Things To Do
in Haridwār
Haridwār is a sacred city located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. It is considered one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, drawing millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. Situated along the banks of the Ganges River, Haridwār is known for its ghats where devotees perform religious rituals and take holy dips.
The city is also famous for the Kumbh Mela, a massive Hindu festival that is held every 12 years.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $20
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Har Ki Pauri to witness the serene morning Ganga Aarti. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Ganges riverbank.
Explore the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs. Visit the Mansa Devi Temple, either by foot or via the cable car for stunning views.
Return to Har Ki Pauri for the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as the lamps are floated on the river.
Take an early hike to nearby Birla Ghat and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Engage in some yoga or meditation by the riverside.
Visit the Rajaji National Park for a safari, where you can spot local wildlife. Enjoy a picnic in nature amidst lush greenery.
Watch the sunset over the Ganges, offering a perfect backdrop for photography. Enjoy a local dinner at a riverside café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spiritual significance as one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism.
- Attractive tourist destination with beautiful ghats along the Ganges River.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals, including Kumbh Mela.
- Opportunities for yoga and meditation retreats.
- Pleasant weather during certain seasons, conducive for travel.
- Crowded during peak pilgrimage seasons, leading to congestion.
- Pollution in the Ganges River and surrounding areas.
- Limited modern amenities compared to larger cities.
- Can be overwhelming for those not accustomed to religious fervor.
- Health concerns related to water quality and sanitation.
Best Activities in Haridwār
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Attend the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River
Explore the diverse flora and fauna while enjoying safaris and nature walks in this national park
Embark on a trek to the Chandi Devi Temple for panoramic views of the region
Tours
Uncover the best of Haridwār with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Haridwār
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most famous ghats in Haridwar with a mesmerizing view of the Ganga Aarti.
Situated on top of Bilwa Parvat, offering panoramic views of the city and the river Ganges.
Located on top of Neel Parvat, providing scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.
A tranquil ashram with beautiful gardens and serene surroundings, perfect for photography.
Food in Haridwār
Haridwār Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Aloo Puri is a popular dish in Haridwār, featuring deep-fried bread served with a spicy potato curry. It's a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic taste of the local cuisine. You can find this dish at street food stalls and local eateries throughout the city.
Must-Try!
Kachori Sabzi is a savory pastry filled with a spicy dal mixture and served with a tangy potato gravy. It's a beloved breakfast or snack option and can be found in various food stalls and small eateries across Haridwār.
Choley Bhature consists of spicy chickpea curry accompanied by puffy, deep-fried bread. This dish is widely available in local eateries and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Haridwār better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Hari Ki Pauri Bazaar is a bustling market known for its vibrant street food scene. Visitors can relish a variety of local delicacies such as Chaat, Samosas, and Jalebis, along with refreshing beverages like Lassi and Sugarcane Juice.
Bara Bazaar is another noteworthy spot for street food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of delicacies including Aloo Tikki, Pakoras, and traditional sweets. The aroma of freshly prepared snacks fills the air, creating an enticing culinary experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Haridwār, it is respectful to greet people with a 'Namaste' by joining your palms together and bowing slightly. This is a common traditional greeting that shows respect and humility.
Haridwār is a sacred city with many temples and religious sites. It is important to show respect when visiting these places, such as removing footwear before entering and following any specific customs or rules at each site.
When visiting Haridwār, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing out of respect for the local culture and customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Haridwār with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Haridwār
Ensure a smooth experience
In Haridwār, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in most restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service, leaving a small tip as a gesture of appreciation is considered polite.
Cash is the predominant form of payment in Haridwār. Many establishments do not accept credit cards, so it's important to carry enough cash when visiting. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing money. In some places, particularly larger hotels and tourist-oriented businesses, credit cards may be accepted, but it's always advisable to confirm beforehand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Haridwār.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for religious festivals.
Expect heavy rainfall and increased water levels in the Ganges river.
A good time to visit for pleasant weather and clear views of the surrounding mountains.
Cool temperatures; ideal for exploring the city and enjoying the local cuisine.
Haridwār at Night
Hiking in Haridwār
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just outside of Haridwar, Rajaji National Park offers scenic trails through lush forests and diverse wildlife. It's a great spot for hiking and experiencing nature.
Kankhal is a quaint town near Haridwar that features various trails for hiking amidst religious and historical sites, including the famous Daksheswar Mahadev Temple.
A short drive from Haridwar, Rishikesh has numerous hiking trails along the banks of the Ganges River and up into the hills, providing breathtaking views and spiritual ambiance.
This trek starts from Rishikesh and leads to the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, passing through beautiful landscapes and forests, making it a rewarding hiking experience.
Located about 25 kilometers from Haridwar, this trek takes you to the Chandreshwar Temple, offering a blend of adventure and spirituality with stunning panoramic views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Haridwār through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Haridwār by plane.
Located in New Delhi, approximately 230 km from Haridwār, this is the main airport serving the capital and surrounding regions.
Located in Varanasi, about 120 km from Haridwār, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 35 km from Haridwār, this airport primarily handles domestic flights but has some international connections.
Situated in Lucknow, around 400 km from Haridwār, this airport is one of the major airports in Uttar Pradesh.
Located in Amritsar, approximately 450 km from Haridwār, it provides access to various international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Haridwār, encompassing various castes and communities.
A significant minority group, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
A notable minority group with a historical presence in the area.
A smaller demographic group with various congregations and activities.
A minor but respected demographic group, known for their business acumen and cultural contributions.
Includes various other religious and ethnic communities.
The Soul of Haridwār
Discover the essence of Haridwār through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in Haridwār, with a large following among locals. Many matches are played in local grounds and the sport fosters community spirit.
Football is gaining popularity in Haridwār with increasing participation from youth. Local clubs often organize tournaments and events to promote the sport.
Kabbadi is a traditional sport that is widely played and enjoyed in Haridwār, often during local festivals and community gatherings.
Athletics is promoted through schools and colleges in Haridwār, with events such as running, long jump, and javelin throw being popular among students.
Traditional wrestling, known as 'Kushti', is a popular sport in Haridwār, with akharas (wrestling schools) where practitioners train and compete.
Badminton has seen a rise in popularity, with many young athletes taking part in local competitions and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haridwār.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Haridwār is a vegetarian-friendly destination, with numerous eateries and food stalls offering an array of vegetarian delicacies ranging from traditional Thalis to street food snacks like Paneer Pakoras and Dahi Vadas.
While vegan options may be limited in some establishments, many restaurants and street food vendors in Haridwār offer vegan-friendly dishes such as Chole Bhature prepared without ghee or dairy, as well as fruit chaat and flavored rice dishes.
Visitors with a gluten-free diet can savor dishes like Sabudana Khichdi, fresh fruit juices, and roasted corn available at various street food stalls and select restaurants in Haridwār that cater to dietary restrictions.