Fairs & Festivals of Haridwar
Haridwar is renowned for its grand festivals and fairs, the most famous being the Kumbh Mela, which rotates between four holy cities and is celebrated every twelve years here. Millions of pilgrims gather to take a ritualistic dip in the Ganges, seeking spiritual purification. The annual Kanwar Mela is another significant event when devotees collect holy water from the Ganges to offer to Lord Shiva. Diwali and Holi are also celebrated with immense devotion, turning the city into a festival of lights and colors. The daily Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a mesmerizing ceremony of lights and prayers, is also a cherished experience for visitors.
Read more +Best Time to Visit Haridwar
The best time to visit Haridwar is between October and February, during the winter months, when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city. Summers (March to June) can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C, though festivals like the Kumbh Mela draw large crowds even in this season. Monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate to heavy rainfall, adding a lush green beauty to the region but also causing potential disruptions in travel plans.
Read more +How to Reach Haridwar
Haridwar is well-connected by
road to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Rishikesh. Regular bus services, both government and
private, operate from these cities to Haridwar. It is also accessible by private car, with good road
conditions making it a comfortable drive.
Haridwar Junction Railway
Station connects the city to various parts of India, including cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and
Kolkata. Numerous trains run daily, providing an easy and accessible way for tourists to reach
Haridwar.
The nearest airport is Jolly
Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 35 kilometers from Haridwar. Taxis and buses are available from
the airport to Haridwar, making it convenient for travelers arriving by air.
Tourist Attractions in Haridwar
Haridwar offers a range of sacred and scenic spots for visitors. Har Ki Pauri, the famous ghat where devotees gather for the Ganga Aarti, is a must-visit site that captures the spiritual essence of the city. The Mansa Devi Temple, situated atop a hill, can be reached by a cable car ride and offers stunning views of Haridwar and the surrounding hills. The Chandi Devi Temple, another popular pilgrimage site, also provides a beautiful trek for adventure enthusiasts. For nature lovers, the Rajaji National Park nearby is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants and leopards. The city also has ashrams like Parmarth Niketan, where visitors can experience spiritual teachings and yoga practices.
Read more +Location
Haridwar is located in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, India, at an altitude of about 314 meters above sea level. Situated along the banks of the Ganges River and at the foothills of the Shivalik range, Haridwar is both a geographical and spiritual gateway to the Himalayas. Its scenic beauty, combined with its rich religious heritage, makes Haridwar a compelling destination for pilgrims, nature enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.
Read more +
