Known as the "Land of Myths and Mountains," Uttarakhand, or Devbhoomi, stands out as one of India's most picturesque states. Its breathtaking scenery includes snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, winding rivers, revered temples, charming villages, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife. The state is geographically divided into two regions: Garhwal and Kumaon, both offering abundant opportunities for tourism, sightseeing, adventure, and wildlife exploration. With its sacred Hindu temples and numerous trekking trails, this North Indian gem provides a unique blend of spiritual experiences and opportunities for adventure and recreation.
A blend of Spirituality and Wildlife on a weekend from Delhi
Uttarakhand is a favourite destination for those residing in Delhi, especially for those who love to delve into spirituality. Haridwar is the best option to fulfil the desire, which is also known as the ‘Gateway to Char Dham Yatra’. Situated along the banks of the sacred River Ganga, Haridwar stands as one of the seven holy cities in India. This age-old city is adorned with a multitude of temples, ashrams, ghats, and various other revered sites, making it a significant pilgrimage destination for Hindus.
Mapping for the first day-
1. Kankhal - Kankhal is a modest settlement housing the well-known Daksha Mahadev temple and Maa Anandamayi Ashram. The former, a homage to Lord Shiva, draws numerous devotees, particularly during the auspicious month of Sawan. Meanwhile, the latter serves as a spiritual hub, constructed in reverence to the Bengali mystic leader Maa Anandamayi.
2. Shri Maa Chandi Devi Temple - Perched atop Neel Parvat of the Shivalik Hills, this temple holds historical significance as the mythological battleground where the goddess vanquished demons Chand-Mund and, subsequently, Shumbh-Nishumbh. Accessible by trekking or the convenient ropeway, offering a panoramic view of Haridwar, the temple stands as a testament to the ancient legends associated with the region.
3. Maa Mansa Devi Temple - Devoted to the worship of Goddess Mansa Devi and perched on Bilwa Parvat, this temple holds a significant place among the five crucial pilgrimage sites in Haridwar. Offering a captivating panorama of the surrounding mountains and plains, the temple can be accessed through the Mansa Devi Udankhatola, a ropeway that adds to the spiritual journey and provides a seamless ascent to the revered site.
4. Har ki Pauri - Positioned along the banks of the River Ganga, this is the paramount destination to explore in Haridwar. Immersing oneself in the waters here is believed to cleanse away sins, and attending the evening Ganga Aarti is an indispensable experience.
Mapping for the second day-
1. Rajaji National Park - Established in the year 1982, Rajaji National Park spans across 820.42 sq km, formed through the amalgamation of three wildlife sanctuaries: Rajaji, Motichoor, and Chilla. Home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, Rajaji Online Booking for jeep safari is a must to give a drastic turn to tour weekend from the spiritual angle. Take an early morning safari to imbibe the fresh air and the first rays of the sun while sighting the gracious wildlife of Rajaji.
2. Saptarshi Ashram - Situated on the Ganges riverside, Saptarishi Ashram attracts numerous visitors seeking a serene environment for meditation and yoga. The tranquillity of the place is so profound that it drew the seven sages for meditation, ultimately leading to the ashram being named after them.
3. Bharat Mata Temple - Translated as the Mother India Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir is an exceptional multi-storey temple in Haridwar dedicated to patriots and freedom fighters. Inaugurated by the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1983, the towering 180-foot structure with eight floors symbolises the spirit of unity in diversity, mirroring the essence of our great nation. Each of the eight floors is dedicated to an individual theme, adding depth to the temple's significance.
4. Pawan Dham - This ancient shrine boasts intricate architecture, captivating interiors, and intricate glasswork, with beautiful idols embellished with precious jewels and stones standing out as notable features. The focal point of this revered site is the exquisite idol of Lord Krishna, depicted in the act of imparting wisdom to his disciple Arjun.
How to make the commute?
If you own a car or planning to hire one, then the entire plan can be executed with your vehicle. Alternatively, Haridwar is about 214 km from Delhi and a journey via train will only take about 4 to 5 hours to reach. So board an early morning train from Delhi and reach Haridwar, the city of Gods.
