If you want to embark on a spiritual and cultural journey, Haridwar can be your next destination. Although it is popular as a pilgrimage spot, there are plenty of things to do in Haridwar for every kind of traveler. The city receives hundreds and thousands of tourists every year from all over the country as well as the world not just because of its heritage charm, but also because of the laid-back life and peaceful ashrams. From temple hopping and trekking to dips in the holy water and rafting in the wild waters, tourists have a wide range of activities to choose from.
16 Best Things To Do In Haridwar
If you are wondering what to do in Haridwar on your spiritual trip then here are some interesting things that you must not miss out on while holidaying here. Once you reach this holy city, it is easy to lose yourself in the tides of people that flow through the city every day so it is important to fix an itinerary before your intended visit. There are many activities in Hardiwar one can take part in and enjoy their visit to this holy place.
- Spiritual Bath – Dip In Holy Waters
- Praying – Attaining Spirituality
- Temple Hopping – Soulful Experience
- Meditation And Yoga – Experience Nirvana
- Ayurvedic Treatments – Self Heal
- Birdwatching And Photography Tour – For Nature’s Lovers
- Wildlife Safari – For Adventure Buffs
- Shopping – Extravagant Travelers
- Bungee Jumping – Adrenaline Rush
- Mountain Biking – Seek Adventure
- Ziplining – Bird’s Eye View
- Waterfall Rappeling – Wonderful Experience
- Rafting – Seek Thrill
- Crystal World – Spend An Action-Packed Day
- Devprayag Sightseeing – Soak Up The Peace
- Rishikesh Tour – Indulge In Exciting Adventures
1. Spiritual Bath – Dip In Holy Waters
It would be a cardinal sin to come to Haridwar and not take a dip in Bramhakund at Har-ki-Pauri ghat. More than religious reasons, being a part of hordes of devotees to take a dip in the cold Ganga water is an experience in itself, especially early in the morning. It definitely tops the list of things to do in Haridwar for Indians and foreigners.
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2. Praying – Attaining Spirituality
The Ganga arti is performed at the same Har-ki-Pauri ghat in the evening and is truly a spectacle to behold. A number of priests chant prayers in chorus while manoeuvring the giant artis in a synchronized fashion, while hundreds of decorated diyas float in the river. Witnessing this grand event is definitely one of the top things to do in Haridwar at night.
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3. Temple Hopping – Soulful Experience
Since Haridwar is a religious site and a heritage city, there are plenty of temples in Haridwar to visit. Chandi Devi temple, Daksheshwara Mahadev temple, Maya Devi temple, Vaishno Devi temple and Mansa Devi temple are some of the most popular ones. Even if your purpose to visit this city is not its temple, you must pay a visit to the most popular ones.
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4. Meditation And Yoga – Experience Nirvana
India is the birthplace of yoga and this holy city is the hub. As a result, yoga and meditation are some of the most popular things to do in Haridwar and Rishikesh, especially for those in search of inner peace and enlightenment. There are plenty of ashrams scattered across these two cities that provide the perfect spiritual getaway for those who seek it. In this city, Saptrishi ashram is one of the more popular ones which houses 42 cottages that are lent out to devotees and enthusiasts.
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5. Ayurvedic Treatments – Self Heal
Are you still looking for awesome things to do in Haridwar and Rishikesh? Being historically seeped in its cultural roots, Haridwar is one of the best places to receive ayurvedic treatment. If you want to indulge in the ancient methods of healing, visiting a certified ayurvedic clinic in Haridwar should be on your things to-do list. Aurovalley asharam, Santosh Puri asharam, and Patanjali ashrams are some of the most popular ones in the city.
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6. Birdwatching And Photography Tour – For Nature’s Lovers
If you are wondering what else to do in Haridwar that’s different and unique, then a visit to the Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is definitely a must. Located 3.5 km away from the city, this quaint place is a home to diverse migratory birds every winter. If you want to lose yourself in the soothing music of the Himalayas or migratory birds, it’s the place for you. This is one of the best things to see in Haridwar.
