Haridwar’s top 5 must-visit attractions for first-time visitors

Haridwar is not only a city but is an experience. The city in Uttarakhand is also known as the gateway to the Himalayas and is among the seven holiest cities in India. Set along the banks of the Ganges, it is an important destination for Hindus across the globe. Lakhs of visitors every year come to Haridwar in search of spiritual enlightenment and peace.

Let’s have a look at Haridwar’s top 5 must-visit attractions for first-time visitors:
Har Ki Pauri: Har Ki Pauri is a must-visit iconic landmark in Haridwar. It is a sacred ghat set on the banks of the Ganges and as per religious beliefs, it is the place where Lord Vishnu left his footprint. Watching the evening Ganga Arti is a quintessential experience here. Watching hundreds of earthen lamps float down the river is a surreal sight!


Mansa Devi Temple: Mansa Devi Temple is an unmissable attraction in Haridwar. The temple is set on the Bilwa Parvat of the Shivalik Hills. The temple is among major pilgrimage sites in Haridwar dedicated to Goddess Mansa, which is a form of Shakti. It is said that the temple fulfills the wishes of devotees. The trek up the hill offers scenic views of the city and the Ganges River.

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Chandi Devi Temple: Next must-visit attraction here is Chandi Devi Temple. Set on top of the Neel Parvat, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi. One can reach the temple by a steep trek or a cable car ride. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

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Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar: Legend has it that the Sapt Rishi Ashram is built on the spot where seven great sages meditated once. The Sapt Sarovar here is a sacred water body, which is believed to have been divided into seven streams. It was done so that the sages don’t get disturbed during their penance.

Bharat Mata Mandir: The Bharat Mata Mandir is another prominent and unique temple dedicated to Mother India. The temple has several storeys wherein each floor is dedicated to different deities and freedom fighters, and this is what makes it different. The temple was built by Swami Satyamitranand Giri, and offers a stunning view of Haridwar from its top floor.