Haridwar: The Gateway to the Gods in Uttar Pradesh

Haridwar, a sacred city located on the banks of the River Ganges, is one of the holiest places in India. Though geographically it lies in the neighboring state of Uttarakhand, it holds significant religious importance for the people of Uttar Pradesh and all of northern India. Known as the “Gateway to the Gods,” Haridwar is where the Ganges, after flowing for 253 kilometers from its source at the Gangotri Glacier, enters the plains for the first time. This city is a vibrant hub of spiritual activity, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists each year who come to seek blessings, participate in holy rituals, and experience the spiritual energy that permeates the air.

Spiritual Significance

Haridwar, also spelled as Hardwar, is one of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism, known as Sapta Puri. The name ‘Haridwar’ is derived from two words: ‘Hari,’ meaning Lord Vishnu, and ‘Dwar,’ meaning gateway. Hence, Haridwar is considered the gateway to Lord Vishnu’s abode. It is also a significant point for devotees of Lord Shiva, where it is referred to as ‘Hardwar’ or the gateway to Lord Shiva.

The city is renowned for the Har Ki Pauri ghat, one of the most sacred ghats on the banks of the Ganges. It is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint on a stone at this very ghat. Every evening, the Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual of offering prayers to the Ganges, takes place here. Thousands of devotees gather to witness this ceremony, where priests perform a synchronized prayer with lit lamps, chanting hymns and mantras, creating an enchanting and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

Haridwar is also one of the four cities that host the Kumbh Mela, the largest religious gathering in the world, held every twelve years. During the Kumbh Mela, millions of pilgrims from all over India and beyond converge in Haridwar to take a holy dip in the Ganges, which is believed to cleanse one of sins and pave the way to salvation.

Temples and Ashrams

The city is dotted with numerous temples dedicated to various Hindu deities. Some of the most notable ones include:

1. Mansa Devi Temple: Perched on the Bilwa Parvat (hill), this temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. A cable car ride to the temple offers a panoramic view of Haridwar.
2. Chandi Devi Temple: Located atop the Neel Parvat, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi. Like Mansa Devi, this temple can also be reached by a cable car ride or a steep trek.
3. Maya Devi Temple: One of the ancient temples in Haridwar, Maya Devi is considered the presiding deity of the city. It is believed that the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell here when Lord Shiva carried her burnt body.

Haridwar is also home to numerous ashrams that provide spiritual teachings, meditation courses, and yoga retreats. The Parmarth Ashram, Shantikunj, and Patanjali Yogpeeth are some of the prominent ones, offering spiritual seekers a place to learn, practice, and reflect.

Reaching Haridwar

Haridwar is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible from various parts of India, including Uttar Pradesh.

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Haridwar is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located about 35 kilometers away. The airport has regular flights connecting to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Haridwar, which is approximately a one-hour drive.
2. By Train: Haridwar Junction (HW) is a major railway station, connected to numerous cities across India. Trains from Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, and other parts of Uttar Pradesh have regular services to Haridwar. The Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, and Mussoorie Express are some popular trains that connect Haridwar to Delhi and other regions. The train journey offers a scenic view of the countryside, especially as you approach the foothills of the Himalayas.
3. By Road: Haridwar is well-connected by a network of national highways. It is about 220 kilometers from Delhi, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours by car or bus. Buses operated by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) and private operators run frequently between Haridwar and major cities in Uttar Pradesh like Lucknow, Varanasi, and Kanpur.
4. By Car: Driving to Haridwar from Delhi or other nearby cities is a convenient option. The route via the NH334 offers a smooth drive, with plenty of dhabas (roadside eateries) along the way for a refreshing break. The drive becomes increasingly picturesque as you approach Haridwar, with the Ganges flowing alongside and the mountains looming in the distance.

Exploring Haridwar

Once in Haridwar, apart from visiting the temples and attending the Ganga Aarti, there are other activities and nearby attractions to explore. The Rajaji National Park, located a short drive away, offers a chance to experience wildlife and the natural beauty of the region. The park is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and numerous bird species, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Rishikesh, another spiritual city and the yoga capital of the world, is just 25 kilometers from Haridwar. It is famous for its ashrams, adventure sports, and the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges. A visit to Rishikesh can easily be combined with a trip to Haridwar.

Conclusion

Haridwar is not just a city; it is an experience that offers a deep connection to India’s spiritual roots. Whether you are seeking spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or simply a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Haridwar provides it all. The ease of access from major cities in Uttar Pradesh and beyond makes it an ideal destination for pilgrims, tourists, and spiritual seekers alike. Visiting Haridwar is more than just a journey; it is a pilgrimage that leaves a lasting impression on the soul.