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Haridwar - Rishikesh

Haridwar & Rishikesh are two of the holiest places in India situated in the state of Uttarakhand. Travelers always plan holiday to both these places due to their proximity. The cities remain drenched into seamless serenity and spirituality and bring out the religious fervor of locals. Scenic beauty of Haridwar & Rishikesh is amazing with holy River Ganga flowing through and Himalayas overlooking them.

Haridwar

Haridwar is known for being one of the seven holiest cities in the country. Every year streams of Hindu devotees visit here to worship River Ganga and to attend the grandest Ganga aarti at the Har Ki Pauri ghat. Haridwar is home to numerous temples dedicated to various Hindu deities. Mansa Devi Temple is a popular temple here dedicated to goddess Mansa Devi. Travelers can either take a trek to reach the temple top or can take a cable car ride. Har Ki Pauri is surely the most popular ghat of the city where pilgrims can be seem performing various rituals apart from taking a bath in the holy River Ganga. This is where a grand Ganga aarti is organized every evening which sees thousands of locals and travelers. Bharat Mata Temple of Haridwar is also one of a kind with different storeys dedicated to different Gods and mythological heroes. Also, do not miss a visit to the Chandi Devi Temple sitting Chandi Devi Temple. Take a cable car ride or a 3kms trek to reach this shrine from where incredible views of the surroundings can be enjoyed.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh has been rightly named as the entry point to the Garhwal Himalayas. This is a perfect place to indulge in yoga and meditation. Yoga is also termed as the yoga capital of India with some of the most popular yoga ashrams dotted here. Lakshman Jhula, an ancient bridge, is the most popular attraction of the city. It is believed that Lakshman, brother of Lord Rama, crossed holy Ganga River here over a jute bridge where later Lakshman Jhula was constructed. The beauty of Shivpuri is also worth capturing in your camera lens. This is an abode of Lord Shiva and lures many serenity seekers. Also spend some time at the Triveni Ghat where a Maha Ganga Aarti is hosted. Travelers visiting Rishikesh never miss a chance to visit Parmath Niketan Ashram, the largest ashram in the city.

When to Visit Haridwar & Rishikesh

Months from October to February are considered as best time to visit Haridwar & Rishikesh.

How to Reach Haridwar & Rishikesh

By Air:

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is 37 km away from Haridwar.  Form Haridwar, one can easily find bus and taxi service to Rishikesh which is located at a distance of only 23 km.

By Rail:

Haridwar Railway Station is well linked to cities like Delhi, Shimla, Mussoorie, Nainital, Mumbai, etc.

By Road:

Haridwar & Rishikesh are well connected with cities like Delhi, Muzzafarnagar, Roorkee, Ghaziabad, etc. through National Highway 58. Many A/C, non-A/C, deluxe, ordinary and semi-deluxe buses are available.