Haridwar is considered as one of the seven holiest places according to Hindu mythology.
According to the legends, when the Gods left their footprints on the land of Haridwar, metaphorically they also left an indelible mark on the spiritual ethos of every Hindu
More so, the devout, who would later follow their holy paths all across this blessed land.Haridwar, due to its geographical location stands as the gateway to the four pilgrimages of Uttrakhand. Mentioned as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, and Mokshadwar in the ancient scriptures and epics, Haridwar has always remained as a major Shaktipeeth for the devotees. Of such significance is Haridwar in the thought of India's traditional Hindus that it has earned its sobriquet of honor, `the gateway to the Gods'.
Legend has it that the holy Ganga, the holiest of all rivers, which flows through this sacred city has actually been sanctified by the powerful Trinity of Hindu mythology and the center of the pantheon - Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.
Har-Ki-Pauri, the sacred Ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. It is believed that Bhartihari eventually came to Haridwar to meditate by the banks of the holy Ganga. When he died, his brother constructed the Ghat in his name which later came to be known as Har-Ki-Pauri. The reflection of golden hues of floral diyas in the river Ganga is the most enchanting sight in the twilight during the Ganga Aarti Ceremony. It is the most important Ghat on the river Ganga, where a holy dip is a must for every devotee.
The temple of Chandi Devi atop the Neel Parvat on the other bank of river Ganga was constructed in 1929 AD by the King of Kashmir - Suchat Singh. The temple is a 3-km trek from Chandi Ghat. It is believed that the main statue was established by the Adi Shankaracharya in 8th Century AD. Chandi Devi Temple is now accessible by a ropeway also, which starts near Gauri Shankar Temple.
Rishikesh around 28 km off Haridwar is at the base of Himalaya and the place where Ganga comes down to the plains from hills. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty and undiscovered wildlife await here. Not to mention the peace and tranquility of a landscape associated with sages and meditation. According to legend, sage Raibhya Rishi undertook staunch penance at Rishikesh to please God. In answer to his meditation, god appeared here, manifested as `Rishikesh' (hairs of the sage) and the place thus came to be called after him. Today, Rishikesh has become a center for learning and research in yoga and meditation, the renowned Indian methods for mental and physical health.
