Temples of Haridwar – a city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, are a spiritual haven for millions of devotees and tourists alike. Known as the “Gateway to the Gods,” Haridwar is home to numerous ancient temples that hold immense religious significance. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most revered Haridwar temples, each offering a unique glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India.
1. Mansa Devi – Haridwar Temple
Perched atop the Bilwa Parvat on the Shivalik Hills, the Mansa Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti. This temple is one of the Panch Tirth (Five Pilgrimages) within Haridwar. The temple’s origins date back to the 19th century, and it is believed that the goddess fulfills the wishes of those who pray with sincere devotion. The temple can be reached either by a scenic trek or via a ropeway, offering panoramic views of the Ganges and the surrounding landscape.
Rituals: Devotees tie sacred threads (known as “dhaga”) on the branches of a sacred tree near the temple, symbolizing the fulfillment of their wishes. Once their wishes are granted, they return to untie the thread. Daily aartis (prayer ceremonies) and special poojas are performed, especially during the Navratri festival.
2. Chandi Devi – Haridwar Temple
Another significant temple in Haridwar is the Chandi Devi Temple, located on the Neel Parvat. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, who is believed to have slain the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha here. The temple was originally built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, one of India’s greatest philosophers and theologians. The current structure was constructed by King Suchat Singh in 1929. The temple is accessible by a trek or a ropeway ride, and the serene environment and spiritual aura make it a must-visit for devotees and tourists.
Rituals: Daily aartis and special poojas are performed, accompanied by the chanting of sacred mantras and devotional songs. The temple witnesses a significant influx of devotees during festivals like Navratri and Chandi Chaudas.
3. Daksheshwar Mahadev – Haridwar Temple
Situated in the town of Kankhal, the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is named after King Daksha Prajapati, the father of Sati, Lord Shiva’s first wife. According to Hindu mythology, King Daksha performed a grand yagna (sacrificial ritual) at this site, but did not invite Lord Shiva. Sati, unable to bear the insult to her husband, immolated herself in the yagna fire. The temple complex also houses the Yajna Kund, where this event is believed to have taken place. The temple’s history is deeply intertwined with the legends of Shiva and Sati, making it a significant pilgrimage site, especially during the holy month of Sawan and on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri.
Rituals: Regular puja (worship) ceremonies are conducted throughout the day. Devotees offer prayers, flowers, milk, and other offerings to Lord Shiva. Special rituals such as abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity) are performed on auspicious occasions and festival days.
4. Maya Devi – Haridwar Temple
The Maya Devi Temple is one of the three ancient temples in Haridwar, the other two being Narayana-Shila and Bhairava Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Maya, an incarnation of Shakti, this temple is believed to be the place where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell. The temple’s origins can be traced back to the 11th century, making it one of the oldest temples in Haridwar. The temple’s inner sanctum houses idols of Goddess Maya, Goddess Kali, and Goddess Kamakhya. The temple’s historical and religious significance draws pilgrims from all over India, who come to seek the blessings of the goddess.
Rituals: Special pujas, aartis, and havans (fire rituals) are conducted regularly, invoking the divine presence of the goddess. During Navratri, the deity is specially adorned with flowers and ornaments, and special pooja is performed.
5. Bharat Mata Mandir – a Haridwar Temple
Unlike other temples in Haridwar, the Bharat Mata Mandir is dedicated to Mother India. This eight-story temple was inaugurated by Indira Gandhi in 1983 and is a tribute to the sacrifices made by Indian freedom fighters. Each floor of the temple is dedicated to different deities, saints, and national heroes, making it a unique blend of spirituality and patriotism. The temple was founded by Swami Satyamitranand Giri and is a symbol of India’s unity and cultural diversity. The temple’s architecture and the stories depicted on each floor provide a fascinating insight into India’s rich history and heritage.
Rituals: The temple celebrates national festivals like Independence Day and Republic Day with great fervor. Special ceremonies and cultural events are organized to honor the heroes and freedom fighters of India.
6. Har Ki Pauri – a hub of Haridwar Temples
While not a temple in the traditional sense, Har Ki Pauri is one of the most sacred ghats in Haridwar. It is believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint here. The ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bharthari in the 1st century BC. The evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is a mesmerizing experience, drawing thousands of devotees who come to witness the river Ganges being worshipped with lamps and chants. The ghat’s historical and spiritual significance makes it a focal point of religious activities in Haridwar.
Rituals: The Ganga Aarti is performed every evening, where priests perform elaborate ceremonies, waving large oil lamps to the rhythmic chants and hymns. Devotees offer flowers and diyas (oil lamps) to the river Ganges as a mark of respect and devotion.
Conclusion
Haridwar temples are not just places of worship but also repositories of ancient traditions, legends, and architectural marvels. Whether you are a devout pilgrim or a curious traveler, the Haridwar temples offer a profound spiritual experience. Plan your visit to this holy city and immerse yourself in the divine ambiance that Haridwar temples have to offer. You may also contact us to know how to plan a Haridwar Temple Trip.