Tourism in Haridwar District offers the travellers an opportunity to explore its ancient sites that also have a religious significance. Haridwar is a popular tourist destination of the country. People from different corners of the country come to explore the true charm of Haridwar. This place is also considered as an ideal destination for the adventure lovers. Some of the main attractions of Haridwar District are as follows.
Rishikesh: Rishikesh is one of the best located pilgrimage centres along the right bank of Ganga River. The holy river emerging from high mountains not far from here, runs deep and silent through the thickly wooded hills of the Tehri that straddle this region. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty and undiscovered wildlife await here. Today Rishikesh has become a centre for learning and research in yoga and meditation the renowned Indian methods for mental and physical health. The week-long International Yoga festival which attracts participation from all across the world is held here annually in the month of February on the banks of serene Ganga.
Rajaji National Park: Rajaji National Park was founded in the year 1966 and spreads over an area of 820 sq kms, the park with its magnificent ecosystem, is nestled in the lush valley of Shivalik Hills. It represents the flora of several zones of the forest, riverine, broad leaf mixed forest, scrub land and grassy pasture lands. Diverse species of flora and fauna are found here. Best season to visit this place is in between November to mid June. This park attracts wildlife lovers with its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio diversity. It has around 23 species of mammals and 315 avifauna species. One may watch a herd of elephants roaming majestically in the jungle or may find oneself excited by wildlife of many kinds including tigers, leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan yellow throated marten, samber, cheetal, barking deer, wild boar, langoor, ghural, sloth beer, king cobra, woodpecker etc. The river shelters fish in abundance.
Piran Kalier: The `Dargah` of Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahamed `Sabir` on the outskirts of Roorkee town is a worth visit place for every visitor. It is situated towards the southern region of Haridwar. Famed for its mystical powers that fulfill the desires of the devout, the Dargah is visited by millions of devotees from far and wide.
Sureshwari Devi Temple: This is a temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is situated in the peaceful forest area of Rajaji National park.
Kodiyala: The place is very popular among the adventure lovers. It is known for its turbulent white water.
Bhimgoda Tank: This tank is at a distance of about 1 km from Har-ki-Pauri. It is said that while Pandavas were going to Himalayas through Haridwar, Bhima made this tank.
Har Ki Pauri: This sacred ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother. It is believed that King Vikramaditya`s brother eventually came to Haridwar to meditate in the banks of holy Ganga. When he died, his brother constructed a Ghat in his name which later came to be known as `Har-Ki-Pauri`. This sacred bathing ghat is also known as Brahmakund. The reflection of golden hues of floral diyas in the river Ganga is the most enchanting sight during the Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Chandi Devi Temple: The temple of Chandi Devi atop the Neel Parvat on the bank of river Ganga was constructed in 1929 A.D. by the king of Kashmir Suchat Singh. Several legends are associated with this temple. This temple is one of the famous Shakti Piths of North India.
Mansa Devi Temple: This temple of Goddess Mansa is situated at the top of Bilva Parwat. One can have a beautiful view of the city from this place. The temple can be reached through ropeway.
Maya Devi Temple: This is an ancient temple of Maya Devi the Adhisthatri deity of Haridwar, known as one of the Siddha peethas.
Daksha Mahadev Temple: The ancient temple of Daksha Mahadev is situated in the south Kankhal town. Daksha Mahadev temple is a tribute to a popular legend associated with this temple.
Apart from the above mentioned ones, there are several other religious places offered by Haridwar District. Haridwar has several Ashrams and temples of significance such as Shanti Kunj, Jairam Ashram, Bhuma Niketan, Bharat Mata Mandir, Vaishnav Devi Temple, Radha Krishan temple, Shravan Nath Math, Pawan Dham, Doodhadari temple, Bilkeshwar Mahadev temple, Shahi Gurudwara, Parmarth Ashram, Prem Nagar Ashram, Ma Anand Mai Ashram, etc. All of these are worth seeing.