Haridwar Temple

Haridwar Temple refers to the collective temples and shrines located in the holy city of Haridwar, one of the seven holiest places (Sapta Puri) in India for Hindus. Haridwar is situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga (Ganges) in the state of Uttarakhand. The city is renowned for its religious significance, particularly as a major pilgrimage site, and is the gateway to the Chardham Yatra, with Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath being the other three sacred destinations.

One of the most famous temples in Haridwar is the Maya Devi Temple, which is an ancient shrine dedicated to Maya Devi, a form of Shakti, and it is considered one of the Shakti Peethas (holy places dedicated to the divine feminine).

Another significant temple in Haridwar is the Har Ki Pauri, a sacred ghat with an associated temple, and a major pilgrimage site where the Ganga Aarti is performed every evening.

Key Features of Haridwar Temple Complex

1. Har Ki Pauri:
   • The Har Ki Pauri (literally “Footsteps of God”) is the most significant and visited site in Haridwar. It is a ghat where devotees gather to take a holy dip in the Ganges River. According to Hindu tradition, it is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprints here, making it one of the holiest places in the city. The ghat is also known for its Ganga Aarti performed every evening, which is a mesmerizing spectacle of fire, music, and prayer that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists.
   • The Har Ki Pauri Temple near the ghat has a small shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The evening aarti here is one of the most iconic events in Haridwar.
2. Maya Devi Temple:
   • The Maya Devi Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Maya Devi, the Goddess of the Universe. This temple is part of the Shakti Peethas and is associated with the legend of Sati (the wife of Lord Shiva), whose body was dismembered and scattered across various places, and the body part that fell here is said to be the heart of Sati.
   • The temple is one of the key temples in Haridwar, and devotees visit it to seek the blessings of Goddess Maya for spiritual wellbeing and peace.
3. Chandi Devi Temple:
   • Located on the Neel Parvat hill, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, a fierce form of Goddess Durga. According to legend, the temple marks the site where the goddess Chandi killed the demon Shumbha-Nishumbha. The temple can be reached by a cable car from the base or by trekking for about 3 km.
   • It is one of the Siddh Peeths, meaning it is believed that prayers offered here are granted by the deity.
4. Bharat Mata Mandir:
   • Located near the Har Ki Pauri, the Bharat Mata Mandir is dedicated to Bharat Mata, the personification of India. The temple has a unique feature as it includes an enormous map of India carved on the floor, showing the country’s geographical features.
5. Sapt Rishi Ashram:
   • The Sapt Rishi Ashram is a spiritual center dedicated to the Sapt Rishis (Seven Sages) who are believed to have meditated in this area. The ashram is situated on the banks of the Ganges and is a peaceful place for meditation and spiritual reflection.
6. Ganga Aarti:
   • One of the most striking features of Haridwar is the daily Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. Devotees and tourists gather at the ghat to witness the aarti, where priests perform rituals with lamps, incense, and chanting. The aarti is an expression of reverence to the River Ganga, which is believed to cleanse all sins and bring spiritual peace.

Best Time to Visit Haridwar Temple

• Winter (October to March): The winter months are the best time to visit Haridwar. The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 25°C, making it ideal for temple visits, sightseeing, and participating in rituals. This is also when the Kumbh Mela takes place (once every 12 years), drawing millions of pilgrims.
• Summer (April to June): Summer months can get quite hot, with temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F) in May and June. While the temples remain open, the heat can be exhausting for long walks and outdoor activities, so it’s better to visit in the early mornings or evenings.
• Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides in the surrounding hilly areas. The Ganga can also swell during this period, which might lead to flooding in certain parts of the city.

How to Reach Haridwar Temple

1. By Air:
   • The nearest airport to Haridwar is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located around 35 km from Haridwar. Dehradun is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. From the airport, you can take a taxi to reach Haridwar.
2. By Train:
   • Haridwar is well connected by rail to major cities in India. The Haridwar Railway Station is a major railway station on the Delhi-Dehradun line and is well connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Lucknow. The station is about 1-2 km from Har Ki Pauri, and taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses are available for local transport.
3. By Road:
   • Haridwar is easily accessible by road. It is about 200 km from Delhi (approximately 5-6 hours by car). The city is well-connected by buses and taxis from major cities in Uttarakhand and northern India. The National Highway 58 connects Haridwar to cities like Rishikesh, Dehradun, and Mussoorie.
   • Private taxis and buses can also be hired for local sightseeing and to reach specific temples and ghats within Haridwar.
4. By Bus:
   • There are regular state-run buses and private buses available from cities like Delhi, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Haridwar. The buses are an affordable option, and the Haridwar ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal) is the central bus station in the city.

Travel Tips for Haridwar Temple Visit

• Timing of Temple Visits: Most temples open early in the morning (around 5 AM) and close by 8 PM. Visiting during early morning or evening is the best way to avoid the crowds and to experience the tranquility of the temples.
• Clothing: Since Haridwar is a holy city, it is essential to dress modestly. Women should wear conservative clothing, covering their shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples. Footwear should be removed before entering temples and holy sites.
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Haridwar is a major pilgrimage site and can be crowded, especially during religious festivals, the Kumbh Mela, or during the Chardham Yatra. If you wish to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during off-peak times, preferably on weekdays.
• Safety: Haridwar is a safe city for tourists. However, be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like Har Ki Pauri and during the evening aarti. Keep your valuables secure.

Haridwar, with its temples, ghats, and spiritual atmosphere, offers a unique experience that blends religious fervor with natural beauty. It is a place of divine significance, where you can connect with both the holy Ganga and your inner self.