HARIDWAR TOURISM

One of the first places to visit in Haridwar is the holy ghat of Har Ki Pauri – which means Lord Shiva’s steps – located on the banks of the Ganga River. Interestingly, the Vedic literature mentions that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu visited this place, and you can also see a large footprint on a wall that is said to be of Lord Vishnu. Also known as Gangadwar, this is the place where the Ganga River first leaves the mountains and enters the plain. Har Ki Pauri is considered to be the most sacred ghat in the entire city where the mythological bird Garuda accidentally dropped Amrit (elixir), and it is believed that if you take a dip here, then all your sins get washed away. The Ganga aarti held at the ghat at dusk and dawn attracts devotees in large numbers.

Kankhal, one of the Panch Tirths in Haridwar, is a small colony that is home to the renowned Daksha Mahadev Temple and Maa Anandamayi Ashram. The former is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited by innumerable devotees, especially during the holy month of Sawan. The latter is a spiritual centre, built in honour of the Bengali mystic leader Maa Anandamayi. Kankhal is also home to the holy ghat of Kushavarta, which is one of the Panch Tirths and the famous Patanjali Yog Peeth that is probably the largest yoga centres in the world. Pardeshwar Mahadev Temple in Harihar Ashram, located on Kankhal Road, is famous for the unique Parad Shivalinga that is made from 151 kg mercury.

Pawan Dham, an ancient temple and a social non-profit organization, is managed by the Geeta Bhawan Trust Society of Moga. Along with the elaborate architecture, stunning interiors and exquisite glasswork, the beautiful idols adorned with precious jewels and stones are the highlights of this revered site. The main attraction is the beautiful Lord Krishna idol that is seen preaching his disciple Arjun. Owing to the intricate mirror and glasswork, the temple is often referred to as the Glass Temple that enjoys great fame not only among Hindu devotees, but also among local and foreign tourists.