Haridwar, located on the banks of the river Ganges, is one of the holiest places for Hindus in India, and has been a centre of Hindu religion and mysticism for centuries. The city attracts a large number of Hindu pilgrims from all over the world and is the site of many religious festivals. The most famous of these is the Kumbh Mela, which takes place in Haridwar once every twelve years. The Ardh Mela, or "half mela", is held every six years and both festivals will be held in Haridwar in 2010.
The Har Ki Pauri ghat is one of the most sacred ghats in India. In the evening a Maha Aarti is performed on this ghat, an event which should not be missed. On top of a hill called Bilwa Parvat is the temple Mansa Devi, which can be reached by taking a trekking route to the top of the hill. From here you will have a fantastic view of Haridwar.
Another temple of the other side of the Ganges is Chandi Devi located on a hill called Neel Parvat. The temple was constructed by the King of Kashmir, Suchat Singh, in 1929 AD. The ancient temple of Maya Devi is the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar. Daksha Mahadev Temple is one of the five sacred places in Haridwar.
Haridwar one of the first towns to be developed on Ganges and has become a major learning centre for arts, science and culture, has maintained the Gurukul tradition of teaching and has been a source of ayurvedic and herbal medicines.