haridwar good places to visit

What is the famous of Haridwar? 🪔 15 Best Places To Visit In Haridwar For Perfect Religious Experience!

What is the famous of Haridwar? Haridwar is famous for its spiritual significance, vibrant culture, and sacred ghats along the Ganges River.

Have you ever heard of Haridwar? It’s this amazing place located in the Himalayas, and let me tell you, it’s something special. The Ganga River flows through here, and people say it’s like a spiritual bath for your soul, washing away all your sins. It’s not just about cleansing, though.

Haridwar is also incredibly peaceful, with its serene nature and beautiful surroundings. It’s the perfect place to just unwind and find some inner peace.

Now, if you’re someone who likes a bit more excitement, Rishikesh is just a hop, skip, and a jump away. It’s like the adrenaline capital of the Himalayas! You can go camping there, which is an absolute must-do activity. Imagine sleeping under the stars, surrounded by the majestic mountains—it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Between Haridwar’s tranquility and Rishikesh’s adventure, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts relaxation and thrills, Haridwar and Rishikesh should definitely be on your list. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Important Information About Hardiwar

• Continent:  Asia
• Country:  India
• State: ‎Uttarakhand
• City: Haridwar
• Population: 464,000 (2023)
• Currency: India Rupee (INR)
• Dialling Code: 01334
• Language: Hindi And English
• Area: 12.3 Km
• Mayor: Anita Sharma (INC)
• Emergency Contact Number: 100
• Railway Station: Haridwar Junction railway station (HW)
• Airport: Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED). Around 20 km away

🌦️ What Is The Best Time To Visit Haridwar?

1. har ki pauri – holy dip, 2. mansa devi – temple with a view, 3. temple chandi devi — another picturesque temple, 4. anandamayi ashram – spiritual contact, 5. shanti kunj – living art above all, 6. gau ghat – for your mates.

• 7. Vishnu Ghat — Lord Vishnu's Legacy

8. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar – The Birders

9. rajaji tiger reserve: good for biodiversity, 10. swami vivekanand park — a nice home, 11. bara bazaar — a busy market, 12. bhuma niketan temple-a famous pilgrim site.

• 13. Kushavarta Ghat – Haridwar's Holy Ghat

14. Bharat Mata Temple — For India’s Concept

15. birla ghat – another ancient ghat, 🧘🏻‍♂️ haridwar a spiritual trip , q. is 1 day enough for haridwar, q. how can i reach haridwar, q. is it safe to take a dip in the ganges at haridwar, q. what are the must-visit temples in haridwar, q. are there any adventure activities available in haridwar, q. what cultural festivals are celebrated in haridwar, 😇 conclusion.

• 🗨️ Let us know in the comments which location on our list of Haridwar's top attractions is your personal favorite.

The best time to visit Haridwar is during the months of October to February when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

📝 List of The 15 Best Places To Visit In Haridwar

When you’re in Haridwar, make sure to explore these must-visit spots and immerse yourself in the city’s spiritual ambiance.

You’ll be amazed by the abundance of places to discover in Haridwar. Some of these gems might be unfamiliar to you, so let’s uncover the top places to visit in Haridwar together.

When it comes to planning a fantastic holiday in Haridwar, you’ll find plenty of places to explore and exciting options to choose from. However, Har Ki Pauri stands out above the rest as a must-visit attraction in this mythical land.

Taking a dip in the Ganga River, particularly during the holy months of Shravan, is an experience that will leave you truly mesmerized.

• Address:  Harkipodi, Kharkhari, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  1.8 km.
• Perfect Time to Visit:   All months are per Perfect
• Timing:   Open 24 * 7 hours
• Entry Cost:  Free

Also Read : Places To Visit In Varanasi

Another sacred stop on the pilgrimage route in Haridwar is the Mansa Devi Temple, revered by Hindu devotees. It’s named after Mansa Devi, believed to be the incarnation of Shakti from Rishi Kashyap.

This temple, along with the Chandi Devi Temple and Maya Devi, forms the famous Siddhpeeth triangle of Haridwar.

Perched atop Bilwa Parvat, the Mansa Devi Temple offers breathtaking views of Haridwar city, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the area.

• Address:  Haridwar
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  3 km.
• Perfect Time to Visit:  In summer May to September and in winter December & January.
• Timing:   07 AM to 12 PM and 02 PM to 7 PM. Moreover, Cable car service is available between 6:30 AM to 5 PM(April-October) and for the other months, between 8:30 am to 5 pm.
• Entry Cost:  Temple entry fee is zero and rope will cost INR 100/- per person per way.

Also Read: 15 Tourist Places In Jaipur To Visit For A Never Before Experience

Dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Chandi Devi, this temple is a treat for both nature lovers and religious devotees exploring the top spots in Haridwar.

Perched atop a hill, the Chandi Devi Temple offers a panoramic 360-degree view of Haridwar from its complex. Despite its hilltop location, accessing the temple is convenient, with easy routes from both the bus station and railway station.

• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  4 km.
• Perfect Time to Visit:  February to October.
• Timing:   6 AM – 12 PM and  3 PM – 6 PM.
• Entry Cost:  Free.

Also Read : Top 15 Most Famous Temples In India

For those devoted to Ma Anandamayi, a prominent spiritual figure, her ashram is a must-visit destination in Haridwar.

Situated within walking distance of the Ghats and easily accessible from the railway station, this religious sanctuary draws visitors from far and wide.

The ashram complex boasts several notable buildings, including the Gayatri Yajnashala, Ati Rudra Yajnashala, Rudraksha Tree, and the Sankaracharya Room. It’s a place where people from all corners of the globe come to seek spiritual solace, making it a significant addition to any traveler’s list of places to visit in Haridwar.

• Address:  Brahm Vihar Colony, Kankhala, Mayapur, Haridwar, 249408
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  3 km.

Also Read : 15 Best Places To Visit In Goa For Magnificent Vacations!

Embark on a journey of spiritual discovery and inner peace with a visit to Shanti Kunj during your Haridwar darshan.

This tranquil ashram provides a serene oasis where visitors can connect with the divine and seek solace amidst life’s hustle and bustle. It’s renowned as one of the finest places to explore in Haridwar.

Moreover, Shanti Kunj serves as an ideal platform for imparting life’s essential principles. The ashram hosts programs aimed at teaching the art of harmonious living, which are among its notable highlights.

What’s more, it’s not just Hindus who frequent the ashram; people from diverse faiths also come here to gain insights into life’s myriad realities.

• Address:  Shantikunj, Sapt Rishi Rd, Motichur, Haridwar, 249411
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  7.9 km.

Also Read : Top 20 Tourist Places In Bangalore / Bengaluru For A Memorable Vacation

Gau Ghat, frequented by those seeking blessings and well-being for their loved ones, is a highlight of any Haridwar sightseeing excursion.

This ghat offers a serene setting for seeking divine guidance along the banks of the Ganga River. Located near Subhash Ghat, Gau Ghat holds historical significance as the site where the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi were immersed.

• Address : Gau Ghat.
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  1.6 km.

Also Read : 15 Best Tourist Places In Agra: Enjoy the city Beyond the Taj Mahal

7. Vishnu Ghat — Lord Vishnu’s Legacy

Named in honor of the revered Hindu deity Lord Vishnu, Vishnu Ghat is conveniently located within a short walking distance from the bypass road and Haridwar Railway Station.

Despite its proximity to these bustling areas, Vishnu Ghat stands out as one of the most peaceful spots to explore in Haridwar.

Renowned for its cleanliness, Vishnu Ghat offers a serene atmosphere away from the crowds typically found at other ghats in Haridwar. Plus, with various accommodation options and eateries nearby, arranging a comfortable stay shouldn’t pose a challenge.

• Address:  Vishnu Ghat,
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  1.1 km.

Also Read : 20 Best Tourist Places In Kerala For A Wonderful Holiday

Ideal for a fun day out with loved ones, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is a haven for bird enthusiasts, especially during the winter months when migratory birds flock to the area.

Located near the Chandi Devi Temple, this nature park offers prime bird-watching opportunities.

Apart from bird watching, visitors often participate in various recreational activities. You can also enjoy trekking and admire the breathtaking views of the Shivalik Himalayas from the parking area.

Keep an eye out for the Siberian Crane, a prominent migratory bird commonly spotted in the park. Don’t miss the chance to witness these magnificent creatures in action!

• Address:  Kumar Banquet Hall, Ranipur More, Haridwar, 249401
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  3.5 km.

Also Read : Places to Visit In Italy

Rajaji National Park stands as one of Haridwar’s top tourist attractions, spanning across three major Uttarakhand districts: Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. This wildlife sanctuary is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Renowned as Uttarakhand’s second tiger reserve, Rajaji National Park comprises Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Encompassing an expansive area of 1000 square kilometers, including parts of Dehradun, Shivalik, and Lansdowne, this protected area is celebrated for its rich biodiversity.

Exploring the park is made convenient with reserved jeeps being the primary mode of transport, accommodating up to six passengers per vehicle. The Chilla, Motichur, and Ranipur Tourism Zones are frequented by tourists throughout the year.

• Address:  5/1, Ansari Road, Mohand Range, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001
• Timings:  7 a.m. – 9 p.m. & 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
• Entry Fees:  INR 150 (Indian), INR 600 (Foreign)
• Gipsy Fees:  INR 2500 per person, INR 3100 per person.
• Distance From Haridwar Station:  36.2 km. * Note that gypsy charges can vary in different zones. Guide fees are payable.

Swami Vivekananda Park stands out as one of the most enchanting places to visit in Haridwar, especially at night. The park is easily recognizable from afar, thanks to the majestic statue of Lord Shiva peeking from its center.

This meticulously maintained park is perfect for moments of tranquility and reflection. You can catch a glimpse of the statue from Har Ki Pauri, so there’s no need to worry about finding its location.

• Address:  Swami Vivekanand Park, Haridwar, Uttarakhand
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  2.9 Km.

Bara Bazaar is undoubtedly one of Haridwar’s top destinations for purchasing religious items, making it a must-visit spot on your Haridwar itinerary.

This bustling market offers a wide array of products, including handicrafts, Rudraksha seeds, and an assortment of delectable sweets.

As you navigate through the bustling lanes, you’ll encounter a diverse range of items for sale, allowing you to find something that catches your eye. Don’t forget to browse for unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit to this vibrant market.

• Address:  Subhash Ghat, Haridwar, 249401
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  1.6 km.

Bhuma Niketan temple holds a significant place among Haridwar’s attractions. Located on the Saptasarovar Marg, it remains bustling with visitors. The main draw of the temple is the striking sculptures of Parvati and Shiva adorning its entrances.

In addition to these, the temple is adorned with numerous statues of various goddesses. It’s truly a sight to behold, and you definitely shouldn’t miss it. Bhuma Niketan temple ranks among the renowned tourist spots in Haridwar.

• Address  Motichur, Haridwar, 249411
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  5.6 km.

Also Read : Forts In India

13. Kushavarta Ghat – Haridwar’s Holy Ghat

Kushavarta Ghat is revered as one of Haridwar’s holiest and most sacred ghats, serving as the site for the final rites and processions of the departed.

In the 18th century, Maratha Queen Ahilyabai Holkar bestowed prominence upon this ghat. Legend has it that the renowned philosopher Dattatreya frequented this ghat, spending a considerable amount of time here.

• Address:  Kusha Ghat, Haridwar, 249401
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  1.5 km.

Also Read: List of National Parks in Indi a

Isn’t the name so suggestive? Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar serves as a symbol of India’s unity and pride, making it a must-visit destination in the city.

The name ‘Bharat Mata Mandir’ translates to ‘Temple of Mother India’ and represents both a nation-building and a temple-building endeavor.

Unlike traditional temples, Bharat Mata Mandir doesn’t worship any specific gods or goddesses. Instead, it honors the idea of India as a nation and pays homage to its countless sacrifices.

• Address: :  Bhoopatwala, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249404
• Distance From Haridwar Railway Station:  6.4 Km

Also Read : Best places to visit in Kolkata

Situated adjacent to Vishnu Ghat, Birla Ghat holds the distinction of being one of the oldest sites to explore in Haridwar, thus earning its place among the city’s top attractions.

Birla Ghat exudes a serene and tranquil atmosphere, often devoid of crowds. Many devotees visit this ghat to take a sacred dip in the holy waters, seeking purification from their sins. To ensure safety, barriers are installed around the stairs to prevent accidents.

• Address:  Birla Ghat, Haridwar, 249401
• Distance from Haridwar Railway Station:  0.75 km

Also Read : Sustainable tourism in India

Sit beside the Haridwar ghats and soak in the positive energy surrounding you. This revered location, envisioned by legends as a haven for healing, holds the faith of countless spiritual seekers from across the globe.

Furthermore, Haridwar’s ancient city is renowned for its historic temples and ghats. These sacred sites, along with the ashrams, attract thousands of devotees throughout the year.

However, the highlight of the Haridwar experience is the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti performed each evening at Har Ki Pauri. It’s a captivating spectacle that shouldn’t be missed.

Additionally, one of the iconic features of Haridwar that everyone should witness is the vibrant melas (fairs) and festivities. These celebrations showcase the rich heritage and cultural tapestry of India!

🙋🏻‍♀️ FAQs About Places To Visit In Haridwar

Planning a trip to Haridwar can raise a lot of questions, right? Well, let me help you out by answering some of the most common ones below.

A. While it’s possible to explore some highlights in a day, to truly experience Haridwar’s essence, consider spending at least 2-3 days.

A. Haridwar is accessible by road, rail, and air. The city has its own railway station and is well-connected to major cities by road. The nearest airport is in Dehradun, about 35 kilometers away.

A. While bathing in the Ganges is a sacred ritual, exercise caution, especially during crowded times. Consult local authorities for safe bathing spots.

A. Some must-visit temples include Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, and Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, each steeped in mythological significance.

A. Yes, Haridwar offers adventure activities like trekking, white water rafting, camping, and wildlife safaris amidst the scenic Himalayan foothills.

A. Haridwar hosts vibrant festivals such as the Kumbh Mela, Ardh Kumbh Mela, Ganga Dussehra, and Kanwar Yatra, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and spiritual fervor.

Ready to embark on a journey that will touch your soul? Haridwar is calling! Dive into the spiritual heart of this divine city, where every corner is steeped in history and tranquility. From ancient temples to peaceful ghats, Haridwar is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and natural wonders. Whether you’re drawn to prayer or craving adventure, Haridwar has something special in store for you. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

🗨️ Let us know in the comments which location on our list of Haridwar’s top attractions is your personal favorite.

Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with Fiery Trippers . Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.

Is it safe to travel to Jaipur alone? 🐪 20 Tourist Places In Jaipur To Visit: Uncover the Top Attractions

What is the significance of temples in Indian culture? 🛕15 Most Famous Temples In India: Exploring Spiritual Marvels

Is Goa safe for solo travelers? 🏝️15 Best Places To Visit In Goa For Magnificent Vacations!

Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 33 Best Places To Visit In Haridwar For A Spiritual Vacay One Cannot Miss

23 Mar 2023

No spiritual journey is considered complete without a trip to Haridwar in the North India. The land of legends and tales located in the foothills of the Himalayas and cleansed by the holy Ganga is considered as the holiest place to wash the sins. Only after exploring more about the best places to visit in Haridwar, you would know that there’s a lot to do in Haridwar apart taking a dip in the pious Har Ki Pauri and visiting temples. Seek spiritual connect, and indulge in the exciting nature around, Haridwar looks like a perfect vacay option.

Bask in the quietude of the vivid nature around or plan some adventure activities in Rishikesh. As you plan a Haridwar darshan, you will have the answer to most of your fears and uncertainties. Not too far from Haridwar lies Rishikesh, the ultimate sojourn for those looking for some adrenaline rush. One can also plan a camping in Rishikesh, there’s a multitude of places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh and as many activities that can account for a fruitful holiday. Mark them and strike them off one by one from your bucket list.

33 Best Places To Visit In Haridwar

While you’re in Haridwar make sure to not miss out on these places and enjoy the spiritual vibe of the city. You’ll be surprised to see the number of places to see in Haridwar . You might not be aware of some of these places. So, let’s see what all places there are to see. 

1. Har Ki Pauri – For A Holy Dip

There are a number places and exciting options that account for a wonderful holiday in Haridwar. But Har Ki Pauri is one place that is rated much above the other attractions that can be visited when you are in the land of legends. The early morning dip in the river Ganga, especially during the holy months of Shravan, is truly an enchanting spectacle. It is this place the majestic river Ganga finally exists the mountains and enters the plains.

Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh Mela are the major fairs organized in Har Ki Pauri. Ganga Aarti, organized every morning and evening, is a must – attend.

Location: Harkipodi, near krishna dham, Kharkhari, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance from Haridwar Railway Station: 1.8 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

12 Majestic Temples In Rishikesh That Are All About Architectural Grandeur

Uttarakhand Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Adventurous Rishikesh Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,300

Plan your trip today!

Jim Corbett Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 5,299

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Action-Packed Uttarakhand Tour 5D/4N @ RS 9,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Uttarakhand Tour Package with Corbett 7D/6N @ 21,000

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Mansa Devi Temple – Temple With A View

Mansa Devi Temple is the holy place for Hindu devotees on a Haridwar Darshan trip. Named after Mansa Devi who is believed to be the form of Shakti that emerged from Rishi Kashyap. The temple along with Chandi Devi Temple and Maya Devi completes the trio of popular Siddhpeeth in Haridwar. Sitting atop the Bilwa Parvat, the Mansa Devi Temple offers the perfect view of the Haridwar city.

Location: Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 3 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

3. Chandi Devi Temple – Another Picturesque Temple

Dedicated to Hindu Goddess Chandi Devi, the temple is a scenic treat for the nature lovers as well as religious buffs looking for best places to visit in Haridwar. Perched on a hilltop, Chandi Devi temple offers a 360-degree view of Haridwar from the temple complex. The temple is easily accessible from the government bus stop and the railway station and one of the best places to visit in Haridwar in 2 days .

Location: Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 4 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

Street Food In Haridwar: 12 Delicacies That Will Surely Titillate Your Taste Buds On Your Trip

4. Anandamayi Ashram – That Spiritual Connect

Image Source

Dedicated to Ma Anandamayi, an eminent spiritual personality, the ashram is one of the best places to visit in Haridwar. The spiritual sojourn is located at a walking distance from the Ghats and can be easily approached from the railway station as well. There is a lot of buildings in the ashram complex Gayatri Yajnashala, Ati Rudra Yajnashala, Rudraksha Tree, and Sankaracharya Hall is some of the prominent buildings in the ashram premises.

People from different parts of the country come to visit the ashram and must be on the Haridwar tourist places list.

Location: Brahm Vihar Colony, Kankhala, Mayapur, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 3 kilometers Timing Required: 3 to 4 hours

5. Shanti Kunj – Art Of Living Is Above All

Haridwar darshan is all finding a peaceful corner and making a divine connection with the Almighty. Seek all the peace and solace at the Shanti Kunj, one of the best places to visit in Haridwar. The ashram is the perfect place that offers teachings about values in life. Programs conducted in the ashram teaching the art of living is one of the prime attractions there. Not just Hindus but people from different religions visit the ashram to learn about the different truth of life.

Location: Shantikunj, Sapt Rishi Rd, Motichur, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249411 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 7.9 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

16 Engaging & Thrilling Things To Do In Haridwar That You Cannot Miss Out

6. Gau Ghat – For Your Near & Dear Ones

Mostly visited by people who seek safety and well being of their near and dear ones, Gau Ghat makes for one of the best places to visit in Haridwar in one day. The ghat is the perfect place to seek divine intervention sitting by the banks of the Ganga river. Located in the vicinity of Subhash Ghat, Gau Ghat is also known as the place where ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Indira Gandhi were immersed.

