Har ki Pauri Ghat
Haridwar, Uttarakhand, 249401
On the banks of the Ganges River in Haridwar, Northern India, Hari ki Pauri Ghat draws in pilgrims who come to pray and bathe in the waters, which are sacred in the Hindu tradition. It's a particularly popular spot at sunrise and sunset, during aarti ceremonies that include the ritual lighting of giant lamps accompanied by songs and prayers.
The basics
Hari ki Pauri is almost always bustling with Hindu devotees, though visitors of all backgrounds are welcome. If it’s your first time to the Ganges River, you might want to visit with a guide, who can help explain practices to you and translate, if necessary. There are plenty of tours from Delhi to Haridwar that include a stop at the ghat (or riverfront steps). Most of these tours also include a trip to the nearby city of Rishikesh, known for its yoga ashrams.
Things to know before you go
Hari ki Pauri is a must-experience for spiritual seekers and those interested in Hindu spirituality and culture.
As Hari ki Pauri is considered a sacred place, you'll need to take off your shoes and leave them at the top of the ghat.
For the same reasons, modest dress is advised, and visitors should wear clothes that cover their knees and shoulders.
River currents can be strong. If you plan to bathe in the water, make sure to hold onto one of the bolted chains that are designed to keep visitors safe.
How to get there
Hari ki Pauri Ghat is set on the banks of the Ganges River in the heart of Haridwar. Haridwar is well-connected to Dehradun and Delhi by train (the Shatabdi Express is the fastest option) and by bus. The ghat is about a 25-minute walk or 5- to 10-minute drive or autorickshaw ride from the Haridwar Junction railway station.
When to get there
Haridwar is a year-round destination, though summers can be unbearably hot, particularly during the months of May and June, just before the monsoon. Winters can get chilly, especially at night. The best time of day to visit Har ki Pauri Ghat is during the twice-daily aarti ceremony, which takes place at sunrise and again at sunset—arrive early for good seats.
The yoga capital of the world
Just up the Ganges River from Hari ki Pauri lies the city of Rishikesh, among the most popular destinations in Uttarakhand. The city is known for its plentiful ashrams and yoga schools, and draws Indian and international aspirants to attend yoga teacher training courses. The International Yoga Festival, which takes place here every winter, attracts yoga practitioners from around the world.
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