Haridwar is one of the most revered pilgrimage spots on Indian soil in Uttarakhand. Known as the “Gateway to the Gods,” Haridwar is a city steeped with spirituality and culture that attracts millions of devotees and tourists from every nook and corner of the world. With its ancient temples, sacred ghats, bustling markets, and serene ashrams, Haridwar presents an evocative blend of religious significance and natural beauty. So, what are you waiting for? Read ahead to know all the best places to visit in Haridwar in one day.
Places To Visit In Haridwar In One Day
There are many places to visit in Haridwar. Here is a well-curated list of handpicked places that you can cover in a single day.
1. Har Ki Pauri
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Start with the most famous and holy ghat, Har Ki Pauri. The name of this ghat, when translated, means “Steps of Lord Shiva.” It is said that Lord Vishnu had left his footprints here. A serene morning aarti at this ghat will rejuvenate your senses with hymns and the sight of diyas floating on the Ganges. It is believed that it is the precise spot where the Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains. The ghat is on the west bank of the Ganga Canal, where the Ganga is diverted just to the north.
Location: Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Must Read: Mansa Devi Temple
2. Breakfast At Mohan Ji Puri Wale
Proceed to Mohan Ji Puri Wale, a traditional eatery, for a sumptuous breakfast. This iconic eatery is famous for its crisp, spicy aloo-sabzi puris and sweet halwa. A hearty little breakfast there will make you strong and refreshed to face the rest of the day. Mohan Ji Puri Wale Has an essential experience in Haridwar. Our menu has a lot of traditional dishes, a range of snacks and sweets, but we are famed for our aloo-puri. Variety of Sweets Gulab Jamun, Jalebi, Barfi, Rasgulla, Ladoo, and Halwa, very nice aroma, and Friendly is very Staff, and in Festive season.
Location: Besides Yogi Vihar Colony, Khanna Nagar, Haridwar, Jwalapur, Uttarakhand 249407
Entry Fee: NA
3. Mansa Devi Temple
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Take a ropeway ride to the Mansa Devi Temple beside the Bilwa Parvat. During this one-way ropeway ride to this temple, one finds panoramic views of the town of Haridwar and the Ganges through the temple itself. The deity in this temple is Goddess Mansa Devi, who is believed to have the power to fulfil all human desires.
Location: Bilwa Parvat, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249403
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Suggested Read: Resorts Near Haridwar
4. Chandi Devi Temple
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From Mansa Devi, proceed to the Chandi Devi Temple on Neel Parvat. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi and can be reached by a picturesque trek or another cable car ride. It’s one of the important pilgrimage centres that offer spiritual solace and breathtaking views of the surroundings. Goddess Chandi, also known as Chandika, is the presiding deity of the temple. The story of the origin of Chandika is as follows: Long time ago, the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha had captured the kingdom of the god-king of heaven – Indra and thrown the gods from Swarga (heaven).
Location: Neel, Parvat, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408
Entry Fees: Free Entry
5. Hoshiyar Puri
Head for lunch at Hoshiyar Puri. It’s a great platform offering North Indian cuisine with delicious food. This famous thali provides an apt break before getting on with the exploration. Find the most captivating local delicacies of Uttarakhand cuisine here.
Address: Upper Road, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Suggested Read: Temples In Haridwar
6. Parmarth Ashram
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After lunch, head to Parmarth Ashram, a top spiritual retreat for the best value bundles of yoga and contemplation. The gardens and the generally peaceful atmosphere make the place perfect for relaxation and reflection. Participate in their afternoon yoga session or stroll quietly across the ashram grounds.
Location: Kankhal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408
Entry Fees: Free Entry
7. Shantikunj Ashram
Image Credit: Ken Wieland for Wikimedia Commons
Another big ashram to be visited is Shantikunj, which imparts spiritual education and indulges in research-related activities. This ashram was founded by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, who offers yoga, meditation and even Ayurveda courses. This is an excellent centre for spiritual rejuvenation with a very peaceful environment.
