Places to visit in Haridwar

Not all the famous places in Haridwar are crowded or loud; some are just tucked behind the ghats, others just sit quietly by the river. What makes these destinations unique is how each spot brings a distinct touch to the city. 

Top 5 Sightseeing Places in Haridwar

From peaceful ghats to hidden locals’ favourite spots, sightseeing places in Haridwar offer more than just spiritual experiences. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, there are numerous options to explore beyond the usual. 

Vaishno Devi Temple (Haridwar)

This temple is located near Haridwar Railway Station, a smaller version of the Vaishno Devi Shrine in Jammu. It features narrow cave-style passages and idols of the Goddesses Vaishno Devi, Kali, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. It is easily accessible, barely crowded, and a peaceful and spiritual spot to visit. 

Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Bilkeshwar Mahadev temple is on a small hill behind the Haridwar Railway Station. It is believed that Goddess Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva before their marriage at this place. It attracts thousands of devotees during the festival of Maha Shivratri. This temple is one of the most holy places to explore in Haridwar that you must visit. 

Bhimgoda Tank

Bhimgoda tank is a short walk from Har Ki Pauri. This tank is linked to the Mahabharata; the stories say that Bhim created it to get water for Draupadi. Many locals also believe that the tank has healing properties. You can visit this place after going to the main ghat. 

Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar

It is located near Bhimgoda tank, a quiet bird spot that is best visited during the winter months, when migratory birds arrive. It is one of the few sightseeing spots in Haridwar where you can enjoy nature away from the touristy areas. 

Bara Bazaar

Bara Bazaar is the most famous place in Haridwar. This market offers a wide range of products, including prayer items, Ayurvedic products, pure Rudraksha beads, and local sweets and snacks. It's a great place to explore local life and purchase items to take back home. 

Top 8 Attractions in Haridwar 

Shantikunj Gayatri Parivar

This is a well-known spiritual and educational campus which is located on the Rishikesh-Haridwar road. It is the headquarters of the Gayatri Parivar and is open to the public who wish to attend prayers, learn about Vedic living, or simply spend time in a calm space. 

Pawan Dham

This temple is renowned for its intricate, colourful glass and mirrorwork. The walls and statues are all covered with shiny artwork. The walls have paintings of essential scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. It is a small place but stands out for its uniqueness and is one of the offbeat places to explore in Haridwar. 

Swami Vivekananda Park

It is a riverside park located near Har Ki Pauri and features a large Swami Vivekananda statue, making it one of the most visited places he is associated with. Locals come here from the busy ghats for walks and leisure. 

Parad Shivling

Parad Shivling is inside Harihar Ashram. This shivling is made up of solid mercury, a substance rarely found in temples. It is believed to be powerful and special; people from around the world come to visit this temple for its spiritual significance. 

Rajaji National Park (Haridwar Gate Entry)

Rajaji National Park is just a short drive from Haridwar city, offering a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, deer, and numerous birds. You can also take a jeep safari to explore the forest. It's a nice change from the city and a good tourist attraction in Haridwar. 

Anandamayi Ma Ashram

This ashram was once home to the spiritual teacher Anandamayi Ma. Her samadhi is present here, and the entire atmosphere of the place is remarkably calm and quiet. Many visitors come just to sit or spend a few hours in peace. 

Doodhadhari Barfani Temple

The Doodhadhari Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and features numerous deities within its premises. It is made of white marble and is renowned for its clean architecture and peaceful atmosphere. This is a simple yet beautiful tourist spot in Haridwar. 

Prem Nagar Ashram

This ashram is near Jwalapur and was founded by Shri Hans Ji Maharaj. It is a large, well-kept campus where followers attend satsangs and do meditation. It is not mandatory to be a part of the community; most tourists visit Prem Nagar Ashram for peace and calmness. 

For any traveller, the best location in Haridwar is the one that lets you slow down, explore and experience the city beyond the maps.