Location: Gau Ghat, Haridwar Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 1.6 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

7. Vishnu Ghat – The Legacy Of Lord Vishnu

Named after the famous Hindu God Lord Vishnu, the Ghat is located at a walking distance from the bypass road and Haridwar Railway Station. Vishnu Ghat is one of the most serene and quiet sojourn visiting places in Haridwar . Vishnu Ghat is known for its cleanliness and is comparatively lesser crowded as compared to the other ghats in Haridwar. With ample of stay options and eateries around, planning a stay around shouldn’t be much of a concern.

Location: Vishnu Ghat, Haridwar Distance From Haridwar Railway Station:  1.1 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

6 Best Resorts Near Rishikesh And Haridwar

8. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar – For All The Birders

A perfect place to enjoy a day out with family and friends, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is known for spotting of migratory birds, especially in winter months. Located close to the Chandi Devi Temple, the nature park makes a perfect outing for the birders. Apart from bird watching, travelers indulge in other activities here as well. You can actually go trekking and marvel at the stunning Shivalik Himalayas that loom large over the park region. Siberian Crane is a migratory bird often spotted inside the park region. Watch out for them!

Location: Kumar Banquet Hall, Ranipur More, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station:  3.5 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

9. Rajaji Tiger Reserve – The Best Of Biodiversity

Rajaji National Park is a major tourist attraction in Haridwar. Encompassing of 3 major districts of Uttarakhand – Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal, this wildlife reserve is an absolute treat for the wildlife enthusiasts. Famed as the second tiger reserve of Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park comprises of Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla Wildlife Sanctuaries.

A part of Dehradun, Shivalik, and Lansdowne form the 1000 sq. km protected region famed for its wide variety of flora and fauna. Reserved jeeps are the primary transport option inside the park. The maximum seating capacity per vehicle is 6 pax. Chilla, Motichur, and Ranipur Tourism Zones are the most frequented by tourists around the year, of which Chilla Tourism Zone is the most popular.

Location:  5/1, Ansari Road, Mohand Range, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001 Timings: 7 AM – 9 PM & 3 PM – 5 PM Charges: Park entry fees –   INR 150 (Indian), INR 600 (foreigner) Gypsy charges: INR 2500 per person onwards, INR 3100 per person onwards. Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 36.2 kilometers Timing Required: 3 to 4 hours

Find more details related to booking here

* Please note that gypsy charges may vary in different zones. Guide fees has to be paid extra

30 Things To Do In Dehradun For An Adventurous Yet Relaxing Vacation

10. Swami Vivekanand Park – A Peaceful Sojourn 

One of the most enchanting places to visit in Haridwar at night, the Swami Vivekananda Park is a wonderful place to be. The park can be identified from a distance after as you see the majestic statue of Lord Shiva peeping from the middle of the park. The well-maintained park can be visited to spend some peaceful moments. This statue can be spotted from Har Ki Pauri and one must not be too worried about figuring out its location.

Location: Swami Vivekanand Park, Haridwar, Uttarakhand Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 2.9 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours Reviews

11. Bara Bazaar – A Bustling Market

One of the most  famous places in Haridwar  to shop and to buy religious stuff, Bara Bazaar is a place that must be on your Haridwar itinerary. Handicrafts, Rudraksha seeds, and a variety of sweets are some of the popular things to shop for at this market. Walk through bustling bylanes and check out different goods on display and buy something that you love. You can also buy some cute souvenirs here. 

Location: Subhash Ghat, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 1.6 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

River Rafting In Rishikesh: The Ultimate Guide For Riding The Rapids

12. Bhuma Niketan Temple – A Popular Pilgrim Spot

Bhuma Niketan Temple is one of the most important places in Haridwar. It  is situated on the Saptasarovar Marg and is always bustling. The primary highlight of the temple are the sculptures of Parvati and Shiva at the entrance gates of the temple. The temple also houses many other idols of several gods and goddesses. The temple is as beautiful as it gets and you shouldn’t miss out on this. 

Location: Motichur, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249411 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station:  5.6 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

13. Kushavarta Ghat – The Most Sacred Ghat In Haridwar

Considered to be the most pious and sacred Ghat and one of the most famous places in Haridwar, the Kushavarta Ghat is where the last rites and processions of the deceased are performed. It is believed that the famous Ghat was considered in the 18th century by Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar. There is also a theory which says that the great sage Dattatreya spent a lot of time at this Ghat. Take a dip in the holy water.

Location: Kusha Ghat,Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station:  1.5 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

12 Places To Visit In Haldwani On Your Trip To This Gem In Uttarakhand

14. Bharat Mata Temple – For The Idea Of India

Isn’t the name suggestive enough? The Bharat Mata Mandir in Haridwar stands as a symbol of India which is also one of the best places to see in Haridwar . The temple stands for the country and hence the name. The name ‘Bharat Mata Mandir’ when translated means ‘A temple for Mother India’ and the establishment of this temple is considered to be half a nation building and half a temple building exercise. This temple does not worship any gods or goddesses but the idea of India as a nation and the sacrifices that have been made for it.  

Location: भारत माता मंदिर सप्त ऋषि, रोड, Bhoopatwala, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249404 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station:  6.4 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

15. Birla Ghat – Another Pious Ancient Ghat

Located right next to Vishnu Ghat, Birla Ghat is known for being one of the oldest Ghats in Haridwar which also makes it to be one of the  top places to visit in Haridwar. Birla Ghat is a quaint and solitary ghats at most times and taking a dip in the holy waters is believed to absolve your sins and many devotees take a dip here for the same. There are security barriers installed near the stairs to prevent mishappenings. 

Location: Birla Ghat, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station:  0.75 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

Restaurants In Haridwar: After A Dip In The Holy River, It’s Time For Some ‘Pet Puja’

16. Bhimagoda Tank – A Sacred Water Tank

Bhimagoda Tank as the name is suggestive enough is a sacred water tank and is  named after Bhima who was one of the five Pandava brothers. This water tank in Haridwar which is now refurbished with river Ganga’s water and is surrounded by lush greenery is one of the best places to visit in Haridwar. You will also find beautiful water fountains and flower beds too here. 

Location: Bhimgoda, Devpura, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 2.7 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

17. Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple –  Peace Out

The Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple is one of the  best places to visit in Haridwar  as the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a beautiful setting. Ganges flows adjacent to the temple and the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas make it look even more scenic. The backdrop of the Himalayas and the beaautiful settings of the temple create a magical aura and you would not feel like coming back from the place.

Location:  Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple, Haridwar, Uttarakhand Distance From Haridwar Railway Station:  3.3 kilometers Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

32 Best Places To Visit In Nainital For An Incredible Vacation

18. Fun Valley Water Park – For An Enthralling Experience

The Fun Valley water park is one of the best places to visit in Haridwar for couples  with enthralling rides. This place is a home to around 21 thrilling water rides and roller coasters which makes this place worth a visit. Alongside that there is aqua dancing, DJ and also a vast range of adventure activities which are definitely going to give an adrenaline rush.

Location: 28th Km Stone, Haridwar Road, Lal Tappar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001 Timings: 9AM-6PM Timing Required: 3 to 4 hours

19. Adbhut Mandir – A Religious Attraction

This magnificent temple located at the Haripur Kalan is among the famous places in Haridwar, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Spread across a region of 3 acres, the construction of this temple started in 2000 and it took 16 years to complete that. This temple is known for its outstanding architecture and design which is complemented by the lush-greenery and cascading river in the backdrop which also makes it one of the best tourist place in Haridwar. 

Location: Haripur Kalan, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249411 Timings: Morning – 9AM -1PM and Evening 3PM-8PM Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

10 Resorts In Haridwar For The Most Comfortable Stay In The Holy City

20. Daksh Prajapati Mandir – Pay A Visit With Fam

Image Source One of the top religious places to see in Haridwar is Daksh Prajapati Mandir which is considered to be one of the oldest temples in the region. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva & Goddess Sati. Moreover, the temple has been named after the father of Sati, King Daksha Prajapati. If you want to see the place in full swing then you must explore the temple during Shivratri.

Location: Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 2.6 km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

21. Vaishno Devi Temple – The Most Religious Place

Image Source If you cannot go to Vaishno Devi in Kashmir then you can head to the replica of this temple in Haridwar. Many people might not be aware of the fact that there is a Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar also. There are tunnels and caves that lead to the inner sanctum which houses the shrine of Goddess Vaishno Devi. It is not only one of the top religious Haridwar tourist places , but also a famous spot for nature lovers due to amazing views that it offers.

Location: Jagdish Nagar, Jwalapur, Uttarakhand 249407 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 5 km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

16 Things To Do In Chakrata That Will Have You Coming Back For More

22. Patanjali Yogpeeth Haridwar – Explore The Place

Image Source It is a famous medical research institute in Ayurveda and Yoga that is visited by several tourists. Established in 2006, this place is not only counted among the largest yoga institutes in India but also in the whole world. The institute has been named after the inventor of yoga, Rishi Patanjali. Several Ayurvedic medications and treatments are manufactured at this institute. Due to growing interest in yoga, it has become one of the top tourist places in Haridwar . 

Location: Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 31 km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

23. Pawan Dham – A Place Of Brilliant Architecture

One of the most revered places to visit in Haridwar is Pawan Dham which is located in Bhagirathi Nagar. It is maintained by the Geeta Bhawan Trust Society of Moga. Once you visit this place, you will be mesmerized by the intricate architecture of the dham, elaborate glasswork, and idols which are adorned by precious stones and jewels. It is one of the famous places for sightseeing in Haridwar.

Location: Sapt Sarovar Road, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249411 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 5 km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

16 Enthralling Places To Visit In Almora Where You Will Feel Blessed

24. Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple – The Shiva Temple

Nestled in the valley of Billa Parvat, Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is another Haridwar tourist place that no one can afford to miss. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed by the locals that this is the same place where Goddess Parvati worshipped to Lord Shiva after which accepted to marry her. The place is surrounded by woods and hills which makes it a perfect weekend spot. 

Location: Bypass Road, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 650 m Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

25. Maya Devi Temple – One Of The Shaktipeeths

The construction of Maya Devi Temple can be dated back to the 11th century which is why it is one of the top places to visit in Haridwar . The temple is believed to be one of the three Shaktipeeths where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell. You will see a large crowd of tourists and religious people here during Navratra and Kumbhmela. 

Location: Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 600 m Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

8 Hotels In Haridwar That Will Give You Utmost Comfort And An Unforgettable Experience

26. Crystal World – Enjoy Thrilling Rides

Image Credit: haridwartourism

A family trip to Haridwar will be incomplete without stopping by the famous Crystal World. One of the best places to visit in Haridwa r and a perfect land of thrilling rides for kids, Crystal World add the fun element to your vacation. From Water rides to enticing ones, this theme park has around 40 rides. Do try the Aqua Drive and Parachute ride on your trip.

Location: Haridwar, Delhi Rd, Batedi, Uttarakhand Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 30 Km Entry Fee: INR 700 for adults and INR 600 for children Timing Required: 3 to 4 hours

27. Doodhadhari Barfani Temple – Seek Blessings 

A remarkable white marble structure, Doodhadhari Barfani Temple is counted among the most beautiful tourist places in Haridwar . Located in the Doodhadhari Barfani ashram, this temple has small temples dedicated to all the main Hindu deities like Lord Ram and Goddess Sita, and Lord Shiva and Goddess Parva. Do visit this temple to seek blessings and to meditate amidst nature.

Location: Hagirathi Nagar, Bhoopatwala, Haridwar, Uttarakhand Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 4 Km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

Trekking In Rishikesh Makes A Perfect Day Out In The Lap Of Nature

28. Prem Nagar Ashram – Epitome Of Serenity

Image Credit: Siddharth807 for Wikimedia

Located on the bank of the river Ganges, Prem Nagar Ashram is one of the most idea places to meditate in Haridwar. The ashram is a beautiful place and features a meditation hall and a gorgeous garden with fountains. There are several temples surrounding the ashram like Chandi Devi Temple and Mansa Devi Temple.

Location: Sitapur, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249404 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 5 Km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

29. Sureshwari Devi Temple – Dedicated To Goddess Durga

Dedicated to Goddess Durga, Sureshwari Devi Temple is an old temple in Haridwar. It is located at outskirts amidst green forests and is one of the popular places to see in Haridwar besides being an important pilgrimage destination. Many tourists throughout the year visit this temple to attain some peaceful vibes and pay respect to the Goddess.

Location: Sitapur, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249404 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 8.6 Km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

Solo Trip To Uttarakhand: 12 Places To Visit For The Ultimate “Me-Time”

30. Jai Ram Ashram – Impeccable Services

Image Credit: Satvik Shahapur for Wikimedia

Founded by Adi Guru Sri Jai Ram Maharaj, Jai Ram Ashram is one of the best places to visit in Haridwar . Owing to its impeccable services, it attracts tourists from across the world. There are well-maintained gardens with beautiful fountains adding to the beauty of the ashram.

Location: Bhimgoda, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249404 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 2.8 Km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

31. Saptrishi Ashram – Ideal For Meditation

Image Credit: Ekabhishek for Wikimedia

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Saptrishi Ashram is yet another popular Haridwar tourist place to visit. Founded by Guru Goswami Dutt, the ashram is well-known for its peaceful vibes which is ideal for meditation. Yoga lovers and other spiritual seekers visit this place throughout the year due to its religious significance. There is also a well-maintained residential hostel located inside the complex.

Location: Bhoopatwala, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249404 Distance From Haridwar Railway Station: 6.8 Km Timing Required: 2 to 3 hours

Mountaineering In Uttarakhand: Check Out These 8 Spots For Your Next Summit

32. Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Parmarth Niketan Ashram is religious site that is located in the vicinity of Haridwar. The ashram is quite popular amongst those who love meditation and visit the region for some spiritual and tranquil moments. Apart from morning and evening aartis, the ashram hosts various workshops and meditation camps.

Location: Near, Main Market Road, Ram Jhula, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304 Distance from Haridwar Railway Station: 12 km Time Required: 2-3 hours

33. Sivananda Ashram

Another popular ashram in the outskirts of Haridwar is Sivananda Ashram that promises to offer spiritual upliftment through their style of Dhyana and meditation, along with an amalgamation on yogasanas, pranayam, lectures, open discussions, etc.

Location: Near, Ram Jhula, Ganga Vatika, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249137 Distance from Haridwar Railway Station: 27 km Time Required: 2-3 hours

9 Homestays In Haridwar That Travelers Must Consider Staying At

Other Popular Attractions Near Haridwar

Rishikesh is an adventurer’s paradise which is also one of the finest tourist places to visit near Haridwar . The place located just 40 minutes drive from Haridwar must be given a try when you are planning to the pious land. Rishikesh is known for its exciting locations located on the banks of river Ganga. Camping and adventure sports are the major attractions for travelers planning a trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh.

In addition to a multitude of activities, there are quite a places that must be on your itinerary while visiting Rishikesh. Lakshman Jhoola, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, The Beatles Ashram, Swarg Ashram, Shivpuri, and Narendra Nagar are some of the must visit place in Rishikesh.

Plan a trip to Haridwar as it is amongst the most vibrant escapes in India. Do plan to explore the above-mentioned best places to visit in Haridwar for a memorable trip.  You never know how many answers to your unsolved queries this place holds! Oh and if you are wondering about the best time to visit Haridwar then it is August to April.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places to Visit in Haridwar

Is it safe to visit Haridwar during Covid times?

You need to follow all the mandatory travel guidelines meticulously for a safe travel experience. Get yourself tested before leaving for your trip and carry your negative RT PCR report. Remain masked and avoid crowded places and social and religious gatherings. Maintain social distancing and keep using sanitizers and disinfectants frequently for a safe experience.

Why is Haridwar famous?

Haridwar is famous for its serene mountains, stunning rivers, and stunning temples. This city is also known as the land of Hindu pilgrimage sites.

What are the famous things to eat in Haridwar?

Parathas, Chole Bhature, Lassi and other popular north Indian food are easily available in the restaurants and eateries close to the railway station. Please be informed that none of the restaurants in Haridwar serve non-vegetarian food or alcohol.

What are some of the offbeat places in Haridwar?

Bharat Mata Mandir, Vaishno Devi Temple, Udan Khatola, Sapt Rishi Ashram, and Ganga Temple are some of the offbeat places to visit in Haridwar.

How can one reach Haridwar from Delhi?

Haridwar can be easily reached from New Delhi by road. The road journey from Delhi to Haridwar takes up to 6 hours. Haridwar Railway Station is the nearest railhead well connected with major cities across India. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport located in Haridwar.

What can we do in Haridwar?

There are innumerable things to do in Haridwar and below is the list of the most enticing ones: 1. Practice yoga 2. Try ayurvedic treatment 3. Meditate amidst nature 4. Opt for wildlife safari

What is the best time to visit Haridwar?

The best time to visit Haridwar is in February, March, August, and October. The weather in these months in Haridwar is quite pleasant and perfect for your vacation.

What is famous in Haridwar for shopping?

There are a lot of things that you can buy in Haridwar like diyas, bangles, sandalwood paste, vermilion saris, idols, lamps, and handicrafts.

People Also Read

Places To Visit In Uttarkashi Places To Visit In Panchgani Places To Visit In Thekkady

Recent Posts

2024 में 26 दार्जिलिंग में पर्यटन स्थल

2024 में 48 सिक्किम में घूमने की जगहें: उत्तर पूर्व में असाधारण क्षेत्र

2024 में 43 पश्चिम बंगाल में घूमने की जगहें: रोमांच का अनुभव करें

9 Hidden Gems In Singapore: An Offbeat Experience

10 Hidden Gems In Sydney That You Must Explore

8 Amusement Parks In Gatlinburg: Experience Fun And Adrenaline Rush

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Uttarakhand » Haridwar »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

Haridwar in Uttarakhand: Essential Travel Guide

What to Know when Visiting Holy Haridwar

Exotica.im/Getty Images

Haridwar, "the Gateway to God", is one of the oldest living cities and one of the seven holiest places in India. (The others are Varanasi/Kashi , Kanchipuram, Ayodhya, Ujjain , Mathura, and Dwarka). Hindu gods are believed to have incarnated at these places various avatars. For Hindus, a pilgrimage to Haridwar will provide liberation from the endless cycle of death and rebirth.

The area around the Ganga River is made up of a fascinating and colorful collection of sadhus (holy men), pundits (Hindu priests), pilgrims, guides, and beggars. Every evening, the river comes alive with the magic of the aarti (worship with fire), as lamps are lit, prayers are offered, and small candles are floated down the river. A visit to this holy city will give you great insight into some of what makes India tick.

History and Mythology

Haridwar's long history can be traced all the way back to ancient Hindu texts such as the Rig Veda and The Mahabharata . During that time it was also referred to as Gangadwara, the gate of the Ganga River (where it descends from the mountains to the plains).

Hindu mythology says that a king named Bhagiratha brought the Ganga River to earth, with the help of Lord Shiva, to remove a curse and purify the ashes of his ancestors so they could go to heaven. Apparently, Lord Shiva released the river from his hair at Haridwar.

Sacred Har ki Pauri ghat is believed to have been built in the 1st century BC by Emperor Vikaramaditya in memory of his brother, Bharthari, who came to Haridwar to meditate by the river and passed away there. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu came and left his footprint on a stone wall at Har ki Pauri, giving rise to its name meaning "Footsteps of God".

