Har Ki Pauri History
Har ki Pauri, a sacred landmark that is now part of Haridwar. Situated along the Ganga River banks, Har Ki Pauri today witnesses devotees from India and worldwide. Har ki Pauri, Haridwar, means Vishnu's feet in Hindi. It is here that Ganga leaves the mountain. According to legends, God Vishnu appeared here during the Vedic era, leaving his footprints beneath the Ganga. Today, Har Ki Pauri is a sacred pilgrimage visited by thousands and thousands of devotees.
Har Ki Pauri's history goes back to ancient times. Sources suggest that it was King Vikramaditya who built the ghat as a tribute to his brother, Bharthari, who was also a devotee of Lord Shiva. People also believe that Bharthari used to meditate at the same spot where the ghat is built now. So when he passed, his remains were spread to the sacred Ganga River. After that, King Vikramaditya started the construction of Har Ki Pauri Ghat, which pays a tribute to Bharthari’s deep devotion.
Cultural Significance of Har Ki Pauri
Har Ki Pauri holds great cultural significance in the Hindu tradition. According to the Hindu mythologies, there is a place called Brahmakunda in Haridwar. This is the same place where the amrit drops fell from the sky while Garuda was carrying them after the Samudra Manthan. People also believe that Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma have blessed Brahmakunda with their godly presence. Because of all this, today, Har ki Pauri is a sacred ground for several Hindu festivals, including Kumbh Mela.
Har Ki Pauri Location
Here are the Har Ki Pauri location details.
Har Ki Pauri Rituals
Here are popular rituals you may consider engaging in at Har Ki Pauri.
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There is an art in the morning and evening as well. Morning Aarti is called Mangala Aarti. The time ranges between 5:30 A.M and 6:30 A.M
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Evening aarti is called Shringar Aarti. In the summer, it typically happens between 6:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M. However, it might be performed a bit early in winter.
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In addition to that, every year during Shravan, devotees visit Har Ki Pauri. ‘Kanwariyas’ also start their ‘Kanwar Yatra’ from here.
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You may also visit Har Ki Pauri during the Kumbh Mela.
Best Time to Visit Har Ki Pauri
Here is the best time to visit Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
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March to June
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The weather around this time is a bit hot. It may range anywhere between 20°C and 45°C. It might get hotter during the day; however, the temperature goes down during the night. If you're planning to experience Holi, Ram Navami, or Ganga Dussehra, then this is the right time for you to visit.
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July to September
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This is the time of monsoons. The temperature around this time drops, and the weather is pleasant. However, if you're planning to visit around this time, make sure you travel carefully. This can be a suitable item if you want to experience Basant Panchami in Har Ki Pauri.
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October to February
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If you're planning to see the Diwali or Kartik Poornima in Har Ki Pauri, you may consider visiting around this time. The temperature may range between 5 and 20 degrees Celsius. The nights are colder, so pack accordingly.
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Dos and Don'ts at Har Ki Pauri
Keep the following things in mind:
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Do’s
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Don'ts
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Consider dressing modestly according to the religious site.
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Do not pollute the Ganga. Avoid throwing waste, plastic, etc.
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Consider taking a religious bath or dip in the Ganga.
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Do not rush while waiting in a queue. This could lead to accidents.
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Watching the Ganga Aarti is one event you cannot afford to miss while being in Haridwar.
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Keep your surroundings clean and don't litter.
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Be considerate of the pilgrim, their customs, and rituals.
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Avoid talking loudly or disturbing the rituals and devotees.
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Keep the ghat clean.
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Do not behave rudely to the locals.
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How to Reach Har Ki Pauri?
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By Road
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Direct buses to Haridwar via Delhi with redBus.
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By Rail
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Haridwar Junction is the nearest railway station. You may book your tickets via redRail.
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By Air
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Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport. From there, you may take a local bus or taxi to reach Haridwar.
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