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Haridwar
is situated on the right side of the bank of the holy
Ganga, and is the point where the river spreads over the
northern plains. Associated with both Lord Shiva and Lord
Vishnu, Haridwar is among the seven sacred cities of
India. It is also one of the four venues for the Kumbh
Mela, held in its magnitude every twelve years.
Essentially a religious centre which holds promise of
salvation for devotees, Haridwar is also a centre of
herbal medicine, and traditional studies at Gurukul Kangri.
There are many places of scenic beauty on the outskirts of
the town.
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It is
said that when the Gods left their footprints on the
land of Haridwar, metaphorically they also left an
indelible mark on the spiritual ethos of every Hindu –
more so, the devout, who would later follow their holy
paths all across this blessed land. Haridwar stands as
the gateway to the four pilgrimages of Uttrakhand.
Mentioned as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, Mokshadwar in the
ancient scriptures and epics, Haridwar has always
remained as a major Shaktipeeth for the devotees. Of
such significance is Haridwar in the thought of
India’s traditional Hindus that it has earned its
sobriquet of honour, `the gateway to the Gods’.
Legend has it that the holy Ganga, the holiest of all
rivers, which flows through this sacred city has
actually been sanctified by the powerful Trinity of
Hindu mythology and the centre of the pantheon – Lord
Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.
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Down
the ages, this special importance of Haridwar as the
ever-refreshing mystic venue for the purification of
the mind, body and soul gained more impetus…and today,
manifests into great events that take place here, i.e.
the memorable Kumbh Mela which happens once every 12
years and the Ardh Kumbh Mela, which comes once every
six years. Yet, beyond the mystic aura and mythology,
Haridwar casts another magic spell on the visitor.
Being one of the oldest living cities, Haridwar finds
its mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as it
weaves through the life and time stretching from the
period of Buddha to the more recent British advent. |
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Haridwar has not only remained the abode of the weary
in body, mind and spirit, but also served as a centre
for attraction for many, for learning the arts,
science and culture.Haridwar’s longstanding position
as a great source for Ayurvedic medicines and herbal
remedies as well as its unique Gurukul school of
traditional education, the scenic beauty and lush
greenery…all give the city a unique flavour and charm;
a must among the sojourn centres in a discoverer’s
itinerary of Western U.P. – A destination of all
seasons.
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Haridwar is one of the first towns where Ganga emerges
from the mountains to touch the plains. And that’s why
the water is crystal clear and cool. Lush green
forests and small ponds adorns the scenic beauty of
this holy land. The Rajaji National Park is just 10
kms from Haridwar. It’s an ideal destination for
wildlife and adventure lovers.
In the evening the ghats look breathtakingly
beautiful, as thousands of diyas and marigold flowers
float and illuminate the Holy waters. |
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Area : 12.302 sq. km.
Population : 3,48,142 (1991 census)
Altitude : 294.70 meters above sea level.
Season : Round the year.
Clothing : Summer - Cottons; Winter - Woollens
Language : Hindi & English
Local Transport : Taxis, Tongas, Tempos, Buses, Cycle-Rikshaws,
Auto-Rickshaws
STD Code : 0133 |
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Hotels in
Haridwar... |
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