History in Haridwar

Area 12 sq. km. Altitude 2927 mts. Temperature Summer : Max 35.6ºC, Min 16.9ºC. Winter : Max 28.3ºC, Min 10.6ºC. Rainfall 162 cm. Languages Hindi, English and Garwali. ** Haridwar introduction** On the foot of Himalayas, on the west bank of Ganges is situated the gateway to Lord Vishnu, i.e., Haridwar. It is also called Ganga-Dwara, because the holy Ganges enters the plains here. This is one of the seven holy cities in India. It is called Mayapuri Kshetra in the Puranas. Haridwar is about 225 kilometers northeast of Delhi. Haridwar is famous for its temples, bathing ghats and tanks. The Ganges, considered as the holiest river in India, is the star attraction of Haridwar. Pilgrims carry back the water from the Ganges, which they believe will remain fresh forever. ** Haridwar fair & festivals** The festivals which are celebrated in Haridwar are :- Kumbh Mela :- India has been attracting the whole world with her rich cultural heritages and spirituality. The renowned Kumbh Mela is a unique blend of all these. Haridwar Kumbh has its importance as the last Kumbh of this century. The Kumbh mela is held in every 12 years to commorate this spritual day .Millions of men, women, children, sagas, Rishi, Munies, baba's and tourists gather here to take a dip in the holy water of holy rivers. Ardh Kumbh :- The Ardh Kumbh mela (fair) is held in every 6 years which is followed by the Kumbh Mela after 6 years. It is believed that a dip in the holy river Ganga during the Ardh Kumbh gives one Moksha or Nirvana. Ardha Kumbh also attracts a large number of people to take the holy dip during these holy days. ** Haridwar best season** During the summers the temperature usually hangs around 40 degrees but winters sees the mercury dipping as low as six degrees. One Should never expect any sort of pleasant high altitude climate here. The best seasons to visit Haridwar is some where between September and June.

Down the ages, Haridwar has purified the mind, the body and the soul. Not only in spiritual or religious terms Haridwar has come up as a major learning center for arts, science and culture. This place has maintained the Gurukul tradition of teaching. This ancient tradition of teaching has maintained its fervour in Haridwar. Haridwar has since ages been a source of Ayurvedic medicines and has been providing herbal remedies. Haridwar one of the first towns to be developed on Ganges is still lush and green with forest and trees. With Rajaji Park in the vicinity Haridwar has also been the destination for the wildlife and nature lovers. The city acquires a unique charm in the evening when the ghats become breath takingly beautiful with thousands of Diyas and Marigold floating in the waters of Ganges.