Haridwar

Haridwar, which literally means 'Gateway to God', is a major pilgrimage site in India. The city is filled with spiritual energy, most palpable at the Har Ki Pauri ghat, where millions of devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges. Every evening, the spectacular Ganga Aarti takes place here, during which hundreds of burning lamps are set afloat on the river, creating a magical atmosphere. This city is also one of the four venues for the massive Kumbh Mela festival. Visitors can take a cable car to the Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi temples, perched on the hills overlooking the city. The narrow lanes of the old town are full of markets selling religious artifacts and local handicrafts. Culinarilly, Haridwar is famous for its street food, especially crispy kachoris and sweet jalebis, all of which are strictly vegetarian. The city is excellently connected to the Indian railway network. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for temple visits and rituals.

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