Haridwar sits alongside the Ganga (Ganges) River near Rishikesh , at the base of the Shivalik mountain range in Uttarakhand.

How to Get There

Trains from major cities all over India stop at Haridwar on their way to Dehradun. For those coming from Delhi to Haridwar , it takes a minimum of four hours to get there by train or six hours by road.

The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Haridwar. Travel time from the airport to Haridwar is about an hour. Expect to pay 1,500-2,000 rupees upwards for a private taxi, depending on the type of vehicle. Shubh Yatra Travels offers a reliable service that you can book in advance. Taxis are available at the airport. However, demand is high during peak season and drivers may quote inflated prices.

The best time to visit Haridwar is from October to March. Summers, from April to July, get very hot in Haridwar. Temperatures hover around 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The clean water of the Ganges is really refreshing though, and May to June is regarded as peak season. The monsoon season , from July to September, is unsuitable to taking a dip in the Ganges as the river bank becomes unstable and currents are strong because of the rain. Winters, from November until February, get cold during the night. As a result, the water is chilly, but there's also mist in the air which makes Haridwar particularly scenic at that time of year.

The most famous festival to take place at Haridwar is the Kumbh Mela , held there once every 12 years. It draws tens of millions of pilgrims who come to bathe in the Ganges and be absolved of their sins. The next Kumbh Mela will be held in Haridwar in 2021.

In addition, many other religious Hindu festivals are celebrated in Haridwar. Some of the most popular ones are the Kanwar Mela (July or August) devoted to Lord Shiva, Somwati Amavasya (July), Ganga Dussehra (June), Kartik Poornima (November), and Baisakhi (April).

Haridwar's top attractions are its temples (particularly Mansa Devi temple , where the wish fulfilling goddess resides), ghats (steps leading down to the river), and Ganga River. Take a holy dip and cleanse your sins.

The city's iconic Ghanta Ghar (clock tower) at Har ki Pauri ghat was recently given a new look as part of the Haridwar Mural Project , which aims to explore unconventional canvases for public art. The project is being undertaken by art retailer Mojarto in association with Namami Gange (an initiative for the rejuvenation and preservation of the Ganga River). The painting of the clock tower, by artist Harshvardhan Kadam (who led the Pune Street Art Project), is based on the scriptures and theories of the Viman Shastra . It blends Indian mythology with contemporary art. Haridwar's new Chandi Ghat has also been decorated with a colorful turtle and ocean scene , painted by celebrated Mexican artist Senkoe. It signifies how the cleaning of the river and ghats is bringing wildlife back.

As the sun sets, head to Har ki Pauri ghat to witness the captivating Ganga Aarti (prayer ceremony) at around 6-7 p.m. every night depending on the time of year. Fiery lamps combined with the chanting of mantras , clanking of bells and enthusiastic crowd, is very powerful and moving.

Daksha Mahadev temple, the oldest temple in the area, also has some intriguing evening rituals. According to legend, Lord Shiva's first wife Sati jumped into the holy fire and died there, in response to her father spurning him.

If you're interested in Ayurvedic medicine , you'll find many roots and shrubs that are grown in the Himalayas readily available there.

Bara Bazaar, on Railway Road between Har ki Pauri and Upper Road, is a popular area to shop. It has all sorts of brass items, religious items, and Ayurvedic medicines. A bit further along, Moti Bazaar on Upper Road towards the north of the canal, is Haridwar's main market area. It offers a wide variety of inexpensive goods as well.

Where to Stay

Haridwar is quite spread out and hotels are all about location, location! There are plenty of options but you'll want to stay somewhere along the river to really enjoy and appreciate Haridwar. These Haridwar hotels for all budgets are all well-positioned and decent.

Where to Eat

The food in Haridwar is mostly vegetarian, and alcohol is banned in the city as it's a holy place.

Chotiwala, at Subhash Ghat, is renowned for its thalis (platters) . Bhagwati's Chhole Bhature, on the way to Mansa Devi Temple, is a popular breakfast joint for those who want to fill up on this iconic dish. Mohan Ji Puri Wale, near the police chowki at Har Ki Pauri, is the best place to go for aloo (potato) puri . The sweet ghee items at Mathura Walo ki Pracheen Dukan, near Thanda Kuan Moti Bazaar, always draw a crowd. Hoshiyar Puri, on Upper Road, serves yummy north Indian vegetarian cuisine at reasonable prices (the daal makhani and paneer masala are signature dishes). For somewhere more fancy, head to Ksheer Sagar at Pilibhit House, Ramghat.

Rajaji National Park offers unspoiled natural beauty only 10 kilometers (six miles) from Haridwar. Its eco-system is estimated to be 10 million years old, and a diverse range of wildlife can be seen there, including elephants.

Those keen to learn more about yoga and Ayurveda can visit Baba Ramdev's Patanjali Yogpreeth , at Bahadrabad near Haridwar. This interesting educational institution aims to link ancient wisdom with modern science.

Many people visit Rishikesh as a side trip as well. Although it's only less than an hour from Haridwar, the vibe is very different there. Haridwar is popular with Hindu pilgrims, who come to cleanse their sins. Rishikesh attracts foreigners who come to study yoga and spend time at its many ashrams.

The Complete Guide to Rishikesh, India: the Birthplace of Yoga

12 Unforgettable Tourist Places to Visit in Uttarakhand

Spiritual India: 7 Top Destinations You Shouldn't Miss

Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra Essential Guide

Essential Guide to the Ganga Aarti in India

Top 14 Things to Do in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

How to Travel From Delhi to Haridwar by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Badrinath Temple in Uttarakhand: The Complete Guide

Guide to the Mystical Kumbh Mela in India

12 Diverse Ways and Places to Celebrate Diwali in India

Varanasi Guide: Planning Your Trip

20 Top Things to Do in Diverse India

15 Top Tourist Places to Visit in North India

One Week in Delhi: The Perfect Itinerary

12 Major Mountain Ranges in India

16 Best Tourist Destinations in India

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• Uttarakhand
• Places to Visit in Haridwar

25 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Haridwar

• Haridwar Overview
• Top 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar
• 6 Best Haridwar Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Haridwar
• Best Time to Visit Haridwar
• How to Reach Haridwar
• Driving Directions to Haridwar
• within 1 km
• within 5 km
• within 10 km
• within 20 km
• within 30 km
• within 40 km
• within 50 km

Har Ki Pauri / Gangadwara

#1 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 2 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Har Ki Pauri is a holy ghat on the banks of the River Ganges in Haridwar. It is the major landmark of the holy city of Haridwar and among the must-include places in Haridwar holiday packages . Har Ki Pauri was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother, Brithari in the 1st century BC. It is said that Brithari used to meditate on the banks of the River Ganges. Har Ki Pauri, one of the most famous Haridwar sightseeing places , is believed to be the precise spot where the Ganges leaves the mountains and enters the plains. Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are believed to have visited the Brahmakund in Har Ki Pauri in the Vedic times. It is also said that Lord Brahma, who is the Hindu God of Creation, performed a yagna at this place. There is a large footprint said to belong to .....

...read more

Chandi Devi Temple

#2 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 5 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Chandi Devi Temple is one of the famous temples situated atop the Neel Parvat on the Eastern summit of the Shivalik Hills in Haridwar at an altitude of 2,900 m. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. This is one of the most famous temples of India. This Temple is highly revered by devotees as a Siddh Peetha which is a place of worship where desires get fulfilled. It is one of three such Peethas located in Haridwar, the other two being Mansa Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple. Chandi Devi Temple was built in 1929 by Suchat Singh in his reign as the King of Kashmir. However, the main idol of Chandi Devi at the temple is said to have been installed in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya. The temple, also known as Neel Parvat Teerth, is one of the Panch Tirth located within Haridwar. According to legend, the kingdom .....

Mansa Devi Temple

#3 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 3 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Mansa Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Shivalik Hills in Haridwar . The temple also known as Bilwa Tirth is one of the Panch Tirthas (Five Pilgrimages) within Haridwar. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti and is said to have emerged from the mind of the Sage Kashyap. Mansa is regarded as the sister of the Naga (serpent) Vasuki. This Temple is highly revered by devotees as a Siddh Peetha which is a place of worship where desires get fulfilled. It is one of three such Peethas located in Haridwar, the other two being Chandi Devi Temple and Maya Devi Temple. The inner shrine has two deities installed, one with eight arms and the other one three headed with five arms. The term Mansa means wish and it is believed that the goddess fulfills all the wishes of sincere devotees who tie threads to the branches of .....

Vaishno Devi Temple

#4 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 5 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Vaishno Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located at Jwalapur in Haridwar. It is one of the famous places of sightseeing in Haridwar . The Temple is dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi and is modeled after the famous Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu & Kashmir. This temple is relatively new but it has been attracting a large number of tourists as part of Haridwar tour packages . The main deities in the temple are Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Kali, and Goddess Saraswati. It is believed that all three Goddesses together became Vaishno Devi to kill the demon Mahishasura. It is believed that the Goddess blesses only those who truly intend to seek her blessings from the bottom of their hearts. Apart from Kumbh Mela, the temple celebrates many festivals like Basant Panchami, Makar Sankranti, Ganga .....

Daksha Mahadev Temple

#5 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 3.5 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Daksheswara Mahadev Temple or Daksha Mahadev temple is located in Kankhal in Haridwar . This temple is named after King Daksha Prajapati, the father of Sati. Daksha is one of the fourteen Prajapatis, creator deities, who preside over procreation and are the protectors of life in Hindu mythology. Popularly known as Sri Daksheshwar Temple, this temple was initially constructed in 1810 AD by Queen Dhankaur. However, the temple was again rebuilt in 1962. According to the legend, Daksha Prajapati performed a holy ritual, known as Daksha Yagna at this place. However, he did not invite Lord Shiva, who was his son-in-law, for this Yagna. However, Sati, the daughter of Daksha attended the yagna. Daksha insulted Lord Shiva in the Yagna. Feeling insulted by her father's behavior, Sati sacrificed her life in the fire of the Yagna. The Daksha Mahadev Temple is believed to .....

Rajaji National Park

#6 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 8 km from Haridwar, 21 km from Rishikesh & 55 km from Dehradun, Rajaji National Park is a Tiger Reserve situated at the edge of the sprawling Dehradun Valley. It is one of the must-visit national parks in India , and among the top tourist places in Haridwar . Motichur Wildlife Sanctuary, which covers about 90 sq. km, was carved out of Dehradun forests in the year 1966. Similarly, Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary was formed from the Shivalik forests and Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary from the Lansdowne forests in 1967 and 1974 respectively. The Rajaji National Park was established by merging these three wildlife sanctuaries and named Rajaji National Park in the year 1983 after the famous freedom fighter and the last Governor-General of India Sri C. Rajagopalachari, popularly known as Rajaji.   Spread over an area of 820.42 sq. km, the Rajaji .....

#7 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 26 km from Haridwar, 42 km from Dehradun, 74 km from Mussoorie, 201 km from Chandigarh, and 233 km from Delhi, Rishikesh is a holy city on the banks of the River Ganges in Uttarakhand. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, it is one of the top places of pilgrimage in India , and among the must-include places in Uttarakhand tour packages . Rishikesh is the gateway to the upper Garhwal region and the starting point for the Char Dham pilgrimage (Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath). Rishikesh is situated at an altitude of 356 m and consists of three distinct areas known as Rishikesh, Swargashram, and Muni Ki Reti. Rishikesh has been a part of the legendary Kedarkhand (the present-day Garhwal). As per the Skanda Purana, Lord Vishnu appeared here to Raibhya Rishi as Hrishikesh, which means the God of ..... Distance (From Haridwar): 26 Kms Trip Duration (From Haridwar - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#8 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 29 km from Mussoorie, 30 km from Chamba, 60 km from Dehradun, 89 km from Rishikesh, 112 km from Haridwar, 141 km from Srinagar, 224 km from Chandigarh, 258 km from Patiala, 283 km from Shimla, and 309 km from Delhi, Dhanaulti is a picturesque hill station situated in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Lies on Mussoorie - Chamba Road, it is one of the popular weekend getaways from Delhi and among the best offbeat destinations to visit in Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 2286 m, Dhanaulti is known for its quiet environment and tranquility. Sitting on the edge of Tehri Garhwal District, Dhanaulti shares its west-side border with Dehradun. The long wooded slopes, relaxed outdoors, cool crossing breeze, warm and hospitable inhabitants, lovely weather, and fabulous view of snow-capped mountains, makes Dhanaulti an enticing hideaway for tourists. It is still untouched and becoming an alternative to the crowded Mussoorie and Dehradun. As per the history, ..... Distance (From Haridwar): 112 Kms Trip Duration (From Haridwar - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Maya Devi Temple

#9 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 600 m from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Maya Devi Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated at Birla Ghat in the holy city of Haridwar. The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Maya. According to the history, this temple dates back to the 11th century. It is one of the three ancient temples of Haridwar which are still intact, the other two being Narayana-shila and Bhairava Temple. Haridwar was previously known as Mayapuri in reverence to this deity. Goddess Maya is a three-headed and four-armed deity who is believed to be an incarnation of Shakti. The temple is a Siddh Peetha which is a place of worship where desires get fulfilled. It is one of three such Peethas located in Haridwar, the other two being Chandi Devi Temple and Mansa Devi Temple. The inner shrine consists of idols of goddess Maya in the center, goddess Kali on the left, goddess Kamakhya on the right. The temple is visited by large number of devotees during the Navratra and .....

Bharat Mata Mandir

#10 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 6 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Bharat Mata Mandir, also known as Mother India Temple, is situated at Motichur in Haridwar. This temple is one of the most visited temples in Haridwar Bharat Mata Mandir is a famous multi-storey temple of Mother India built to salute the dedication of all the patriots and freedom fighters. This shrine was founded by Swami Satyamitranand Giri. It was inaugurated by Late Prime Minister, Smt. Indira Gandhi, in the year 1983. With a height of 180 feet, the temple stands tall with eight stories and each story has different theme dedicated to several legends and deities. In addition, the Bharat Mata Mandir is also dedicated to all the patriotic freedom fighters, who contributed to the freedom of the country. There is a lift facility to reach upper floors of the temple. On the first floor, Statue of Bharat Mata adorns the hall, where the Goddess is holding a milk pot in one hand and stack of grain in the other hand. .....

Bhimgoda Tank

#11 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 3 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station and 1 km from Har Ki Pauri, Bhimgoda Tank is a sacred tank situated in Haridwar. The sacred tank is named after Bhima, the second of the five Pandavas in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. According to a legend, the sacred tank came into existence when Bhima hit his knee (Goda in Hindi) against the ground. It happened when the Pandavas were on their way to the Himalayas through Haridwar. When Bhima felt the need for water, he stabbed his knee to the ground to create a pool of water. The water of the Ganges flows into this tank. A dam located close to the tank is also worth watching. The tank is also lined with wonderfully laid-out gardens. The surroundings of the tank are fragrant with the flowers. In addition, there are fountains adding to the beauty of the location.

Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar

#12 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 3 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is a famous bird-watching point situated at the Bhimgoda Barrage of Haridwar. It is one of the must-visit places during Haridwar trip . The Bhimgoda Barrage is on the Ganges River near Har-Ki-Pauri Ghat. The barrage was originally built to aid irrigation but it also generates hydroelectric power and controls floods. The area behind the barrage is known as Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar. The place is quite popular among bird-loving tourists. The place is known for Siberian Cranes that can be spotted during the winter months at Laljiwala. In addition, the place is also a natural habitat of different species of migratory birds. Not only avid bird watchers, but the spot also welcomes a good number of nature lovers and trekkers. Also, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is one of the top Haridwar tourist places visited .....

Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple

#13 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 500 m from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Sri Bilkeshwar Mahadev Mandir is situated in the valley of Bilva Parvat in Haridwar. This temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and his Consort Goddess Parvati. According to mythology, the temple is the place where Goddess Parvati worshiped Shiva, and when Shiva appeared she asked him to accept her as his wife. Bilva is a tree which is quite sacred to Hindus. Its leaves represent the three eyes of Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is very popular among the local people. The temple is surrounded by woods in a hilly area. It is a small temple which houses a Shiva linga and Nandi made out of stone. The place also houses small temples for Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman and Goddess Parvati. It is a tradition to offer Bilva leaves to Lord Shiva and to do abhishek of the Shiva lingam with the water of River Ganga. The temple is very close to Haridwar Jn Railway Station and can be reached by foot. Timings: 6 AM to 9 P .....

Parad Shivling

#14 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 2 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Parad Shivling is situated inside the Harihar Ashram at Kankhal in Haridwar. Parad Shivling is a unique Shivling worshipped at Harihar Ashram and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Shivling was offered first prayer during the Kumbh Mela in 1986. The name Parad Shivling literally means Mercury Shivling. This holy Shivling is made from 151 kg of pure Mercury. This Shivlinga is one of its kind in the world. Solidification of mercury is a unique process which makes this shrine popular. Thousands of devotees visit the Harihar Ashram to offer prayers to the Parad Shivling and the shrine is also known as Paradeshwar Mahadev. There is another beautiful temple of Maha Mrityunjay in the ashram premises dedicated to Lord Shiva and there is also a big Rudraksha tree. Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM

Doodhadhari Barfani Temple

#15 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 500 m from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Sri Doodhadhari Barfani Temple situated inside Doodhadhari Barfani Baba Ashram in Haridwar. The temple is one of the popular attractions in Haridwar. The temple is famous for its beautiful architecture. Built completely using white marble, the temple attracts thousands of tourists. Within the temple complex, there are several temples dedicated to various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Of these, the Ram-Sita Mandir and the Hanuman temple are worth visiting. Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM

Sureshwari Devi Mandir

#16 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 9 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station and 6.5 km from Jwalapur, Sureshwari Devi Temple is located amidst the popular Rajaji National Park in Ranipur at the outskirts of Haridwar. Sureshwari Devi Temple is an ancient temple in Haridwar and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The devotees strongly believe that this ancient temple is the abode of the Goddess Durga and has the powers to bring spirituality into the lives of the worshippers. The temple is surrounded by exceptional natural beauty with thick forest and the swaying trees making the weather pleasant even in peak summer. The trail which leads to the shrine inside the forest offers excellent views of the holy town of Haridwar. Timings: 6 AM to 8 AM

#17 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 4 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station and 2.5 km from Har Ki Pauri, Pawan Dham Temple is situated along the Rishikesh road in Haridwar. Pawan Dham is one among the most visited pilgrimage shrines in Haridwar and is counted among the ancient temples of Haridwar. The temple is famous for its beautiful architecture. The founder of Pawan Dham was Swami Vedantanandji Maharaj. The wonderful glass work and artistically designed walls are the special attractions of the temple reasons of its popularity. The work describes the rich culture and heritage of the ancient India. Stories of Hindu Mythology such as Sri Ganga Avatar, Krishna Aur Balaram Kaa Makhan Chori, Mahabharata, etc. are displayed on the walls of the temple and colorful patterns on the glasses. There are also well decorated marble idols of Hindu gods and goddesses such as Lord Hanuman, Lord Ganesh, Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama, Durga, Santoshi Mata, etc. The idols of Lakshmi-Narayana, .....

Vishnu Ghat

#18 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 1 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Vishnu Ghat is a bathing ghats along the banks of the Ganga River in Haridwar. It is one of the many sacred ghats in Haridwar, and among the must-visit attractions as part of Haridwar tour . Named after Lord Vishnu, Vishnu Ghat is believed to be the same place where Lord Vishnu bathed. Legend states that a dip in the holy water of this ghat washes away all the sins. Owing to the immense faith in Lord Vishnu by the people of Haridwar, devotees visit this land to take a dip in the ghat. It is one of the religious Haridwar attractions . Vishnu ghat is not much crowded like the Har Ki Pauri ghat so one can take a dip with complete peace. The flow of the river is fast and it is narrow. The actual river flows east of the Vishnu Ghat but the river has been diverted by the government so that .....

