Haridwar Travel Guide
Haridwar, where the Ganges first reaches the plains, is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities and home to the evening lamp ceremony at Har Ki Pauri. One to two days covers the ghats and temples, and it pairs naturally with nearby Rishikesh, about 20 kilometres upriver.
By Experience My India Editorial Team · Reviewed by Experience My India Editorial Team · Updated 1 Sept 2026
Government-approved operatorApproved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
About Haridwar
Haridwar sits where the Ganges leaves the Himalaya and first reaches the plains, and it is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. Its centrepiece is Har Ki Pauri, the ghat where the river is believed to have first touched earth, and the setting for a nightly aarti when priests set thousands of lamps adrift on the water. Haridwar is also the traditional starting point for the Char Dham pilgrimage further into the Himalaya, and periodically hosts its own Kumbh Mela.
Har Ki Pauri
The main ghat and the site of the nightly Ganga aarti, Haridwar's best-known ritual.
Mansa Devi Temple
A hilltop temple reached by cable car, with views over the town and river.
Chandi Devi Temple
A second hilltop shrine across the river, also reached by cable car.
Best time to visit, and pairing with Rishikesh
September to April is comfortable, with the winter months cool and clear; expect the town's largest crowds during the Kumbh Mela years and around major festivals. Haridwar sits about 20 kilometres from Rishikesh, and most travellers see the two together: Haridwar for the pilgrim atmosphere and the aarti, Rishikesh for the ashrams and adventure.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Har Ki Pauri?
The main ghat at Haridwar, believed to be where the Ganges first touches the plains, and the site of the nightly aarti when lamps are set adrift on the river.
How many days do you need in Haridwar?
One to two days covers the ghats and the hilltop temples; most travellers pair it with a longer stay in nearby Rishikesh.
Is Haridwar the same as Rishikesh?
No, they are separate towns about 20 kilometres apart, though closely linked; Haridwar is the more traditionally pilgrim-focused of the two.
Can I get to Haridwar directly from Delhi?
Yes, by road or rail; it is a common gateway for a wider Uttarakhand or Char Dham trip.
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