The Pilgrimmage
![Adoration of the Ganges, Haridwar](gifs/adoration-ganges-haridwar.jpg)
Haridwar located in the foothills of the Shivalik, represents the point
where the Ganga reaches the plains. It is famous for being blessed by
trinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. The name Haridwar (Hardwar) has
been derived from two words, 'Har' means Shiva (the deity of Kedarnath),
'Hari' means Vishnu (the deity of Badrinath), and Dwar means gate. Haridwar
is thus the gateway to the two holy shrines of Shiva and Vishnu in Badrinath
and Kedarnath, respectively.
Festivals
All Hindu festivals are celebrated with utmost fervor and brilliance in
Haridwar. But the most important among all festivities and fairs of Haridwar
is the Kumbh Mela. Apart from Kumbh, Ardh Kumb Mela is also held here,every
six years.
Places To See
Har-ki -Pairi ghat is one of the most sacred Ghats in India as Maha arti is
performed on this ghat every evening. Haridwar is famous for its Ganga Aarti
that is celebrated at 7 pm each night. Other places to see include Mayapuri
and Kankhal, which are near Haridwar. Mansa Devi is a temple located on top
of a hill called the Bilwa Parvat. One can reached the temple, by the rope
way or one can take the normal trekking route to the top.
About Rishikesh
![Sadhus Meditating in Garden Courtyard, Rishikesh](gifs/sadhus-meditating-rishikesh.jpg)
43-kms
from Dehradun & 24-kms from Haridwar, Rishikesh is situated amidst a
calm environment, impressive water front, dense forest and hills. Apart from
being known as the land of Gods, Rishikesh, is also the mecca for peace
seeker through Yoga & meditation.
Town of saints
Rishikesh is virtually a town of saints, sages and scholars. Rishikesh is a
rare religious center located on the right bank of river Ganga. There are a
number of Ashrams (hermitages) where religious discourses are held. The
place is also a renowned center for yoga teachings. Rishikesh is also an
attraction for foreign pilgrims who want to know about Hinduism and who want
to spend some time close to the Lord.
Places to visit
Bharat Mandir
It is situated in the heart of the old town on the Banks of the Ganges. The
Inner sanctum of the temple has the idol of lord Vishnu, carved out of a
single Saligram. In the inner canopy above the idol is shree yantra
installed by Adi Sankraya Charya.
Rishikund
Close to Trivenighat is the most ancient place, the Rishikund. Anciant
records relate this to Kubz Saint , who was blessed by the Goddess Yamuna by
saturating this pond by its water. The pond reflects the temple of Ragunath,
dedicated to lord Rama and his wife.
Triveni Ghat
The main ghat in the town area where most of the pilgrims take holy dip.
Every evening hundreds of pilgrims attend the Ganga Arti at the Ghat.