Haridwar - Hardwar or Hari-Dwar

by Sacred Sites Places of Peace and Power

Haridwar meaning ‘Gateway to God’ is one of the seven holiest places of the Hindus, located on the banks of River Ganges. It is the place where river Ganga descends to the plains. Haridwar is also spelled as Hardwar or Hari-Dwar.

A paradise for nature-lovers, Haridwar presents kaleidoscope of Indian culture and civilization. Haridwar also termed as 'Gateway to Gods' is known as Mayapuri, Kapila and Gangadwar as well.

The followers of Lord Shiva (Har) and followers of Lord Vishnu (Hari) pronounce this place Hardwar and Hardwar respectively as told by some.

It is also a point of entry to Dev Bhoomi and Char Dham (Four main centers of pilgrimage in Uttarakhand) Viz. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Haridwar is a typical place to start a pilgrim's journey.

Haridwar is also known as the home of Devi Sati and the palace of her father Daksha. In ancient times, the town was referred to as Gangadwára the place where the Ganges descends to the plains.

History of Haridwar:-

Archaeological finding have proved that terracotta culture dating between 1700 B.C. and 1200 B.C. existed in this region.

Legendary king Bhagirathi is said to have brought the river Ganga from heaven to earth in order to provide salvation to his ancestors. It is also said that Haridwar has been sanctified by the presence of three Gods; Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.

Lord Vishnu is said to have his foot print on the stone that is set in the upper wall of Har-Ki-Pauri where the Holy Ganga touches it all the times.

Devout believers feel that they can go to heaven by getting their salvation after a dip in the sacred Ganga at Haridwar.

Ganga trickled forth from Lord Shiva's locks and its bountiful water revived the sons of King Sagara. In the tradition of Bhagirathi, devout Hindus stand in the sacred waters here, praying for salvation of their ancestors.

Haridwar is also one of the four places where drops of Amrit or nectar fell from the pitcher which was being carried by Garuda, the heavenly bird and the spot is known as Brahma Kund or Har-ki-Pauri.