One of the oldest living Indian and seven holiest cities, holding immense value for Hindus, Haridwar, boasts a rich tapestry of legends and there are numerous tourist places to visit in Haridwar for spirituality.

Ancient Hindu scriptures, like Mahabharata, mention this city, including detailed mentions of the immense penance of King Bhagirath who brought the sacred Ganges down from heaven to Earth, giving this city its name, Gangadwara.

For devotees and tourists who constantly seek the top Haridwar Tourist Spot list, this place makes their spiritual yatra a lifelong memory.

Tourist Places to Visit in Haridwar

1) Har Ki Pauri

Har ki Pauri is a popular ghat on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar where according to Hindu scriptures, the supreme personality of godhead, Shri Vishnu and Shri Shiva have visited the Brahmakund. 

In this place, Garuda, the mythological bird, fell Amrit by mistake, in Har ki Pauri.

It is said according to scriptures that Har ki Pauri or Hari ki Paudi rid of sins or karma and provides Moksha to whosoever takes a dip in the holy Ganges. 

Ganga Arti is a perfect Haridwar tourist spot that attracts thousands of devotees every day. Devotees are more likely to witness this heavenly tourist place to visit in Haridwar at least once in their lifetime.

2) Pawan Dham Temple

While Har ki Pauri connects devotees with the divine, the Pawan Dham temple, located in Bhagirathi Nagar in Haridwar, stuns tourists with its astonishing glasswork and mirror work. 

Established in the 70s by Swami Vedantanand Ji Maharaj, the temple reflects the rich heritage of Indian art, making it one of the best places to visit in Haridwar. 

Additionally, it houses Hindu deities, including Vishvarupa of Shri Krishna, which is uncommon to find in other temples.

Tourists add this place to their itinerary as one of the best places to visit in Haridwar, as the temple is not only a place to connect to the divine, but was built from the desire to serve the community. 

It practises Sant Seva, Gau Raksha (cow protection), and provides free meals to the needy.

3) Sapt Rishi Ashram 

The Sapt Rishi Ashram or the Seven Sages Ashram is a prominent holy place in Haridwar, situated in 1943 by Guru Goswami Dutt, with a deep-rooted history according to Hindu scriptures. 

Pilgrims and devotees have visited this Haridwar tourist spot and sacred site to seek blessings and pay homage to Sapt Rishis. 

The Ashram is said to be the yoga and meditation centre where pilgrims seek to become spiritually rich. The ashram also provides accommodation facilities to those who seek to become spiritually rich through meditation practices. 

Thus, if you seek the best places to visit in Haridwar in one day, it is the best site to visit when you embark on your next spiritual yatra.

4) Mansa Devi Temple 

Dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi or Shakti, this temple is a sacred site for Hindu pilgrims who seek the blessings of the AdiShakti. 

The temple is situated on Bilwa Hill, Shivalik Hills, and offers panoramic views of the Haridwar city. 

It is a perfect place to visit if you are looking for tourist places to visit in Haridwar within 100 km.

The sacred site attracts thousands of pilgrims year-round, they tie a sacred thread (moli) to the sacred tree near the temple. 

Pilgrims can either choose to cover 2000 steps of stairs on foot or by ropeway for a relaxed climb. Mansa devi 

5) Bharat Mata Temple

Visiting the Bharat Mata Mandir is truly a one-of-a-kind experience where tourists find the temple paying homage to mother India; its people and its land. 

The 8-storey temple, dedicated to the patriots ever born in India, has a dedicated theme on each storey that depicts the nation’s unity unaffected by any religion, caste, or ethnicity. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Haridwar for pilgrims.

Tourists add the temple to their Haridwar tour itinerary where every storey covers different stories. On the first floor, to elaborate, the Bharat Mata deity, and Shoor Mandir and Matru Mandir on the second and the third floor respectively.

By reaching the eighth floor, visitors can witness the scenic skyline of Haridwar with the mountain ranges of Rajaji National Park.

6) Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is known for its scenic view, rich biodiversity, and elephant population. The park is located across the borders of Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal.

It is one of the best tourist places to visit near Haridwar within 100 km that offers a chance to breathe fresh air, explore lush forests, and witness the beauty of the Himalayan foothills. 

With a jeep safari, tourists get to capture glimpses of the wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and a variety of animal species roaming freely. 

The park houses over 400 bird species, making it a haven for photographers and bird enthusiasts. There, you can also opt for an elephant ride or river rafting on the Ganga.

7) Shantikunj Ashram

The Shantikunj Ashram is a perfect place for religious and spiritual awakening and the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Parivar in India. Tourists often look for the best things to do in Haridwar, thus, if you visit Haridwar in the coming month, make it on your itinerary. 

The sacred site has the best activities/ places to visit, including visiting Prakhar Pragya & Sajal Shraddha temples, Yagya Shala, Akhand Deep, Gayatri Mata Mandir, Devatma Himalaya Temple (the sight of Chot Char Dhams), Exhibition of the Divine Culture, Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, and many more. 

