Har Ki Pauri is a ghat located on the banks of the river Ganga in the Hindu Holy City of Haridwar. Har Ki Pauri means the feet of God Vishnu. It is said that at this specific place, Goddess Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains. Thousands of followers and tourists come here from all over the world to take a holy dip. It is believ that a dip in the holy river Ganga washes off all the sins of humans and provides Moksha.
History:
The origin of Har Ki Pauri is not easy to ascertain since the place is ancient and dates back to Pre Vedic times. However many schools suggest that it was established in its current form by King Vikramaditya who built this sacred ghat in the 1st century BC in memory of his brother Bharthari. He used to come here to meditate on the banks of the river Ganga.
Several temples were built on the steps of the ghats. And most of them were built in the late 19th century. An extension of ghats took place by Pandit Hargyan Singh Katara, a Zamindar of Agra in 1938. Later it was again renovated in 1986.
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Significance:
Har Ki Pauri got its name from the feet of Lord Vishnu because the footprints of God Vishnu, Vishnu Charan Paduka are believ to be imprint on the wall below the water of Ganga here. According to Hindu belief, Haridwar is one of the four places where drops of Amrit accidentally spilled from the Kumbha when Lord Garuda the celestial bird of Lord Vishnu was carrying it.
And the place where the nectar fell is call Brahma Kund at Har Ki Pauri. Also, it is strongly believ that the Trinity Gods of Hindu i.s. Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahadev visited the Brahma Kund in Har Ki Pauri. Therefore it is a holy place for Shaivites i.e. the followers of Lord Shiva.
Har Ki Pauri is the place where thousands of followers converge and the festivities begin during the Kumbar Mela, which is celebrat every 12 years, and Ardh Kumbh Mela which is celebrat every 6 years.
Puja and Rituals:
Ganga Aarti takes place every late afternoon in Har Ki Pauri. Pilgrims gather on the banks of the holy river Ganga to pray to the mighty river and chant hymns. At the time of aarti, the priest holds large bowls in their hands and gongs start ringing in the temples. Devotees float diyas on the river which symbolises their love and devotion. Other than this people visit this place to perform Shradh Puja or the Pitra Paksha is conduct to pay homage to depart and belov ancestors. Ganga Puja is conduct two times, morning puja from 05:45 am to 06:15 am. And late afternoon puja from 06:00 pm to 06:30 pm. In winter afternoons puja is held from 05:00 pm to 05:30 pm.
Festivals:
Festivals celebrated in Har Ki Pauri are:
1. Kumbh Mela: It is held every 12 years in Haridwar, and worshippers from all over the world come here to take the holy dip. It is a major pilgrimage and festival in Hinduism.
2. Ardh Kumbh Mela: It is held every 6 years in Haridwar.
3. Vaisakhi: It is a harvest festival for North Indians and is celebrated in April. It marks the ripening of the rabi harvest and is celebrat with great devotion.
Things to do in Har ki pauri
Ganga Aarti : Ganga aarti is very popular Hindu ritual in Har ki pauri. This is for the river Ganga as the all the Hindu people believe Ganga as their mother known as “Ganga Maa”. In the respect of Ganga River a priest arrange a Ganga aarti in the morning as well as in the evening everyday at Har ki pauri. So it is very good thing to have as you are on your trip to Haridwar.
Temples : Do not be shock for yourself as I have mention temple as a thing to do. It is for you to know that you can have your visit to all the small-small temples located at Har ki pauri. All the temples have a unique meaning and different deity for whom all these temples are dedicat.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Har ki pauri is during the time of summer, in between the month of April to the end of June. As the water of river Ganges gets a bit or you can say enough chilly to thrilled the bones of the people during the time of winter.
How to reach Har ki Pauri
Har ki pauri is in the center of the Haridwar city, so it will be very easy to reach there. You can have a local shared auto rickshaw or you can book as for your comfort.
Haridwar railway station is the nearest place which is just 2 to 3 km from Har ki pauri. And the nearest airport is the jolly grant airport around 35km far from Haridwar.
Map
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Conclusion
Har Ki Pauri stands as a timeless symbol of spiritual significance and cultural heritage. Believed to be sanctified by the touch of divine feet and the flow of the sacred Ganga. It serves as a pilgrimage site for millions seeking purification and enlightenment. Its rich history, dating back to ancient times and embellished by the contributions of kings and devotees, adds layers of reverence to its sacred aura. The iconic Ganga Aarti, festivals like Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh Melas. And the tranquil ambiance draw pilgrims and tourists alike, offering them a chance to connect with the divine and immerse themselves in age-old traditions. With its temples, rituals, and the mystical charm of the Ganges. Har Ki Pauri remains a timeless testament to India’s spiritual legacy. Beckoning visitors to experience its sacred embrace and find solace amidst its hallowed grounds.
