Haridwar is a city known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. Visitors from all over the country come here for several reasons. Whether you are a devotee, nature lover or thrill seeker, this place has something for everyone. From attending Ganga Aarti to visiting temples, staying in an ashram to going on a wildlife safari, there are several things you can do on your trip to Haridwar.

Nestled on the banks of the holy river Ganga, Haridwar is a beautiful city in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Known for its close ties to Hinduism, this is one of the country’s major pilgrimage destinations. The name ‘Haridwar’ literally means ‘Gateway to the Gods’, which signifies its role as the starting point of Char Dham Yatra (Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath). Several thousand devotees flock here every year to seek spiritual solace. It is home to several ghats, ancient temples, and magi ashrams. Beyond its religious significance, this place is also known for its abundance of natural beauty and plenty of leisure activities. Those who want to spend some time away from the chaos of fast-paced urban life also consider Haridwar a good option for a relaxing vacation.

Things to Do in Haridwar

• Attend Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
• Take a Holy Dip in the Ganga River
• Go Temple Hopping
• Visit Popular Ashrams
• Enjoy Local Street Food
• Indulge in Shopping
• Go for Wildlife Safari
• Visit the Cheela Dam

 

Attend Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

Har Ki Pauri is a prominent ghat and one of the best places to visit in Haridwar. People come here to take a holy dip in the river and offer their prayers. But this is not the only thing this ghat is famous for. As the evening approaches, it starts experiencing even larger crowds. The reason for that is the Ganga Aarti, which is performed by several priests in a group every evening. With loud, rhythmic chants of mantras and the scent of incense sticks all around, the entire ghat comes alive at this time. Hundreds of devotees gather here every day to be a part of this ritual and experience the serene vibe. Even if you are visiting Haridwar for a very short duration, you should definitely attend this evening aarti.

 

Take a Holy Dip in the Ganga River

 

In Hinduism, the River Ganga is worshipped as a goddess (commonly referred to as Maa Ganga). It is believed that the goddess herself descended from heaven to Earth through Lord Shiva's locks to save humanity in this form. This is why the water of this river is considered sacred. Every devotee who comes to Haridwar takes a holy dip, as it is believed to cleanse the soul and bring divine blessings. There are several bathing spots (ghats) in Haridwar that you can go to, but Birla Ghat, Gau Ghat and Vishnu Ghat are among the cleanest and least crowded ones.

 

Go Temple Hopping

Another thing you can do is take a tour of all the temples in Haridwar. This city is home to several Hindu temples, some of which are old and highly revered. A few of these temples have fascinating legends associated with them, while a few others are known for their unique architectural styles. The ones that you should definitely include in your itinerary are Maya Devi Temple, Daksha Mahadev Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir and Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple. Apart from these, you should also visit the Mansa Devi Temple, which is located on the Bilwa Parvat, and the Chandi Devi Temple on the Neel Parvat. These two temples are among the must-see places in Haridwar due to their beautiful surroundings.

 

Visit Popular Ashrams

Haridwar is home to several ashrams known to offer a different kind of spiritual experience that very few places can. They organise all kinds of spiritual activities along with daily sessions for yoga and meditation. If you want to take a break from sightseeing and temple hopping, this is the best way to unwind. From Parmarth Niketan to Shanti Kunj, Patanjali Yogpeeth to Swami Hari Gari Ashram, there are various options available. All of these ashrams also provide lodging and meals (either free or at nominal costs) if you choose to stay overnight.

 

Enjoy Local Street Food

Whether you are a food lover or not, a trip is never complete without tasting the local delicacies that a place has to offer. Haridwar is known for its lip-smacking vegetarian street food, and that too at a very reasonable price. So, taking a stroll in the narrow lanes while trying different dishes at specific points is one of the best things to do in Haridwar. Some of the famous places to eat include Chotiwala Restaurant, Mathura Walo Ki Pracheen Dukaan, Pandit Ji Pooriwale, etc., where you can enjoy food items like Aloo Puri, Chole Bhature, Kachori, Lassi, Rabri, etc.

