Haridwar Tour Package

Description

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Haridwar?

• Best Time: The best time to visit Haridwar is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

• Avoid Summer: The summer months (April to June) can be quite hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F).

• Monsoon: The monsoon season (July to September) should also be avoided due to heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Haridwar?

• Har Ki Pauri: The most famous ghat, known for the evening Ganga Aarti and its spiritual significance.

• Chandi Devi Temple: A hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi, accessible by a cable car or a short trek.

• Mansa Devi Temple: Another popular hilltop temple offering panoramic views of Haridwar, accessible by a ropeway or a short trek.

• Shanti Kunj: A peaceful ashram for meditation and spiritual retreats.

• Maya Devi Temple: One of the three Siddh Peeths in Haridwar, dedicated to Goddess Maya.

• Bharat Mata Mandir: A temple dedicated to Mother India, showcasing the map of India carved into the floor.

3. What is the significance of Har Ki Pauri?

• Har Ki Pauri is one of the most sacred ghats in Haridwar, believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu left his footprints. It is the site of the famous Ganga Aarti performed every evening, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists.

• Pilgrims come here to take a holy dip in the Ganges, which is believed to cleanse sins.

4. What is Ganga Aarti, and when is it performed?

• Ganga Aarti is a devotional ritual where priests perform prayers to the river Ganga using fire-lit lamps, incense, and chanting of mantras.

• It is held twice daily: at dawn and evening, with the evening aarti being the more popular one at Har Ki Pauri.

5. Is it safe to travel to Haridwar?

• Yes, Haridwar is generally safe for tourists. It is a popular pilgrimage and tourist destination, but like any crowded place, it's advisable to be cautious of pickpockets.

• Be careful while taking the holy dip in the Ganges, especially during festivals, as the currents can be strong.

6. How far is Haridwar from Delhi?

• The distance from Delhi to Haridwar is approximately 230 km (about 143 miles).

• By train, it takes about 5-6 hours.

• By road, the journey takes around 6-7 hours.

• By air, the nearest airport is in Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport), about 35 km from Haridwar.

7. What are the nearby places to visit from Haridwar?

• Rishikesh (25 km away): Known for yoga, rafting, and spiritual retreats.

• Maya Devi Temple: Another important temple in Haridwar, dedicated to the goddess Maya.

• Rajaji National Park: Located 12-15 km away, it's a great spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

8. What are the festivals celebrated in Haridwar?

• Kumbh Mela: Held every 12 years (next in 2025), it's the biggest religious gathering in the world, where millions of pilgrims bathe in the Ganges.

• Makar Sankranti: Celebrated in January with a major ritual dip in the Ganges.

• Diwali: The festival of lights is celebrated with grandeur in Haridwar, with beautiful decorations and a special Ganga Aarti.

• Ganga Dussehra: A festival that takes place in May or June, marking the descent of the Ganga to Earth.

9. Is there any dress code for visiting temples in Haridwar?

• Modest clothing is required when visiting temples. It's advisable to cover your shoulders and knees.

• Women should avoid wearing revealing clothes, and it’s better to wear traditional or simple attire.

• Footwear is usually removed before entering the temples and ghats.

10. Can I do shopping in Haridwar?

• Yes, there are many markets and shops selling religious artifacts, handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.

• Har Ki Pauri and Maya Devi Temple areas have local markets where you can buy items like rudraksha beads, prayer shawls, brass idols, and more.

11. What are the accommodation options in Haridwar?

• Budget: There are many budget hotels and guesthouses near Har Ki Pauri and other key attractions.

• Mid-Range: Many 2-3 star hotels offer comfortable amenities.

• Luxury: Some luxury hotels and resorts are located slightly away from the ghats, offering more tranquility and scenic views.

• Ashrams: For a more spiritual experience, you can stay at various ashrams in Haridwar that offer rooms for pilgrims.

12. Can I find vegetarian food in Haridwar?

• Yes, Haridwar is a vegetarian city, and you will find a variety of pure vegetarian restaurants and dhabas (local eateries).

• Many restaurants serve traditional Indian meals, including north-Indian dishes, sweets, and local specialties like kachaudi, aloo puri, and pind petha (a local sweet).

13. What is the significance of the Ganges River in Haridwar?

• The Ganges River holds immense religious significance in Hinduism. It is believed that a bath in the Ganges cleanses one's sins and is a gateway to salvation. Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places where pilgrims come to perform rituals, including pujas (prayers) and the pind daan (rites for ancestors).

14. How can I participate in the Ganga Aarti?

• Visitors can participate in the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. It is open to all, and you can join the devotees in chanting mantras and witnessing the sacred ritual. You can also make offerings to the river, such as flowers and diyas (lamps).

15. Is it possible to visit Haridwar in a day trip?

• Yes, Haridwar is close enough to Delhi (about 6-7 hours by road) for a day trip or a quick visit. However, to experience the spiritual atmosphere and major attractions like Ganga Aarti, a 2-3 day stay would be more fulfilling.