Haridwar, one of Hinduism’s seven holiest cities (Sapta Puri), is a spiritual and cultural hub in Uttarakhand, where the Ganges River (Ganga) descends from the Himalayas onto the plains. Located at 314 meters (1,030 feet), it marks the gateway to the Char Dham pilgrimage (Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri).

The city’s name means "Gateway to God" (Hari: Vishnu, Dwar: Gate) and is famous for:
✔ Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri – A mesmerizing nightly ritual
✔ Kumbh Mela (held every 12 years) – The world’s largest religious gathering
✔ Ayurvedic & Yoga Centers – Renowned for traditional healing

Haridwar blends ancient spirituality with vibrant street life, offering:

Temples & Ashrams (Mansa Devi, Chandi Devi, Daksheshwar Mahadev)

Ghats for holy dips (Brahma Kund, Har Ki Pauri)

Scenic Ganga views and nearby wildlife sanctuaries

Unlike Rishikesh’s backpacker vibe, Haridwar retains a devotional, traditional atmosphere, attracting pilgrims, yogis, and culture seekers.