For a spiritual trip, there is no better destination than Haridwar and Rishikesh in North India. The land of legends and tales is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, both Haridwar and Rishikesh are the holiest places. The Ganga River also passes through these regions and a lot of people visit these places to wash their sins. Whether it’s about taking a holy dip at Har Ki Pauri, visiting temples, or river rafting in Rishikesh, these destinations are perfect vacay options. Rishikesh which is commonly known as the ‘yoga capital of the world’ is an ideal destination to learn yoga and meditate.
Being known as twin national heritage cities, both these places have a lot in store for all kinds of travelers. While Haridwar lets you soak in its religious aura, the Yoga Capital of India- Rishikesh presents a different proposition altogether with a great combination of recreation and sightseeing.
List of 13 Best Places to Visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh
If you also plan a trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh, then check out the list of the 13 best places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh.
1. Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar
Though there are various places and exciting options to see in Haridwar, Har Ki Pauri is one of the top-rated attractions to visit in the land of legends. Take an early morning dip in the river Ganga, especially in the months of Shravan, and get lost in the enchanting view. Also at this place, the majestic river Ganga finally exits the mountains and enters the plains.
Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh Mela are two of the major fairs organized in Har Ki Pauri. Ganga Aarti is organized every morning and evening at Har Ki Pauri and is thus a must-visit.
2. Mansa Devi Temple
Mansa Devi Temple is the holy place among Hindus and is among the best places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh. The temple has been named after Mansa Devi who is believed to be the form of Shakti that emerged from Rishi Kashyap. The temple along with Chandi Devi Temple and Maya Devi is a part of the popular Siddhpeeth in Haridwar. The view from the top of the Mansa Devi Temple is quite enacting to the eyes.
3. Chandi Devi Temple
Dedicated to Hindu Goddess Chandi Devi, the temple is a scenic delight for nature lovers. Located on a hilltop, Chandi Devi provides a 360-degree view of the entire Haridwar city. The temple is easily accessible from the bus stop and the railway station and is one of the best places to visit in Haridwar.
4. Anandamayi Ashram
Dedicated to Ma Anandamayi, an eminent spiritual personality, Anandamayi Ashram is one of the best places to visit in Haridwar. The spiritual sojourn is located a stone’s throw away distance from the Ghats and visitors coming by train can easily visit the place. Gayatri Yajnashala, Ati Rudra Yajnashala, Rudraksha Tree, and Sankaracharya Hall are a few of the prominent buildings located inside the ashram premises.
People from all over the country visit this ashram o their Haridwar Rishikesh trip.
5. Shanti Kunj
Haridwar darshan is all about getting a peaceful place and establishing a divine connection with the Almighty. Seek all the peace and solace at the Shanti Kunj, one of the best places to visit in Haridwar. The ashram is the perfect place that offers teachings about values in life. Programs conducted in the ashram teaching the art of living is one of the prime attractions there. Not just Hindus but people from different religions visit the ashram to learn about the different truths of life.
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6. Rajaji National Park, Haridwar
Rajaji National Park is another major destination in Haridwar and best places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh. Encompassing three main districts of Uttarakhand including Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal, this wildlife reserve is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Named the second tiger reserve of Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park consists of Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Travelers can book reserved jeeps to go inside the park. Among various zones, Chilla, Motichur, and Ranipur Tourism Zones, Chilla Tourism Zone are the are the most frequently visited zone.
7. Laxman Jhula
Laxman Jhula is one of the most important key attractions in Rishikesh. As per the beliefs, Lakshman, Lord Rama’s brother, crossed the River Ganges once by using a jute rope and Laxman Jhula has been constructed at the same place. The bridge which was constructed in 1939, today is one of the great attractions among pilgrims visiting Rishikesh.
Even another popular Tera Manzil Temple is located closer to Laxman Jhula. The visitors can also enjoy shopping and eating local and fancy food at the nearby restaurants.
8. Kaudiyala
White water rafting in Rishikesh is popular all over the world. River rafting here is mostly done around Kaudiyala and its banks. It is a popular Rishikesh tourist place, the 16 km long stretch of Kaudiyala is one of the best white water rafting zones globally and one of the best Rishikesh visiting places.
9. The Beatles Ashram
The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram is a world-famous ashram, it became more famous after the Beatles visited this serene place. The calmness and scenic view of this place will leave you spellbound and gives you all reasons to visit this tourist place in Rishikesh. It is a quiet place for meditation and the spiritual beauty of the place is something you will fall in love with.