Location: Haridwar-Dehradun Road, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249411
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Suggested Read: Restaurants In Haridwar
8. Daksha Mahadev Temple
Image Credit: Ekabhishek for Wikimedia Commons
Another place to visit is the Daksha Mahadev Temple, located at Kankhal. This ancient temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva and is associated with the self-immolation legend of Sati. Integrate architectural and spiritual grace that fascinates visitors to see this temple. Standing next to the main temple is the Das Mahavidya temple dedicated to the Mahavidyas. It is a venue for devotees of Devi to congregate for special pujas during the Navratri celebrations.
Location: Kankhal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408
Entry Fees: Free Entry
9. Evening at Har Ki Pauri for Ganga Aarti
Return to Har Ki Pauri for the evening Ganga Aarti as the day draws close. Each evening at sunset, the priests of Har ki Pauri perform the Ganga Aarti over an old tradition. Lights are set on the water to drift downstream. Many people gather on both banks of the Ganga river to sing Ganga Aarti praises. At that time, the priests held large Fire Bowls in their hands, rang bells at the temples situated at the ghat, and the priests chanted chants. People flick Diya (made of leaves and flowers) into the river Ganges to symbolise hopes and wishes.
Location: Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401
Entry Fees : Free Entry
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Haridwar
10. Dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant
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Wind up the day with dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant, which specialises in traditional Indian and Garhwali food. It is the perfect way to cap your day in Haridwar. Order their special thali, which includes a taste of most of the local dishes.
Address: Near Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Shopping In Haridwar
Every visit to Haridwar is incomplete without a bit of shopping. The city markets offer various items, from religious artefacts to local handicrafts.
1. Moti Bazaar
Moti Bazaar is another popular shopping destination in Haridwar. It contains many souvenirs, jewellery and Ayurvedic products. These small lanes are lined by shops that sell wonderful and unique items, making them perfect gifts and souvenirs.
Timings: 10 AM to 11 PM
Location: Near Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401
Suggested Read: Temples In Rishikesh
2. Kankhal Market
Kankhal Market is famous for its wide variety of religious items. These include various rudraksha beads, idols of several Gods and Goddesses, holy books, etc. Of course, traditional attire and accessories are also sold here. So, shopaholics who have a great interest in spirituality and religious things must go and explore this place.
Timings: 10 AM to 11 PM
Location: Kankhal, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249408
Further Read: Haridwar Vs Rishikesh
This rich, spiritual, and culturally historic city of Haridwar satisfies even if one has a day to spend there. An intelligently planned itinerary ensures visits to all the major sites of interest, indulges in local cuisine and rejoices in the city’s vibrant culture. So, pack your bags and steep yourself in the spiritual atmosphere to prepare for a memorable winter trip to Haridwar.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Haridwar In One Day
What can be the best time to visit Haridwar?
The best time to visit Haridwar is from November to February. During this period, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it appropriate for visiting the city's spiritual and natural places of interest.
Are there any special events or festivals in Haridwar during winter?
One major winter festival is Makar Sankranti, which is celebrated in January. The sun moving into the Capricorn zodiac is viewed as believable and noted with much activity. Devotees take a holy bath in the Ganges River, followed by many cultural activities—the Makar Sankranti celebrations.
What are some must-visit places in Haridwar in one day?
Places to visit in Haridwar in one day include the famous Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, and Parmarth Ashram. Other ashrams like Sapt Rishi Ashram or Shantikunj Ashram are great for a short spiritual retreat.
What kind of food can I expect in Haridwar?
In Haridwar, one will find different traditional North Indian cuisines, including hot parathas and rich curries with sweet desserts. The street food available here is enticing and ranges from savoury chaat to kachoris and piping hot jalebis.
Is it worthy to travel to Haridwar in winter?
Yes, it is worthy to travel to Haridwar during winter. However, checking the weather forecast and road conditions is essential, especially if you plan to visit the nearby hill stations. Wearing warm clothes and carrying basic medicines will ensure comfort in the journey.
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