Literally translated, Haridwar means the
Gateway to the abode of Gods'. Haridwar, 214
km northeast of Delhi, is at the base of the Shivalik
hills, where the Ganga, coming down from the mighty
Himalayas, meets the plains. Amongst the many pilgrimage
spots that are situated along the length of the holy
Ganga, Haridwar, perhaps, is the holiest in the land.
Its long history, which goes back to pre-historic times,
has lent it many names. In Hindu mythology, it is known
as Kapilsthan. Legend has it, that the Suryavanshi Prince
Bhagirath, performed penance here, to salvage the souls
of his ancestors, who had perished, due to the curse
of the sage Kapila. The penance was answered, and the
river Ganga trickled forth from Lord Shiva's locks,
and its bountiful waters revived the sixty thousand
sons of King Sagara. Amongst its other names, are Gangadwar,
and Tapovan. Known also as 'Mayapuri' in the Puranas,
it is mentioned in the memoirs of the celebrated Chinese
traveler, Hieun Tsang.
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’.
According to the myth attached to Haridwar,
drops of nectar churned out from the primordial ocean,
fell at the four sites of the Kumbh fair, which included
Haridwar. The Kumbh, and the Ardh Kumbh fairs are grand
events, when millions of devoted Hindus take a holy
dip in the sacred river Ganga.
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.
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 is also a centre of Ayurveda
(herbal medicine), and traditional studies at Gurukul
Kangri. There are many places of scenic beauty on the
outskirts of the town.
Places to Visit :
Har-ki-Pauri :
This is one of the most famous bathing ghats at Haridwar.
The best time to visit this spot, is at sunset, when
you can see the 'Aarti' of Ganga being performed. A
daily ritual, it is a breathtaking sight, as thousands
of earthen lamps light up the night.
Bhimganga Tank :
On the way to Rishikesh, this tank is said to have been
made by Bhim, with a jab of his knee, when the Pandavas
were going to the Himalayas through Haridwar.
Canal Centenary Bridge :
Located near Har-ki-Pauri, this bridge commands a beautiful
view of the canal, and all the ghats.
Parmarth Ashram :
About six kms, on the way to Rishikesh, is this Ashram,
housing a beautiful image of Goddess Durga.
Manasadevi Temple :
Situated on the Vilwa Parvat, it can be reached on foot,
by road, or through the ropeway.
Chandi Devi :
Across the main Ganga river, on the other bank, is the
Neel Parvat, on top of which is the Chandi Devi temple.
The summit can be reached, after trekking for about
3 km on the hill.
Daksha Mahadev Temple and Sati Kund
:
Located at Kankhal, which is one of the five sacred
places around Haridwar, the site has a story attached
to it. Legend has it, that Daksh Prajapati, Sati's father,
performed a yagna at this place. He did not invite Lord
Shiva. Sati, feeling insulted, consequently, burnt herself
in the Yagna Kund, here.
Pawan Dham :
The Ashram, here, is famous for its Hanuman temple,
built with pieces of glass.
Travel Information :
-
Rail : Haridwar is well
connected to Howrah (1438 kms), Bombay (1574 kms),
Delhi (199 kms), Lucknow (475 kms), Agra (365 kms).
-
Road : Haridwar is also
accessible from all major Places within the Country.
-
Air : The nearest airports
are Dehradun, Jolly Grant, Bhaniawala which are
connected to Delhi and Lucknow.
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