Haridwar Travel Guide for Inbound Travelers

Description: The most sacred ghat in Haridwar, believed to be where Lord Vishnu’s footprint is imprinted. Famous for the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti performed daily at dusk.

Location: Central Haridwar

Best Time to Visit: Evening for the Ganga Aarti (around 6:00 PM–7:00 PM).

Tips: Arrive early for a good spot during the Aarti. Avoid taking photos of pilgrims bathing without permission.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: Open 24/7; Aarti timings vary seasonally.

Description: A hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, reachable by cable car or a 1.5 km trek. Known for granting devotees’ wishes.

Location: On Bilwa Parvat, 3 km from Har Ki Pauri

Tips: Use the cable car for convenience (₹100 round trip). Tie a thread on the sacred tree for wishes.

• • Entry Fee: Free; cable car charges apply.
• • Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Description: A sacred temple on Neel Parvat, dedicated to Goddess Chandi. Accessible by cable car or a 3 km trek, offering panoramic views of Haridwar.

Location: 4 km from Har Ki Pauri

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes if trekking. Combine with Mansa Devi for a half-day trip.

• • Entry Fee: Free; cable car ₹150 round trip.
• • Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Description: An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Maya Devi, considered one of Haridwar’s Siddhpeeths. Believed to be a site where Sati’s navel fell.

Location: Central Haridwar, 1 km from Har Ki Pauri

Tips: Visit during Navratri for special rituals. Dress modestly.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Description: A unique eight-story temple dedicated to Mother India, showcasing India’s cultural and spiritual heritage with statues of deities and freedom fighters.

Location: 5 km from Har Ki Pauri

Tips: Allocate 1–2 hours to explore all floors. Photography is allowed.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Description: The headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar, a spiritual and charitable organization. Offers insights into Vedic culture and meditation sessions.

Location: 6 km from Har Ki Pauri

Tips: Attend free yoga or meditation sessions. Respect ashram rules (no non-veg food or alcohol).

• • Entry Fee: Free; donations appreciated.
• • Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Description: A wildlife reserve 10 km from Haridwar, known for its elephants, tigers, and birdlife. Ideal for nature lovers and safaris.

Location: Chilla Range, 10 km from Har Ki Pauri

Tips: Book jungle safaris in advance (₹1,500–₹3,000 per jeep). Best visited October–June.

• • Entry Fee: ₹150 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners; safari charges extra.
• • Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (seasonal).

Description: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, associated with the legend of Sati and Daksha Prajapati. Located on the banks of the Ganges.

Location: Kankhal, 4 km from Har Ki Pauri

Tips: Visit during Shivratri for special prayers. Combine with a trip to nearby ashrams.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Description: A historic ashram where seven sages meditated, and the Ganges split into seven streams. A serene spot for spiritual seekers.

Location: 5 km from Har Ki Pauri

Tips: Ideal for meditation and learning about Vedic traditions. Respect the ashram’s peaceful ambiance.

• • Entry Fee: Free; donations appreciated.
• • Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Shantikunj Ashram: A Hub for Vedic Yoga and Meditation
Shantikunj Ashram, the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar, is a cornerstone of Haridwar’s spiritual landscape, offering immersive yoga and meditation experiences rooted in Vedic traditions.
Visitors can participate in free daily yoga sessions (6:00 AM–7:00 AM) that combine asanas, pranayama, and mantra chanting, designed to balance body and mind.
The ashram’s meditation sessions, often centered on the Gayatri Mantra, guide participants toward inner peace and spiritual awakening.
These sessions, held in serene halls overlooking the Ganges, are ideal for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.
Shantikunj also offers week-long residential programs (approx. ₹2,000–₹5,000, including meals and lodging), blending yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic lifestyle practices.
Respect ashram rules, such as maintaining silence and adhering to a vegetarian diet, to fully embrace the experience.

Patanjali Yogpeeth: Modern Yoga and Ayurvedic Wellness
Patanjali Yogpeeth, founded by Swami Ramdev, is a world-renowned center for yoga and Ayurveda, located 7 km from Har Ki Pauri.
It offers structured yoga classes (₹500–₹1,500 per session) focusing on therapeutic asanas and pranayama techniques to enhance physical health and mental clarity.
The center’s meditation programs, guided by trained instructors, emphasize stress relief and spiritual growth, often incorporating Swami Ramdev’s teachings on holistic living.
Visitors can join daily sessions (6:00 AM–8:00 AM, 4:00 PM–6:00 PM) or opt for multi-day retreats (₹10,000–₹20,000, including accommodation).
The sprawling campus includes an Ayurvedic hospital and wellness center, where travelers can experience traditional therapies like Panchakarma (₹1,500–₹3,000 per session).
Book in advance via patanjaliyogpeeth.org, and carry comfortable clothing for sessions.

