Haridwar, a sacred city in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a popular pilgrimage destination that attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year. The city is situated on the banks of the holy River Ganges and is known for its spiritual significance, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. While Haridwar itself has a lot to offer, there are many exciting places to visit near the city that can add to the overall travel experience.
Overview of Best Places to Visit Near Haridwar
From scenic hill stations to ancient temples, and from adventure hotspots to picturesque towns, there are numerous options to explore near Haridwar. These destinations offer a mix of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty that can cater to different interests and preferences. In this article, we will take you on a journey to some of the best places to visit near Haridwar, which can be easily covered on a day trip or a short excursion.
Get Ready to Explore the Hidden Gems Near Haridwar
In the following sections, we will delve into the details of each destination, including their attractions, activities, and travel tips. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, we have got you covered. So, let’s embark on this journey and discover the best places to visit near Haridwar.
Best Places to Visit Near Haridwar
Haridwar, a sacred city in Uttarakhand, India, is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. The city is situated on the banks of the River Ganges and is known for its spiritual significance. However, there are many exciting places to visit near Haridwar that offer a mix of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit near Haridwar:
Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital of India
Rishikesh, located about 20 km from Haridwar, is a popular tourist destination known for its yoga and meditation centers. The city is surrounded by the Himalayas and offers a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for spiritual seekers. Visit the famous Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, two suspension bridges over the River Ganges, and explore the various ashrams and temples in the area.
Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills
Mussoorie, a hill station located about 80 km from Haridwar, is a popular weekend getaway from Delhi. The town offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is known for its scenic beauty. Visit the Kempty Falls, a picturesque waterfall, and take a stroll along the Mall Road, which offers stunning views of the Doon Valley.
Dehradun – The Capital City of Uttarakhand
Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is located about 50 km from Haridwar. The city is known for its natural beauty, with the Himalayas to the north and the Shivalik Hills to the south. Visit the Robber’s Cave, a natural cave, and the Tapovan, a scenic spot with hot springs. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Sedona)
Dhanaulti – A Hill Station with a Difference
Dhanaulti, a hill station located about 60 km from Haridwar, is a lesser-known destination that offers a unique experience. The town is surrounded by dense forests and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Visit the Eco Park, which offers a range of adventure activities, and take a trek to the nearby Surkanda Devi Temple.
Chamba – A Scenic Town with a Rich History
Chamba, a town located about 70 km from Haridwar, is known for its rich history and natural beauty. The town is surrounded by the Himalayas and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the Chamba Fort, a historic fort, and the Bhuri Singh Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
Lansdowne – A Quiet Hill Station
Lansdowne, a hill station located about 100 km from Haridwar, is a quiet and peaceful destination that offers a range of activities. The town is surrounded by dense forests and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Visit the War Memorial, a historic monument, and take a trek to the nearby Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple.
Trekking and Adventure Activities
Haridwar and its surrounding areas offer a range of trekking and adventure activities for those who love the outdoors. Some popular trekking routes include the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila trek, the Kedarnath trek, and the Valley of Flowers trek. Adventure activities such as rafting, kayaking, and camping are also popular in the region.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Haridwar and its surrounding areas is from September to November and from March to May. The weather during this time is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
How to Reach
Haridwar is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 20 km from Haridwar. The city is also connected by rail and bus to major cities such as Delhi and Rishikesh.
| Place | Distance from Haridwar | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Rishikesh | 20 km | September to November and March to May |
| Mussoorie | 80 km | September to November and March to May |
| Dehradun | 50 km | September to November and March to May |
| Dhanaulti | 60 km | September to November and March to May |
| Chamba | 70 km | September to November and March to May |
| Lansdowne | 100 km | September to November and March to May |
These are just a few of the many exciting places to visit near Haridwar. Whether you’re looking for spirituality, adventure, or natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this region. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Chicago)
Conclusion
Haridwar, a sacred city in Uttarakhand, is surrounded by numerous breathtaking destinations that offer a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. In this article, we explored the best places to visit near Haridwar, each with its unique charm and attractions.
We began by discussing the spiritual significance of Rishikesh, a yoga and meditation hub, and its proximity to Haridwar. We then delved into the natural wonders of Mussoorie, a hill station known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails. The adventure-filled town of Dhanaulti, with its sky-high mountains and picturesque valleys, was another highlight of our journey.
We also explored the historical significance of Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, and its cultural attractions. The scenic beauty of Kanatal, with its rolling hills and serene lakes, was another destination that caught our attention. Lastly, we visited the sacred town of Devprayag, where the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi converge to form the Ganges.
In conclusion, these destinations near Haridwar offer a diverse range of experiences, from spirituality and adventure to natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, there’s something for everyone near Haridwar. So, plan your trip today and discover the wonders that await you!
Frequently Asked Questions – Best Places To Visit Near Haridwar
What are the top attractions near Haridwar for nature lovers?
For nature enthusiasts, some of the top attractions near Haridwar include Rajaji National Park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and the scenic hill station of Mussoorie, known for its breathtaking views and trekking trails. Other options include the picturesque town of Dhanaulti, the sacred Devprayag, and the beautiful valley of Narendra Nagar.
Are there any adventure activities available near Haridwar?
Yes, there are plenty of adventure activities available near Haridwar. You can go rafting or kayaking in the Ganges River, or try your hand at trekking, camping, or rock climbing in the surrounding hills. You can also take a hot air balloon ride or go zip lining for a thrilling experience. Rishikesh, which is just a short drive from Haridwar, is a popular destination for adventure seekers. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Haneda Airport)
What are the best places to visit near Haridwar for spiritual seekers?
Haridwar is a sacred city, and there are many places near it that are significant for spiritual seekers. Some of the top attractions include the sacred town of Rishikesh, which is known for its yoga and meditation ashrams, and the holy city of Devprayag, where the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi meet. You can also visit the ancient temple of Daksheswara Mahadev, or take a dip in the holy Ganges River at the Har Ki Pauri ghat.
Are there any hill stations near Haridwar that are suitable for families?
Yes, there are several hill stations near Haridwar that are suitable for families. Some of the top options include Mussoorie, which is known for its scenic views and trekking trails, and Dhanaulti, which is a picturesque town with plenty of outdoor activities. You can also visit the hill station of Kanatal, which is surrounded by beautiful forests and offers plenty of opportunities for trekking and camping.
What are the best places to visit near Haridwar for foodies?
Haridwar is known for its street food, and there are many places near the city where you can try local delicacies. Some of the top options include Rishikesh, which is famous for its vegetarian cuisine, and the town of Muni Ki Reti, which is known for its local sweets and snacks. You can also visit the Chotiwala Restaurant in Haridwar, which is a popular spot for trying local dishes like kachoris and chaat.