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7. Wildlife Safari – For Adventure Buffs
Another interesting thing to see in Haridwar is Rajaji National Park which is spread across 1,150sq km and located around 10 km from Haridwar. There are two gates: the Chandi Devi Entry Gate is near Haridwar while the Kunao Entry Gate is near Rishikesh. A visit to this national park is the perfect answer to those who want to know what to do in Haridwar besides religious and spiritual activities in Haridwar.
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8. Shopping – Extravagant Travelers
This is last on the list since shopping is really not one of the prime things to do in Haridwar owing to the city’s core religious roots. However, if you are one of those travelers who simply cannot go home without a bag full of souvenirs, there are enough markets to quench your thirst. Four major bazaars namely: Moti Bazar, Jwalapur, Bara Bazar and Kankhal are scattered across the city selling mostly handicrafts, religious curios, and ayurvedic medicines.
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9. Bungee Jumping – Adrenaline Rush
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Looking for a thrilling activity in Haridwar? Well, you will be surprised to know that Haridwar is famous for its adventure activities like bungee jumping. It is not only a spiritual hub but also offers a variety of exciting activities to indulge in. So, if you are looking for a fun weekend getaway then head to Haridwar and get ready to treat your adventure soul
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10. Mountain Biking – Seek Adventure
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Want to explore Haridwar and Rishikesh in a different way? Well, you can opt for mountain biking which will make you familiar with the untrodden paths and lanes of the cities. Hire a mountain bike, wear sports shoes & helmet, and get ready to rush down the lanes of Haridwar with your adventurous friends. Don’t miss out on these activities as it is one of the best things to do in Haridwar.
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11. Ziplining – Bird’s Eye View
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Another amazing activity that you can opt for is ziplining. This activity lets you savor a bird’s-eye view of the whole Haridwar. Imagine yourself rushing against the wind and getting a mesmerizing view of the River Ganges! Won’t it amazing to try this out? So, get ready to explore Haridwar with this super-adventurous activity.
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12. Waterfall Rappeling – Wonderful Experience
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You might not have known this before but Haridwar gives a chance to experience waterfall rappeling on the hilly terrains. Ropes and safety gear are tied around you to avoid any mishappenings. You go slow with the rush of water and experience some of the best moments of your life when the water hits your face.
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13. Rafting – Seek Thrill
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Who has not heard about river rafting in Rishikesh & Haridwar? This is spot is now commonly famous for this activity which gives a chance to explore River Ganges in its extreme flow from Rishikesh to Haridwar. You are decked with all the important safety gear and ropes so that you don’t fall down. Almost every year, thousands of youngsters travel to Haridwar to indulge in this activity, especially in summer. So, make sure that you opt for river rafting as it is one of the best things to do in Haridwar & Rishikesh.
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14. Crystal World – Spend An Action-Packed Day
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Spread over 18 acres, Crystal World is a pe3rfect refuge for families as well as kids. While featuring 40 rides, a theme park, a waterpark, and museums, this wonderland has everything to make your day. Moreover, a food court of also there to satiate your hunger while you enjoy some of the best rides and click memorable pictures. Make sure to visit Interactive Art Museum and India’s Celebrity Museum where you can get amazing clicks. So, if you are wondering what to do in Haridwar for the entire day, here is your stop!
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15. Devprayag Sightseeing – Soak Up The Peace
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If you want to give an edge to your overall vacation, spare some time for Devprayag which is around 99 km from Haridwar. Immersed in natural beauty, history, culture, and sheer serenity, this place has a unique charm. Make sure to reach in the morning in order to enjoy a sightseeing tour that may include Neer Gaddu Waterfall, Alaknanda Bhagirathi Sangam, Raghunath Temple, Vashist cave, and more such places. After a fun-packed day, you’ll surely end up with numerous memories.