#19 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 2 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Gau Ghat is situated on the southern part of the Subhash Ghat. Gau Ghat is one of the sacred sites along the River Ganges in Haridwar. This ghat got its name from those who come here to pardon the sin of killing cows. The sin of killing a cow is considered equal to the sin of killing a Brahmin. In addition the ghat is also visited by those who want to offer solace to the demised family members. The ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi were immersed in this Ghat. This Ghat is less crowded as compared to other Ghats in Haridwar. This place observes the celebration of various festivals.

Kusha Ghat / Kushavarta Ghat

#20 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 1.5 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station and 500m from Har Ki Pauri, Kushavarta Ghat or Kusha Ghat is one of the famous ghats in Haridwar. This Ghat was constructed by a Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar. Kushavarta Ghat is associated with the great saint of ancient times - Dattatreya. According to the history, this is the ghat where Dattatreya offered his penance by standing on one foot for thousand years. It is one of the ideal spots for devotees who wish to perform Shraddha rites for the departed souls and mundan ceremony for kids. This Ghat was bit over crowded throughout the year as holy rituals take place here each day.

#21 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 6.5 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Shantikunj is a pilgrim center of Gayatri Pariwar members. It is situated amidst serene location on Rishikesh Road in Sapt Sarovar Area of Haridwar. Shantikunj is also known as Gayatri Shakti Peeth. It was established by late Pandit Shriram Sharma in 1971 and is the head-quarter of All World Gayatri Pariwar, which has more than 70 million followers all over the world. Shantikunj has initiated a global movement known as Yug Nirman Yojana (Movement for the Reconstruction of the Era) for moral as well as spiritual regeneration. A magnificent temple of Gayatri Mata and idols of Sapt Rishis are located here. The place is charged with spiritual energy generated by penance of the most celebrated seven rishis of ancient times. Shantikunj is working towards national integration and awakening of cultural, ethical, moral and spiritual values of people. This complex offers spiritual teachings, trainings and education .....

Sapt Rishi Ashram

#22 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 6.5 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station and 5 km from Har Ki Pauri, Saptrishi Ashram is a beautiful ashram located on the banks of Ganga at Sapt Sarovar in Haridwar. The Ashram is one of the most famous ashrams of Haridwar. It was established by Goswami Guru Dutt in 1943. As per mythology, in ancient times there were seven great sages namely Kashyapa, Vashisht, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagni, Bharadwaja and Gautam who used to meditate on the banks of river Ganga. Their meditation used to get disturbed by heavy gushing sound of river flow. The rishis trapped the flow of river Ganga and Ganga split her flow in seven separate streams to make lesser noise. Those seven streams of river Ganga known as Sapt Sarovar and place where Sapt Rishi meditated is called as Saptrishi Ashram. All the seven streams reunite further ahead. The Pandava brothers on their way to heaven, passed through this place. This is shown by statues of the five brothers near the river bank. .....

Anandamayi Ashram

#23 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 4 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, Mata Anandamayi Ashram is a famous ashram located at Kankhal in Haridwar. Ma Anandamayi Ashram is a spiritual place dedicated to Sri Ma Anandamayi, an eminent spiritual personality. She was a Bengali mystic, born on 30th April 1896 and died on 27 August 1982. A Samadhi was made to bury the immortal remains of the mother inside the Ashram. The Samadhi was built in white marble with an enclosed crypt. Ma Anandamayi Ashram is a center of devotion and spirituality. Visitors from all over the world visit the ashram and pay tribute to Ma Anandamayi, known for her yogic powers. She had travelled all over the world spreading her spiritual beliefs. This Ashram has several buildings in the well maintained complex. Tourists can visit to Gayatri Yagnashala, Ati Rudra Yagnashala, Rudraksha Tree, Shankaracharya Hall, Annapurnasthal, Ma Anandamayi Museum and Ma Anandamayi Vidyapeeth in the Ashram. The significance of Ati .....

Jai Ram Ashram

#24 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 3 km from Haridwar Junction Railway Station and 1 km from Har Ki Pauri, Jai Ram Ashram is situated at Bhimgoda in Haridwar. Jai Ram Ashram was founded by Adi Guru Sri Jai Ram Maharaj in 1891. Later on Sri Devendra Swarup Ji Maharaj renovated the premises and added several structures. Jai Ram Ashram houses several sculptures resembling the various characters of Hindu mythology. The Ashram is famous for its diorama exhibition and a massive white statue depicting the famous Samudra manthan episode. Unlike the multicolored deities of other temples, the statues in the ashram are vibrant white sculptures. This Ashram is lit up beautifully at night with the fountains running in the lawn. This ashram is recognized for outstanding lodging services. It has 512 rooms where the pilgrims are offered free accommodation. It also houses a charitable hospital which offers free medical aid to the poor and to the pilgrims. Free eye camps are also organized in the hospital where .....

#25 of 25 Places to Visit in Haridwar

At a distance of 41 km from Meerut, 56 km from Muzzafarnagar, 99 km from Ghaziabad, 105 km from Bulandshahr, 117 km from Saharanpur, 129 km from New Delhi, 132 km from Haridwar, 163 km from Dehradun, 221 km from Bareilly, 258 km from Mathura, 290 km from Agra, 447 km from Lucknow, and 523 km from Kanpur, Hastinapur is a historical city in the Meerut district of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the popular places to visit in India , and among the must-include places in Uttar Pradesh tour packages . Situated on the right bank of the holy Ganges near Meerut, Hastinapur is an ancient town that was the center of the glorious tales of the great Hindu epic Mahabharata. In Sanskrit, Hastinapura translates to 'the City of Elephants'. It was the legendary capital of Kauravas. Legend has it that the Great War of Mahabharata was fought between the Pandavas and Kauravas here. Many geographical, natural, ..... Distance (From Haridwar): 132 Kms Trip Duration (From Haridwar - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Most Asked Questions on Haridwar

Though Haridwar has a favourable climate throughout the year, October to April is the best time to visit Haridwar . This is the perfect time to take a pilgrimage and sightseeing tours and also partake in some adventure activities in Haridwar.

Haridwar requires full day to visit the most important tourist attractions. Several tourists usually prefer visiting Haridwar along with Rishikesh. You can also mix Haridwar along with nearby wonderful destinations like Dehradun, Mussoorie, Lansdowne, Jim Corbett and Nainital by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Haridwar trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Haridwar tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5750 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 7350 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Haridwar like Gangadwara, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Vaishno Devi Temple, Daksha Mahadev Temple, Rajaji National Park and Maya Devi Temple.

Har-ki-Pauri is the most important place of Haridwar and Har-ki-Pauri is famous for its Ganga Aarti. Most of the people visit Har-ki-Pauri for Ganga Aarti which starts from 5:30 am - 6:30 am in the morning and 6 pm - 7 pm in the evening (daily).

Top 5 Haridwar Packages

Haridwar blogs, haridwar related pages.

Similar Pages:

Places to Visit in Puri | Places to Visit in Shirdi | Places to Visit in Tirupati | Places to Visit in Srisailam | Places to Visit in Rameshwaram | Places to Visit in Rishikesh | Places to Visit in Madurai | Places to Visit in Murudeshwar | Places to Visit in Udupi | Places to Visit in Nashik | Places to Visit in Chidambaram | Places to Visit in Varanasi | Places to Visit in Ayodhya | Places to Visit in Ujjain | Places to Visit in Somnath | Places to Visit in Dwarka | Places to Visit in Bodhgaya | Places to Visit in Amritsar | Places to Visit in Kolhapur | Places to Visit in Prayagraj

Near By Places

Similar Places

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

Things to Do in Haridwar

Top hotel collections.

Best Hotels

Cheap Hotels

3 Star Hotels

Here is the list of 19 Things to Do in Haridwar

1. evening prayers at har ki pauri.

Regarded as one of the most sacred Ghats in Haridwar and India, Har Ki Pauri is a revered landmark and is visited by devotees and visitors in large numbers seeking the blessings of Holy Ganga by offering their prayers. Har Ki Pauri which literally translates to 'Steps to Lord Shiva'  is considered one of the seven holiest places in the country. A dip in the river Ganges here is believed to wash away one's sins.

2. Be a Part of Ganga Aarti

Ganga Aarti is a religious prayer that takes place at the bank of the sacred river Ganga at the Har Ki Pauri ghat in Haridwar. Bringing in tourists and devotees from all over the world, it is a ritual of light and sound where the priests perform prayers with bowls of fire and the ringing of the temple bells. Visitors float "diyas" (small candles) and flowers, surrounded by the chanting of the mantras. Timings : Aarti timings: 5:30 AM - 6:30 and 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

3. Take a Dip in the Holy Waters at Kushavarta Ghat

Believed to have been constructed in the 18th century by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar, Kushavarta Ghat is considered the most sacred and auspicious ghat of the city. The final rites and rituals of the deceased are performed at the banks of the river including the Shraddha rites, after which the devotees take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges.

4. Visit Chandi Devi Temple

The Chandi Devi Temple of Haridwar is a charming temple dedicated to the Chanda Devi Goddess, perched on the Neel Parvat of the Shivalik Hills. The Chandi Devi Mandir, also known as Neel Parvat Teerth, is one of the five pilgrimages of Haridwar and is also known as Siddha Peetha, a place where devotees worship to fulfil their desire. Because of its location, the Chandi Devi temple is also a preferred choice for trekking tourists.

Haridwar Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Haridwar with char dham

Haridwar rishikesh dehradun mussoorie tour, all in one package: haridwar, mussorie, corbett & more, therapeutic haridwar and rishikesh ganges tour, charming dehradun mussoorie tour with dhanaulti & hardiwar, elaborate haridwar rishikesh mussoorie and corbett tour, 5. ayurvedic treatment at patanjali yogpeeth.

Patanjali Yogpeeth is a medical and research institute in Yoga and Ayurveda, located in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. It is also renowned as one of the largest yoga institutes in India as well as in the world. The institute is named after Rishi Patanjali, who is acclaimed for the invention of Yoga and is Baba Ramdev's flagship project. If one is interested in Ayurveda and Yoga, it is one of the finest places to visit in Haridwar.

6. Rafting in Rishikesh

Rafting in Rishikesh particularly is hands down the best; one could endeavour in India. From the gifted natural circumstances to the top professional assistance, the place has just the best to offer. There are some certified operators, whose safety arrangements are well in place, and there are customised packages for camping and rafting at Rishikesh. The peak season sees Rishikesh pretty crowded, so you can keep a check over that detail when you are planning.

7. Visit Shanti Kunj Ashram

Shantikunj is a world-renowned ashram and the headquarter of All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP) located in Haridwar. An academy for social and spiritual awakening, this pilgrimage centre has shown the right path and given long-lasting happiness to crores of people. An ideal place that imparts training to the masses based on divine spiritual principles, it aims for the revival of Rishi traditions.

8. Gorgeous Idol of Lord Krishna at Pawan Dham

Pawan Dham, an ancient temple in Haridwar located at Bhagirathi Nagar, Bhupatwala, is a non-profit organization and a revered site among Hindu pilgrims. The Pawan Dham temple boasts intricate architecture, and elaborate glasswork and houses idols adorned in rich jewels and precious stones. The major highlight of the temple is the gorgeous idol of Lord Krishna preaching the Bhagavad Geeta to Arjun.

9. Shelter for Pilgrims at Bhuma Niketan

Situated on the Saptasarovar Marg, Bhuma Niketan is a popular pilgrim spot in Haridwar. The shrine houses magnificent idols of several gods and goddesses. However, the highlight of the temple are the sculptures of Shiva and Parvati adorning the entrance gates of the shrine. Bhuma Niketan is surrounded by water fountains and green lawns and serves both as a temple and a shelter for the visiting pilgrims.

10. Parad Shivling - Made out of Pure Mercury

Parad Shivlinga is a unique religious site housed in Harihar Ashram, Haridwar on the Kankhal Road. The word Parad Shivlinga is derived from "Parad" meaning mercury and "Shivling" which is a sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. Thus, Parad Shivling is also known as the Mercury Shivling, making it a holy pilgrimage site among the devotees of Lord Shiva visiting Haridwar.

11. Stunning Views from Vaishno Devi Temple

A replica of the Vaishno Devi temple in Kashmir, the Vaishno Devi Temple of Haridwar is marked by tunnels and caves that lead to the inner sanctum containing the shrine of Goddess Vaishno Devi. The divine temple houses three deities - Lakshmi, Kaali and Saraswati. The Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar is a frequently visited site, both by religious devotees and nature lovers because of the stunning views.

12. Ropeway Ride to Mansa Devi Temple

The Mansa Devi Temple is a famous temple in Haridwar in Uttarakhand that is dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi, who is considered to be a form of Shakti and is believed to have emerged from Lord Shiva's mind. The temple is also popularly known as Bilwa Tirth and is perched on the top of the Bilwa Parvat in the Sivalik Hills. Timings : 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Closed for lunch at 2:00 PM),

13. Shop at Bara Bazar

The Bada Bazar in Haridwar is a bustling lane market filled with religious trinkets and other paraphernalia for the local, as well as, the foreign tourists visiting the holy city in great number. This market is mainly known for shopping of Rudraksha and ayurvedic medicines. The Bara Bazar is also a great place to shop for wooden items and handicrafts and munch on the delicious Peda (a sweet made from milk) sold in huge quantity here.

14. Bird-watching at Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar

Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is situated at Bhimgoda Barrage in Haridwar and has a rich flora and fauna. A popular tourist spot, the site offers rare bird watching opportunities and a panoramic view of the Shivaliks in the backdrop. The place is famous for its unrealistically beautiful locales and is a must visit if you are in the area.

15. A Day Picnic at Swami Vivekanand Park

Swami Vivekanand Park is one of the few amusement parks in Haridwar located near Har ki Pauri. The mesmerising park is triangular in shape and boasts of lush green lawns and flowering beds along with housing a massive statue of Swami Vivekananda which is the highlight of the park. This park is, thus, ideal for day picnics and jogging activities.

16. Scared Water at Bhimgoda Tank

Bhimgoda Tank is a sacred water tank situated near Birla Ghat in Haridwar. The tank is named after Bhima - one of the five Pandava brothers. The tank is refurbished with the water of the Ganges and is surrounded by well-groomed lush gardens. The locale is also beautified with water fountains and flower beds and hence is a popular tourist spot.

17. Go Temple Hopping

Set along the holy river Ganga flowing through the city, the temples in Haridwar around the ghats are major tourist attractions. Being the gateway to the four pilgrimages, Haridwar is one of the venues for the Kumbha Mela too. It is among the seven sacred cities of India. It is an arch to Lord Shiva. Har ki Pauri or the footsteps of Lord Shiva is considered the most sacred place in Haridwar.

18. Find Peace of Mind at Asharams

Haridwar has proclaimed itself as a pilgrimage haven. People from all walks of life visit Haridwar to attain a sense of spirituality and closeness to God and the Universe which can be difficult in the hustle-bustle of our developing urban cities. A lot of ashrams are located across Haridwar to help pilgrims find peace in their minds and the spirituality that they come looking for in the ashrams in Haridwar.

19. Attend the Famous Fair of Kumbh Mela

Haridwar in Uttarakhand is an important pilgrimage town for the Hindus. The place is a perfect escape from the cacophony of urban life and a beautiful amalgamation of old and new, replete with beauty, culture, history and spirituality. The world's most famous fair, Kumbh  Mela, is celebrated here once in twelve years.

This post was published by Avneet Kang

Share this post on social media Facebook Twitter

Top Hotels In Haridwar

₽ 1,703 onwards

₽ 2,379 onwards

₽ 332 onwards

₽ 692 onwards

₽ 665 onwards

Related Collections

Mansa Devi Ropeway, Haridwar - Cost, Timings, Where To Book

14 Temples in Haridwar For The Ultimate Pilgrimage Trip

Ashrams in Haridwar

Fairs & Festivals

Kumbh Mela - Everything You Need To Know About The World's Largest Religious Gathering

Best Water Parks in Haridwar for a Thrilling Day-out

Comments on this post

Browse package collections, nearby destinations for packages.

Tehri Garhwal

Top Listed Packages

Uttarakhand Religious Tour Package

Delhi Agra Tour Package 3 Days - Excursion to Rishikesh & Haridwar

3 Days Tour Package in India: Char Dham Yatra By Helicopter

Browse Hotel Collections

By hotel type.

Best Hotels in Haridwar

Best Resorts In Haridwar

Homestays In Haridwar

Best Places To Stay In Haridwar for a Refreshing Vacation

Camping In Haridwar

By Budget Category

Cheap Hotels In Haridwar

Luxury Hotels In Haridwar

Lodges In Haridwar

By Star Category

3 Star Hotels In Haridwar

With Specific Facilities

OYO Hotels In Haridwar

Hostels In Haridwar

Pet Friendly Hotels In Haridwar

Hotels In Haridwar With Swimming Pool

Villas In Haridwar

Hotels Near Har ki Pauri

Near Landmarks

Hotels Near Mansa Devi Temple

Hotels Near Vishnu Ghat

Top Places in Haridwar

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Be back soon!

This website is under maintenance. Check back tomorrow!

*If you’re the owner of this website and have questions, reach out to Bluehost. We’re happy to help.

You Dream It, We Plan It

Haridwar: Journey To Spiritual Bliss | 37 Best Places To Visit In Haridwar | How To Reach

Haridwar, situated in Uttarakhand, India, is a revered city along the Ganges River. Known as the “Gateway to God,” it is a significant Hindu pilgrimage destination. Pilgrims gather at the ghats for ritualistic bathing to cleanse themselves spiritually. The captivating Ganga Aarti held in the evenings is a major attraction, drawing visitors from far and wide. Haridwar’s cultural landscape, adorned with temples and bustling markets, reflects its deep-rooted traditions. Hosting festivals like the Kumbh Mela, the city stands as a vibrant symbol of India’s spiritual heritage and ancient rituals along the sacred riverbanks. Haridwar’s history dates back thousands of years, rooted in our hindu  history where it is believed to be a site where drops of the elixir of immortality fell during the churning of the ocean. Historically, it has been a center for learning and has witnessed the rise and fall of various empires. Today, it continues to be a vibrant center for Hindu rituals and festivals, maintaining its deep-rooted cultural and religious heritage.

Best Places Visit In Haridwar:

Haridwar is believed to be the place where the divine nectar fell from the pitcher carried by the celestial bird Garuda, making it a site of immense religious significance. The city sits on the banks of the holy river Ganges, whose waters are believed to cleanse the sins of devotees who bathe in them. The ghats, or steps leading down to the river, buzz with activity as pilgrims perform ritualistic ablutions and offer prayers to the sun during the daily Ganga Aarti, a captivating ceremony that enchants all who witness it.

Here are some places to visit in Haridwar:

1. Har Ki Pauri:

Location: Har Ki Pauri is a revered ghat (steps leading to the river) situated on the banks of the Ganges River in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India.

Significance:

• Spiritual Hub: Har Ki Pauri is one of the most sacred ghats in India and is believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu left his footprint during the churning of the ocean.
• Ganga Aarti: The ghat is renowned for its daily Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual that takes place during sunset. Priests perform intricate rituals with lamps, incense, and sacred chants, creating a spiritual and captivating ambiance.
• Pilgrimage Destination: Pilgrims and devotees consider a bath in the Ganges at Har Ki Pauri to be highly auspicious, believing it cleanses them of sins and ensures moksha (liberation).

