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Haridwar

Best Time to Visit Haridwar

Haridwar is one of the holiest cities of India. Haridwar is also called the home of Lord Shiva. The river Ganges flows through Haridwar, which is given the status of a holy river according to the Hindu religion. People believe that after bathing in the river Ganges, all their sins are washed away and their minds get peace. Every year millions of people come to Haridwar to bathe in the Ganga and also take Ganga water to their homes so that they can use it in worship. Apart from bathing in the river Ganges in Haridwar, there are many other grand temples where you can go and pray.

In this blog, we will tell you about the best time to visit Haridwar and many important places.

About Haridwar—The Gateway to the Gods

The term Haridwar in English means “Gateway to Lord Vishnu” (Hari = Vishnu, Dwar = gate). It is the place of the highest religious dignity in India, where a great number of believers go for a ritual bath in the Ganga River every year. If we base ourselves on Hindu mythology, Haridwar was made a sacred city by the drops of Amrit (elixir of life) that fell on it during the churning of the ocean by gods and demons.

Additionally, Haridwar is a place where the Kumbh Mela, the biggest religious gathering on Earth, is celebrated and one of the four cities that host it.

Why Visit Haridwar?

  • One of the points is to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti and have spiritual purity by experiencing it.
  • Go on a trip to the ancient Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi, and Daksha Mahadev temples.
  • Join in the excitement of festivals such as Kumbh Mela, Kanwar Yatra, and Diwali.
  • Participate in the good practices of yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda.
  • Enjoy cultural diversity, local bazaars, and delicious vegetarian food.

Best Time to Visit Haridwar

October to March (Winter) is the Best Time

The ideal season to travel to Haridwar is from October to March when the climatic conditions are refreshing, enjoyable, and optimal for visiting various attractions as well as temples.

Temperature: 10°C to 25°C

Activities: Right for Ganga Aarti, visiting the sights, meditation, and trekking in Rishikesh are some options.

Festivals: Diwali, Kartik Purnima, Makar Sankranti, and Magh Mela are some of the festivals celebrated during these months.

April to June (Summer)—Hot but Manageable

Summers are the period when the weather gets too hot, with a temperature skyrocketing from about 25°C to 40°C. Because of this increase, many people who were the followers of Kanwar Yatra came to this place for their spiritual cleansing.

Best for: People who are deeply interested in their faith and those who are looking for the spiritual

Tip: Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and drinks

July to September (Monsoon)—Avoid if Possible

Haridwar has a heavy rain season in which flood risks and slippery Ghats make it a perilous time which is also the reason events are called off.

Temperature: 22°C to 30°C

Caution: It is better not to go to the river for outdoor activities because of water levels and strong currents.

Top Attractions in Haridwar

Har Ki Pauri

Har Ki Pauri

One of the most iconic ghats where the Ganga Aarti is staged every evening. The floating diyas and the holy chants chanted in the background are a great attraction for thousands of people.

Mansa Devi Temple

Mansa Devi Temple

The temple is found on Bilwa Parvat, which is one of the Siddh Peeths. You can reach it by ropeway. Wishes made here are said to materialize.

Chandi Devi Temple

Chandi Devi Temple

One more vital sanctuary is located on the Neel Parvat hill; it is only reachable by walking or funicular. From here, a calm view of Ganga and the city is provided.

Daksha Mahadev Temple

Daksha Mahadev Temple

An old shrine was built for Lord Shiva, also known as the father of Sati, King Daksha. The place has a great mythological background.

Bharat Mata Mandir

Bharat Mata Mandir

A particular multi-storied temple is devoted to Mother India and is the ensemble figure of the gods, the freedom fighters, and the patriarchs of Indian culture.

Patanjali Yogpeeth

Patanjali Yogpeeth

Set up by Baba Ramdev, the place is a center for yoga, Ayurveda, and organic health care. A lot of tourists and health-conscious people come here for the benefit of their health by engaging in the healthy activity package of wellness retreats.

Major Festivals in Haridwar

  • Kumbh Mela (Once in 12 years) ~ The world’s largest religious  fair 
  • Ardh Kumbh (Once a dozen of 6 years) 
  • Kanwar Yatra (the middle of the summer) ~ A crowded pilgrimage of Shiva’s followers.
  • Diwali, Holi, Makar Sankranti, Kartik Purnima—celebrated with grandeur and devotion

Travel Tips for Visiting Haridwar

  • Make sure you’re appropriately dressed and showing respect to others, especially when around temples and ghats.
  • Because Haridwar is a holy place, it is recommended not to consume meat and alcohol.
  • Strategically keep your valuables close to you, even more so at crowded festivals.
  • Be very careful when you are in the river and follow the signs for your safety.
  • For temple times and routes, get a local guide or an app.

How to Reach Haridwar

By Train: Haridwar Junction is easily accessible from major

Indian cities.

By Road: Regular buses and cabs from Delhi (approx. 5-6

hours)

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 40 km away.

Where to Stay in Haridwar

  • Budget Hotels: Hotel Alpana, Ganga Lahari
  • Mid-range: Haveli Hari Ganga, Radisson Blu
  • Ashrams/Dharamshalas: Parmarth Ashram, Bharat Sevashram

Local Food & Shopping in Haridwar

  • Must-try Food: Aloo Puri, Kachori, Jalebi, Chhole Bhature
  • Popular Markets: Bara Bazaar, Moti Bazaar, Upper Road
  • Souvenirs: Rudraksha, religious idols, herbal products, Ganga jal

Also Read: Delhi to Manali Route by Car

Conclusion

Haridwar is much more than a place to go. It’s a way to uncover yourself, feel peaceful, and connect deeply with God. People go to Haridwar to find spiritual sutras or earthly culture, or they may be seeking peace near Ganga; Haridwar gives everything.

Hence, for a truly remarkable experience, you may want to schedule your trip during the period from October to March and allow every particle of your being to be part of the eternal energy that these sacred Ganges river shores offer.

FAQs About Best Time to Visit Haridwar
Q1. What is the best time to visit Haridwar for a peaceful and spiritual experience?

October to March is the best time to visit Haridwar for a peaceful and comfortable experience. The weather is cool and perfect for attending the Ganga Aarti, temple visits, and spiritual retreats.

Q2. Is Haridwar safe to visit during the monsoon season?

It is typically not a good idea to go to Haridwar during the monsoon season (July to September) because of heavy rain, slippery ghats, and potential flooding along the Ganga River.

Q3. Which are the main festivals celebrated in Haridwar?

Haridwar is the venue for a large number of festivals such as Kumbh Mela, Ardh Kumbh, Kanwar Yatra, Diwali, Holi, and Makar Sankranti. These gatherings attract thousands of pilgrims as well as tourists from all over the world.

Q4. How many days are enough to explore Haridwar?

It’s recommended that you stay in the city for 2 or 3 days to be able to explore the main temples, see the Ganga Aarti, drop in at local ashrams, and bask in the spirituality in the air.

Q5. Can I combine a trip to Haridwar with Rishikesh?

Yes, Haridwar and Rishikesh are quite close to each other by a distance of 25 km, so it is quite convenient to take a trip to both these cities. Most people merge their visits to both of them in one day to get serenity in one place and enjoy adventure activities in the other.

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