🕉️ Haridwar – The Gateway to the Gods
Hari Ka dwara by travelling Onlinetempotraveller.com
Haridwar (also spelled Hardwar) is one of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism. It lies on the banks of the holy river Ganga, where the river descends from the Himalayas to the plains. The name “Haridwar” means “Gateway to Lord Vishnu,” and it is considered a sacred city where pilgrims come to take a dip in the Ganga for spiritual cleansing.
🏞️ Famous Places:
- Har Ki Pauri
- The most sacred ghat (riverbank) in Haridwar.
- Famous for the Ganga Aarti held every evening with chanting, lamps, and spiritual energy.
- Mansa Devi Temple
- Located on Bilwa Parvat; reachable by cable car or a trek.
- Devotees tie threads on trees to fulfill their wishes.
- Chandi Devi Temple
- Another major temple on a nearby hill; accessible by ropeway.
- Dedicated to Goddess Chandi.
- Daksha Mahadev Temple
- Associated with the legend of Sati, Shiva’s consort.
- An important Shiva temple.
🧘♂️ Other Highlights:
- Kumbh Mela: Held every 12 years; millions of pilgrims gather.
- Ayurvedic centers, traditional ashrams, and spiritual retreats.
- Famous for vegetarian street food, especially kachaudi, jalebi, and lassi.
🧘 Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital of the World
Rishikesh is located just 20 km from Haridwar and is known globally for yoga, meditation, and spiritual learning. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, it’s a serene town that attracts spiritual seekers, adventure enthusiasts, and wellness travelers.many group has going to Rishikesh by Tempo Traveller .
🏞️ Famous Places:
- Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula
- Iconic suspension bridges over the Ganga.
- Surrounded by temples, cafes, and ashrams.
- Parmarth Niketan
- One of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh.
- Famous for its evening Ganga Aarti and yoga programs.
- The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
- The ashram where the Beatles stayed in 1968.
- Now a spiritual and artistic site within Rajaji National Park.
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
- A scenic temple about 32 km away, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
🧘♂️ Other Highlights:
- Recognized as the Yoga Capital of the World.
- Home to the International Yoga Festival every March.
- Hub for white-water rafting, bungee jumping, camping, and trekking.
- Many organic cafes, vegan food options, and reiki/holistic healing centers.
🚗 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport – Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 30–40 km from both cities.
- By Train: Both cities are connected to major Indian cities by rail.
- By Road: Well connected via national highways; buses and taxis are available.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit:
- October to March: Pleasant weather for sightseeing and adventure.
- July–September: Monsoon season (be cautious of heavy rain).
- April–June: Summer; suitable for rafting and temple visits.