2. Brahma Kund:

• Sacred Tank: Adjacent to Har Ki Pauri is Brahma Kund, a large sacred tank. Devotees believe that a dip in this tank during the Kumbh Mela, which occurs every 12 years, brings spiritual purification.
• Customs and Traditions: The ghat is named after the footprints (pauri) of Lord Vishnu, and it is believed that taking a dip at Har Ki Pauri during the Kumbh Mela is of immense religious significance.

3. Bhishma Pitamah Samadhi:

• Historical Significance: There is a raised platform near Har Ki Pauri, which is believed to be the spot where Bhishma Pitamah, a character from the Mahabharata, lay on a bed of arrows during the Kurukshetra War.
• Ghat Renovations: Over the centuries, Har Ki Pauri has undergone several renovations, and the present ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother.

Har Ki Pauri stands as a timeless symbol of spirituality, where the confluence of the human devotion and the sacred Ganges River creates an atmosphere of reverence and divine connection.

4. Chandi Devi Temple:

 The Chandi Devi Temple stands as a sacred haven dedicated to Goddess Chandi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple, one of the Siddhapeeths, holds religious significance, believed to be the spot where the goddess slayed the demon brothers Shumbha and Nishumbha. Beyond its spiritual importance, the Chandi Devi Temple provides a serene retreat amidst lush greenery, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills. The temple comes alive during the Chandi Devi Mela, a vibrant festival celebrated during Navratri, attracting devotees for religious activities and cultural performances.

Visitors to the Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar have the option to reach the temple either by a cable car or through a trek.

•  Cable Car (Udan Khatola)

The cable car ride provides a convenient and scenic journey, offering panoramic views of the Ganges River, Haridwar, and the surrounding landscape.

Ropeway Charges:

Chandi Devi Ropeway Timings :  6:00 AM -12 PM, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM ( in summers) and 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM ( in Winter)

Duration : 5-10 min. approximately

For those seeking a more adventurous and physically active experience, there is a trekking route to the Chandi Devi Temple. The trek is approximately 3 kilometers long and takes visitors through the lush greenery of the Neel Parvat.

You can reach Chandi devi Temple Through stairs as well, it will take 1-2 hours to reach the temple as number of stairs is nearly 1200+.

5. Mansa Devi Temple:

Situated atop the Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, the Mansa Devi Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Mansa, a form of Shakti. Pilgrims seek blessings for the fulfillment of desires and wishes, believing that the goddess has the power to grant boons. Accessible by a cable car ride or a trek, the temple offers panoramic views of Haridwar and the Ganges River. The trek, about 2.5 kilometers long, winds through lush greenery. The temple attracts devotees and visitors, contributing to the spiritual aura of Haridwar. The Mansa Devi Temple is a significant pilgrimage destination, embodying faith and devotion in the foothills of the Himalayas

Similar to the Chandi Devi Temple, the Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar offers both a cable car option and a trek for reaching the shrine.

•  Cable Car (Mansa Devi Udankhatola):

The cable car ride provides stunning aerial views of the Ganges River, Haridwar, and the surrounding landscape. It is a popular choice for those who prefer a comfortable and time-saving journey.

Cost :  INR 100- INR 333 per person. Yearly package available at INR 612, depending on the package. Mansa Devi Ropeway Timings :  7:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Duration : 2 hours approximately Online  Booking : www.udankhatola.com

Alternatively, for those seeking a more adventurous and physically active experience, a trekking path leads to the Mansa Devi Temple. The trek is approximately 2.5 kilometers long and takes visitors through the scenic Bilwa Parvat.

6. Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple:

Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple,  Hindu scriptures, including the Mahabharata, a significant tale unfolds at the very location where Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple now stands. King Daksha Prajapati, father of Sati, Shiva’s first consort, organized a grand yajna at this sacred site. Despite Sati’s feelings of insult as her father omitted to invite Shiva to the ritual, she attended the yajna. Witnessing Shiva being disregarded, Sati, unable to bear the dishonor, immolated herself in the Yajna Kunda . In response, Shiva, consumed by fury, dispatched his formidable Gaṇas, Virabhadra, and Bhadrakali, to the ritual. Virabhadra, appearing like a tempest, engaged in a fierce confrontation with the gods and mortals present, ultimately leading to the beheading of Daksha. Following this, at the behest of Brahma and other deities, Daksha was granted the head of a goat. This mythological event forms the backdrop of the spiritual and historical significance associated with Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple.

• Entry Fee: As of the last update, Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple generally does not have an entry fee for visitors.

Udan Khatola (Cable Car):

• Opening Time (Udan Khatola) :  6:30 AM  (All Days Open)
• During  April to October :  5:00 PM
• During other months:  8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Price :  Rs. 100 per person
• Auto-rickshaws and Taxis: Once in Haridwar, you can use auto-rickshaws or taxis to reach Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple. Taxis may take you directly to the temple, while auto-rickshaws may drop you at the base from where you can access the cable car or trek to the temple.

7. Bharat Mata Mandir:

Bharat Mata Mandir stands as a remarkable tribute to the spirit and essence of India. Constructed in 1983 by Swami Satyamitrananda, this seven-storied temple uniquely honors Bharat Mata (Mother India) and pays homage to the nation’s diverse culture, heroes, and deities. The ground floor hosts a marble map of India and a Murti symbolizing Bharat Mata. As one ascends, each floor unfolds different themes – the Shoor Mandir on the first floor highlights India’s heroes and freedom fighters, while the Matru Mandir on the second floor is dedicated to inspiring women throughout Indian history. The Sant Mandir on the third floor pays homage to revered saints, and subsequent floors depict Indian history, religion, and excellence in various fields. The temple culminates with floors dedicated to Shakti Devis, Lord Vishnu and His Avatars, and Lord Shiva, capturing the spiritual essence of India with the backdrop of the Himalayas. This multifaceted temple serves as a cultural treasure, inviting visitors to explore the rich tapestry of India’s heritage and devotion.

8. Maya Devi Temple:

Maya Devi Temple is an ancient and revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Maya. Believed to be one of the Siddhapeeths, this sacred site holds historical significance in Hindu mythology. The temple is situated at the spot where it is said that the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell after she self-immolated in the yajna (sacrificial fire) organized by her father, Daksha Prajapati. The present structure of Maya Devi Temple dates back to the 11th century, making it one of the oldest in Haridwar. Pilgrims and devotees visit the temple to seek blessings, and it stands as a testament to the city’s rich spiritual heritage. The temple’s tranquil surroundings and historical importance make it a significant destination for those exploring the cultural tapestry of Haridwar.

9. Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar:

Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar, hold deep spiritual and mythological significance in Hinduism. Sapt Rishi Ashram is believed to be the meditation site of seven ancient sages or rishis. The ashram is set against the picturesque backdrop of the Himalayas and the Ganges River, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Sapt Sarovar, meaning ‘Seven Lakes,’ is a sacred pond associated with these seven sages. According to legend, the sages performed penance at this spot, and the pond is believed to have originated miraculously to provide them with water. Pilgrims often visit Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar to experience the spiritual energy and connect with the ancient traditions embedded in the holy city of Haridwar. The site remains a symbol of austerity and devotion, inviting seekers to partake in the divine aura of this sacred location.

10. Bhimgoda Tank: 

Bhimgoda Tank, located in the heart of Haridwar, holds historical and mythological significance in Hindu tradition. According to the Mahabharata, it is believed to have been created by the mighty Pandava prince, Bhima, during the brothers’ exile. Legend has it that, with a powerful strike of his knee, Bhima created this sacred tank to quench the thirst of his mother, Kunti. Pilgrims flock to Bhimgoda Tank, drawn by its association with the Mahabharata epic and its serene surroundings. The tank serves as a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city, providing visitors with a peaceful space for reflection and devotion along the banks of the holy Ganges River in Haridwar.

11. Vishnu Ghat:

Vishnu Ghat is a revered bathing ghat situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges. Named after Lord Vishnu, it holds immense religious significance for Hindu devotees who visit to perform rituals, offer prayers, and take holy dips in the purifying waters of the Ganges. The ghat is adorned with temples dedicated to various Hindu deities, adding to its spiritual ambiance. Pilgrims gather here during auspicious occasions and festivals to seek blessings and participate in traditional ceremonies. Vishnu Ghat offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding temples, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere conducive to introspection and devotion. It is not only a place of religious significance but also a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy of Haridwar.

12. Shantikunj Gayatri Parivar:

Shantikunj Gayatri Parivar is a renowned spiritual and educational institution dedicated to promoting spiritual growth and societal welfare. Founded by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, it serves as a center for spiritual learning, meditation, and community service. Shantikunj offers various programs, workshops, and discourses aimed at fostering personal development and spreading the message of peace, harmony, and universal brotherhood. The institution is known for its emphasis on spiritual practices, including yoga, meditation, and the chanting of Gayatri Mantra. It attracts visitors from around the world seeking spiritual guidance, inner peace, and enlightenment.

13. Vaishno Devi Temple:

The Vaishno Devi Temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India, replicates the revered Vaishno Devi shrine found in the picturesque landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir. Dedicated to Maa Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of Hindu Goddess Lakshmi, this sacred sanctuary holds significant spiritual importance. Located in Jagdish Nagar, Jwalapur, Haridwar, roughly 7.3 kilometers from Har Ki Pauri, the temple features idols of Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Kali, and Goddess Saraswati. Its architecture mirrors that of the original Vaishno Devi temple, complete with tunnels and caves where devotees ascend floors and crawl through narrow man-made passages to pay homage to Maa Vaishno Devi. Additionally, the temple boasts a replica of the 12 ‘Jyotirlingas’ of Lord Shiva. Celebrating Hindu festivals such as Kumbh Mela, Basant Panchami, Makar Sankranti, and Ganga Dussehra with fervor, it opens its doors to devotees daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. For a more comfortable visit, the best time to explore this divine abode is between October and March, avoiding the hot and humid summers typical of Haridwar.

14. Shri Vyas Ashram:

Shri Vyas Ashram is a revered spiritual site associated with the sage Veda Vyasa, the compiler of the Vedas and the author of the Mahabharata . Situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River, this ashram is believed to be the spot where Veda Vyasa meditated and scripted the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Pilgrims and devotees visit the ashram to pay homage to the sage and seek spiritual solace. The serene ambiance, coupled with the sacred presence of the Ganges, makes Shri Vyas Ashram a tranquil retreat for meditation and contemplation.

15. Shree Shree Ma Anandamayee Ashmar:

Shree Shree Ma Anandamayee Ashram is a revered spiritual center dedicated to Ma Anandamayee, a renowned saint and spiritual leader. Established to honor her teachings and philosophy, the ashram serves as a sanctuary for seekers of spiritual wisdom and enlightenment. Visitors from around the world come to experience the serene atmosphere and participate in various spiritual practices, including meditation, satsangs (spiritual gatherings), and prayers. The ashram’s tranquil surroundings, coupled with the divine presence of Ma Anandamayee, create an environment conducive to inner reflection and personal growth. Pilgrims often seek blessings and guidance from the spiritual leaders and devotees who reside in the ashram, making it a cherished destination for spiritual seekers and devotees alike.

16. Pawan Dham:

Pawan Dham is a revered Hindu temple renowned for its exquisite architectural beauty and spiritual significance. Constructed with intricate glasswork and vibrant paintings, the temple mesmerizes visitors with its stunning aesthetics. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the temple attracts devotees seeking blessings, solace, and spiritual fulfillment. The serene ambiance and divine atmosphere make Pawan Dham a popular destination for prayer, meditation, and religious gatherings. Visitors can admire the intricate craftsmanship of the temple’s architecture, marvel at the colorful glass panels depicting mythological scenes, and participate in devotional rituals. Pawan Dham stands as a symbol of devotion and faith, inviting pilgrims and tourists to experience its divine aura and find inner peace amidst the hustle and bustle of Haridwar.

17. Swami Vivekanand Park:

Swami Vivekananda Park is a serene and picturesque park dedicated to the teachings and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda, the revered Indian saint and spiritual leader. Situated in the heart of the city, the park offers a tranquil retreat for visitors amidst lush greenery and landscaped gardens. It features statues, sculptures, and memorials depicting Swami Vivekananda’s life, teachings, and contributions to society. The park provides a peaceful ambiance for meditation, reflection, and leisurely strolls, with benches strategically placed for relaxation and contemplation. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere, learn about Swami Vivekananda’s ideals, and find inspiration from his message of spirituality, service, and universal harmony. Swami Vivekananda Park serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy and continues to attract devotees, tourists, and seekers of inner peace from all walks of life.

Timing: 6:00 am to 9:00 am And 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Entry fees: No

18. Piran Kaliyar Sharif:

19. parad shivling:.

The Parad Shivling is a sacred and revered symbol of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. This unique Shivling is crafted from solid mercury, known as “parad” in Hindi, mixed with other metals and alloys. Believed to possess immense spiritual significance and divine energy, the Parad Shivling is worshipped by devotees seeking blessings, spiritual growth, and liberation from worldly afflictions. Located in various temples and shrines across Haridwar, this sacred symbol attracts devotees from far and wide who offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The Parad Shivling represents the eternal nature of the divine, symbolizing the union of masculine and feminine energies, creation, and destruction. It serves as a focal point for meditation, devotion, and connection with the divine, offering solace, strength, and spiritual elevation to those who seek its grace.

20. Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple:

Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located near the holy banks of the Ganges, this temple holds significant religious importance for devotees who flock here to seek blessings and offer prayers to the deity. The temple’s architecture showcases intricate carvings and design elements typical of traditional Hindu temples, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Devotees often participate in religious rituals and ceremonies conducted at the temple, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the surroundings. Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple serves as a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking solace and spiritual enlightenment amidst the bustling city of Haridwar.

21. Sureshwari Devi Temple:

Sureshwari Devi Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Sureshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Situated amidst the lush greenery of the Rajaji National Park, this temple holds immense religious significance for devotees who visit to seek blessings and fulfill their prayers. The temple complex features intricate architectural elements and offers a serene ambiance for spiritual contemplation. Pilgrims often embark on a trek through the scenic forest trails to reach the temple, adding an element of adventure to their religious journey. Sureshwari Devi Temple attracts d evotees and tourists alike, who come to witness its divine aura and experience the tranquil atmosphere that pervades the surroundings.

22. Bhuma Niketan temple:

Bhuma Niketan Temple is a revered Hindu shrine established by Swami Shri Bhumananda Teerth Ji, following the ideologies of Shri Adi Shankaracharya. The temple, also functioning as the Bhuma Niketan Ashram, houses lifelike sculptures of Hindu deities, including Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Noteworthy is the depiction of Mahadev carrying the charred body of Sati. Apart from religious activities, the ashram extends charitable services such as providing free food and shelter to the needy, supporting mass marriages for economically disadvantaged girls, and empowering widows for self-reliance.

23. Gau Ghat:

Gau Ghat, situated along the banks of the holy Ganges River, holds profound significance in Hindu mythology and religious rituals. Devotees flock to this ghat to perform sacred rituals, including the ritual of Gau Puja (worship of the cow), which is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions. The ghat is named after the revered cow, considered sacred in Hinduism, symbolizing purity, motherhood, and divine blessings. Pilgrims often bathe in the holy waters of the Ganges here, seeking spiritual purification and redemption from sins. The serene ambiance of Gau Ghat, coupled with the melodious chants of hymns and the mesmerizing sight of the flowing river, creates a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Visitors can witness various religious ceremonies and rituals conducted by priests along the ghat, offering a glimpse into the rich religious heritage of Haridwar.

24. Patanjali Yog Peeth:

Patanjali Yog Peeth is a renowned yoga institute and ayurvedic center founded by Swami Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna. This sprawling complex serves as a hub for yoga enthusiasts and those seeking holistic wellness through traditional Ayurvedic practices. Patanjali Yog Peeth offers various yoga programs, meditation sessions, and Ayurvedic treatments aimed at promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Additionally, it conducts research on yoga and Ayurveda, disseminating ancient knowledge to a global audience. The center attracts visitors from around the world, seeking to rejuvenate and revitalize their mind, body, and soul in the serene ambiance of Haridwar.

25. Lal Mata Temple:

Lal Mata Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the divine mother Lal Mata. This temple holds immense significance among devotees who visit to seek blessings and offer prayers. Nestled amidst the serene surroundings of Haridwar, Lal Mata Temple exudes a tranquil ambiance, inviting worshippers to experience moments of peace and spirituality. The temple architecture reflects traditional Hindu design elements, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. Devotees often flock to Lal Mata Temple during religious festivals and auspicious occasions to pay homage and participate in devotional rituals. It serves as a sacred place where devotees connect with the divine and find solace in their faith.

Timings : 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

26. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar:

Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is a picturesque bird sanctuary that attracts nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. Situated along the banks of the Ganges River, this sanctuary is home to a diverse range of avian species, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors to N eel Dhara Pakshi Vihar can witness the serene beauty of the river and its surrounding natural habitat while observing various birds in their natural environment. The sanctuary provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering opportunities for leisurely walks and tranquil moments amidst nature’s splendor. With its scenic landscapes and rich avifauna, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar provides a delightful experience for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of wildlife and natural surroundings.

• Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is open from  7:00 AM to 7:00 PM  .
• The preferred time for a visit is between  7:00 AM and 2:00 PM  .
• Allocate approximately  3 hours for your visit to fully appreciate the avian wonders.

27. Doodhadhari Barfani Temple:

Doodhadhari Barfani Temple is a revered Hindu shrine known for its spiritual significance and architectural beauty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple complex boasts intricate carvings, vibrant paintings, and serene surroundings that attract devotees and tourists alike. The temple’s name, “Doodhadhari,” is derived from the legend of a saint who is said to have subsisted solely on milk (doodh) and fruits. Visitors can explore the various halls and shrines within the temple premises, each adorned with religious motifs and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The tranquil ambiance of the temple, coupled with its religious fervor, makes it a peaceful retreat for spiritual seekers and a cultural landmark worth experiencing in Haridwar.

Timings :  6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

28. Adhbut Temple:

Adhbut Temple is a captivating religious site known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. The temple, dedicated to various Hindu deities, stands out for its striking design characterized by intricate carvings, colorful embellishments, and ornate domes. As its name “Adhbut,” meaning miraculous, suggests, the temple is believed to possess divine powers and is revered by devotees seeking blessings and spiritual fulfillment. The serene ambiance and religious fervor of Adhbut Temple make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and tourists exploring the spiritual heritage of Haridwar.

29. Gurukul Kangri University:

Gurukul Kangri University is a renowned institution deeply rooted in the traditional Indian Gurukul system of education. Established in 1902 by Swami Shraddhanandji, the university follows the principles of ancient Indian learning while offering modern academic programs. It is known for its emphasis on Vedic studies, Sanskrit, yoga, and various branches of science, humanities, and technology. The tranquil campus, nestled along the banks of the holy Ganges River, provides a conducive environment for learning and spiritual growth. With its rich heritage and commitment to holistic education, Gurukul Kangri University continues to uphold the values of Indian culture while preparing students for the challenges of the modern world.

30. Rajaji Tiger Reserve:

Rajaji Tiger Reserve, originated from the merger of three wildlife sanctuaries in 1983 : Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla. Named after freedom fighter C. Rajagopalachari, it expanded in 2015, incorporating additional forest areas, forming the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. Spanning 1075 sq km, it acts as an ecological corridor and provides vital air quality for cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. Rich in flora and fauna, it hosts species like the Tiger and Leopard. The reserve comprises zones like Chaurasi Kutiya, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, Motichur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Haridwar Zone, offering diverse ecosystems and wildlife experiences.

