a 15 minute drive from Har ki Paudi, this ashram is a must visit for anyone seeking a different sort of experience in Haridwar.

                Source: Happytrips