Haridwar

Haridwar - Gateway to God

Ganga in Haridwar

Haridwar is a holy city of Uttarakhand, India. Haridwar stands for Dwar of Hari or Gateway to God. Haridwar is regarded as one of the seven holiest places to Hindus. In mythology it has been variously mentioned as Kapilsthan, Gangadwar and Mayapuri. It is also an entry point to the Char Dham.Being a place of intense religious significance, Haridwar also hosts several religious festivals throughout the year; popular among them are the Kavad Mela, Somvati Amavasya Mela, Ganga Dashara, Gughal Mela

Haridwar has been an abode of the weary in body, mind and spirit. It has also been a centre of attraction for learning various arts, science, and culture. The city has a long-standing position as a great source of Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies and is home to the unique Gurukul.

History

History of haridwar

The mythology of Haridwar cites that the holy city is consecrated by the benedictions of the Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara. The revered Har-Ki-Pauri is sanctified by Lord Vishnu's footsteps on the stone slab that rests in the upper wall. A dip in the holy waters of the Ganges has been considered as a means of redemption from all transgressions for any pious Hindu.

The actual fight that took place between the Lords and the Asuras, Amrit (nectar) vessel broke down and dripped at these four places. To memorialize this event, Kumbh Mela is organized after every twelve years. The four spots where nectar (Amrit) fell are today the celestial places wherein Kumbh Mela is held. Millions of pilgrims and devotees assemble together to be a part of this holy event. They perform ritualistic bathing on the banks of the River Ganga.