Buses from Hardwar Bus Stand

About Hardwar

Hardwar, also known as Haridwar, is a town located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at the foothills of the Himalayas, Hardwar holds great religious and cultural significance. It is one of the seven holiest places for Hindus and is regarded as the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra, which includes the sacred pilgrimage sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Hardwar is a thriving tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year. In this article, we will explore the various aspects that make Hardwar famous, the places to visit in and around the town, how to reach Hardwar, and the bus services available.

Famous Aspects of Hardwar

Hardwar is renowned for its religious and cultural heritage. The town is considered as one of the seven holiest places for Hindus as it is believed that a dip in the holy river Ganges can cleanse one's sins. The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years in Hardwar, is one of the largest gatherings of pilgrims in the world. Millions of devotees come to participate in this event, which is considered highly auspicious for achieving spiritual enlightenment.

Hardwar is also famous for its vibrant festivals. The most notable festival is the Kumbh Mela, but other important celebrations include Diwali, Holi, Makar Sankranti, and Kartik Purnima. During these festivals, the town comes alive with colors, lights, and festivities.

Hardwar Pincode

The pincode for Hardwar is 249401.

Nearby Cities

Hardwar is located in Uttarakhand and is surrounded by several cities that are worth exploring. Some of the nearby cities include:

1. Rishikesh - Known as the 'Yoga Capital of the World', Rishikesh is just 24 kilometers away from Hardwar. It is famous for its ashrams, yoga centers, and the iconic Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges.

2. Dehradun - The capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun, is approximately 54 kilometers from Hardwar. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, educational institutions, and the iconic Clock Tower.

3. Mussoorie - Situated about 80 kilometers from Hardwar, Mussoorie is a popular hill station known for its natural beauty and stunning views of the Himalayas. It offers various attractions such as Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and Mall Road.

4. Haridwar - Often confused with Hardwar, Haridwar is a twin city situated on the opposite bank of the Ganges. It is a major pilgrimage site and hosts the Kumbh Mela as well. Haridwar is just a short distance away from Hardwar and offers similar religious experiences.

Places to Visit in and Near Hardwar

1. Har Ki Pauri - This is the most famous ghat (bathing area) in Hardwar. According to legend, Lord Vishnu left his footprint at this spot, hence its name. Har Ki Pauri is a sacred place where devotees take a dip in the Ganges to wash away their sins.

2. Mansa Devi Temple - Situated atop the Bilwa Parvat, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi. Devotees can reach the temple by either climbing the stairs or using the cable car service. The cable car ride offers panoramic views of the surroundings.

3. Chandi Devi Temple - Located on the Neel Parvat, the Chandi Devi Temple is another important pilgrimage site in Hardwar. It is believed that the temple grants wishes to those who visit with pure hearts.

4. Daksha Mahadev Temple - This temple holds historical significance as it is believed to be the place where King Daksha Prajapati, father of Sati (Lord Shiva's consort), organized a grand yagna. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

5. Maya Devi Temple - The Maya Devi Temple is one of the oldest temples in Hardwar and is dedicated to Goddess Maya, the mother of Lord Shiva. It is considered highly auspicious by devotees.

6. Rajaji National Park - Located on the outskirts of Hardwar, Rajaji National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Spread across an area of approximately 820 square kilometers, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species.

How to Reach Hardwar

By Air: The nearest airport to Hardwar is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 35 kilometers away. Regular flights operate from major cities in India to Dehradun. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hardwar.

By Train: Hardwar has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Several trains run on a daily basis to and from Hardwar, making it easily accessible by rail. The railway station is located near Har Ki Pauri.

By Road: Hardwar is well-connected to various cities in Uttarakhand and other parts of India by road. State-run buses, private buses, and taxis ply regularly between Hardwar and other major cities. The National Highway 334 passes through Hardwar, making it easily accessible by car.

Bus Services from Hardwar

Hardwar has a well-developed bus stand that serves as a major transit point for travelers. There are several bus services available from Hardwar, connecting it to neighboring cities and states. Some popular bus routes from Hardwar include:

1. Hardwar to Rishikesh 2. Hardwar to Dehradun 3. Hardwar to Delhi 4. Hardwar to Mussoorie 5. Hardwar to Haridwar 6. Hardwar to Shimla 7. Hardwar to Manali 8. Hardwar to Jaipur 9. Hardwar to Agra 10. Hardwar to Varanasi

Bus Stand Time Table

Please note that the bus stand time table may vary, and it is advisable to check with the concerned authorities or online platforms for the most up-to-date information. The following is a general overview of the bus stand time table at Hardwar:

- Buses to Rishikesh: Regular buses operate between Hardwar and Rishikesh from early morning until late evening. The frequency of buses is higher during peak tourist season and festivals. - Buses to Dehradun: Buses to Dehradun are available throughout the day, with higher frequency during the daytime. The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. - Buses to Delhi: Several buses operate from Hardwar to Delhi, with both state-run and private operators offering services. Buses are available at various timings throughout the day and night. - Buses to Mussoorie: Mussoorie is a popular tourist destination, and buses between Hardwar and Mussoorie are available at regular intervals. The journey time is approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Please note that the timings and frequencies may change, and it is best to check with the bus stand or transportation authorities for the latest schedules.

In conclusion, Hardwar is a revered town in Uttarakhand that holds immense religious significance. From its holy Ganges ghats to its ancient temples, Hardwar offers a spiritual retreat for devotees. The town's proximity to Rishikesh, Dehradun, and other nearby cities further enhances its charm, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a blend of spirituality and natural beauty. With easy accessibility through air, rail, and road, and a well-developed bus transportation system, reaching Hardwar and exploring its wonders has never been easier.