Haridwar, a sacred city nestled on the banks of the River Ganga, is not only a major pilgrimage site but also a gateway to the spiritual and natural wonders of Uttarakhand. While Haridwar itself is a magnet for devotees and tourists alike due to its temples and ghats, there are many beautiful destinations nearby that are worth exploring. From serene hill stations to adventure-packed spots and spiritual retreats, the surroundings of Haridwar offer diverse travel experiences.
Here are the Top 15 Best Places to Visit Near Haridwar that promise unforgettable memories:
1. Rishikesh (Approx. 20 km)
Just a short drive from Haridwar, Rishikesh is the Yoga Capital of the World and an adventure hub. It offers a mix of spirituality, nature, and thrill.
Highlights:
-
River rafting on the Ganga
-
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula
-
Triveni Ghat Aarti
-
Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Rishikesh also offers yoga retreats, cafes with a view, and serene surroundings for spiritual seekers and backpackers.
2. Rajaji National Park (Approx. 10 km)
For wildlife lovers, Rajaji National Park is a must-visit. This national park is known for its rich flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 300 bird species.
Activities:
-
Jungle Safari
-
Bird Watching
-
Nature Walks
Best visited between November and June, the park is a great destination for nature photography and eco-tourism.
3. Dehradun (Approx. 53 km)
Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is a perfect blend of modernity and natural beauty. It serves as a good stopover for tourists heading to Mussoorie or the hill stations.
Must-visit spots:
-
Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani)
-
Sahastradhara Waterfalls
-
Tapkeshwar Temple
-
Mindrolling Monastery
Dehradun’s pleasant climate and scenic beauty make it ideal for a weekend getaway.
4. Mussoorie (Approx. 85 km)
Popularly known as the Queen of Hills, Mussoorie is a charming hill station offering breathtaking views, colonial charm, and numerous tourist attractions.
Key Attractions:
-
Kempty Falls
-
Gun Hill
-
Camel’s Back Road
-
Mall Road
A visit to Mussoorie is perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers.
5. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (Approx. 32 km)
Located deep in the forested hills near Rishikesh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most revered shrines in the region.
Highlights:
-
Scenic forest drive
-
Spiritual ambiance
-
Trekking route from Rishikesh
The temple holds a strong mythological significance and is a peaceful spot for meditation and prayer.
6. Chilla Range (Approx. 16 km)
Part of the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, the Chilla Range is an offbeat destination known for its tranquility, jungle safaris, and untouched nature.
What to Do:
-
Jeep safaris
-
Nature camping
-
Ganga riverside walks
It’s perfect for tourists seeking solitude and a closer connection with the wilderness.
7. Kunjapuri Devi Temple (Approx. 30 km)
Perched on a hilltop near Rishikesh, Kunjapuri Temple offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and the Ganga Valley.
Highlights:
-
Trekking to the temple
-
Sunrise viewpoint
-
Spiritual atmosphere
Ideal for early morning visits and yoga sessions with a sunrise view.
8. Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple (Approx. 4 km)
Located in Kankhal, near Haridwar, this temple is associated with King Daksha and is a significant part of Shiva mythology.
Why Visit:
-
Pilgrimage importance
-
Peaceful environment
-
Nearby Sati Kund and Maa Anandamayi Ashram
It’s one of the oldest and most sacred temples near Haridwar.
9. Kanatal (Approx. 150 km)
Kanatal is an unexplored hill station near Haridwar, known for its apple orchards, pine forests, and peaceful environment.
Top Attractions:
-
Surkanda Devi Temple
-
Camping and Bonfires
-
Tehri Lake (nearby)
If you’re looking for a calm escape in the lap of the Himalayas, Kanatal is a great choice.
10. Lansdowne (Approx. 110 km)
Lansdowne is a quiet cantonment town surrounded by oak and pine forests. It’s ideal for travelers who want a peaceful vacation away from crowds.
Things to Do:
-
Visit Bhulla Tal Lake
-
Explore War Memorial Museum
-
Nature walks and birdwatching
Lansdowne’s old-world charm and tranquility make it a hidden treasure in Uttarakhand.
11. Piran Kaliyar Sharif (Approx. 25 km)
Located near Roorkee, Piran Kaliyar is a dargah of the revered Sufi saint Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir Kalyari. It attracts devotees from different religions.
Highlights:
-
Sufi spiritual site
-
Annual Urs festival
-
Unique Indo-Islamic architecture
It’s a center of harmony and unity where people from all faiths gather in prayer.
12. Devprayag (Approx. 95 km)
Devprayag is the confluence point of the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, forming the sacred River Ganga. It’s a beautiful spiritual town surrounded by mountains.
Major Attractions:
-
Raghunath Temple
-
Confluence viewpoint
-
River rituals and dips
It is one of the Panch Prayags (five confluences) and a vital destination for pilgrims.
13. Tehri Lake & Dam (Approx. 130 km)
Tehri is home to one of the largest dams in India and an emerging hub for water sports and eco-tourism.
Activities to Enjoy:
-
Jet skiing, kayaking, and banana boat rides
-
Boating in the huge lake
-
Camping by the lakeside
A paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers, Tehri Lake offers a mix of thrill and peace.
14. Chamba (Garhwal) (Approx. 120 km)
Chamba is another peaceful hill town near Haridwar, known for its scenic views of the snow-clad Himalayas and apple orchards.
Things to Explore:
-
Scenic valley views
-
Apple and apricot orchards
-
Pleasant weather
It’s an excellent offbeat destination to relax and soak in nature.
15. Roorkee (Approx. 30 km)
Roorkee is an educational and historical town near Haridwar, home to the prestigious IIT Roorkee.
Top Sights:
-
IIT Roorkee Campus
-
Solani Aqueduct
-
Roorkee Cantonment area
It’s a good place for those interested in colonial architecture, history, and education.
Travel Tips for Visiting These Places
-
Best Time to Visit:
-
March to June (Summer): Ideal for hill stations and outdoor activities.
-
October to February (Winter): Perfect for snow views and spiritual retreats.
-
Avoid July to September due to heavy rainfall and landslides in hilly areas.
-
-
Getting Around:
-
Cabs and taxis are easily available in Haridwar.
-
Local buses and shared jeeps also operate on major routes.
-
For offbeat places, self-driving or hiring a personal vehicle is recommended.
-
-
Where to Stay:
-
Haridwar and Rishikesh offer a wide range of accommodations from budget to luxury.
-
Hill stations like Mussoorie, Lansdowne, and Kanatal have charming resorts and homestays.
-
Conclusion
Haridwar is much more than just a pilgrimage destination. The areas surrounding it offer a rich mix of spirituality, adventure, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to meditate on the banks of the Ganga, trek through lush forests, or simply relax in the mountains, the options are endless.
These Top 15 Best Places to Visit Near Haridwar provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the diverse charm of Uttarakhand. So next time you visit Haridwar, don’t limit your journey to its temples and ghats—explore the magic that lies beyond.
