Haridwar is located in Uttarakhand, India. It is the largest city of Uttarakhand and the entry point for the Char Dham pilgrimage. After flowing for 253 kms (157 miles) from Gaumukh near the Gangotri Glacier at the edge, the River Ganga enters North India's Indo-Gangetic Plains at Haridwar. The city was named Gangadwara in its old name. Haridwar, one of the most sacred cities in Hinduism, is Haridwar. According to Hindu religious texts it is believed that Prince Bhagirath made severe penance here in order to save the lives of 60,000 people who were killed due to an exalted priest's curse. Ganga, who rebirthed as River Ganges at this location, was granted the answer to his penance. Haridwar became known as Kapila Vastu (“the home and sanctuary of Kapila Mui”). It was named after King Kapi who used this place to purify himself from his sins following the death of demon Shankhasura. People believe that self purification in River Ganges will free a person from all their past sins. It also aids in salvation (moksha). Pilgrims will take holy baths (a dip), to wash away their sins in Ganga water. They then flow towards their goal, ‘Moksha' (liberation from the cycle between life and death) i.e. ‘Samsara. The waters of these waters are said to be able to heal diseases, bring good fortune and keep one from falling prey to all past sins. That is why people throng in large numbers here especially on festivals like Makar Sankranti (14 January), Shivaratri (February/March) etc when a holy dip is considered most significant/auspicious. The riverside ghats have many temples that allow people to take holy dips. These include the Saptrishi Temple and Sri Bhairav Temple. This area is sanctified with many Sadhus, holy men, taking a bath or meditation close to these temples. Five of the five main bathing areas, named after five Pandavas (Dwarka Har Ki Pauri Gau Ghat Janak Ghat Janak Ghat and Nilkantha Ghat), are dedicated to offering prayers to Mother Ganga (considered a goddess). On these ghats, fire rituals are performed regularly. This is especially beautiful at dawn or dusk when the water sparkles in the sunlight. Hindus believe that a dip in Mother Ganga, followed by these rituals, is highly auspicious. It can bring about peace and harmony of the mind and soul. Haridwar is a place everyone should visit at least once in their lives, especially if they are spiritual seekers. It has everything for everyone: serenity, happiness and knowledge.
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