One of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, Haridwar or the “Gateway to god” introduces the River Ganges to the plains of northern India. A huge draw for religious pilgrims and tourists seeking to find the real India, Haridwar captivates with it many temples and ashrams, replete with religious scholars and priests, some with genealogies going back generations. It is very easy to get entranced by this spiritual city as thousands of oil lamps sway to the vedic chants of priests and believers performing the Ganga Aarti amongst chiming bells and flower offerings. Many a devotee takes a holy dip in the Ganges at Har ki Pauri to partake a bit of the magical nectar, that as per Hindu mythology fell into the waters here. Take the Udan Khatola or trek up the steep stairs to the Mansa Devi Temple to make a wish. As your Haridwar Tour Guide will tell you, it is popular belief that a visit to this temple has to be accompanied with a visit to the Chandi Devi temple to have your wishes fulfilled. Every 12 years the Kumbh Mela visits the city and millions of Hindus wash away their sins in the sacred waters of the River Ganges. A visit to Haridwar is truly a calming and soul cleansing experience!