At 05:00 hrs: Our driver will pick you up and head for Haridwar, which is about a 4 hour drive.
The holy city of Haridwar is located in the north Indian state of Uttaranchal at a distance of 214 kms from Delhi.
Haridwar, literally Gateway to God, is one of the Hindu holy places in India and a centre of Hindu religion and mysticism for centuries. Located on the banks of River Ganges (Ganga), at the point where the Ganges descends from the hills to the North Indian plains, Haridwar attracts a large number of Hindu pilgrims from all over the world.
Places to visit in Haridwar:
Har-ki-Pauri: Holy ghats are named after the Charan (Footprints) of Hari (God Vishnu) impressed on a stone, set into the upper wall of the ghats. This sacred swimming ghat, is also famous as Brahmakund. The reflection of golden hues of floral diyas, in the river Ganga, is the most delightful sight in the twilight, throughout the Ganga Arti Ceremony. It is the most important ghat on the river Ganga, where a holy dip is a must for every devotee.
Mansa Devi Temple: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, believed to fulfil the wishes of those who visit here. From the temple, one can have heart stirring views of the Haridwar town. Along with Chandi Devi temple, Maya Devi temple, it completes the Siddhapeeth Triangle.
Rishikesh is a small town in the northern state of Uttarakhand. Scenically located where the Ganges River comes down from the Himalayas, Rishikesh catapulted to Western fame when the Beatles dropped by for a visit to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram (now closed), and the town is still known as the World Capital of Yoga.
Rishikesh is also the Gateway to the Himalayas. The Char Dham Yatra (Four Shrines Sacred Journey) ideally begins from Rishikesh.
Places of Attraction
The Triveni Ghat: It is one of the most prominent swimming ghat in Rishikesh. With its modern images of Hindu deities and white sandy beach, the ghat is ideal for a dip in the holy waters of the Ganga. The evening, arati (worship) with lamps is worth watching.
Lakshman Jhula: Lakshman Jhula is basically a hanging bridge on the Ganges and the most popular spot in Rishikesh. About 2 kms upstream is the old footbridge called Lakshmanjhula, named after the brother of Lord Rama. Temples line both sides of the river at Lakshmanjhula.
Swarg Ashram: With its numerous ashrams, food stalls and shops, this ashram is a haunt for those looking for insights into religious themes.
In the evening during sunset, you will visit Ganga Aarti at Haridwar. The tradition continues unabated and is a sight to behold. It takes place on the other side of the banks where you will see the priests light up the lamps in a clockwise manner, accompanied by songs in praise of Mother Ganga. After the ritual is complete, devotees will cup their hands over the flame and raise their palms to their forehead in order to get the Goddess's purification and blessing.
Finally, back to Delhi and get dropped at you at around 10pm.
