Things to Do in Haridwar

Welcome to the most comprehensive Things to Do in Haridwar brought to you by Hotel Arihant Haridwar, your trusted accommodation partner in the holy city. With years of experience hosting pilgrims and tourists from across India and the world, we've compiled this detailed guide to help you make the most of your Haridwar visit.

Introduction to Haridwar

Haridwar, meaning 'Gateway to God,' is one of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism. Located in Uttarakhand at the foothills of the Himalayas, where the sacred River Ganges emerges from the mountains to flow through the plains, Haridwar has been a major pilgrimage destination for thousands of years. Every evening, the ancient ritual of Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri transforms the ghats into a mesmerizing spectacle of lights, chants, and devotion.

Hotel Arihant Haridwar is strategically located just 5 minutes walking distance from Har Ki Pauri, placing you at the heart of all spiritual activities while providing modern comfort and amenities.

Essential Information for Visitors

When to Visit

Haridwar can be visited year-round, but each season offers different experiences:

Winter (October to February): Most pleasant time with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. Perfect for temple visits and long walks along the ghats. Pack warm clothing for mornings and evenings. This is peak tourist season, so book Hotel Arihant in advance.

Summer (March to June): Temperatures can soar to 40°C, but this is also peak pilgrimage season. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening. Hotel Arihant's air-conditioned rooms provide comfortable refuge from the heat.

Monsoon (July to September): Moderate rainfall, lush greenery, and fewer crowds. The Ganges flows full and powerful. Carry umbrellas and be prepared for occasional heavy showers. Hotel Arihant offers special monsoon discounts!

How to Reach Haridwar

By Train: Haridwar is well-connected to major Indian cities. Haridwar Railway Station is just 2 km from Hotel Arihant (10 minutes by auto-rickshaw). Major trains include Shatabdi Express from Delhi, Jan Shatabdi from Kathgodam, and numerous other express and mail trains.

By Road: National Highway 58 connects Haridwar to Delhi (220 km), Dehradun (52 km), and Rishikesh (25 km). State and private buses operate regularly. Haridwar Bus Stand is 1.5 km from Hotel Arihant.

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (40 km away) is the nearest airport with flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities. Hotel Arihant can arrange airport pickup services.

Top Places to Visit in Haridwar

Har Ki Pauri

The most sacred ghat in Haridwar, just 5 minutes walk from Hotel Arihant. Don't miss the evening Ganga Aarti (around 6:00 PM in winter, 7:00 PM in summer). Arrive 30 minutes early to get a good viewing spot.

Mansa Devi Temple

Perched atop Bilwa Parvat, 3 km from Hotel Arihant. Take the cable car (ropeway) for panoramic views or trek up for spiritual experience. Open 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Chandi Devi Temple

Located on Neel Parvat, 4 km away. Another important temple accessible by cable car or 3 km trek. The journey offers beautiful views of Haridwar and the Ganges valley.

Maya Devi Temple

Ancient Shakti Peeth temple, 2 km from Hotel Arihant. One of the oldest temples in Haridwar with rich mythological significance.

Rajaji National Park

10 km from Haridwar. Perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Spot elephants, tigers, leopards, and numerous bird species. Safari timings: Morning 6:30 AM, Evening 3:00 PM.

Things to Do in Haridwar

• Attend Ganga Aarti: Experience the divine ritual at Har Ki Pauri every evening
• Take Holy Dip: Bathe in the Ganges to cleanse sins (as per Hindu belief)
• Temple Hopping: Visit all major temples in and around Haridwar
• Shopping: Explore Bara Bazaar and Moti Bazaar for religious items, handicrafts
• Try Local Food: Sample pure vegetarian cuisine at local restaurants
• Photography: Capture stunning sunrise and sunset at ghats
• Meditation & Yoga: Many ashrams offer classes for visitors
• Day Trip to Rishikesh: Just 25 km away, perfect for adventure activities

Local Food and Dining

Haridwar is entirely vegetarian – no meat, eggs, or alcohol. The city offers delicious North Indian and local Garhwali cuisine:

Must-Try Dishes

• Aloo Puri: Classic breakfast dish
• Chole Bhature: Spicy chickpeas with fried bread
• Kachori: Fried pastry with spicy filling
• Jalebi: Sweet dessert, best eaten hot
• Peda: Haridwar's famous sweet made from milk
• Garhwali Thali: Complete traditional meal
• Lassi: Refreshing yogurt-based drink

Hotel Arihant's Restaurant: Enjoy hygienic, home-style vegetarian meals at our in-house restaurant. We serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a variety of North Indian and local specialties.

