Haridwar located in the foot hills of the Himalayas, represents the point where the Ganga reaches the plains. Haridwar is an ancient piligrimage site, held in reverence for centuries. The Chinese pilgrim, describes Haridwar as Mayura, on the eastern banks of the Ganges. Several temples and ashrams dot this town and a visit to Haridwar is like stepping into a totally different world. Haridwar is also know as 'the Gateway to the Gods'.

Haridwar (and Rishikesh) represents the gateway to the Himalayan pilgrimage shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath . Haridwar is also the site of celebration of the Kumbha Mela, once in twelve years, The main ghat at Haridwar is known as Hari-ki-Pairi (known for a footprint of Vishnu on a stone in a wall) Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains with Haridwar, It is said that taking bath here purifies the soul and opens the way for the ultimate freedom, Nirvana. Haridwar has always remained a major pilgrimage for the Hindus.