It should be the “must-visit” place for everyone, especially for first-time visitors.

8) Chandi Devi Temple

Shri Chandi Devi Temple is a revered site for Shakti devotees due to its rich history when Mata Chandi rested here after vanquishing demons. 

For tourists, reaching the temple is no less than an adventure, making it to the best places to visit in Haridwar in one day. Travellers can enjoy the 3km trek or can go for ropeway/ trolley. 

The temple is close to Mansa Devi Mandir, where pilgrims can easily offer their prayers to deities. The traditional rituals and practices connect devotees with the divine, making their spiritual yatra a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

You would easily find such tourist places near Haridwar within 100 km.

9) Daksha Mahadev temple

Approximately 4 km away from Haridwar, the Daksha Mahadev Mandir, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds immense religious significance for Hindi pilgrims. 

The temple attracts thousands of devotees year-round, contributing to uplifting Haridwar tourism. After visiting the sacred site, devotees find mythological details of the Mandir, making tourists spiritually connected to the divine. 

Also, the temple showcases the rich architectural heritage of Indian art, its exquisite carvings and designs are visually stunning and awe-inspiring to witness. Tourists can also visit Das Mahavidya Temple near Daksha Mahadev Temple which saves their time of travel.  

10) Patanjali Yogpeeth

There are significant benefits to top places to visit in Haridwar, such as finding the best Ayurvedic treatment and Yoga therapy. These curing methods are more natural, where with certain health exercises under the guidance of experts, patients/ tourists feel improvement in their health and fitness. 

Also, Patanjali Yogpeeth also provides a Naturopathy program, besides Yoga, to promote the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of travellers. 

Furthermore, the yogic lifestyle is one of the best things to do in Haridwar that the institution offers to everyone is admirable and adoptable by anyone, regardless of their caste or religion. 

However, if you plan to begin any of the treatments, it is advisable to have clearance from your doctor, if you have existing health issues.

11) Vaishno Devi temple

Another best Haridwar tourist spot to cover is the Vaishnodevi Temple in Haridwar. Devotees who couldn’t visit the temple in Jammu should visit this in Haridwar. It is the replica of the Jammu mandir with the same aura and experience the sense of pilgrimage.

The temple enshrines three Hindu deities; Goddess Laxmi, Goddess Kali, and Goddess Saraswati. Devotees also get to seek blessings from 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva within the temple.

Additionally, devotees can take part in the aarti and puja ceremonies. The months of October to March are treated as the best time to visit the temple.

Suggested Read: Places to visit in Rishikesh

Places to Visit in Haridwar in One Day

Take a look at some of the best temples and places to visit in one day in Haridwar, other than the above-mentioned ones.

1) Dhanaulti

Situated approximately 25 km from Haridwar, the site is popular among travel enthusiasts for trekking and camping. You may add this place to your Haridwar itinerary.

2) Manu Temple

Dedicated to Manu, the first man according to Hindu scriptures, the place is quite popular, mostly visited, and one of the best places to visit in Haridwar in one day.

3) Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on the Neelkanth Mahadev Peak.

4) Bhagirathi River

For rafting and other water sports, this is one of the best places to visit in Haridwar. You may pay a one-day visit here.

5) Kusha Ghat

If you are someone who loves to meditate and do yoga, this is the perfect place that offers a peaceful atmosphere.

Additionally, tourists who love to travel can easily find such tourist places near Haridwar within 100 km, making their overall experience memorable.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Rishikesh

Places to Visit in Haridwar in Two Days

Let’s take a look at places and activities you could do on your two-day trip to Haridwar.

1) Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary

It is a perfect place if you are a wildlife enthusiast and love to capture glimpses of animals. Here, you would find a variety of animal species, making it top of the list of the best things to do in Haridwar.

2) Bara Bazar

You can explore the sites of Bara Bazar which includes a local market for shopping for clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts. This place adds value to Haridwar tourism and tourists often find unique items in the market.

3) Bhimgoda Tank

If you are fond of Hindu scriptures and history, you would find this place worth hanging out with. This has to be on your list of things to do in Haridwar. The ancient history of Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, is attached to this place.

4) Haridwar Temple Walk

One of the best things to do in Haridwar is to roam around in the streets of Haridwar, covering small and ancient temples. Thus, hire a guide who could give you the best tour guide.

5) Doodhadhari Barfani Temple

Known for its intricate architecture and ambience, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Hindu god.

How to Reach Haridwar?

It is important to know the available modes of transport that fit better according to your requirements. All three major transport modes are available to cover your Haridwar tourist spot list.

You may select air transport, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and you can easily rent a taxi to Haridwar or you can book an online bus ticket with zingbus to haridwar.

Later, you can explore the things to do in Haridwar.

Similarly, if you’re comfortable with train connectivity, Haridwar has connectivity to all major cities, and you can onboard according to your city. At last, if you are fond of travelling by road, you can cover the distance by two or four-wheelers.

Ready to explore all the things to do in Haridwar? With these available options, you can easily plan your next Haridwar tour, the Gateway to the Gods.