Shopping in Haridwar

What to Buy

• Rudraksha beads and malas
• Brass and copper idols
• Puja items and accessories
• Gangajal (holy Ganga water) in sealed bottles
• Ayurvedic medicines and herbs
• Religious books and scriptures
• Local sweets (peda, barfi)
• Handicrafts and souvenirs
• Traditional jewelry
• Shawls and woolen items

Best Markets

Bara Bazaar: Main market near Har Ki Pauri for religious items and souvenirs. Open 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Moti Bazaar: Good for brass items, jewelry, and clothing.

Jwalapur Market: Local market with reasonable prices for daily items.

Cultural Etiquette and Tips

Dress Code

• Dress modestly – avoid shorts, skirts, and revealing clothing
• Remove shoes before entering temples
• Cover your head at some temples (scarves available)
• Women should carry dupatta or shawl

Behavior Guidelines

• No smoking, alcohol, or non-vegetarian food in the city
• Don't litter – keep Haridwar clean
• Respect religious sentiments and customs
• Don't disturb people during prayers
• Photography may be restricted in some temple areas
• Bargain respectfully at markets

Festivals in Haridwar

Major Festivals

Kumbh Mela: Every 12 years (2022 was last). Millions gather for holy dip.

Kanwar Yatra: July-August. Millions of Shiva devotees visit during monsoon.

Ganga Dussehra: May-June. Ten-day festival celebrating Ganga's descent.

Navratri: September-October. Nine days of Goddess worship with special celebrations.

Diwali: October-November. Beautiful lighting at ghats and temples.

Makar Sankranti: January. Auspicious day for holy bath and charity.

Safety and Health Tips

• Keep valuables in Hotel Arihant's locker facility
• Carry photocopies of ID; keep originals safe
• Stay hydrated – drink bottled water only
• Carry basic medicines for stomach upset, fever, etc.
• Use registered taxis and auto-rickshaws
• Beware of touts and unofficial guides
• Save emergency numbers: Police 100, Ambulance 102
• Keep Hotel Arihant's number (+91-9990848789) handy

Budget Planning

Accommodation

Hotel Arihant offers rooms starting from ₹1,500 per night with all modern amenities. Budget to luxury options available to suit every pocket.

Food

₹150-300 per meal at decent restaurants. Street food from ₹30-50. Hotel Arihant's restaurant offers affordable home-style meals.

Transport

Auto-rickshaw: ₹50-100 for local travel. Taxi: ₹500-1000 for full day. Cable car tickets: ₹150-200 return.

Shopping

Budget ₹500-2000 depending on what you buy. Bargaining can get you 20-30% discount.

Accommodation at Hotel Arihant

After a day of spiritual exploration, return to the comfort of Hotel Arihant Haridwar:

Why Choose Us?

• 5 minutes walk to Har Ki Pauri
• Clean, comfortable AC rooms
• Pure vegetarian restaurant
• Free WiFi throughout property
• 24/7 reception and room service
• Travel desk for tour arrangements
• Secure parking facility
• Power backup
• Affordable rates with no hidden charges

Contact and Booking

Conclusion

We hope this Things to Do in Haridwar helps you plan a memorable and spiritually fulfilling trip to Haridwar. Whether you're coming for pilgrimage, tourism, or seeking peace and tranquility, Haridwar welcomes you with open arms and divine blessings.

Hotel Arihant Haridwar is committed to making your stay comfortable and hassle-free. Our strategic location, modern amenities, and warm hospitality ensure you have everything needed for a perfect Haridwar experience.

Book your room today and let us be part of your spiritual journey!

🕉️ Om Namah Shivaya 🕉️