Haridwar, literally translating to the Gateway (Dwar) to Lord Vishnu (Hari)! In simple words, one can say that Haridwar is the place from where one can achieve access to the Lord. This holy city is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. As per Hindu legends, this holy city has entertained the Hindu Trinity, Vishnu, Brahma, and Mahesh. Adding to its holiness is the fact that it is from Haridwar that the holy Ganges touches the plains, naming it a ‘Ganga-Dwara’ (the Gateway of Ganga). A huge number of visitors, including pilgrims flock in the city every year to take holy dip in River Ganges around ‘Har-ki-Paudi’ (a famous bathing ghat of Haridwar). With over 300 temples within its premises, Haridwar is known to be the best place for tracing the roots of Hinduism. Leaf through this article to know more about the city and places you must visit while you are here.

Har ki Paudi

The most famous as well as the most sacred of entire tourist attractions in Haridwar is the “Har ki Paudi”. Like any other ghat, it is a bathing place for devotees, but for them it holds similar reverence as the Dashashwamedh Ghat (which is located in Varanasi). According to the legends, ‘Har ki Paudi’, literally means the steps (Paudi) of Vishnu (Har), which was once visited by Lord Vishnu (Himself) and Lord Shiva. It is also believed that it is here where Lord Brahma performed the Yagna. Taking a holy dip in the Ganges around this bathing ghat is one of the major reasons which makes it a major pilgrim.

Mansa Devi Temple

A trip to Haridwar is truly incomplete without a visit to the famous Mansa Devi temple. As the name suggests, this temple is devoted to Mansa Devi- an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is perched atop the Bilwa hill in Uttarakhand. One can either take the trekking step up the temple or adventure enthusiasts can use the ropeway cable car. So, don’t miss a trip to this pious temple.

Pawan Dham Temple

Located at a distance of about 2 kilometers from the heart of Haridwar is another famous temple, the Pawan Dham Temple. This temple is believed to be very ancient and renowned for its magnificent interiors which are embellished with intricate glass-work. The temple also features extensively ornamented idols of different Gods, which makes it a must visit temple during a visit to Haridwar.

Maya Devi Temple

As the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to a goddess is the Maya Devi Temple. This magnificent temple contains the image of the Goddess, as an incarnation of Shakti or Power. One of the major highlights of this temple is that it forms one of the Shaktipeeths present in India. Besides, Maya Devi Temple is believed to be the place which became the recipient of the navel and heart of Sati (wife of Lord Shiva).

Apart from these temples, Vaishno Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Temple and Chandi Devi Temple are some of the popular places to visit in Haridwar. Book pilgrimage packages of Haridwar by visiting EaseMyTrip.com and get the best deals. For more updates, tour and travel, follow us on Google+.