31. Parmeshwar Mahadev Temple:

Parmeshwar Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The temple holds significant religious importance for devotees who visit to seek blessings and offer prayers. It is believed that the temple’s sanctity lies in its association with the divine presence of Lord Shiva. The serene ambiance and spiritual atmosphere attract pilgrims and tourists alike, providing a tranquil space for meditation and contemplation. The architecture of the temple reflects traditional Hindu temple design, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting mythological motifs. Devotees often participate in religious ceremonies and rituals conducted within the temple premises, adding to the sacred aura of the place. Parmeshwar Mahadev Temple stands as a symbol of devotion and faith, embodying the spiritual essence of Haridwar, the holy city on the banks of the Ganges.

• Timings : 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM .

32. Chintamani Parasnath Bhoopatwala Jain Mandir:

Chintamani Parasnath Bhoopatwala Jain Mandir is a prominent Jain temple dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism. The temple holds significant religious importance for the Jain community and attracts devotees and tourists alike. Adorned with intricate architectural details and adorned with vibrant colors, the temple provides a serene space for prayer and meditation. Inside the temple, visitors can find beautifully crafted idols of Jain deities and intricate sculptures depicting scenes from Jain mythology. The peaceful ambiance and spiritual vibes make it an ideal place for seekers of tranquility and spiritual solace. Devotees often visit the temple to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek blessings for prosperity and well-being. Chintamani Parasnath Bhoopatwala Jain Mandir stands as a symbol of Jain heritage and spirituality in Haridwar, enriching the cultural landscape of the holy city.

33. Swarn jaynti park:

Swarn Jayanti Park is a serene urban green space offering a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city. Named in honor of India’s Golden Jubilee (Swarn Jayanti) celebration, the park provides a refreshing environment for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along well-maintained pathways, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flower beds. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, children’s play areas, and seating areas where families and friends can gather and unwind. With its peaceful ambiance and scenic beauty, Swarn Jayanti Park serves as a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Haridwar.

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• Entry Fee:  No

34. Shri Jairam Ashram:

Shri Jairam Ashram  is a revered Hindu ashram dedicated to fostering spiritual growth and providing a tranquil retreat for seekers. Founded with the aim of promoting Vedic teachings and practices, the ashram offers a serene environment for meditation, prayer, and self-reflection. Visitors to Shri Jairam Ashram can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance, participate in spiritual discourses, and engage in various religious rituals and ceremonies. The ashram also provides accommodation facilities for pilgrims and devotees, allowing them to stay amidst the serene surroundings and deepen their spiritual journey. With its rich spiritual heritage and serene atmosphere, Shri Jairam Ashram continues to be a cherished destination for seekers of inner peace and spiritual enlightenment.

35. Gurudwara Gyan Godri:

36. pandit ji haridwar tirth purohit:.

Pandit Ji Haridwar Tirth Purohit is a revered figure in Haridwar, known for providing religious and spiritual services to pilgrims and visitors. As a Tirth Purohit, Pandit Ji holds expertise in conducting rituals, ceremonies, and pujas at various sacred sites in Haridwar, including the ghats along the Ganges River and the numerous temples scattered across the city. He assists devotees in performing traditional rites, seeking blessings, and conducting religious ceremonies such as pujas, havans, and ancestral rituals. Pandit Ji’s guidance and services are sought after by both local residents and tourists visiting Haridwar to partake in the city’s religious and cultural heritage. With his knowledge, experience, and dedication, Pandit Ji plays a vital role in facilitating spiritual experiences and fostering a sense of devotion among pilgrims in Haridwar.

37. Raja Birla Tower:

The Clock Tower of Haridwar, also known as the Raja Birla Tower, is a landmark structure constructed in 1938 by Raja Baldev Das Birla. Rising 66 feet tall, it features four clock faces displaying Roman numerals for hours and dots for minutes. Situated on Malviya Island, it offers a panoramic view of Har Ki Pauri’s evening prayers. Historically significant, it served as a vital timekeeping tool before personal watches became common. Recently adorned with red and gold murals depicting Hindu mythological stories, it stands as a symbol of religious art and the preservation of the Ganges River.

How To  Visit Haridwar From Delhi:

• Haridwar is well-connected to Delhi by train, with several daily trains operating between the two cities.
• The most popular train for this route is the Shatabdi Express, which offers a comfortable and relatively quick journey.
• The train journey takes approximately 4-6 hours, depending on the train you choose and its schedule.

Here’s a table with details of trains from New Delhi to Haridwar Jn:

Please note that these fares are approximate and subject to change. For the most accurate information, I recommend checking the official Indian Railways website: IRCTC. Safe travels! 🚆🌟

• There are regular bus services from Delhi to Haridwar operated by both government and private bus operators.
• The journey by bus usually takes around 5-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
• You can catch a bus from various locations in Delhi, such as the ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal) at Kashmiri Gate or Anand Vihar.
• You can also drive to Haridwar from Delhi, as the distance is around 220-230 kilometers, depending on your starting point in Delhi.
• The journey by car takes approximately 5-7 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
• You can take either NH 334 or NH 44 to reach Haridwar, and the route is well-maintained and scenic.
• Book A Cab: you can book a cab from our website along with a customized itinerary, or can hire just a cab for your next trip. So just do hurry. Call Us On: +911223577273
• While Haridwar does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 35-40 kilometers away from Haridwar.
• You can fly from Delhi to Dehradun and then take a taxi or bus from the airport to Haridwar, which takes about 1-2 hours.

Best Time To VIsit Haridwar

The best time to visit Haridwar depends on personal preferences and the desired activities. However, generally, spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) are recommended for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) is suitable for cooler temperatures and spiritual events, while the monsoon season (July to August) should be approached cautiously due to heavy rainfall.

Nearest Places To Haridwar

These destinations offer a mix of spirituality, adventure, and scenic beauty, making them perfect for exploration. 🌟🚶‍♂️

Related Articles

Har Ki Doon Trek: A Journey to the Valley of Gods

20 Ways To Cut Expenses And Have More Money For Travel

Har Ki Doon Trek: A Complete Review of the Top 10 Packages and Services in 2024

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Best summer destinations : Chopta - Nainital - Mussoorie  - Kanatal - Dhanaulti - Chakrata  - Auli - Kausani - Mukteshwar - Chaukori - Pangot

• Uttarakhand
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Places to See in Haridwar

Haridwar has 41 tourist spots and places to see.

Being a revered religious destination, the majority of the sightseeing locations at Haridwar have religious connotations. There are various temples and ashrams that can be visited in and around Haridwar. Kankhal is another town near Haridwar which is known for its religious significance. Mansa Devi Temple  and Chandi Devi Temple are visited by thousands of devotees.

There are 41 tourist spots in Haridwar where travellers can spent their leisure time. Here you will find list of all the Haridwar sightseeing options which you must visit and plan your itinerary accordingly. Explore the hidden gems of Haridwar through this well-researched list, learn about the most happening places, things to do, famous picnic spots for a memorable vacation in Haridwar.

Haridwar Tour Package

Need a customized tour.

Har Ki Pauri

Ganga Aarti

Mansa Devi Temple

Chandi Devi Temple

Patanjali Yogpeeth

Chilla Range

Ma Anandamayi Ashram

Daksha Mahadev Temple

Bharat Mata Mandir

Saptrishi Ashram

Maya Devi Temple

Jai Ram Ashram

Haridwar Railway Station

Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple

PremNagar Ashram

Sri Santosh Puri Ashram

Shankar Ashram

Kutchi Lal Rameshwar Ashram

Bholagiri Ashram

Soham Ashram

Doodadhari Barfani Temple

Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar

Parad Shivlinga

Bhimgoda Tank

Ramanand Ashram

Sureshwari Devi Temple

Bhimgoda Barrage

Bara Bazaar

Vaishno Devi Temple

Swami Vivekananda Park

Bhuma Niketan

Vishnu Ghat

Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple

Moti Bazaar

Kushavarta Ghat

Clock Tower Dehradun

Some other places to see in haridwar.

Rajaji National Park : It is gifted with immaculate beauteousness covering an area of 820sqkms on the edge of the Doon Valley . It is situated around 10kms from Haridwar . Rajaji National Park was established in 1996 and has over 23 species of mammals and 315 avifauna species. It is a safe haven for panther, bear, chital, elephant, tiger, sambar, wild boar, barking deer, python, monitor lizard, etc. Elephant Safari is also available at Chilla and Dholkand.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple : Thousands of devotees visit Neelkanth Mahadev every month throughout the year. It is situated on the summit of the mountain across the sacred Ganga River. According to mythology, this is the place where Lord Shiva drank the venom produced during 'Sagar Manthan' which turned his throat blue and was thus the place was named as Neelkanth. Neelkanth and Mahadev are names of Lord Shiva. It is situated 66kms from Dehradun city.

Haridwar has several other beautifully made Ashrams/temples of significance such as   Jairam Ashram , Bhuma Niketan , Bharat Mata Mandir , Vaishnav Devi Temple , Radha Krishan temple, Shravan Nath Math, Pawan Dham , Doodhadari temple , Bilkeshwar Mahadev temple , Shahi Gurudwara, Parmarth Ashram , Prem Nagar Ashram , Ma Anand Mai Ashram  etc. All of these places are worth seeing.

• Haridwar Tour Packages

• Haridwar Travel Guide
• Haridwar Weather
• Haridwar Hotels
• How to Reach Haridwar
• Haridwar Distance Chart
• Places near Haridwar
• Haridwar Blog, Articles, Travelogues
• Haridwar Bus Car Taxi Hire
• Haridwar FAQs
• Haridwar Photos

Haridwar overview

• Temperature in Apr 33 /18 °C
• Best time to visit Haridwar Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
• Located in Garhwal
• Recommended stay 2 days
• Railway Station Haridwar
• Nearest Airport Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun, 36 kms
• Famous for Pilgrimage, Temples, Kumbh Mela, Ganga River, Ganga Aarti, Religious, Holy City

Travelling to Haridwar in 2024?

Contact us for planning your Haridwar tour with best travel packages of as per your requirements!

• Char Dham Yatra
• Char Dham Packages
• Chopta Tourism

eUttaranchal

• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Hotels

Customer Service

• Return, Cancellation & Refund
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

Business Connect

• List your Package
• List your Hotel
• Send Feedback
• Nainital - Musoorie
• Haridwar - Rishikesh
• Chopta - Tungnath
• Badrinath - Kedarnath
• Auli - Joshimath
• Kedarkantha - Har ki Dun
• Corbett - Binsar
• Badrinath Hotels
• Kedarnath Hotels
• Nainital Hotels
• Rishikesh Hotels
• Mussoori Hotels
• Chopta Hotels
• Corbett Resorts
• Adi Kailash Packages
• Valley of Flower Tours
• Kumaon Tours
• Badrinath Packages
• Kedarnath Packages
• Chopta Packages
• Nainital Packages
• Valley of Flowers - Hemkund Sahib
• Kuari Pass Trek
• Satopanth Trekking
• Phulara Ridge Trek
• Brahmatal Trek
• Panchachuli Base Camp Trek
• Nag Tibba Trek

• Tour Packages
• Places to See
• How to Reach
• Distance Chart
• Blog, Articles
• Send Enquiry

Get Customized Tour Package

1-Day Haridwar Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• Haridwar in 1 day
• 2-Day Haridwar Itinerary
• 3-Day Haridwar Itinerary
• 4-Day Haridwar Itinerary
• 5-Day Haridwar Itinerary

Table of contents

1-day itinerary, har ki pauri.

Shantikunj Gayatri Parivar

Bharat Mata Temple, Haridwar

Maa chandi devi temple - haridwar district, uttarakhand, india, shri mata mansa devi mandir, the pentagon mall, where to eat, captain's cavalry family restaurant and bar, mohan ji puri wale, hoshiyarpuri, mathura walo ki pracheen dukaan.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Top searches in Haridwar

Popular road trips from haridwar, what's the weather like in haridwar.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Haridwar for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Haridwar in January
• Weather in Haridwar in February
• Weather in Haridwar in March
• Weather in Haridwar in April
• Weather in Haridwar in May
• Weather in Haridwar in June
• Weather in Haridwar in July
• Weather in Haridwar in August
• Weather in Haridwar in September
• Weather in Haridwar in October
• Weather in Haridwar in November
• Weather in Haridwar in December

All road trips from Haridwar

• Haridwar to New Delhi drive
• Haridwar to Jaipur drive
• Haridwar to Agra drive
• Haridwar to Mumbai drive
• Haridwar to Chandigarh drive
• Haridwar to Shimla drive
• Haridwar to Kathmandu drive
• Haridwar to Amritsar drive
• Haridwar to Udaipur drive
• Haridwar to Manali Tehsil drive
• Haridwar to Nainital drive
• Haridwar to Varanasi drive
• Haridwar to Jodhpur drive
• Haridwar to Dharamsala drive
• Haridwar to Srinagar drive
• Haridwar to Hyderabad drive
• Haridwar to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Haridwar to Bengaluru drive
• Haridwar to Leh drive
• Haridwar to Jaisalmer drive
• Haridwar to Ahmedabad drive
• Haridwar to Pokhara drive
• Haridwar to Lucknow drive
• Haridwar to Pune drive
• Haridwar to Amer drive
• Haridwar to Lansdowne drive
• Haridwar to Gurugram (Gurgaon) drive
• Haridwar to Gangtok drive
• Haridwar to Chennai (Madras) drive

Explore nearby places

• Rajaji National Park
• Narendranagar
• Muzaffarnagar
• Paonta Sahib
• Chhachhrauli

All related maps of Haridwar

• Map of Haridwar
• Map of Mayapur
• Map of Rajaji National Park
• Map of Rishikesh
• Map of Tapovan
• Map of Narendranagar
• Map of Barkot
• Map of Umroli
• Map of Shivpuri
• Map of Roorkee
• Map of Raipur
• Map of Dehradun
• Map of Kotdwara
• Map of Prem Nagar
• Map of Devprayag
• Map of Malsi
• Map of Dhaulas
• Map of Galajwari
• Map of Lansdowne
• Map of New Tehri
• Map of Garhwal
• Map of Dhanaulti
• Map of Mussoorie
• Map of Saharanpur
• Map of Pauri
• Map of Srinagar
• Map of Kalsi
• Map of Muzaffarnagar
• Map of Bhagani
• Map of Paonta Sahib
• Map of Chhachhrauli

Haridwar throughout the year

• Haridwar in January
• Haridwar in February
• Haridwar in March
• Haridwar in April
• Haridwar in May
• Haridwar in June
• Haridwar in July
• Haridwar in August
• Haridwar in September
• Haridwar in October
• Haridwar in November
• Haridwar in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Haridwar?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 1-Day Rishikesh Itinerary
• 1-Day Mussoorie Itinerary
• 1-Day Dehradun Itinerary
• 1-Day Lansdowne Itinerary
• 1-Day Dhanaulti Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• Travel Blog
• Top Attractions
• Hill Stations
• Places to Visit in India
• Things To Do
• Weekend Getaways
• Historical Places
• Tours & Itineraries
• Festival & Events
• Food & Restaurants
• Delhi Travel Blog
• Jaipur Travel Blog
• Goa Travel Blog
• Mumbai Travel Blog
• Bangalore Travel Blog
• Chennai Travel Blog
• Pune Travel Blog
• Hyderabad Travel Blog
• Kolkata Travel Blog
• Indian Holidays Calendar 2024
• Long Weekends 2024
• Travel Tips & Hacks
• Top 10 in India
• India Tourism Guide
• Indian Railways (IRCTC)
• Indian Railways News
• Metro Rail Networks
• Web Check-in
• Hotels in Delhi
• Hotels in Mumbai
• Hotels in Gurgaon
• Hotels in Bangalore
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Chennai
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Pune
• Hotels in Hyderabad
• Hotels in Kolkata

10 Best Places to Visit in Haridwar 2024: ✓ Location, Timings

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Haridwar > 10 Best Places to Visit in Haridwar 2024: ✓ Location, Timings

Haridwar, meaning ‘Gateway to God’, is one of the seven holiest cities (Sapt Puris) in India that is located on the banks of the holy Ganga River in the state of Uttarakhand. The ancient city is home to a number of temples, ashrams, ghats and numerous other revered sites for Hindu pilgrims. Panch Tirths (Five Pilgrimages) are one of the foremost places to visit in Haridwar – Har Ki Pauri , Mansa Devi Temple , Chandi Devi Temple , Kankhal and Kushavarta . The city is visited by innumerable devotees and tourists year-round, with the footfall increasing exponentially during the Maha Kumbh Mela (held every 12 years) and the Ardh Kumbh Mela (held every 6 years).

Here are the popular places to visit in Haridwar that you ought to include in your itinerary:

• Places to Visit in Haridwar

1. Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar

Har Ki Pauri | #1 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar

One of the first places to visit in Haridwar is the holy ghat of Har Ki Pauri – which means Lord Shiva’s steps – located on the banks of the Ganga River. Interestingly, the Vedic literature mentions that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu visited this place, and you can also see a large footprint on a wall that is said to be of Lord Vishnu. Also known as Gangadwar, this is the place where the Ganga River first leaves the mountains and enters the plain.

Har Ki Pauri is considered to be the most sacred ghat in the entire city where the mythological bird Garuda accidentally dropped Amrit (elixir), and it is believed that if you take a dip here, then all your sins get washed away. The Ganga aarti held at the ghat at dusk and dawn attracts devotees in large numbers.

• Location : Kharkhari, Haridwar
• Timings : 24X7 (Ganga Aarti: 5:30 am – 6:30 am and 6 pm – 7 pm)
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Kharkhari Police Chowki

[amp-cta id=’33307′]

2. Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar

Mansa Devi Temple | #2 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar

Another popular place to visit in Haridwar is Mansa Devi Temple atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Shivalik Hills, and owing to its location it is also known as the Bilwa Tirth. This Siddh Peeth is dedicated to Goddess Mansa, who is believed to be a form of Goddess Shakti and is said to have been created from Lord Shiva’s mind.

It is one of the most revered temples in North India as devotees firmly believe that all their wishes are granted by Goddess Mansa (the name of the deity means wish). You can either reach this temple on the hilltop by trekking or by taking the ropeway, which is one of the unmissable things to do in Haridwar.

• Location : Bilwa Parvat, Haridwar
• Timings : 5 am to 9 pm

If you are looking for budget hotels in Haridwar

3. Chandi Devi Temple, Haridwar

Chandi Devi Temple | #3 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar

Chandi Devi Temple is another Siddh Peeth dedicated to Goddess Chandi – a form of Goddess Durga and is visited by thousands of devotees to get their wishes fulfilled. This temple is situated atop the Shivalik Hills’ Neel Parvat, which was the mythological battleground where the goddess killed demons Chand-Mund and later, Shumbh-Nishumbh. The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Kashmir King Suchan Singh while the idol was established in the 8 th century by Adi Shankaracharya.

You can trek to the temple or take the ropeway (Chandi Devi Udankhatola) that offers a bird’s-eye view of Haridwar. Near this temple lies another popular religious site – Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Location : Neel Parvat, Haridwar
• Timings : 7 am to 7 pm

Book Hotels in Haridwar

4. Kankhal, Haridwar

Kankhal | #4 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar

Kankhal, one of the Panch Tirths in Haridwar, is a small colony that is home to the renowned Daksha Mahadev Temple and Maa Anandamayi Ashram. The former is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited by innumerable devotees, especially during the holy month of Sawan. The latter is a spiritual centre, built in honour of the Bengali mystic leader Maa Anandamayi.

