ABOUT HARIDWAR / HARIDWAR HISTORY

haridwar is a district situated in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The history associated with this holy place is very interesting. If you are a nature lover, then this is a paradise for you. The place exhibits spectacular views of the Indian culture and its civilization. haridwar’s ancient name was Gangadwára, which means the entrance for River Ganga. After flowing continuously for 253 kilometers from its origin (at Gaumukh on the edge of the Gangotri Glacier) the River Ganga moves into the Indo-Gangetic Plains of North India through haridwar. haridwar also plays a significant role in being the point of entry to Dev Bhoomi and Char Dham- the four main holy sites, i.e. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.

According to the Hindu mythology, there is a prominent reason for haridwar to be counted among the holiest places for Hindus. The Hindu mythology speaks of a legend about the Samudra manthan or the churning of the ocean of milk. This is a famous episode in the puranas. It is believed that during the legendary churning, drops of Amrit (the elixir of immortality) accidentally spilled on to four sites- Ujjain, Nasik, Allahabad and haridwar.

This celebrated legend is remembered as Kumbha Mela being celebrated every 3 years in one of the 4 places. Thus, in haridwar, it happens as Maha Kumb that comes in every 12 years. Brahma Kund, the spot where the Amrit fell, is situated at Har ki Pauri (literally, "footsteps of the Lord") and is counted as the most sacred Ghat of haridwar.