The Ganges River in India holds a special place in Indian culture and people’s hearts.

This majestic river is not only one of the longest in the world, but also has religious and cultural connotations.

Every year, lakhs of tourists visitor travel to Haridwar, one of the holiest places along which the Ganges River flows, on Indian e-Tourist Visas.

But why is it so special?

The Ganges is the soul of many Indian cities, which is why its paths and banks are respected and celebrated everywhere. Haridwar’s reputation goes further.

Let’s find out why.

History of Haridwar

The name Haridwar has been shortened to “Gate of Lord Vishnu”. If you are not familiar, Lord Vishnu is one of the most revered Hindu deities.

According to Hindu culture, Haridwar is one of the places where a drop of elixir fell during the Great War between Gods and demons. Other places are Nashik, Ujjain and Allahabad.

Thus, the city itself and the Western Ghats, which swim in the Ganges, have been places of religious and spiritual importance since ancient times. The city is mentioned in some Hindu texts and manuscripts, and has also been mentioned by travelers such as Huang Zang in their texts.

In the real world, the journey to Badrinath, one of the most famous Vishnu temples, begins in Haridwar.

Where is Haridwar?

Haridwar is located in the south eastern part of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is about 210 kilometres from Delhi, the capital of India, and tourists with Indian e-tourist visas can choose various modes of transportation.

For example, there are roads and railways, and since the nearest airport is only about 20 kilometers away, you can also travel by plane.

Haridwar Specialties

The sacred Ganges descends to the level of the Indo-Ganges at Haridwar, and the Ganges bathing the ghats is one of the main attractions.

Haridwar is one of the cities of religious importance situated on the banks of the river Ganges. The Ganges attracts tourists and travellers on Indian tourist visas and hence they often visit other places like Hrishikesh, Gangotri and Varanasi during their travels.

Ganga Ghats

There are many Ganges Ghats in Haridwar, the main ones are:

• Har ki Pauri
• Asthi Parvath Ghat
• Subhash Ghat
• Gau Ghat

It is believed that bathing in the Ganges can wash away the sins of earthly life and thus holds a special place in Indian culture. These ghats give tourists easy access to the Ganges where they can also take a dip.

Some ghats are also used for funerals and the ashes are offered in the river.

Ganga aarti

If you have or have ever seen Hindu friends or family, you probably know that their form of worship involves an ‘arti’. People performing the aarti hold the deepak and move their hands rhythmically while chanting prayers.

The same thing happened in Haridwar, but on a grand scale. The smell of incense and the display of flowers enhance the environment.

Several priests perform aartis twice a day, and the passion and excitement that gathers the audience is an experience not to be missed.

Kumbh ka Mela

Festival India is famous for its ‘melas’ or bazaars of various sizes. The Maha Kumbh Mela in Haridwar is one of the newest and one of the largest fairs in the world for tourists visiting India (as it is) to enjoy.

Other tourist attractions

Haridwar also offers other attractions like Hindu temples, museums and animal sanctuaries for travel lovers and those interested in Hindu culture.

Almost everyone has their own story and history, which will certainly increase people’s curiosity for the growing understanding of the city. Apply for India Tourist eVisa to visit Haridwar and other amazing places

If India is on your travel bucket list, now is the time to go.

Apply for India tourist visa on our website and get it by email within 2-3 days.