Haridwar, set amidst the foothills of the Himalayas, literally means “Gateway to the Gods”. A place where the River Ganga descends to the plains, it is undoubtedly one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites. This bustling city is dotted with colorful markets, ever-flowing ghats and a multitude of temples. The five sacred bathing spots in Haridwar are Gangadwara, Kankhal, Nila Parvata, Bilwa Theertha and Kusavarta. Visit it early morning to witness worshippers offering prayers and in the evenings you can catch the spectacular Ganga arti when thousands of diyas illuminate the sacred waters.

• Har ki Pauri: This is one of the most important ghats in Haridwar. Believed to be the site where Ganga enters the plains, Har-ki-Pauri is also where the sacred nectar fell. This ghat has 2 temples, namely, Ganga Mandir and Haricharan Mandir. A must for all pilgrims visiting this ghat – watch the evening aarti, which is held soon after sunset. Reach at least 30 minutes in advance to secure a vantage viewing position.

• Chandi Devi: The temple of Chandi Devi atop the Neel Parvat on the other bank of river Ganga was constructed in 1929 A.D. Believed to be one of the popular shaktipeethas of North India, this temple has wish-granting miraculous powers. You can take the ropeway (Udan Khatola) or undertake the 3 kms long arduous trek to visit the temple.

•   Mansa Devi Temple: Another shrine accessible from the ropeway, this temple is known for its wish fulfilling powers. Devotees visiting this temple, tie threads on a sacred tree and untie it once the wishes are fulfilled.

• Gurukul Kangri University: This old institution was created to impart education in the traditional way. Vedic and Sanskrit literature and philosophy were made part of the curriculum besides modern sciences. The Ved Mandir Museum, within the university has on display archaeological exhibits.

• Doodhadhari Barfani Temple: Built in white marble, this temple complex is one of most beautiful modern temples of Haridwar, noted for its simplicity and elegance. The main temple houses within idols of Lord Ram-Sita. Also located closeby are several smaller temples of different deities from Hindu gods and goddesses.

• Parad Shivling: Located in Harihar Ashram, a Shivling weighing about 150 kg and a Rudraksha tree are main attractions here.

• Rajaji National Park: For wildlife lovers, Haridwar is home to the Rajaji National Park, which is the amalgamation of three sanctuaries of the Shivalik range. It has a wide range of elephants, tigers, leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan yellow throated marten, samber, cheetal, barking deer, wild boar and several species of birds.

• Piran Kalier: This 'Dargah' of Hazrat Makhdum Allauddin Ali Ahmed 'Sabir' is located on the outskirts of Roorkee. A fine example of Hindu-Muslim unity, this Dargah is known for its mystical powers that is believed to fulfill the desires of the devout. The Urs is celebrated with great pomp at this Dargah every year.

• Kodiyala: This popular place is well-known with adventure enthusiasts for its rafting options available.

Food served in Haridwar is strictly vegetarian and consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited. The town offers a varied selection of vegetarian including dosas, south Indian thalis, Punjabi chana bhathura and a large variety of parathas. Head out to Chotiwala that serves up a wide selection of South and North Indian favorites, along with some Indian-Chinese. Sivalik Restaurant, a block down from Chotiwala Restaurant, makes good Gujarati and South Indian food. Hoshiyar Puri, which is over 50 years old is situated on the main road by Hari-ki-Pairi ghat, and is one of the busiest thali joints in town. Hotel Ginger, located on the highway to Haridwar is a self service vegetarian joint and they serve an a-la-carte menu as well. The restaurant in Hotel Mansarover International is a moderately priced place that serves good food along with first-rate service. Brijwasi Mathura Walla, located in the Bara Bazaar is famous for its sweets like, rasmalai, rabri and halwa.

Although Haridwar might not much of a shopping destination, you can pick up some of the most unusual gifts, souvenirs and artifacts. The main shopping centers are Bara Bazaar Moti Bazaar, Jwalapur and Kankhal. These colourful markets display a collection of just about everything; from religious implements, brassware, and cane and bamboo products, to semi-precious stones and herbal medicines. You can buy the rudraksha garland made from strings of the rudraksha seed. Haridwar also has intricately carved stone idols, which make unique souvenirs. A renowned ayurvedic treatment center, you will find a range of herbal medicines. Also remember to pick up bottles of the sacred Ganga water.