Riverside Meditation at Har Ki Pauri
Har Ki Pauri’s serene Ganges banks provide a natural setting for meditation, enhanced by the spiritual energy of the sacred ghat.
Early mornings (5:00 AM–7:00 AM) are ideal for silent meditation, where travelers can sit by the river, absorb the calming sound of flowing water, and practice mindfulness.
Local yoga instructors often lead donation-based group sessions near the ghat, focusing on techniques like Vipassana or Ganga-focused meditation to connect with the divine.
These sessions, open to all levels, encourage participants to visualize the Ganges as a source of purification, aligning with Haridwar’s spiritual ethos.
Bring a lightweight mat or shawl to sit on, and avoid crowded evening hours to maintain tranquility. Check with local vendors or homestays for session schedules.

Yoga Retreats in Nearby Rishikesh
Just 25 km from Haridwar, Rishikesh, the "Yoga Capital of the World," complements Haridwar’s spiritual offerings with world-class yoga retreats.
Centers like Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram offer immersive programs (3–7 days, ₹5,000–₹15,000) combining Hatha, Ashtanga, and Kundalini yoga with meditation and spiritual discourses.
These retreats, set against the backdrop of the Ganges and Himalayan foothills, include daily asanas, pranayama, and guided meditation sessions, often led by internationally certified instructors.
Many programs offer accommodation, vegetarian meals, and riverfront meditation, ideal for travelers seeking a deeper practice.
Book through operators like Thrillophilia or directly via ashram websites, and plan a day trip from Haridwar (45-minute drive) to blend with your spiritual journey.

• Luxury:
• • Haveli Hari Ganga (0.5 km from Har Ki Pauri): A heritage hotel in a restored haveli with Ganges views, Ayurvedic spa, and fine dining. Approx. ₹8,000–₹12,000 per night.
• • Aalia Resort (8 km from Har Ki Pauri): A luxury resort by the Ganges with modern amenities and serene surroundings. Approx. ₹10,000–₹15,000 per night.
• Mid-Range:
• • Hotel Ganga Lahari (0.3 km from Har Ki Pauri): A comfortable hotel with riverfront rooms and proximity to ghats. Approx. ₹4,000–₹6,000 per night.
• • Sagar Ganga Resort (1 km from Har Ki Pauri): Offers clean rooms, Ganges views, and vegetarian dining. Approx. ₹3,000–₹5,000 per night.
• Budget:
• • Hotel Le Roi (2 km from Har Ki Pauri): A budget-friendly option with basic amenities and easy access to attractions. Approx. ₹1,500–₹2,500 per night.

Tips: Book early during Kumbh Mela or peak pilgrimage seasons (October–March). Choose hotels near Har Ki Pauri for Aarti access. Confirm vegetarian-only policies at some properties.

• Divine Ganga Cottage (1 km from Har Ki Pauri, Rating: 4.7/5): A cozy homestay with river views, home-cooked vegetarian meals, and warm hospitality. Approx. ₹2,000–₹3,500 per night.


• Ganga Heritage Homestay (0.8 km from Har Ki Pauri, Rating: 4.6/5): Offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and spiritual guidance from hosts. Approx. ₹1,500–₹2,500 per night.


• Brij Lodge (2 km from Har Ki Pauri, Rating: 4.5/5): A simple homestay with clean rooms and proximity to ghats. Approx. ₹1,000–₹2,000 per night.

Tips: Homestays provide a spiritual and local experience. Confirm amenities like AC and Wi-Fi. Check reviews on Booking.com or Airbnb.

• Zostel Haridwar (2 km from Har Ki Pauri, Rating: 4.7/5): A vibrant hostel with dorms, private rooms, and a rooftop cafe. Ideal for backpackers. Approx. ₹500–₹1,200 per night (dorm), ₹2,000–₹3,000 (private room).


• Moustache Hostel Haridwar (1.5 km from Har Ki Pauri, Rating: 4.6/5): Offers clean dorms, a communal lounge, and spiritual activities. Approx. ₹450–₹1,000 per night (dorm).


• GoStops Haridwar (2 km from Har Ki Pauri, Rating: 4.5/5): A modern hostel with cozy dorms and a travel desk for local tours. Approx. ₹400–₹900 per night (dorm).

Tips: Hostels are great for solo travelers. Book early during festivals like Kumbh Mela. Ensure safety with lockers and 24/7 reception.

• Hoshiyarpuri (1 km from Har Ki Pauri): Famous for vegetarian Punjabi dishes like chole bhature and rajma chawal. Approx. ₹200–₹500 per person.


• Chotiwala (0.5 km from Har Ki Pauri): A legendary eatery serving North Indian vegetarian thalis and snacks. Approx. ₹150–₹400 per person.


• Mathura Walo Ki Pracheen Dukaan (0.7 km from Har Ki Pauri): Known for kheer, rabdi, and other traditional sweets. Approx. ₹100–₹300 per person.


• The Sitting Elephant at Haveli Hari Ganga (0.5 km from Har Ki Pauri): A riverside restaurant offering vegetarian Indian and continental dishes. Approx. ₹500–₹1,000 per person.


• Brijrama Palace Restaurant (0.3 km from Har Ki Pauri): A heritage dining experience with Ganges views and vegetarian cuisine. Approx. ₹600–₹1,200 per person.

