Temples In Haridwar: Exploring The Holy Town Of Mahadev And Maa Ganga

The holy town of Haridwar is where the faith stands as a symbol of reverence. This town houses many temples that help you spiritually connect to the environment. Each and every temple, gracefully embedded either along the banks of the Ganga River or on top of the hills, offers a profound connection not just with the divine but also the nature.  

From the fragrance of the burning incense to the soothing sound of the chimes of temple bells, this place offers nurturing for the soul with a sense of beauty. Even for those who are not bound by the tenets of Hinduism, these sacred shrines resonate as vibrant celebrations of the culture and history of India. Let us have a look at all the famous temples that are situated in the holy town of Haridwar. 

Mansa Devi Temple  

Mansa Devi Temple is situated at the top of Bilwa Parvat. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Sati born from the consciousness of Lord Shiva. This temple is famous for its ritual of tying threads to the temple tree to fulfill their wishes. Once the blessings have been received, they return here to untangle the threads. It also holds the significance of being one of the three Siddh Peeths in this area. 

Chandi Devi Temple.  

Alike Mansa Devi temple, the Chandi Devi temple is also a Siddh Peeth that pays homage to Goddess Chanda Devi who is believed to be an avatar of Goddess Parvati. Devotees gather here during the auspicious occasion of Kumbha Mela, Navratri and the Chandi Chaudas. This is influenced by the legend of her triumph over the demons Shumbha and Nishumba. 

Har Ki Pauri Ganga Temple 

Har Ki Pauri translates to “steps of Shiva” that adorns the banks of the Ganga river and invites devotees to cleanse their souls into the holy waters and seek liberation from their sins. The Ganga Aarti performed in the evening casts a spellbinding view that draws the devotees in seekers of spirituality and calmness.  

 Daksha Mahadev Temple

The Daksha Mahadev Temple is the representation of Mahadev’s glory and devotees from all around the nation gather here, especially during the festivities of Mahashivratri. Its mythological resonance has been enchanted through the ages and was also mentioned in the Mahabharata as the site where King Daksha performed the sacred Ashwamedha Yagya.

Bharat Mata Temple  

  Established by Swami SatyamitranandGiri, the Bharat Mata temple is dedicated to Mother India and was inaugurated by the former Prime Minister, Srimati Indira Gandhi. It is an 8 floored structure each of which is dedicated to different facets of Indian heritage, epitomizes the nation’s rich culture and devotion.  

Maya Devi Temple

This is the third Siddh Peeth alongside Chanda Devi and Mansa Devi Temple. Like the other temples, this is also revered as a sacred ground where wishes are fulfilled. The Goddess resonates with Shakti and presides with grace as her shrine is adorned with icons of Goddess Kali, Goddess Kamakhya and Goddess Maya. 

Neeleshwar Temple  

The Neeleshwar temple is named after a devotee of Lord Shiva, and it exudes tranquility beside the gentle flow of the Ganga River, also known as Neel Dhara. The devotees immerse themselves in the holy waters before seeking the blessings of the divine. 

Jain Temple 

This temple is an example of the city’s inclusive spirit. It houses the idols of Tirthankar Shri Adinatha and Sri ChintamaniParshwanath. It’s beautiful atmosphere echoes the harmonious coexistence of different beliefs and cultures within the sacred city. 

Saptrishi Ashram  

The Saptrishi Ashram was founded by Guru Goswami Dutt and is a heaven for spiritual seekers and pilgrims. The idols that are housed here are of sages Vashishta, Gautam, Kashyapa, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Bharadwaja and Atri who impart wisdom, to all those who come to its sacred land. 

Vaishno Devi Temple 

Inspired by the namesake in Jammu, the Vaishno Devi temple stands as the witness to devotion and consists of caves and tunnels that echo with the beautiful existence of Goddess Saraswati, Goddess Kali and Goddess Lakshmi that draws travelers with his architectural beauty and spiritual resonance. 

Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple  

Situated near the Chandi Devi Temple, the Gaurishankar Mahadev temple resonates with the peaceful aura of Lord Shiva. The pilgrims seek blessings within its sacred compounds and are drawn by the beauty that permeates its sacred environs. 

Mahamrityunjaya Temple  

The Mahamrityunjaya Temple echoes with the chants of the Maha Mrityunjay Mantra and invites the seekers on an inner journey of self realization and spiritual awakening. The vibrations are so powerful that it’s essence resonates with Lord Shivas divine grace. 

Bilvakeshwar Mahadev Temple 

The Bilvakeshwar Mahadev temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his wife Goddess Parvati and it stands as a beautiful abode where the divine and the mortal intertwine. According to the legends and mythology, it is said that Goddess Parvathi sought Lord Shiva’s hand in marriage at this sacred site.  

Pawan Dham Temple 

The Pawan Dham temple is famous for its intricate architecture and beautiful idols. Apart from this, the visitors can participate in various activities like yoga or trekking and immerse themselves in this spiritual ambience. 

Doodhadhari Barfani Temple 

DoodhadhariBarfani temple stands as a assertion to divine craftsmanship and devotion, and is skillfully crafted with pristine white marble. This temple houses the idols of Lord Rama, Lord Hanuman and Goddess Sita and attracts the devotees and visitors from all around.  

Anjana Devi Temple

Situated on the top of a hill, the Anjana Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Anjana, who is revered as the mother of Lord Hanuman. Travelling to this height, the visitors are greeted with mesmerizing vistas that stir the soul and elevate the spirit.  

Sati Kund Temple

Situated in the Kankhal region, the Sati Kund temple commemorates the profound sacrifice of Goddess Sati who immolated herself for her love towards Lord Shiva. This sacred site is steeped in history and it draws countless visitors who seek comfort and spiritual enlightenment. 

Siddhpeeth Sri Kali Mandir

The Siddhpeeth Dakshin Kali Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is the epitome of fierce divinity. It also stands as a beacon of devotion and reverence. Devotees gather here in its sacredness and seek blessings and comfort amidst the divine presence.