How to Spend 2 Days and 2 Night in Haridwar (2024)

To get a close brush with spiritual divinity, you need to plan a visit and take a dip in the crystal clear sacred water of the River Ganga at Haridwar. From high above the mountains, the Ganga royally steps into the plains first at Haridwar, making it a religious pilgrimage revered by lakhs of pilgrims. Even if you can escape your humdrum lives, it is worth each second spent here.

The cultural heritage and religious sentiments are at a “forever” high in this ancient town, scattered with exquisite temples and glorious ghats. To explore the beauty of this quaint town and experience Indian traditions and spiritual prayers practiced since olden times, visit Haridwar, even if it is for a short while. To escape from the wildlife of the city and have a brush with the cherished Hindu traditions, book a reliable tour package. Here is some information on “How to spend two days and one night in Haridwar”:

Day 1 in Haridwar: 

Start your day by digging your teeth into Yummilicious puri chana from Mohan Ji Puri Wale or look down at the fabulous sight of Haridwar from the Patio as you munch on a feast. It is a perfect way to start your day before you head to the busy Har ki Pauri for a brush with spirituality.

Har ki Pauri: 

Har Ki Pauri is the most famous landmark in Haridwar, where thousands of devotees pay their respects daily. A huge mass of people gathers here to take a holy dip in the sacred water of the Ganges. Millions get together, illuminate small earthenware lamps, and enjoy the Ganga Aarti every morning and evening.

People take a bath in the serene waters before the Aarti and enjoy that sacred feeling. It is said that the Ganga can cleanse people of their sins and provide them with a straight route to heaven.

Har Ki Pauri rings out with the continuous chanting of the holy name reverberating in the serene environment. The Ganga flowing, the mantras sung loudly, and prayers being held to please the divine- there is no better place to be in! Wash your sins at the “Brahmakund” and embrace serenity and calmness.

Daksha Mahadev Temple:

This temple in Khankal is probably the oldest in this holy city and is dedicated to Mahadev, Lord Shiva. It is a sacred place for Shaivites, and the devotees ardently pray to their Lord throughout the year. But this holy abode radiates divinity during the month of Sawan and the Shivratri festival with its special attractions and religious rituals. This temple is named after Daksha Prajapati, Goddess Sati’s father, and the best time to visit is in August. Daksh is said to be one of the creator deities responsible for procreation and protection.

Maya Devi Temple

Maya Devi temple is an important temple in Haridwar constructed way back in the 11th century. The temple honours the “Absolute power,” “Adi Shakti,” or Maya Devi.

Adi Shakti is said to be a manifestation of Sati, Mahadev’s wife, also Daksh Prajapati’s daughter.

When Lord Shiva was denied entry to a sacred Yajna ceremony to which all the Gods, Goddesses, and Devtas had been invited, Sati was offended and immolated herself. A furious Shiva took on the body of Veerbhadra and carried the burning corpse of Sati in his arms.

To save humanity from this fury and devastation, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut the body into pieces. The parts fell at 52 different places or “Siddh peeths,” and the Maya Devi temple is Sati’s heart navel! The idol in the temple has three heads and four arms. Thus, Haridwar was also called Mayapuri in olden times.

Gau Ghat:

According to Hindu mythology, the cow is a sacred animal we worship. Another name for cow is “Kamdhenu,” meaning the magical cow that can complete all your wishes and desires. At this Ghat, people grant forgiveness and feel sorry for killing cows for food. Here cows are donated, and religious hymns and rituals are done to sanctify the whole process.

The Bharat Mata Mandir:

This unique multi-storeyed temple was established by Swami Satyamitraanand Giri and had a huge footfall of ardent devotees. The Bharat Mata Mandir is famous nationally and internationally. It is located on Vidyapeeth Road and is in the heart of Haridwar.

The temple stands out distinctly because it is dedicated to Mother India. This religious shrine was inaugurated by Indira Gandhi and is a serene and mystical retreat ideal for peaceful meditation. People come here to pay their respects to the Motherland, Mahatma Gandhi, and other deities.

The whole temple lights up with glee on Republic day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti to celebrate the sacrifices of the freedom fighters of the country as well as the divinity of the spiritual deities.

BilkeshwarMahadev Temple

According to the legends, this temple located at Bilva Parvat has a hidden story of Lord Shiva and the Goddess Parvati. It is believed that Parvati Ji did strict penance and worshipped Mahadev to marry her and accept her in his life. Lord Shiva appeared before her and granted her wish. The Bilva tree leaves represent Lord Shiva’s eyes, and is used in the ritual of worshipping Mahadev at this temple. This sacred place held in great reverence by the localities is within walking distance from the railway station; called the Bilkeshwar Mahadev temple has idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Pavan putra hanuman, and Lord Ganesha.

Mansa Devi Temple:

Haridwar is famous for its Mansa Devi temple at the top of Bilva Parvat. People from far and wide come to pay their respects and prayers to the Mansa Devi Goddess, born from Lord Shiva’s “Mann” or mind. In return, the Devi takes care of her devotees’ wishes and fulfils their desires.

You will be astonished to see expensive gifts, gold and silver ornaments, coconuts, flowers, and other exquisite things offered to the Devi at this “teerth” or pilgrimage place.

