Haridwar, recognized as one of the oldest living cities in India, boasts a rich history that spans from the era of Buddha to the times of the British Empire. There are mentions of Haridwar as Kapilasthana, Gangadwara, and Mayapuri in ancient Hindu scriptures, including mentions in the Mahabharata. A Hindu myth, during the Satya Yuga, King Bhagirath brought the Ganges from the sky to what is now known as Haridwar. Delhi is the nearest international airport, with excellent connections to local and international airports. Tourists routinely make a spiritual trip by booking cheap tickets to India from the USA throughout the year. Consider Tripbeam for your flight ticket booking as we have the most affordable options for flight tickets.
Haridwar
Haridwar, a remarkable city in India known as the Gateway to God, sits alongside the Ganges River. It holds deep significance in Hinduism, attracting pilgrims worldwide. Legend has it that a drop of the elixir of immortality fell at Har ki Pauri, making it highly sacred. Among the seven holiest places for Hindus, Haridwar sees a diverse crowd of pilgrims. While the vicinity of Har ki Pauri can get bustling, there’s a distinct sense of respect and sanctity in the air. Soak in the magnificence of this place, book your direct flights to Delhi from USA now.
History of Haridwar
Haridwar refers as ‘Gateway to Lord Vishnu,’ and Hari is another name for Lord Vishnu. It is because many visitors start their trek to the Badrinath temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, in Haridwar. Haridwar, a city of spiritual significance, has a vast history, surviving through various empires. Several ancient texts and manuscripts that date back to the period before Buddha mention the statement. Archaeological surveys indicate the thriving of terra cotta culture in Haridwar from 1700 BCE to 1300 BCE.
Even the ancient Chinese traveller Husang Tsang mentioned Haridwar in his travel texts. During the reign of Emperor Jahangir, an English traveller named Thomas Coryat referred to it as ‘Haridwara,’ the capital of Lord Shiva.
Things to see and to do in Haridwar :
Ganga Aarti
Ganga Aarti is a beautiful ritual at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar along the Ganga River. It combines lights and music, drawing visitors and worshippers from all over the world. Priests conduct prayers using bowls of fire, accompanied by the resonating temple bells. Visitors release ‘diyas’ and flowers into the river while mantras are chanted. The lights dancing on the flowing water create a serene ambiance, believed to be blessed by the Goddess Ganga. Explore the essence of the Ganga Aarti, consider Tripbeam.ca to book your Canada to India flight tickets. There are many cheap and affordable options for flight booking.
Visit the Mansa Devi Temple
Atop Bilwa Parvat, the Mansa Devi Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Mansa, earns the name Bilwa Tirth. Believers here consider the goddess Mansa to be a wish-fulfilling deity. Those who want their wishes fulfilled tie sacred threads to the branches of a tree inside the temple. After their wishes are fulfilled, they return to the temple to untie the thread from the tree. Once can take a cable car to arrive at the hilltop. Be careful of the many sweet-stealing monkeys. Photography is forbidden inside the temple.
Visit The Shantikunj Ashram
Shantikunj is a prominent place. People gather here for spiritual and social enlightenment. It is the hub of the All World Gayatri Pariwar. This exceptional site teaches people the right way to live and offers joy to many individuals. Shantikunj aspires to revive the traditions of ancient sages. They organise training camps to instil positive attitudes and spirituality.
Visit the Daksha Mahadev Temple
Lovers of Hindu mythology cannot skip a visit to the Daksha Mahadev Temple in Haridwar. According to the stories, Hindu Goddess Parvati (Sati) jumped into the holy fire and died after her father spurned her at this temple. A fierce battle raged between the Hindu God Shiva and her father Daksha. Other than its religious significance, this temple is a stunning piece of architecture by the side of the calmly flowing River Ganga. The temple complex also has a tiny temple dedicated to the River Ganga in its precincts. Evening arti is an elaborate affair, with ancient musical instruments and rituals in place.
Food options in Haridwar
In Haridwar, the consumption of meat and alcohol is prohibited due to its spiritual importance. They don’t even sell them to keep the city pure. But you can still enjoy tasty vegetarian food from North and South India in Haridwar.
Best shopping Places and must-buy items in Haridwar
Moti Bazaar- There are historic markets in Haridwar where one can find a variety of colourful bangles, beads, sweets, and Ayurvedic medicines.
Jwalapur Market- It offers a mix of traditional and modern items, with tempting food stalls and restaurants to satisfy your cravings.
Bara Bazaar- Bara Bazaar, Located on the railway road, sells religious and traditional products, including ornaments and affordable Ayurvedic medicines.
Concluding Statement:
To sum up, our travel guide is your go-to companion for discovering the beauty, history, and spirituality of Haridwar. Additionally, Book your air tickets to India from USA with Tripbeam for a hassle free journey to Haridwar.
