Embarking on a tour of Haridwar and Rishikesh is a soul-stirring journey that takes you deep into the heart of spirituality, tranquility, and self-discovery. These twin cities, located in the scenic state of Uttarakhand, present a unique blend of ancient traditions, natural beauty, and a peaceful ambiance that captivates the mind, body, and spirit.
Both Haridwar and Rishikesh offer opportunities for self-reflection and spiritual introspection. Spend time in silent contemplation by the riverside, seek solace in the peaceful ashrams, or participate in satsangs (spiritual gatherings) where the wisdom of enlightened masters resonates with your inner being.
Additionally, exploring the local markets in Haridwar and Rishikesh allows you to savor the flavors of traditional cuisine, shop for handicrafts, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Engage in conversations with the friendly locals, sharing stories and insights that enrich your understanding of the region.
A Haridwar and Rishikesh tour is not just a journey of external exploration but an inward pilgrimage, a chance to connect with your own spirituality and experience personal transformation. It is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and find inner peace amidst the timeless wisdom and natural beauty that these sacred cities offer.
To have a great time in Haridwar as well as in Rishikesh, we recommend you book an all-inclusive Haridwar Rishikesh tour package with us. At Holidays DNA, our team ensures a smooth travel experience and provides you with expert guidance and insights.
From logistics including accommodation, transportation, and guided tours that allow you to relax and enjoy your trip, we take care of everything in the backend. Our main focus is to offer you the best of our services so that you can focus on enjoying your journey and creating lifelong memories.
With us, you can choose from pre-designed itineraries that are well-structured to offer a balanced and comprehensive experience. In case you need any alterations, we would be happy to do the customization as per your choice of interest.
Our team is well-versed in the local culture, traditions, and attractions of Haridwar and Rishikesh. We help you navigate the cities more efficiently so that you can experience the highlights of the region. You can also avail the travel deals and discounts coupons available with us to enjoy your trip at reasonable prices. Please fill out the Contact Us form to speak to our customer care team.
History of Haridwar and Rishikesh
The history of Haridwar can be traced back to a thousand years ago. According to Hindu mythology, the city is associated with Lord Vishnu. It is said to be the place where drops of the elixir of immortality fell from the celestial bird Garuda's pitcher while it was being carried by the gods during the Samudra Manthan, the churning of the cosmic ocean. This event is known as the "Kumbh Mela" in Hindu tradition, which is celebrated every 12 years and attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world.
Over the centuries, Haridwar has been ruled by various dynasties and empires, including the Mauryas, Guptas, Mughals, and the British. The city has witnessed the influence of these different rulers in its architecture and cultural heritage.
Speaking of Rishikesh – the Yoga Capital of the World, its history is associated with Hindu mythology and spiritual practices. Rishikesh is mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures like the Puranas and the Mahabharata. It is believed that Lord Rama, the central figure of the Hindu epic Ramayana, performed penance here to atone for the sin of killing the demon king Ravana.
The city derives its name from the combination of "Rishi" (sage) and "Kesh" (hair), as it was a favored place for sages and saints to meditate and seek spiritual enlightenment.
Throughout history, Rishikesh has been a prominent center for spiritual learning and the study of Vedas, yoga, and meditation. It has attracted renowned spiritual leaders, including Adi Shankaracharya, who established several ashrams and temples in the region during the 8th century.
In the 20th century, the holy city gained international recognition when the Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram here to learn transcendental meditation. This visit brought Rishikesh into the global spotlight and further popularized it as a hub for yoga and spirituality.
Today, both Haridwar and Rishikesh continue to be significant pilgrimage destinations in India, attracting devotees, seekers of spiritual knowledge, and tourists from around the world. The cities preserve their rich cultural heritage and serve as gateways to the Himalayas and the holy sites of Uttarakhand.
Places to Visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh
There are several tourist places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh. Depending on your holiday budget, mood, and overall trip style, you can take the help of our professionals to curate an itinerary that helps you make the most of your time.