With a breathtaking view for pilgrims and visitors, the ropeway carrying people to this famous temple is a great attraction for all.

Mahamrityunjaya Temple

This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva has immense significance in Hindu mythology. Mahamrityunjaya is a well-known mantra of Lord Shiva that keeps people safe from danger and evil eyes. Praying at this temple is beneficial in attaining peace of mind and diminishes illness and negativity. With abundant greenery and unexplainably beautiful surroundings, sit and pray at the Mahamrityuanjaya temple to achieve tranquillity and peace of mind.

We have listed only a few temples that are a must-visit in the area, but there are many more. Most of them are a stone’s throw from each other and can be easily covered in two days. But Haridwar is a bustling town that is always jam-packed. The exquisite architecture, along with the pious sanctity of the temples and ghats, has a strange pull that attracts millions. This leads to an unpredictable huge footfall in Haridwar.

Ashti Parvath Ghat

As the name suggests, this is the Ghat, where people pray, perform last rites, and dispense the ashes of their loved ones. It is located in the south of Ganga temple and is visited by people worldwide. The holy river flowing from the mountains to Haridwar is considered pure and undefiled. Moreover, it can cleanse the body of all its sins and take the soul to heaven after. The main purpose of visiting this Ghat is to float the ashes of a dead person in the purity of the Ganga. People perform rituals and prayers before they scatter the ashes of their kin into the river.

Subhash Ghat

This is built to keep the visitors and pilgrims who visit Haridwar safe and sound. A voluntarily organized Sewa Samiti helps the devotees as a dispensary here.

Most temples and ghats are near each other, but each offers a unique sight of the city so try to make the best of your short vacation. As night falls and the Ganga Aarti ends, go to the Da Vinci’s Café, Lounge and Fine Dining, Olive or the Tamarind for a quick bite before you relax back in your hotel to sleep the night away. After all, it’s time to rest and get ready to welcome an adventurous day next morning!

Day 2 in Haridwar:

What is a holiday without some excitement and exhilaration? Haridwar may be a holy place where religious activities are a priority, but there is something for all of us, even adventure lovers. Grab a quick delicious breakfast at the Rustic House, Sardarji Da dhaba, the Mirage Multi cuisine restaurant or another famous food joint here and start your last day in Haridwar with fun-filled activities in the surrounding areas:

Hot Air Ballooning:

If you want to explore nature from close by, if you’re going to stare at Haridwar from a height and explore each corner with an aerial view, then book a trip for yourself on the Hot Air Balloon.

This sport completely suits the person who wants to see nature up close and get a deeper view. Hot air ballooning gives you a glimpse of the scenic wonders from high above the ground from the heights suspended in the air.

Moreover, you also get to examine the glorious sky on a vibrantly coloured balloon while you stare at the lush green surroundings. It would be best if you gave it a try in Haridwar. We promise you will not regret it. This is an apt activity for all those who want to explore another side of this religious town. Haridwar doesn’t let you down because besides the temples and ghats, there are various adventure activities up its “ancient” sleeve!

E-bike Tour:

These are meant for the people who love nature and want to experience its mysterious beauty from a closer point. This activity helps in providing a hassle-free biking experience. If you’re going to enjoy and grasp the cool breeze of the mountains, hire an e-bike, cycle away with your picnic basket full of goodies, and spend a couple of refreshing hours cycling away from the blues. Breathe in that fresh oxygen from the mountains and fill your mind and body with rejuvenating freshness.

Location: Tapovan, Rishikesh

Waterfall Rappelling:

This activity is meant for bold people who can survive and balance their bodies on the highest level of a waterfall—warning and caution for all those who get panic attacks or those with weak hearts. The body is bent double into a downward posture, and you must step into the water and maintain your body balance.

Besides these activities, you can enjoy rappelling, trekking and water rafting. Make a choice and book a place for what interests you most. You can always come back for a longer holiday and indulge in more exciting activities.

With a mesmerizing view of the mountains, the lamps, and the temples, the whole city comes to life when prayers are held. Many kids have their mundane ceremony here, and the world’s biggest fair, Kumbh Mela, is held at Haridwar. You must end day two by returning to the Har ki Pauri for the Ganga Aarti again. You will never get a chance to see it.

So, Freeze the moment once again, have dinner, go back to the hotel and make plans to come back.

Learn “how to spend two days and one night in Haridwar”. This short tour package for Haridwar brings you close to the Hindu traditions and serves as a means of escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. These packages allow you to revel in the serenity of nature and calm your soul with peace and tranquility. Spend precious, memorable moments in nature while relaxing and rejuvenating during this trip. Indulge in religious rituals and activities on sacred Ghats and attend the Ganga Aarti.

Haridwar is a beautiful place to visit during festivals and Mela times. You can experience the best two days and one night in this ancient heritage town and witness the intriguing religious practices of old India. Also, there are plenty of popular art institutions and museums of science and culture to explore here amidst the sounds of the River Ganga, the breathtakingly beautiful backdrop of lush green forests, and the mighty Himalayas. Come back for more excitement next time.

You can also include Pawan Dham, the famous Moti Bazaar, the Rajaji National Park, Patanjali Yogpeeth, and Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar if you have the time. Experience the most enjoyable short vacation and have lots of fun blending spirituality with adventure.