Kankhal is also home to the holy ghat of Kushavarta, which is one of the Panch Tirths and the famous Patanjali Yog Peeth that is probably the largest yoga centres in the world. Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple in Harihar Ashram, located on Kankhal Road, is famous for the unique Parad Shivalinga that is made from 151 kg mercury.

• Location : South Haridwar
• Timings : 24X7
• Places to Stay: Hotels near Kankhal

5. Maya Devi Temple, Haridwar

Maya Devi Temple | #5 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar

Completing the trio of Siddh Peeths in Haridwar is Maya Devi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Maya, who is the main deity of Haridwar and in reverence, the city was earlier known as Mayapuri. As per mythological literature, the temple has been built on the site where Goddess Sati’s heart and navel fell.

It is one of the oldest temples in the entire country that was built in the 11 th century on Har Ki Pauri Ghat. Although the temple is visited by hundreds of devotees daily to seek the goddess’ blessings and get their wishes granted, the footfall increases immensely during Navratri and Kumbh Mela.

• Location : Birla Ghat, Haridwar
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Birla Ghat

6. Shantikunj, Haridwar

One of the most popular spiritual and moral enlightenment centres in the world is Shantikunj in Haridwar. Established in 1971, it is the headquarters of All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP) that has millions of followers across the world. The centre propagates national integration as well as cultural and ethical values apart from spiritual and moral upliftment. Shantikunj also has a research institute (Brahmavarchas Shodh Sansthan) and a residential university (Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya).

This must-visit attraction has been visited by a number of world-renowned personalities, including Dalai Lama. You can also stay here for free for up to two days, during which you need to take part in all their daily activities, including bhajans and aartis.

• Location : Motichur, Haridwar
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Motichur

7. Sapt Rishi Ashram, Haridwar

Sapt Rishi Ashram, located on the banks of the river, is one of the popular places to visit in Haridwar. Along with Hindu devotees, the ashram sees a high footfall of visitors looking for a peaceful site for meditation and yoga. The tranquil ambience of this place is so perfect for meditation that it even attracted the renowned seven sages, and thus got its name – sapt means seven and rishi means sage.

As per mythology, Kashyapa, Vashishta, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Bharadwaja and Gautam – the seven sages were meditating along the banks but were getting disturbed by the sound created by the flowing river and thus captured it. Later, Ganga split the flow into seven streams (Sapt Sarovar) to minimise the noise of gushing water.

8. Bharat Mata Mandir, Haridwar

Literally meaning Mother India Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique multi-storey temple in Haridwar that is dedicated to patriots and freedom fighters. Inaugurated by the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1983, the 180-feet tall temple with 8 floors celebrates the spirit of unity in diversity, which actually reflects the true essence of our great nation.

Each of the eight floors have an individual theme – Bharat Mata dedicated to Mother India, Shoor Mandir dedicated to Indian heroes, Matru Mandir dedicated to renowned women personalities, Sant Mandir dedicated to saints, Assembly Hall reflecting religious harmony, sixth floor dedicated to Goddess Shakti, seventh floor dedicated to Lord Vishnu and eighth floor dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Timings : 7:30 am to 5 pm

9. Pawan Dham, Haridwar

Pawan Dham | #9 of 10 Places to Visit in Haridwar

Pawan Dham, an ancient temple and a social non-profit organization, is managed by the Geeta Bhawan Trust Society of Moga. Along with the elaborate architecture, stunning interiors and exquisite glasswork, the beautiful idols adorned with precious jewels and stones are the highlights of this revered site. The main attraction is the beautiful Lord Krishna idol that is seen preaching his disciple Arjun. Owing to the intricate mirror and glasswork, the temple is often referred to as the Glass Temple that enjoys great fame not only among Hindu devotees, but also among local and foreign tourists.

• Location : Sapt Sarovar Road, Haridwar
• Timings : 6 am to 8 pm
• Places to Stay: Hotels in Pawan Dham Chowk

10. Bara Bazar, Haridwar

Although Haridwar does not boast of high-end malls, you can still get everything that is needed at the bustling Bara Bazar. The innumerable shops at this lively market sell religious paraphernalia, Ayurvedic medicines, wooden items, handicrafts, ornaments, etc. Rudraksha and peda (sweet) are two of the most popular things bought by visitors, including foreign travellers.

Apart from shops, you will also find a number of restaurants where you can relish hot samosa , kachori-sabji , choley-bhature , etc. Besides Bara Bazar, there are various other local markets, such as Moti Bazar, Kankhal Bazar and Jwalapur Bazar that you can visit to experience the old-world charm of Haridwar.

• Location : Subhash Ghat, Haridwar
• Timings : 9 am to 9 pm

You can also explore numerous other places to visit in and around Haridwar, including Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Ganga Temple, Vaishno Devi Mandir, Vishnu Ghat, Alaknanda Ghat, Birla Ghat and Gau Ghat. For leisure, you may visit Swami Vivekanand Park, Fun Valley, Crystal World, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajaji National Park and Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, among others. You can also indulge in exciting activities like white-water rafting and camping in Rishikesh – an international tourist hotspot that is less than an hour’s drive from Haridwar.

[showhotelbycity hotelcity=’Haridwar’]

Latest Travel Blogs

GET FAB BLOGS IN YOUR INBOX!

Book a hotel.

• Social Share

Discover Hotels and Places Nearby

Top places to visit in india, hotels in india, hotels near airport, hotels near railway station, budget hotels, couple friendly hotels.

• Places to Visit in Agra
• Places to Visit in Ahmedabad
• Places to Visit in Amritsar
• Places to Visit in Bangalore
• Places to Visit in Bhopal
• Places to Visit in Chandigarh
• Places to Visit in Chennai
• Places to Visit in Coorg
• Places to Visit in Dehradun
• Places to Visit in Delhi
• Places to Visit in Dharamshala
• Places to Visit in Goa
• Places to Visit in Gurgaon
• Places to Visit in Guwahati
• Places to Visit in Indore
• Places to Visit in Jaipur
• Places to Visit in Kolkata
• Places to Visit in Lonavala
• Places to Visit in Lucknow
• Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar
• Places to Visit in Manali
• Places to Visit in Mumbai
• Places to Visit in Mussoorie
• Places to Visit in Nainital
• Places to Visit in Nashik
• Places to Visit in Noida
• Places to Visit in Ooty
• Places to Visit in Rishikesh
• Places to Visit in Surat
• Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram
• Places to Visit in Udaipur
• Places to Visit in Varanasi
• Places to Visit in Pondicherry
• Places to Visit in Coimbatore
• Places to Visit in Kochi
• Places to Visit in Kodaikanal
• Places to Visit in Pune
• FabHotels: Hotel Booking App
• Hotels in Agra
• Hotels in Ahmedabad
• Hotels in Amritsar
• Hotels in Chandigarh
• Hotels in Coimbatore
• Hotels in Coorg
• Hotels in Dehradun
• Hotels in Dharamshala
• Hotels in Gangtok
• Hotels in Haridwar
• Hotels in Indore
• Hotels in Kochi
• Hotels in Kodaikanal
• Hotels in Lonavala
• Hotels in Lucknow
• Hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Hotels in Manali
• Hotels in Mohali
• Hotels in Mussoorie
• Hotels in Nainital
• Hotels in New Delhi
• Hotels in Noida
• Hotels in Ooty
• Hotels in Pondicherry
• Hotels in Puri
• Hotels in Rishikesh
• Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
• Hotels in Tirupati
• Hotels in Udaipur
• Hotels in Ujjain
• Hotels in Varanasi
• Hotels Near Ahmedabad Airport
• Hotels Near Amritsar Airport
• Hotels Near Bangalore Airport
• Hotels Near Bhopal Airport
• Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Airport
• Hotels Near Chandigarh Airport
• Hotels Near Chennai Airport
• Hotels Near Coimbatore Airport
• Hotels Near Goa Airport
• Hotels Near Gwalior Airport
• Hotels Near Hyderabad Airport
• Hotels Near Indore Airport
• Hotels Near Jaipur Airport
• Hotels Near Kolkata Airport
• Hotels Near Lucknow Airport
• Hotels Near Mumbai Airport
• Hotels Near Nagpur Airport
• Hotels Near New Delhi Airport
• Hotels Near Pune Airport
• Hotels Near Vadodara Airport
• Hotels Near Agra Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ahmedabad Railway Station
• Hotels Near Amritsar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bangalore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bhopal Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Chandigarh Railway Station
• Hotels Near Chennai Railway Station
• Hotels Near Coimbatore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Dehradun Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ernakulam Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ghaziabad Railway Station
• Hotels Near Gorakhpur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Guwahati Railway Station
• Hotels Near Gwalior Railway Station
• Hotels Near Haridwar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Indore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Kanpur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Kolkata Railway Station
• Hotels Near Lucknow Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ludhiana Railway Station
• Hotels Near Madurai Railway Station
• Hotels Near New Delhi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Pune Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ranchi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Surat Railway Station
• Hotels Near Tirupati Railway Station
• Hotels Near Udaipur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ujjain Railway Station
• Hotels Near Vadodara Railway Station
• Hotels Near Varanasi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Vijayawada Railway Station
• Hotels Near Visakhapatnam Railway Station
• Budget hotels in Agra
• Budget hotels in Ahmedabad
• Budget hotels in Amritsar
• Budget hotels in Bangalore
• Budget hotels in Bhubaneswar
• Budget hotels in Chandigarh
• Budget hotels in Chennai
• Budget hotels in Coimbatore
• Budget hotels in Coorg
• Budget hotels in Dehradun
• Budget hotels in Ernakulam
• Budget hotels in Gangtok
• Budget hotels in Goa
• Budget hotels in Gurgaon
• Budget hotels in Haridwar
• Budget hotels in Hyderabad
• Budget hotels in Indore
• Budget hotels in Jaipur
• Budget hotels in Kodaikanal
• Budget hotels in Kolkata
• Budget hotels in Lonavala
• Budget hotels in Madurai
• Budget hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Budget hotels in Manali
• Budget hotels in Mumbai
• Budget hotels in Mussoorie
• Budget hotels in Nashik
• Budget hotels in Ooty
• Budget hotels in Pondicherry
• Budget hotels in Pune
• Budget hotels in Rishikesh
• Budget hotels in Shirdi
• Budget hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
• Budget hotels in Tirupati
• Budget hotels in Udaipur
• Budget hotels in Varanasi
• Couple friendly hotels in Agra
• Couple friendly hotels in Ahmedabad
• Couple friendly hotels in Bangalore
• Couple friendly hotels in Bhopal
• Couple friendly hotels in Chandigarh
• Couple friendly hotels in Chennai
• Couple friendly hotels in Coimbatore
• Couple friendly hotels in Coorg
• Couple friendly hotels in Dehradun
• Couple friendly hotels in Dharamshala
• Couple friendly hotels in Goa
• Couple friendly hotels in Greater Noida
• Couple friendly hotels in Gurgaon
• Couple friendly hotels in Guwahati
• Couple friendly hotels in Hyderabad
• Couple friendly hotels in Indore
• Couple friendly hotels in Jaipur
• Couple friendly hotels in Kanpur
• Couple friendly hotels in Kochi
• Couple friendly hotels in Kolkata
• Couple friendly hotels in Lonavala
• Couple friendly hotels in Lucknow
• Couple friendly hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Couple friendly hotels in Manali
• Couple friendly hotels in Mohali
• Couple friendly hotels in Mumbai
• Couple friendly hotels in Mussoorie
• Couple friendly hotels in Nashik
• Couple friendly hotels in New Delhi
• Couple friendly hotels in Noida
• Couple friendly hotels in Ooty
• Couple friendly hotels in Pondicherry
• Couple friendly hotels in Pune
• Couple friendly hotels in Rishikesh
• Couple friendly hotels in Siliguri
• Couple friendly hotels in Surat
• Couple friendly hotels in Udaipur
• Couple friendly hotels in Vadodara
• Couple friendly hotels in Varanasi

• Be our Franchisee
• Travel Agent
• Corporate Enquiries
• Quarantine Hotels
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cancellation Policy

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 15 Places to Visit near Haridwar

• Uttarakhand

Tourist Places Near Haridwar

Here is the list of best places to visit near haridwar:, quick navigation.

Rishikesh is a tehsil located in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal region right on the banks of the holiest of Indian rivers, the Ganges. This ancient city has several mythological and religious legends associated with Lord Vishnu, Lord Bharat, and various prominent sages and is said to have been established in the 9th-century AD by Adi Shankaracharya. The scenic beauty of Rishikesh is due to its location at the foothills of the lofty Garhwal Himalayas is accentuated by the mighty Ganges cutting right through the city. The picturesque city looks suspended between the stunning riverside promenades, acres of forests, lush mountains, and clear blue skies lending it a surreal appearance. The city is synonymous with its grand temples, rituals, architectural marvels and yoga ashrams. Every temple here, be it the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Raghunath Temple, or the 13-storey Trimbakeshwar Temple, has its own beautiful legend that attracts people from all over the world. The twin Ram & Lakshman Jhulas are outstanding architectural feats in themselves. These suspension bridges span for over 750 ft. over the Ganges. There are numerous ashrams here that lead people into the spiritual world of ancient forms of yoga, meditation, and vipasana to cleanse their soul and de-stress. Rishikesh has its share of offbeat and adventure activities too. If you are not enjoying the adrenaline rush of white water rafting available up to grade 6, you can spend time enjoying amazing experiences like cliff jumping, kayaking, body surfing, etc. There are picturesque waterfalls here like Patna fall and Neer Garhi fall, etc. that are perfect to escape into the raw wilderness of nature. If you are the spiritual kind, you can’t miss attending the jaw-dropping spectacle of the Maha Aarti. The summer months (March-June) here are extremely hot & humid with temperatures reaching up to 36°C. Winter months (October-February) are cold and sunny with temperatures dipping to a low of 6°C, making them the best months to visit. Monsoon months (June-September) see a lot of rains accompanied by humidity.

Top Experiences To Do in Rishikesh

When one speaks about a family vacation, the first few things that strike one’s mind are green trees, blue skies, chilly weather, great food and a place where you can forget all your woes and calm down. This holiday destination is among those that fall under the category of delivering this experience to its visitors.

Lying at the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun which is the capital of Uttarakhand is known for its beautiful climate and the lovely landscapes it encompasses. One of the most astonishing facts about this place however, is that it is also one of the most important education hubs in the whole of India. How a place so small and petite be able to give a tough competition to other financial sectors of India is truly unimaginable.

Dehradun lies in Doon Valley which is located on a varying height of approximately 410m. The region is especially known for its climate. While one will experience a pleasant cool weather in Dehradun, the city is often times referred to as the ‘Rainy city of India’ due to the continuous rainfalls especially during monsoons.

Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand. In the recent years – there was a sense of construction boom that took place wherein endless residential property emerged in the city. Modern buildings have gradually been constructed making up for the good portions of Dehradun.

Top Experiences To Do in Dehradun

Dhanaulti is a sleepy, little town that sits on the Chamba-Mussoorie road, at a staggering height of 2,250 metres above sea level. Dhanaulti’s elevation  means that you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas from almost any point and the weather remains pleasantly cool at almost all times. The landscape of the place is defined by virgin forests with towering trees of deodars, oaks and rhododendrons. A short walk away from the town centre is sure to lead you to quaint meadows, dense jungles and gurgling streams. Albeit small, Dhanaulti has a strong cultural presence and you will be able to spot locals wearing traditional clothings and headgear. Here, you can enjoy traditional garhwali food and buy local hand-made goods and souvenirs. The place is also dotted with several temples and forts that date back to different eras in history and are a great way of finding more about the Dhanaulti and its place in the pages of history. Dhanaulti is dotted with several resorts and camping sites which offer a plethora of accommodation options. When here, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of the forest from the window of a luxury resort or choose to sleep under the stars in a tent. There are several places that offer adventure activities that take you skywalking through the peaks, trekking in the forests, climbing mountain faces and sledding down slopes! You can also try your hand at ziplining, biking or rappelling!  If you are not much of an adventure enthusiast, you can spend your time in Dhanaulti enjoying spa treatments, playing golf, reading books while lazing on a hammock or taking leisurely strolls through jungle roads. Dhanaulti also has potato farms that stretch for miles where you can go horse riding!  Apart from these, the apple orchards at Dhanaulti grow a variety of apples and you can spend an entire day walking through these orchards, apple-picking and enjoying delicious apple-based recipes.

Top Experiences To Do in Dhanaulti

We do not need to describe Mussoorie because great author Ruskin Bond has already done that in his immortal novels and short stories. He used this amazing town and the tourist places in Mussorie as the backdrop of his stories and the natural beauty of this town has created many landmarks in the field of “nature’s romanticism.” If you are in love with nature’s romanticism and follow literature for that then the enchanting beauty of Mussoorie is your wonderland waiting for you. Sir Sachin Tendulkar, the demigod of the cricketing world loves this place as his regular hideout in a great climate and pleasant city. Located at the height of almost 1900 meters from the sea levels this landscape of nature has become a paradise for the tourists with a passage of time. This advantage point of nature has a history dating back to 19th century when the officers of ruling East India Company developed it as a holiday paradise in the hills. Located at the distance of 40 Kilometers from the state capital of Indian state of Uttranchal, Dehradun, Mussoorie also won this moniker of being the “queen of the hill stations.” More than 15 attractions full of nature, religion and culture are at your disposal when you are planning a stay in Mussoorie Resorts . This hill station also serves as a gateway to the glaciers of Yamunotri and Gangotri and we can consider it as an ideal place to spend summer vacations. The year of 1991 brought this town into the spotlight because of certain cultural events and movements of political celebrities. We can term this phase as the beginning of the modern history of "Mussoorie the tourism Destination." Now this hill station has become a modern town where nature and modern day amenities are developing a new eco-system of fun, frolic, and entertainment for all age groups and honeymoon couples in particular. With passage of time, Mussoorie has also become an educational hub because of the presence of some premium educational institutes and convent schools. The presence of these tourist places in Mussoorie also added a youthful spirit in the ambiance of this hill station.

Top Experiences To Do in Mussoorie

Nainital, the hill resort town in the district of the same name, derives its name from the emerald, glassy, eye-shaped lake (tal) which the town is built around. The British Sugar trader, P. Baron, founded the town in the year 1841 and thank God that he did! There could not be a better getaway spot from the hustle and bustle of the cities. The moment you enter Nainital district, you step into a new, parallel world. With the best tourist places to visit in Nainital , the transition to scenic splendour of the likes of the place is a treat to the senses, a characteristic balming bliss of an experience that one can only understand through live experience. No wonder then that the Kumaon Himalayas are regarded as “devbhoomi” ( land of the Gods), a divine manifestation of the most intricate natural laws, working for millennia, to carve out the perfect cradle in the arms of the lofty peaks, who remain standing as sentinels, offering solace and inspiring awe in humanity. Nainital’s appeal comes across as no less than a dreamscape. The British elites had used the location as a retreat during the harsh summers of the Indian mainland once upon a time, and the tradition remains alive for native Indians, as well as our foreign guests to this day. With the changing climatic patterns ushering in harsher summers, Nainital as an easily accessible and highly affordable getaway vacation spot appears as no less than a prayer answered. With the best tourist places to visit in Nainital , the Naina Devi temple, St John in Wilderness, Hanuman Garhi for the pious ones, Mall road market,Tibetan market for the spendthrift ones, Naini Lake, Nainital Zoo, Jim Corbett National Park, Snow Viewpoint for the nature and adventure lovers, Nainital has a very inclusive agenda in terms of provisions - there is something for everyone.