Give a kickstart to your Rishikesh tour with Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula. Both are iconic bridges that hold immense religious and cultural significance. They serve as important landmarks in Rishikesh, attracting a significant number of tourists and devotees from different corners of the nation. Not only do these architectural marvels provide a unique experience but also allow visitors to connect with the real essence of the region while enjoying the natural beauty of the Ganga and the Himalayas.
Head to Triveni Ghat from there to immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the holy city. It is believed to be the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers and many devotees come here to take a holy dip and perform rituals. In the evening, the ghat comes alive with the Ganga Aarti ceremony where people gather to offer prayers and witness the beautiful spectacle of lamps and chanting along the riverbanks.
Lying at an altitude of 4360 feet above sea level is the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Pilgrims have to trek through the scenic forest trails to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and offer prayers and offerings at the sanctum sanctorum. The temple attracts a large number of devotees, especially during the auspicious month of Shravan (July-August) and on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri.
The Neer Garh Waterfall is another popular sightseeing place in Rishikesh that deserves your attention. Surrounded by an abundance of lush greenery, the Neer Garh Waterfall offers a tranquil escapade away from the annoying city lights. If interested and have time, you can also plan to explore the other points of interest like the Beatles Ashram, Tera Manzil Temple, Bharat Mandir, Swarg Ashram, and Geeta Bhavan within the city.
Don’t worry if you’re up for some adventure. Rishikesh has numerous adrenaline-fuelled activities for all those who are seeking to fill their day with unlimited fun and boundless entertainment. These include River Rafting, Camping, Trekking, Bungee Jumping, Cliff Jumping, Flying Fox, and more.
Once you’re done with Rishikesh exploration, head to Haridwar. The Har Ki Pauri is the first attraction that grabs your eyes as soon as you step into this pilgrimage site. It is primarily known as a bathing ghat where devotees from all over the country come to take a holy dip in the sacred Ganges. It is believed that bathing in the waters of the Ganga at Har Ki Pauri during auspicious occasions and festivals brings blessings and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
The second place that needs to be included on your itinerary list is the Mansa Devi Temple. Situated atop the Bilwa Parvat, the Mansa Devi Temple is a renowned Hindu shrine that is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi. It features a traditional North Indian architectural style and has the presiding deity adorned with jewelry and colorful garments.
For spiritual seekers, Haridwar boasts many religious sites which include Chandi Devi Temple, Daksheshwar Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir, Daksha Mahadev Temple, Vaishno Devi Temple, Gauri Shankar Mahadev Temple, Maya Devi Temple, etc.
All those interested in wildlife can pay heed to the Rajaji National Park to observe a diverse range of fauna and flora from close. There is also a Fun Valley Water Park for families who are in search of a perfect weekend location.
As a wanderer, you can take some time out for Pentagon Mall as well to experience recreation at its best. The Pentagon Mall has everything right from the retail outlets to a gaming arcade and several other entertainment options to keep you occupied throughout the time.
How to Reach Haridwar and Rishikesh?
To get down to Haridwar and Rishikesh, you have several transportation options available. Here are the common methods of reaching these two destinations:
By Air: The nearest airport to Haridwar and Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 20 km away. From the airport, you can book a taxi from the list of top car rental companies in Haridwar and Rishikesh to reach your desired destination. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to Dehradun from major cities in India.
By Train: Haridwar and Rishikesh are well-connected by train services. Haridwar has its own railway station, while Rishikesh is served by the Haridwar Junction railway station. Numerous trains from different parts of the country have regular stops at these stations. You can check the train schedules and book tickets through the Indian Railways website or other online ticketing platforms.
By Road: Both Haridwar and Rishikesh are easily accessible by road as they are well-connected with various cities and towns in India. The most common way to reach is by taking a bus. Several public and private bus services operate regular buses to Haridwar and Rishikesh from nearby cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and others. If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient journey, you can hire a taxi or a private car to reach these destinations.
It's important to note that Haridwar and Rishikesh are located in close proximity to each other, and the distance between them is only about 20 km. Therefore, the transportation options mentioned above apply to both destinations. Choose the mode of transportation that suits your preference and convenience.