 

Indulge in Shopping

Haridwar is famous for its vibrant, bustling markets that are dotted with dozens of small shops selling a variety of things. The best way to spend an evening after sightseeing is to take a stroll in any of the local markets. This will give you a chance to immerse yourself in the cultural essence of Haridwar while doing some souvenir shopping as well. People mainly visit these markets to purchase pooja-related items such as idols of Hindu gods, Rudraksha beads, etc. However, you can also find home décor items, colourful textiles, and handmade crafts here.

 

Go for Wildlife Safari

Contrary to popular belief, the charm of Haridwar is not limited to its religious significance and natural beauty. This place has an equal allure for thrill seekers and wildlife enthusiasts as well. Rajaji National Park is a prominent wildlife sanctuary that is one of the most famous places to visit in Haridwar. Located in the Shivalik Hills, it encompasses an area of 820 square kilometres and is home to rich flora and fauna. If you are planning your trip in the winter season, you should definitely visit this place and book a wildlife safari.

 

Visit the Cheela Dam

Cheela Dam is another addition to the list of popular places to visit near Haridwar. Located amidst lush greenery, this is a popular spot among nature lovers. Upon reaching here, you get to see the beautiful blue-green canal on one side and the expansive Rajaji National Park on the other. You can cover Rajaji National Park and Cheela Dam in one day and be back in Haridwar by evening.

 

Insider Tips

• While this is a year-round destination, winters are considered the peak season for Haridwar tourism. If you are planning your trip around this time, make all the arrangements in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
• It is recommended to dress modestly while visiting any temples, ashrams or any other spiritual places.
• For local sightseeing in Haridwar, you can take an e-rickshaw or a battery rickshaw. They are the best option to go from one place to another within the city.
• If you are visiting a temple, always check the opening timings and aarti schedule beforehand.

 

When you visit a city like Haridwar that has so much to offer in terms of places to visit and activities to experience, it is very much possible to feel overwhelmed. This list of the best things to do in Haridwar can help you plan your trip without much confusion. Or, you can opt for all-inclusive Haridwar tour packages offered by Veena World. These packages are designed by a team of travel experts and come with well-crafted itineraries. You can choose the one that suits you the best and explore the enchanting city of Haridwar!

 

FAQs

Q1. What are the must-do experiences in Haridwar for first-time visitors?

A first visit to Haridwar is incomplete without witnessing the mesmerising Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, where hundreds gather at sunset for a synchronised ritual of fire, chants and devotion. Beyond the ceremony, take a dip in the Ganges, explore bustling bazaars for religious souvenirs and sweets, and soak in the spiritual yet lively atmosphere that defines this sacred town.

 

Q2. Is Haridwar only about temples, or is there more to explore?

While temples are central to Haridwar’s identity, the city offers much more than quiet devotion. You can ride the ropeway to Mansa Devi Temple for sweeping views, wander through colourful street markets, savour local chaat and sweets, or simply enjoy riverside walks. The town blends pilgrimage with a surprisingly vibrant street culture.

 

Q3. When is the best time to visit Haridwar for a lively atmosphere?

Haridwar truly comes alive during the Kumbh Mela, when millions of pilgrims gather for ritual bathing and celebrations. Even outside the Kumbh cycle, festivals like Diwali and Kanwar Yatra bring music, lights and processions that transform the city into a buzzing spiritual carnival.

Q4. Are there adventurous or scenic activities near Haridwar?

Yes, Haridwar isn’t just about rituals. Nature lovers can explore nearby Rajaji National Park for wildlife spotting or enjoy gentle treks in the surrounding Shivalik hills. The Ganges also offers opportunities for rafting slightly upstream in Rishikesh, making Haridwar a gateway to both spiritual and outdoor adventures.

 

Q5. What makes the evening Ganga Aarti in Haridwar so special?

The Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is less an event and more an experience. As priests lift flaming lamps in unison and devotional songs echo across the river, the atmosphere becomes electric yet serene. Visitors often describe it as both deeply moving and visually spectacular - a moment where faith, festivity and community spirit merge beautifully.