Haridwar is situated on the
right side of the bank of the holy Ga nga, and is the point where the river spreads over the
northern plains. Associated with both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, Haridwar is among the
seven sacred cities of India. It is also one of the four venues for the Kumbh Mela, held
in its magnitude every twelve years. Essentially a religious centre which holds promise of
salvation for devotees, Haridwar is also a centre of herbal medicine, and traditional
studies at Gurukul Kangri. There are many places of scenic beauty on the outskirts of the
town.
I t is said that when the Gods left their
footprints on the land of Haridwar, metaphorically they also left an indelible mark on the
spiritual ethos of every Hindu more so, the devout, who would later follow their
holy paths all across this blessed land. Haridwar stands as the gateway to the four
pilgrimages of Uttrakhand. Mentioned as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, Mokshadwar in the ancient
scriptures and epics, Haridwar has always remained as a major Shaktipeeth for the
devotees. Of such significance is Haridwar in the thought of Indias traditional
Hindus that it has earned its sobriquet of honour, `the gateway to the Gods.
Legend has it that the holy Ganga, the
holiest of all rivers, which flows through this sacred city has actually been sanctified
by the powerful Trinity of Hindu mythology and the centre of the pantheon Lord
Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.
Down the ages, this special importan ce of Haridwar
as the ever-refreshing mystic venue for the purification of the mind, body and soul gained
more impetus
and today, manifests into great events that take place here, i.e. the
memorable Kumbh Mela which happens once every 12 years and the Ardh Kumbh Mela, which
comes once every six years. Yet, beyond the mystic aura and mythology, Haridwar casts
another magic spell on the visitor. Being one of the oldest living cities, Haridwar finds
its mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as it weaves through the life and time
stretching from the period of Buddha to the more recent British advent. Haridwar has not
only remained the abode of the weary in body, mind and spirit, but also served as a centre
for attraction for many, for learning the arts, science and culture.

Ha ridwars longstanding position as a great
source for Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies as well as its unique Gurukul school of
traditional education, the scenic beauty and lush greenery
all give the city a unique
flavour and charm; a must among the sojourn centres in a discoverers itinerary of
Western U.P. A destination of all seasons.
Haridwar is one of the first towns where
Ganga emerges from the mountains to touch the plains. And thats why the water is
crystal clear and cool. Lush green forests and small ponds adorns the scenic beauty of
this holy land. The Rajaji National Park is just 10 kms from Haridwar. Its an ideal
destination for wildlife and adventure lovers.
In the evening the ghats look
breathtakingly beautiful, as thousands of diyas and marigold flowers float and illuminate
the Holy waters.
- Area : 12.302 sq. km.
- Population : 3,48,142 (1991 census)
- Altitude : 294.70 meters above sea level.
- Season : Round the year.
- Clothing : Summer - Cottons; Winter -
Woollens
- Language : Hindi & English
- Local Transport : Taxis, Tongas, Tempos,
Buses, Cycle-Rikshaws, Auto-Rickshaws
- STD Code : 0133
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