Top Experiences To Do in Nainital

Kasauli is a beautiful, picturesque town and cantonment, situated in the district of Solan, in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Even though there are a lot of unique attractions in Kasauli, it is primarily known for its scenic beauty and serenity. This town is accessible both from Chandigarh, which is 65km away and Shimla, which is 77km away from Kasauli. The most convenient way to travel to Kasauli is by train since it is a railway junction itself. The Kalka Mail, which is one of the most important trains in the country connecting cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Amritsar, is a great way to reach Kasauli, as the town is a mere 40 km away from the town of Kalka in Haryana. If one wants to reach by air, then Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport from where you can easily hire cars or avail buses to take you to Kasauli. Buses are also frequently available from Delhi and Chandigarh, making trips to Kasauli easy and convenient. Despite Kasauli being a small town, it has many spectacular places to visit, which has made it a popular tourist destination. The main attractions of Kasauli are Manki Point (a Hanuman Temple), the Gilbert Trail on Kachcha Road, Sunset Point, the Gurkha Fort, Baba Balak Nath Temple Christ’s Church, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, and the Central Research Library which is famous for its virological research and studies in the fields of immunology. Since the town is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, it experiences moderately cool to humid climate throughout the year. Therefore, the best time to visit this beautiful town is from March to June, and again during September, October and November. The town has several comfortable hotels and lodges that range from moderately priced to luxury accommodations, depending on the budget and requirement of the visitors.

Top Experiences To Do in Kasauli

Thick oak forests, mesmerizing hills, and spellbinding views, there are numerous places to visit in Lansdowne which will take you a step closer to nature. A quaint hill station which is perched at an elevation of 1700 meters, Lansdowne brings to you a potpourri of attractions and memorable experiences. From trekking the treacherous trails of Lover’s Lane and exploring the vibrant streets of Lansdowne Main Market to visiting the holy shrines of Jwalpa Devi and Durga Devi Temple, there are multitude of ways by which you can quench your wanderlust in this snow-clogged beauty.

A town situated in the Pauri district of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is well-known for its pine timberlands and rich history of Garhwal rifles. Apart from this, it has also enjoyed an undisputed attention of nature buffs for its exotic wildlife. Its close proximity to the Jim Corbett National Park makes it an ideal site for bird watching and nature walks. Here you can also get to see some of the beautiful wild creatures including tiger,sambhar, barking deer,hog deer, and porcupines. Hence, if you are planning a trip to Uttarakhand, don’t forget to pay a visit to these key tourist places in Lansdowne.

Top Experiences To Do in Lansdowne

Rudraprayag

Chandigarh shows itself off to global travellers much like greater India would wish to be seen – prosperous, comfortable and cosmopolitan. Officially a union territory controlled by the central government, Chandigarh is the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana. It is also the first planned city of independent India. Chandigarh is the best-planned city in India, with architecture which is world-renowned, and a quality of life, which is unparalleled and must visit tourist places in Chandigarh. The dream city of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru located at the foothills of the grand Shivalik range, has earned a good name as a tourist destination for its great planning, the clean environment, the grand structures and the magnificent gardens and splendid things to do in Chandigarh.  It is an incredible city, with many sectors that are intertwined by a great network of roads. Therefore, roaming around is not a problem and you will never be bored at all with so many tourist places in Chandigarh. Today, it takes a prominent place as a tourist destination of India. The word Serenity and city hardly goes hand in hand with each other. This beautiful city has trees and plants are as much a part of the construction plans as the buildings and the roads with best places to stay in Chandigarh having beautiful surroundings. Chandigarh is India’s first planned city. It is a rich, prosperous, clean and green city and is rightly called “ THE CITY BEAUTIFUL ”. This place is a true beauty for all those who love to travel and explore. Travel operators offer a variety of Chandigarh tour packages for those travelling depending on the number of days. It ranges between INR 20,000 to INR 50,000( USD 300 - 700). The tall skyline of the Shivalik Hills and the faint image of an old temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi protectively lies over the city guarding many tourist places in Chandigarh. The town is a beautiful blend of architecture, design, natural beauty, gardens, heritage and urbanization. Some of the must visit tourist places in Chandigarh include the Rock garden which is an absolute marvel of art and design, Rose garden, Pinjore gardens and the Government Museum and Art Gallery along with a few others. 

Top Experiences To Do in Chandigarh

Delhi, the capital of India is one of the perfect cities to enjoy the best of Indian culture. It is a city filled with must see landmarks, attractions and numerous other best places to visit in Delhi. It is a clean, neat and tidy city with wide roads. However, the beauty of the city often gets hidden behind the awful traffic jams and exhausting climate, especially during the summer season. But despite all these factors, the city welcomes the travellers with some scenic views and deep history. There are many cultural attractions that depict Indian traditions and customs. Since the city was designed by Britishers, you see the entire city as a symbol of British power. Having said that, this same reason also led to the establishment of various cultures and splendid architecture that can be witnessed in the city today. Delhi has extreme climates, so it is necessary to plan your trip according to your convenience. You should try and avoid visiting this city during the months of April and June as the uncomfortable heat rises up to 40°Centigrade. Similarly, December to January experiences an extreme cold climate with cold snaps dropping temperatures down to zero. You may plan your trip anytime between February and March or October and November to make the most of it. The New Delhi part is one of the liveliest areas of Delhi. Here, you can find the best city life with many restaurants, cafes, nightlife, and fancy attractions. Whereas, on the other hand, Old Delhi depicts a rather cluttered old style of living with small raw style houses, many bazaars and everything historic. To take a better understanding of various parts of Delhi, you can browse through the best places to visit in Delhi, that are customized keeping in mind every need and choice. Explore Delhi at its best with us with our adventure, sightseeing, trekking, and many more tours.

Top Experiences To Do in Delhi

People Also Ask About Haridwar

Which hill stations are near to haridwar, which are the top places to visit near haridwar for adventure activities, what are the best places to visit near haridwar within 300 kms, how can i go to haridwar from rishikesh.

Rishikesh, located around 20 kilometers away from Haridwar, is easily reachable by road and train. 2 trains, Hemkunt Express & Link Express, run daily between the 2 places and take around 55 minutes. The more convenient way is by bus, that runs every 30 minutes, and covers the journey in 25 minutes or by a cab/ self-drive.  

Which city is close to Haridwar and is also on the banks of Ganga?

Trending in Haridwar

Sightseeing in haridwar.

Haridwar Top Attractions

Relish a realm of spirituality and wellness at ShantiKunj when you are in Haridwar. It is known as the headquarters of All World Gayatri Power and attracts dozens of pilgrims. It is said that the ashram guides you towards the right path and offers perpetual happiness. Taking inspiration from spiritual principles, Shanti Kunj is a pioneer in the revival of Rishi traditions and divine culture. When you are here, you can participate in one of the training camps and take home wonderful memories of moral and spiritual upliftment. Some of the prominent attractions of Shanti Kunj are the Yagya shala, Gayatri Mata temple, Akhand Deep, Devatma Himalaya temple and various other temples dedicated to ancient rishis. If you are interested to know more, do go through one of the exhibitions at the world famous ashram on Divine culture. You will not return disappointed after returning from Shanti Kunj. Location: Shantikunj, Sapt Rishi Rd, Motichur, Haridwar, UttarakhandTiming: All dayBest Time to Visit: October to February

One of the Tourist places in Haridwar is Har ki Pauri which basically means footsteps of the Lord. It is the holy ghat where river Ganges touches the plains after winding its ways through the Himalayan ranges. Visitors flock along this pious ghat around dawn to take a holy dip. during the Ganga Aarati. It is mesmerising to watch the whole ghat getting illuminated by the shimmering lights of the three-tiered lamps of fire in the hands of the priests . Additionally, devotees float thousands of diyas on the surface of the water giving the river Ganges an ethereal aura of beauty. A prime attraction during the day time is a footprint imprinted on a wall which is believed to belong to Lord Vishnu.Location - harkipodi, near Krishna Dham, KharkhariTiming - Open at all timesBest Time to Visit - Can be visited every month of the year although summer can be hot during day time.

More Haridwar Attractions

Haridwar reviews.

Popular Nearby Places Around Haridwar

More things to do in haridwar, more on haridwar tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Waterfalls in Iceland
• The World's Top Treehouse Hotels
• The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best florence tours.

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

The Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks

The Best Yellowstone National Park Tours

John Rodwan April 17, 2024

Top Things to Do in Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Places to visit in haridwar.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

61. Abd Holiday Pvt. Ltd.

62. Haridwar Cab Service

63. Gokeys India

64. Tattva Spa

65. Discover Uttarakhand

66. ABD Holidays

67. The case and Covers

68. the spa by tattva spa.

70. Pandit Ji Haridwar Tirth Purohit

71. DMC Uttarakhand

72. Travel To India Private Limited

73. Rajaji National Park/Tiger Reserve Safari

74. Haridwar Rishikesh Tour Packages - Day Tours

75. Monk Travel

76. Chardham Tourism

77. ShrineYatra.Com

78. Nature Holidays Travel

79. Great hiking trails

80. HOWLING TRAVELS

81. Smiley Holidayz

82. Uttarakhand Tour Packages

83. char dham tour package

84. Hike In Hills

85. amaze my trip.

86. Shree Ji Travels

87. Trigoyo

88. Kaushik Associate

89. Being Traveller

90. CallATour

What travellers are saying

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

This Quaint Town in Portugal Was Just Named the Best Place to Invest in Europe — and It Has Stunning Beaches

Lush pine forests, cobblestone streets, endless ocean views, and low real estate prices await in this quaint community in northern Portugal.

Xurxo Lobato/Getty Images

Portugal is on everyone's mind these days. The country's sunny weather , many beaches , and affordable cost of living have made it a popular choice for retirees and digital nomads. However, as is often the case, real estate prices in some of its most sought-after regions, like the capital, Lisbon and Algarve , have soared. But that doesn't mean you should give up on your dream of owning property in Portugal.

A new report by International Living ranked the small, under-the-radar- town of Caminha the best place to invest in real estate in Europe for its value and growth potential. 

The community is located in the northwest along the mouth of the Minho River, which separates Portugal from Spain, and is home to about 16,000 residents. International Living gave Caminha a perfect score of 10 in the relative value category and nine for quality of life and stability.

"Caminha, which is only separated from Spain by a river, completely charmed me," Ronan McMahon, founder of Real Estate Trend Alert and author of International Living's Global Real Estate Index, told Travel + Leisure . "It has a beautiful Old Town surrounded by a verdant and bucolic countryside, with mountains, rivers, forests, and fields overflowing with brightly colored flowers and fruit trees heavy with their bounty. And then there are the stunning Atlantic beaches."

The ancient town has plenty of character, with fountains, churches, and other buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. And it's easily accessible from Porto, which is just an hour and 15 minutes south, providing access to an international airport. 

Jeff Opdyke, International Living's personal finance editor, called Caminha a "holdover of Portugal before tourism and modernity swept over Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto," where affordable real estate is still the norm. 

Potential buyers can find apartments downtown for as low as $150,000 and stand-alone houses for $280,000 .

And while Caminha is the best place to invest in Europe, another destination took the top prize for global real estate value: Mexico's Los Cabos. International Living ranked first with almost perfect scores in categories such as income potential, climate, and international appeal. Riviera Maya and Estepona in Spain, a town in the country's famous Costa del Sol region, are tied for the third place.

You can see the full ranking at internationaliving.com .

Anne Hathaway Says ‘The Princess Diaries 3’ Development ‘Is in a Good Place,’ but ‘There’s Nothing to Announce Yet’

By Zack Sharf

Digital News Director

• ‘Deadpool and Wolverine’ Doesn’t Require Prior MCU Knowledge Because ‘I’m Definitely Not Looking to Do Homework When I Go to the Movies,’ Says Shawn Levy 3 hours ago
• Melanie Lynskey Says Husband Jason Ritter Is ‘Sacrificing’ His Acting Career So Hers Can Succeed: He’s ‘Getting Offered Stuff All the Time’ and Turning It Down 4 hours ago
• Pauly Shore ‘Was Up All Night Crying’ After Richard Simmons Said ‘I Don’t Approve’ of Biopic, Asks for Meeting as ‘You Haven’t Even Heard the Pitch’ 4 hours ago

Watch Latin American Music Awards

It’s been well over a year since news first broke that Disney was moving forward with “The Princess Diaries 3.” Anne Hathaway can’t reveal any details, but she did assure fans in a recent V magazine interview that development continues on the long-anticipated sequel, and the intention remains to get it off the ground.

“We’re in a good place,” Hathaway said. “That’s all I can say. There’s nothing to announce yet. But we’re in a good place.”

“Probably not,” Hathaway answered when asked about making a “Prada” sequel. “We all love each other and if somebody could come up with a way to do it, I think we’d all be crazy not to. But there’s a huge difference in the world now with technology, and one of the things about that particular story is it was about producing a physical object. Now with so much being digital, it would just be very different. Maybe me, Stanley, Emily, Meryl, Dave Frankel, Patricia Field… we should just all do something else together. That’d be fun.”

Variety   confirmed in November 2022  that Disney was developing a third installment in “The Princess Diaries” franchise with screenwriter Aadrita Mukerji (“Reacher,” “Supergirl”). Directed by the late Garry Marshall and based Meg Cabot’s novel, the original 2001 film followed an awkward American teenager who learns she’s the heir to the throne of the European kingdom of Genovia. Julia Andrews played the fictional nation’s queen. The family film became a box office hit with $165 million in global ticket sales. The follow-up film, which was also directed by Marshall and introduced the world to Chris Pine, was equally successful in theaters with $134 million worldwide.

Andrews had bad news fans in December 2022 when she told  Access Hollywood that it wasn’t likely she’d return to the beloved Disney franchise, saying, “I think we know that it’s probably not going to be possible.”

Hathaway herself told Entertainment Tonight in October 2022 that “if there’s any way to get Julie Andrews involved, I think we would make it work. We would go to where she was and put a green screen behind her and just make it happen.” 

Head over to V magazine’s website to read Hathaway’s latest profile in its entirety.

More From Our Brands

Normani, myke towers, anitta, and all the songs you need to know this week, inside a $3.3 million one-bedroom condo in l.a.’s famed sierra towers, vince mcmahon lists final tko shares for sale, be tough on dirt but gentle on your body with the best soaps for sensitive skin, marla adams, who played dina on the young and the restless, dead at 85, verify it's you, please log in.

The Lyrids are here: How and when to see the meteor shower peak in 2024

Get ready for another show in the sky, space fans. This time it will be a shooting star show.

The Lyrid meteor shower will peak in 2024 starting late Sunday night on April 21 and last through dawn on Monday April 22 .

The Lyrids, one of the oldest known Metroid showers , began April 15 and runs through April 29 but the weekend will be the best time to get a glimpse of the show which NASA said can be seen by people across the world.

The first recorded sighting of a Lyrid meteor show, dates back to 687 BC by the Chinese , astronomers say.

Here's all you need to know about the phenomenon including what time to watch it and the best place to see it.

Lyrid meteor shower 2024: Visual guide to the celestial show

What are meteoroids? What are meteors? What is a meteorite?

Meteoroids  are small rocks that are still in space. When they enter the Earth's atmosphere, they burn up, and create a tail of debris as they disintegrate before hitting the ground. During that point, they are are called meteors.

Those that survive a trip through the atmosphere and hit the Earth's ground are called a meteorite. Some of the small pieces of an asteroid have been traced as far away ask the moon and Mars. 

Lyrids are known for their fast meteors, according to NASA, and can produce the occasional bright flash called a fireball.

Where is the best place to see the Lyrid meteor shower?

According to NASA, the best view in the Northern Hemisphere of the shower after moonset and before dawn.

Here are tips from the space agency:

• Pick an area well away from city lights or street lights.
• Bring a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair.
• Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up.
• Be patient. About 30 minutes in the dark your eyes should adapt and you should begin to see meteors.

Watch video: Meteor, fireball lights up sky in New Jersey, other east coast states

How many Lyrids will we see per hour?

Meteor showers are typically named after constellations, stars, and even asteroids.

If the sky is dark, and the moon is absent during this year's show, experts say, at peak viewers can expect to see 10 to 15 Lyrids each hour.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.

Recommended

Kirsten Fleming

‘fat liberation,’ decolonization rants and pro-palestinian chants have no place in medical school.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Follow on Twitter
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

The honchos at this medical school need a check-up from the neck up.

The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA should be tasked with educating the great doctors of tomorrow. But, according to a slew of recent reports, they’re more interested in churning out an army of social justice warriors with stethoscopes.

First-year medical students are required to take a “Structural Racism and Health Equity” course, implemented as antiracist atonement programming in the wake of George Floyd’s 2020 death. By most accounts, it’s unnecessarily feeding a cancer of wokeness.

Earlier this month, students were forced to listen to Lisa “Tiny” Gray-Garcia , a pro Hamas speaker who led the class in chants of “Free, free Palestine,” called modern medicine “white science” and demanded they pray to “Mama Earth.”

There are lessons on “decolonization” and “climate activism.” There used to be a class exercise that divided students into racial groups, but that was canceled in January after a civil rights complaint.

The latest revelation about the course syllabus, however, takes the cake — and it’s a multi-tiered concoction frosted with radical and unscientific proclamations about obesity and health.

According to the Washington Free Beacon , Geffen students are required to read “No Health, No Care: The Big Fat Loophole in the Hippocratic Oath,” an essay by Marquisele Mercedes. A self-proclaimed “fat liberationist,” Mercedes believes obesity is a slur “used to exact violence on fat people” — specifically, “Black, disabled, trans, poor fat people”

“Fatphobia,” she writes, “is medicine’s status quo.”

The essay — which begins with an unsatisfactory medical experience Mercedes says she had as a 13-year-old visiting a slim, white, blonde doctor — is a self-centered, indulgent rant from a proudly overweight academic simply trying to justify her own size.

It’s also a nonsensical ode to victimhood that force feeds the reader a smorgasbord of intersectionality terms and traces the “origins of fatphobia” to white European Enlightenment philosophers.

And how quaint to picture it: Jean-Jacques Rouseau fat-shaming a female dinner guest, making loud pig noises as she takes a bite of her second helping of bread.

But there’s more. Mercedes makes many dubious claims — calling the relationship between weight and health “muddy” and claiming “it is proven that weight loss is a useless, hopeless endeavor.”

We know that everyone’s bodies are different and weight loss can be affected by a myriad of issues, including genetics and underlying medical problems. We’re constantly learning new lessons about trimming fat — but none of them say, “Don’t, if you’re obese.”

But take it from Jeffrey Flier, the former dean of Harvard Medical School Flier, who said the course “promotes extensive and dangerous misinformation.”

“This is a profoundly misguided view of obesity, a complex medical disorder with major adverse health consequences for all racial and ethnic groups,” Flier told the Washington Free Beacon. He added that teaching these “ignorant” ideas to medical students is nothing less than “malpractice.”

Flier said: “[UCLA] has centered this required course on a socialist/Marxist ideology that is totally inappropriate. As a longstanding medical educator, I found this course truly shocking.”

Personally , I want a doctor who is going to call balls and strikes — and who isn’t petrified of having difficult conversations about how lifestyle choices may be affecting overall health.

Not someone who was indoctrinated by the high priestess of fatness or a person who turned corpulence into a new religion.

This essay belongs at a spoken-word open-mic night —  not in a medical school tasked with sending competent doctors into the world.

If they don’t trim the fat from this storied institution, a UCLA medical degree will become patient repellent. Run if you see it hanging on a doc’s wall.

Share this article:

Advertisement