In India, there are many religious places with every state having its pilgrimage sites. Each destination is enveloped with historically significant items that have connections to the unseen spiritual force. In one of Uttarakhand's spiritual destinations, Haridwar, you can connect with your inner spirit by attending the auspicious Ganga Aarti. Every day, thousands of pilgrims come to Haridwar to soak in the richness of spirituality. The city consumes you through its many temples and Ghats where the aarti is performed. The holy ceremony is performed in Har ki Pauri Ghat in the Brahma Kund area. The Ghat is said to have been built in the 1st century BC by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Brithari.
As foretold by many priests, it is believed that Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu visited Brahma Kund in Har Ki Pauri. The foot imprint of the Lord Vishnu can be found in the Ghat, thus it got its name. The same imprints are also present on one of the stones of the Ghat. Another story suggests that the nectar (Amrit) fell on this very spot thus various religious events are performed here. One famous celebration is the Kumbh Mela. The Ghat also thrives during the festive occasion of Baisakhi festival, Ardh Kumbh Mela, Magh Mela, and Kanwar Yatra.
Har ki Pauri darshan is famous across the country calling in devotees to attend the darshan. Ultimately making it the center of attraction in Haridwar. The literal meaning of the name Har ki Pauri is ‘Har’ meaning ‘Lord Shiva’, ‘Ki’ meaning ‘of’ and ‘Pauri’ meaning ‘steps.’ An interesting fact as to why Har ki Pauri is famous and considered an ideal place for worship is because it is the point where the Ganga River makes an exit from the mountain terrains and enters into the plains. People who come to witness the religious ceremony have many vantage points.
Har ki Gauri Ghats in Haridwar offers another point where people can see the aarti without anyone blocking the view from across the main Ghat. You can cross the bridge to the opposite side of the Ghat, or you can also hire a boat and watch the ceremony comfortably. There are also many hotels near Har ki Pauri that lends out their balconies for tourists to see the Aarti.
Har ki Pauri, Haridwar Timings: 24 hours
Har ki Pauri, Haridwar Entry Fees: Nil
