One
of the most revered pilgrimages according Hindu mythology, Haridwar, is also
a most visited pilgrimage by the Hindus from all over the world. Haridwar is
situated on the right side of the bank of the holy northern plains. Both
Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu have been associated with this place. Haridwar is
among the seven most sacred cities of India.
The Kumbh Mela, held every twelve years, is a famous and religious fair of
Haridwar, is flanked by more than a million devotees. Haridwar is also known
for herbal medicine and traditional studies at the Kangri gurukul. The place
has a pristine beauty and makes the mind and soul free of cares of the
world, if the devotee is really inclined towards the religious sides of the
city.
Major temples and attractions
Har ki Pauri :
Bhatrihari, it is said, had come to Haridwar to meditate on the banks of
the Ganga. Moreover, there is a belief that King Vikramaditya had built the
temple in memory of his brother Bhatrihari. During the Maha-Kumbh (after
every 12 years) and Ardh Kumbh (after every 6 years) the ghat becomes a
special place to bathe in the Ganges, since it is believed that having
bathed here people can get rid of all his sins.
Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar
Mythologically seven sages (Sapt rishi) were in deep meditation and Ganga,
not to disturb them, split herself in seven streams (sapt sarovar) around
them.
Mansa Devi Temple :
Being
situated at the top of the Bilwa Parwat, it needs the ropeway and the
brightly colored cable cars to take devotees to the Mansa Devi temple.
Chandi Devi Temple :
Built in1929 A.D by the King of Kashmir-Suchat Singh, the Chandi Devi
temple is situated at the top of Neel Parvat on river Ganga's banks. It is
believed that the main statue was established by the Adi Shankaracharya in
8th century AD.
Maya Devi Temple :
MayaDevi is known as one of the Siddhapeethas and also the Adhisthatri Devi
of Haridwar. It is believed that the heart of goddess Sati (Lord Shiva's
first wife), had fallen here.
Daksha Mahadev Temple :
The Daksha Mahadeva temple is situated to the south of the Kankhal town and
is a respected and revered place. Mythologies have it that King Daksha
Prajapati (father of Sati) performed Yagya at this place to which he didn't
invite Lord Shiva (mahadev). This led to a feeling of insult for Mahadev's
wife Sati and she burnt herself in the Yagya Kund (the fire of Yagya).
Getting angry of this, Mahadeva's followers killed the King. Later Lord
Shiva had brought him back to life.
Other
Places of Interest
Bharat Mata Mandir, Doodhadhari Temple, Shahi Gurudwara, Jairam
Ashram.Kanva Rishio Ashram, PawanDham, Bhooma Niketan, Vaishnav Devi Temple,
Bilkeshwar Mahadev
How to go there
Air : The nearest airport is Jolly grant, journey via
Delhi is highly preferred.
Rail : Haridwar station is connected to all major
stations through the broad gauge.
Road : National highway No.45 passes through Haridwar.
The road network is excellent and the journey is quite smooth.
