QUESTION
Hi Amanda,
For the first time, I plan on visiting Haridwar. I want to make the most of my trip and explore the city and the surrounding area. So could you tell me how it feels there?
Love,
Sophie!
ANSWER
Hi Sophie,
Haridwar is one of the most sacred cities in India. Every year, millions of pilgrims and tourists visit this holy site to see Ganga Aarti, take a dip in the Ganges, and explore ancient temples and ashrams. Well, back to your question, how does Haridwar feel? This city affects all three of your senses, emotions, and spirituality in a unique way.
Haridwar’s energy and vibrancy are apparent from the moment you arrive. A bustling scene fills the streets with people, shops, rickshaws, and cows. The air is filled with the smell of incense, flowers, and food. A continuous ringing of bells, chants, and prayers fills the air all around. As you are in this place, you can feel the devotion and faith of the people who come to this place to seek blessings and salvation for themselves.
There is nothing like the Ganga Aarti at the Har Ki Pauri ghat to get a sense of what Haridwar is all about. A spectacular ceremony takes place here where hundreds of lamps are lit and offered to the river goddess Ganga, while priests chant hymns and devotees sing along. Seeing the flickering lights on the water, seeing the stars and moon reflected in the water, and feeling the power of spirituality is mesmerizing and inspiring.
A visit to Haridwar will also give you an insight into Indian culture and history. There are a number of temples and ashrams located throughout the city, such as Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir, Shantikunj Ashram, and Patanjali Yogpeeth. It’s a great place to learn about legends and stories, as well as to experience peace and tranquility. Haridwar also celebrates festivals and fairs such as Kumbh Mela, Kanwar Yatra, Somvati Amavasya, and Ganga Dussehra.
On the whole, Haridwar has a soul-stirring quality. It makes you feel a part of something bigger than yourself. There is something about it that inspires you to reflect on your own life and your purpose in life. Despite your fears and doubts, it challenges you to overcome them. You learn to appreciate life’s beauty and diversity. The journey feels like one of enlightenment and transformation.
I hope you find the article interesting. Feel free to let me know what you think.
Love,
Amanda!
