Haridwar India Tourism
Haridwar has a rich ancient religious and cultural heritage. In the ancient
scriptures of India, this place is well known by the name of Mayapur. This
city is also well known for many other things apart from the holy river
Ganges.
A paradise for nature-lovers, Haridwar presents kaleidoscope of Indian culture
and civilization. Haridwar also termed as 'Gateway to Gods' is known as
Mayapuri, Kapila, Gangadwar as well. The followers of Lord Shiva(Har) and
followers of Lord Vishnu(Hari) pronounce this place Haridwar and Haridwar
respectively as told by some. It is also a point of entry to Dev Bhoomi
and Char Dham (Four main centers of pilgrimage in Uttarakhand) Viz. Badrinath,
Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.
Archaeological finding have proved that terracotta culture dating between
1700 B.C. and 1200 B.C. existed in this region. Legendary king Bhagirath
is said to have brought the river Ganga from heaven to earth in order to
provide salvation to his ancestors. It is also said that Haridwar has been
sanctified by the presence of three Gods; Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Lord
Vishnu is said to have his foot print on the stone that is set in the upper
wall of Har-Ki-Pauri where the Holy Ganga touches it all the times . Devout
believers feel that they can go to heaven by getting their salvation after
a dip in the sacred Ganga at Haridwar.
Haridwar is also one of the four places; where Kumbh Mela occurs after rotation
of every twelve Years and Ardh Kumbh after every six years. It is said that
drops of Amrit (Elixir) fell in to the Brahmkund of Har-Ki-Pairi, therefore
considered that a dip in the Brahmakund on this particular day which is
very auspicious and when Jupiter (Brahaspati) comes to the sign Aquarius
(Kumbh) once in every twelve years the Maha Kumbh fair is celebrated at
Haridwar. Kumbh, 1998 was the last Maha Kumbh of this century. Yet beyond
the mystic aura and mythology, Haridwar casts another magic spell on the
visitor.
Being one of the oldest living cities, Haridwar finds its mention in the
ancient Hindu scriptures as it waves through the life and time stretching
from the period of the Buudha to the more recent British advent. Haridwar
has not only remained the abode of the weary in body, mind and spirit, but
also served as centre of attraction for many, for learning the arts science
and culture.
Haridwar's long standing position as a great source for Ayurvedic medicines
and herbal remedies as well as its unique Gurukul school of traditional
education, the scenic beauty and lush greenery...all give the city unique
flavors and charm; a must among the sojourn centers in a discoverer's intinary
of Uttarakhand - A destination for all seasons.
Haridwar is one of the first towns where Ganga emerges from the mountains
to touch the planes. And that's why the water is crystal clear and cool.
Lush green forests and small ponds add to the scenic beauty of this holy
land. The Rajaji National Park is just 10 kms from Haridwar. Its an ideal
destination for wild life and adventure lovers. In the evening the ghats
look breathtakingly beautiful as thousands of diyas (lamps) and marigold
flowers float and illuminate the holy waters.
Haridwar as today has not only religious importance but it has another temple
of modern civilization i.e. BHEL, a 'Navratna PSU' to its credit. The Roorkee
University at Roorkee is one of the oldest and prestigious institute of
learning in the fields of science and engineering. Another university of
the district i.e. Gurukul having vast campus is giving traditional educations
of its own kind.
Haridwar India Tourism, North India Tourism Reservation Form