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16. Rishikesh Tour – Indulge In Exciting Adventures
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Architectural marvels, serene temples, and a plethora of adventure opportunities, Rishikesh makes an ideal place to relax your mind, soul, and beauty. The place features a myriad of charming elements to lend you a wholesome experience. While thrill-seekers can try their hands at bungee jumping, river rafting, and trekking, the ones who simply wish to relax can pay a visit to some temples and cultural sites as well. Some of the best attractions that you can include in your itinerary are Rajaji National Park, Laxman Jhula And Ram Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, The Beatles Ashram, Geeta Bhawan, and Vashishta Gufa. On the whole, this place will surely give you everything that you are looking for.
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Haridwar welcomes various types of tourists and travelers throughout the years. You can say it is the laid-back and old-town charm of this place that attracts people, but everyone has a different reason to plan a trip to Haridwar. So, if you are looking for some exciting activities, make sure that you include all these things to do in Haridwar. What are you waiting for? Get ready to plan a trip to Haridwar and experience all the interesting things on your own.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Haridwar
Which is better Haridwar or Rishikesh?
Haridwar and Rishikesh have no comparison at all as both the cities are known for their individual specialities. Tourists prefer Rishikesh as they enjoy natural bliss along with river rafting which adds the spark of thrill and adventure to their vacation. However, tourists prefer to travel to Haridwar for the religious and spiritual impact it lays on their minds and body.
What we can buy from Haridwar?
Some of the things that are a must-buy from Haridwar include old coins for your loved ones, stone Shaligrams as a souvenir of Haridwar, pickles, murabba for those who love to relish them, ayurvedic herbs, bel and Buransh squash that is very famous in Uttarakhand, walking sticks, rudraksha mala, and brass puja items for those who preach religious customs.
Will it be safe to join the Ganga aarti in Haridwar during COVID times?
It is suggested to maintain social distancing yet if you are fully vaccinated and abiding by all the rules and regulations necessary to prevent catching the virus then you can join in the Ganga aarti. Ganga aarti is one of the most religious ways for those who preach God and want to seek blessings.
Why is Haridwar called so?
Haridwar stands for ” The Gateway to Lord Vishnu”. In order to reach Badrinath, one of the four Char Dhams, with a temple of Lord Vishnu, Haridwar is a typical place to start a pilgrim’s journey. Therefore, the name Haridwar.
Which city is close to Haridwar and is also on the bank of Ganga?
Har Ki Pauri Ghat is a holy bank on the river Ganga and is considered to be one of the must-visit places near Haridwar. Located at a distance of about 2 kilometres from Haridwar Junction Railway Station, this revered place is a major landmark of the holy city of Haridwar.
What is Haridwar famous for?
Haridwar is primarily known for its pilgrim sites, adventurous activities, and serene sightseeing places. One of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Haridwar; Pavan Dham is famous for its unique temple architecture and craftsmanship. The temple is also famous for its elaborately adorned idols. The soulful aartis on sacred ghats will definitely make one's day.
How many days are enough for Haridwar?
Usually, a week is enough for anyone to visit all the famous places in Haridwar. Haridwar is not a very big city so this much time is sufficient for anyone to visit all the temples and the river Ganges.
Is Haridwar safe?
The road conditions in Haridwar largely remain unaffected during the monsoons. So, it is pretty safe travelling to Haridwar in a personal vehicle in the day as well as at night. However, common sense is always important to keep oneself out of trouble.
What is the best time to visit Haridwar?
The right time to visit would be February, March, August – October. The summer months between March and June when the days get hot but the nights remain pleasant. One way to cool off is by taking a dip in the holy Ganges. In July there is a festival called Savan where thousands of people flock to Haridwar. So, if you want to explore the best places to visit in Haridwar then visit in these months.
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A journalism graduate with a love for reading, writing, and travel, Kiran has trekked through various offbeat paths in the Himalayas. She writes travel stories and indulges in landscape photography every now and then, which, considering where you’re reading this, makes perfect sense.
