Things To Do
in Haridwār
Haridwar sits on the banks of the Ganges in Uttarakhand, revered as one of India's holiest pilgrimage sites. The city blends ancient temples, sacred ghats, and bustling markets with a lively, devotional atmosphere. Pilgrims and travelers come for ritual baths at Har Ki Pauri, Ganga Aarti, and temple visits that punctuate each day with spiritual energy.
While deeply rooted in tradition, Haridwar also offers approachable hospitality, clean river views, and comfortable guesthouses for longer stays.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with the soft glow of dawn illuminating the banks of the Ganges River. As you stroll along Har Ki Pauri, the most revered ghat, witness the early morning rituals where devotees offer prayers and perform sacred ablutions. The air is filled with the aroma of incense and the sounds of chanting, creating an atmosphere of spiritual serenity.
After breakfast at a local eatery, visit the Mansa Devi Temple, located atop a hill, accessible via a picturesque cable car ride. The temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the river below, making the climb worthwhile. Spend some time exploring the temple premises, soaking in the spiritual ambiance and the vibrant local culture.
As the sun sets, return to Har Ki Pauri for the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. The sight of hundreds of floating diyas and the sound of conch shells fill the air with a sense of devotion and tranquility. Join in the ritual by lighting a diya and watching it drift away, symbolizing the surrender of your worries to the river.
Set off early to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, nestled in the lush hills of the surrounding forest. The trek to the temple is invigorating, with scenic views and the soothing sound of nature accompanying you. Upon arrival, appreciate the temple's intricate architecture and learn about the legends associated with Lord Shiva.
Relish a simple yet hearty lunch at a nearby dhaba, where you can savor local delicacies like aloo paratha and lassi. Post-lunch, take a serene walk around the temple grounds, where the cool breeze and tranquil atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for reflection. Don't forget to photograph the stunning scenery that surrounds you.
Head back to Haridwār, stopping along the way to explore the nearby waterfalls. As dusk approaches, return to the ghats for a more intimate experience of the Ganga Aarti, where the ambiance is less crowded yet equally enchanting. Enjoy the peace and solitude as you absorb the spiritual energy of the river under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $12-25 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚶♂️Local transportation (one-way) | $0.30-0.80 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Sacred atmosphere with easy access to the Ganges and ghats
- Rich temples, ritual experiences, and approachable hospitality
- Can be crowded and noisy, especially during festival times
- Limited nightlife and modern entertainment compared with larger cities
- "Namaste" - Hello / Greetings
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Pranam / Namaskar" - Greetings (respectful)
- "Kahan hai aapka hotel?" - Where is your hotel?
- "Kripya menu dikhaiye" - Please show me the menu
- "Mujhe yeh pasand hai" - I like this
- "Bhookh lagi hai" - I am hungry
- "Bhaav kam kijiye" - Please lower the price
Places to Visit in Haridwār
Visit one of these nice places.
The riverfront at sunrise with the soft light, reflections on the water, and the early morning rituals create serene photo opportunities.
Capture the lamps and reverent chants during the evening aarti along the riverbank.
Panoramic views of the city and the Ganges from the hilltop temple area, especially around sunset.
Ropeway stations and the ascent offer dramatic cityscape shots from above.
Food in Haridwār
Haridwār Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato-stuffed flatbread served with chutneys, common at street stalls and local eateries.
Must-Try!
Chickpea curry paired with fluffy fried bread; widely available at dhabas and casual restaurants.
Deep-fried pastry served with spiced potato filling and a side of savory chutney.
Red kidney beans in a rich gravy served with rice; a hearty staple at many homes and eateries.
Crispy spiral fried sweets soaked in sugar syrup, often paired with creamy rabri for a delightful dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Evening stalls offering chaat, jalebi, lassi, and fresh fruit; atmosphere is lively and photogenic.
Traditional market area with snacks, sweets, fresh produce, and local specialties worth sampling.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites; remove shoes before entering temples as a sign of respect.
Speak softly, avoid loud behavior, and refrain from public displays of affection near religious sites.
Eat with your right hand in traditional settings and avoid pointing feet toward temples or sacred images.
Safety
Tipping in Haridwār
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for snacks, hotel porters, and guides are common but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted, with growing use of credit/debit cards and digital wallets (UPI, wallets) in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Street stalls may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to June brings hot days with high humidity. Hydration is essential, and mornings are best for temple visits and ghats before it gets crowded.
July to September brings moderate to heavy rains. Trails can be slippery; carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
November to February is cool to cold, with chilly mornings and evenings. Dress in layers and enjoy clear skies for temple visits and river views.
October to November offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and excellent opportunities for photography and outdoor exploration.
Haridwār at Night
Hiking in Haridwār
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails offering birdwatching and wildlife viewing near Haridwar; best in early morning and with guides.
Scenic drive and short hike to a revered temple situated in the surrounding hills, offering forest scenery and river views.
Easy-to-moderate walks along the riverbank through pious ghats and quiet lanes, ideal for nature photography and reflection.
Airports
How to reach Haridwār by plane.
Nearest major airport, about a 1-2 hour drive depending on traffic. Domestic and limited international connections with road transfer options to Haridwar.
Major international and domestic hub about 220-260 km away by road; frequent domestic flights to Dehradun and other Indian cities; good option for multi-city itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large influx of visitors from across India and neighboring countries, especially during festivals and holy dips.
Residents who work in markets, temples, and hospitality; diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds within Uttarakhand.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played casually in parks and on school grounds, and followed with enthusiasm across the country.
Traditional and popular in rural parts of Uttarakhand; played during local events and gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haridwār.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Haridwar is predominantly vegetarian. Look for vegetarian labels, ask for no eggs, and avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils. Many places can accommodate vegan requests, but confirm dairy ingredients like ghee or milk in advance.