Tips: Most restaurants in Haridwar are vegetarian due to the city’s spiritual nature. Reserve tables at heritage hotels. Ask for mild flavors if sensitive to spices.

Popular Shopping Items:

• • Religious Artifacts: Rudraksha beads, Ganges water, and idols of Hindu deities.
• • Ayurvedic Products: Herbal medicines, oils, and cosmetics from brands like Patanjali.
• • Handicrafts: Brassware, wooden carvings, and prayer items.
• • Clothing: Kurtas, shawls, and traditional attire like anarkali suits.
• • Sweets: Local specialties like peda and bal mithai.

Top Markets:

• • Bara Bazaar (1 km from Har Ki Pauri): A bustling market for religious items, handicrafts, and sweets. Bargaining is common.
• • Moti Bazaar (0.5 km from Har Ki Pauri): Known for jewelry, clothes, and Ayurvedic products. Vibrant and crowded.
• • Upper Road Market (1 km from Har Ki Pauri): Offers religious books, puja items, and local snacks.
• • Patanjali Yogpeeth Stores (7 km from Har Ki Pauri): Fixed-price shops for Ayurvedic products and organic goods.

Tips: Bargain for 20–40% off in local markets. Verify the authenticity of rudraksha beads. Visit Patanjali stores for quality Ayurvedic products.

Must-Try Dishes:

• • Aloo Puri: Spiced potato curry with deep-fried bread, a popular breakfast dish.
• • Kachori: Deep-fried pastries filled with lentils or peas, served with chutney.
• • Rabdi: A rich, creamy dessert made from condensed milk.
• • Jalebi: Crispy, syrupy sweets, best at local stalls near Har Ki Pauri.
• • Lassi: A refreshing yogurt-based drink, available in sweet or salted flavors.

Best Spots for Street Food:

• • Har Ki Pauri Area (0 km): Stalls near the ghats offer kachoris, puris, and sweets.
• • Bara Bazaar (1 km from Har Ki Pauri): Known for aloo puri and jalebi.
• • Kankhal Market (4 km from Har Ki Pauri): Offers local snacks like pakoras and lassi.

Tips: Choose busy stalls for fresh food. Carry bottled water for spicy snacks. Avoid street food during monsoons for hygiene.

• • Ganga Aarti Experience: Witness the spiritual Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a soul-stirring ritual with lamps and chants (free, arrive by 5:30 PM).
• • Yoga and Meditation: Join free or donation-based sessions at Shantikunj Ashram or local yoga centers (approx. ₹500–₹1,500 per session).
• • Rafting in Rishikesh: A short 25 km trip to Rishikesh for white-water rafting on the Ganges (approx. ₹1,500–₹3,000 per person, October–March).
• • Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: Experience traditional massages and therapies at centers like Patanjali Wellness (approx. ₹1,000–₹2,500 per session).
• • Wildlife Safari in Rajaji National Park: Spot elephants and leopards on a jeep safari (approx. ₹1,500–₹3,000 per jeep).

Tips: Book activities through reputable operators like Thrillophilia or local ashrams. Dress modestly for spiritual activities. Carry sunscreen for outdoor tours.

• • Local Markets: Shop at Bara Bazaar and Moti Bazaar for religious artifacts, Ayurvedic products, and handicrafts.
• • Cuisine: Savor vegetarian North Indian dishes like aloo puri, kheer, and lassi at local eateries.
• • Spiritual Events: Attend the Ganga Aarti or visit ashrams like Shantikunj for meditation and Vedic rituals.

• • Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather (15°C–25°C). Avoid summer (April–June) due to heat and monsoons (July–September) for flooding risks.
• • How to Reach:
• - By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (40 km, 1-hour drive) is the nearest, with flights from major Indian cities.
• - By Train: Haridwar Junction is well-connected to Delhi (4–5 hours), Mumbai, and Kolkata.
• - By Road: NH334 connects Haridwar to Delhi (220 km, 5–6 hours) and Rishikesh (25 km, 45 minutes).
• • Getting Around: Auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and app-based cabs (Ola/Uber) are common. Rent a private car for day trips to Rishikesh or Rajaji National Park.
• • Accommodation: Options range from budget hostels (Zostel Haridwar) to heritage hotels (Haveli Hari Ganga). Book early during Kumbh Mela or festivals.
• • Travel Tips:
• - Carry cash for small transactions and markets.
• - Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) at religious sites.
• - Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
• - Beware of touts; book tours through trusted agencies.

• • Respect religious customs; remove shoes and cover heads at temples.
• • Avoid unofficial guides or vendors offering suspicious deals.
• • Women travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and dress conservatively.

• • Rishikesh (25 km): The yoga capital of the world, known for ashrams, rafting, and Laxman Jhula.
• • Dehradun (50 km): A scenic hill city with attractions like Robber’s Cave and Sahastradhara.

Haridwar is a spiritual haven with a blend of culture, nature, and devotion, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Plan your trip to immerse yourself in its sacred charm!