Must Read: – 7 Best Luxury Hotels in Rishikesh Near the Gange
10. Neelkantha Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh
Neelkantha Mahadev Temple is a sacred shrine and an ideal place for adventure. The temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva is a significant shrine in Rishikesh. The temple is located on a hill at a height of 1675 meters and presents outstanding views of the surroundings. As per the beliefs, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is located at the same place where Lord Shiva drank the venom. The shoppers can buy some souvenirs from the shops located near the place.
11. Triveni Ghat, Rishikesh
As per Hindu Mythology, holy rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati play an important role. Among many places, the Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh is an ideal place to be seen as it is the confluence of these three beautiful rivers. One can enjoy the spiritual aura of Rishikesh by visiting the Triveni Ghat which is also visited by most pilgrims for taking a holy bath.
Another significance of Triveni Ghat is that it is believed to be the cremation place of Lord Krishna and the chatri of the lord has been constructed here. Also, the vibrant market located near the ghat offer everything from clothes, pooja items, precious and semi-precious stones, gems, CDs, etc,
12. Neer Garh Waterfall, Rishikesh
Rishikesh is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in the country for a lot of good reasons. It is not just a pilgrim destination, many adventure enthusiasts also visit the place to enjoy different activities. If you also look for an ideal spot in Rishikesh for trekking, then Neer Garh Waterfall is the right destination.
It is an enchanting waterfall located just 2 km away from the Laxman Jhula and is the ideal place to explore the natural beauty. Make sure you visit this place and capture photos in your camera.
13. Rishi Kund, Rishikesh
Located in close proximity to the popular Triveni Ghat and the Raghunath Temple, the hot water spring, Rishikund is must visit place in Rishikesh. Pilgrims coming to the holy city of Rishikesh also take a bath in this hot water spring. This decades-old pond is believed to be constructed by a saint, and Goddess Yamuna filled the pond with her water.
At Rishi Khud you can always see the reflection of the sacred Raghunath Temple.
Conclusion
Plan your trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh as they are amongst the most vibrant escapes in India. Make your visit to the ‘Yoga Capital Of The World’ and get amazed by its picturesque beauty and the mesmerizing charm of the River Ganges falling through these regions. For a memorable trip, check out the best packages covering Best places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh at Honeymoon Bug.
FAQs About Haridwar and Rishikesh
Why is Haridwar famous?
Haridwar is famous for its serene mountains, the Ganga River, and ancient old temples. This city is also known as the land of Hindu pilgrimage sites.
Which place is better Haridwar or Rishikesh?
It entirely depends upon what kind of vacation you want. If you look forward to a spiritual tour, then Haridwar is the right option for you. But if you want to enjoy some adventure activities, then opt for Rishikesh.
What are the famous things to eat in Haridwar?
Parathas, Chole Bhature, Lassi, and some of the popular north Indian food items which you can easily get at many restaurants and eateries here.
What are some of the best places to visit in Haridwar?
Udan Khatola, Bharat Mata Mandir, Sapt Rishi Ashram, Vaishno Devi Temple, Ganga Temple, etc. are some of the offbeat destinations to visit in Haridwar.
How can one reach Haridwar from Delhi?
The city of Haridwar can easily be accessed from New Delhi by road. The duration of the road journey from Delhi to Haridwar is almost 6 hours. Haridwar Railway Station is the closest railhead which is well-connected with major cities across India. While travelers coming from the airport can reach Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, the nearest airport located in Haridwar.
Which month is best to visit Rishikesh?
October to March are the best months to visit Rishikesh. Also, you can visit the place between February to June to enjoy river rafting and other adventure activities.
What can I do in Haridwar?
There are innumerable things to do in Haridwar including
- Practice yoga
- Try an ayurvedic treatment
- Meditating amidst nature
- Opt for a wildlife safari
What are the famous things to shop in Haridwar?
There are a lot of things one can buy in Haridwar such as diyas, bangles, sandalwood paste, vermilion saris, idols, lamps, and handicrafts.
How many places are there to visit in Rishikesh?
Rishikesh has close to 35-40 tourist spots and places worth to be visited. Being a revered religious destination, most of the sightseeing locations in Rishikesh have religious importance. Also, the place is home to many temples and ashrams.
