Haridwar is one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage places. River Ganges enters the North Indian plains at Haridwar.
Haridwar or ‘Gateway to Gods’ is also known by the names of Mayapuri, Kapila, and Gangadhar. Hindu pilgrims and devotees gather at Haridwar to offer prayers on auspicious occasions.
The water of River Ganga is considered so sacred at Haridwar that pilgrims carry back the water from the Ganges. It is believed that Haridwar has been sanctified by the presence of three Gods: Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.
Devout believers feel that they will attain salvation and go to heaven after a dip in the sacred Ganga at Haridwar. Haridwar is also one of the four venues of the Kumbh Mela (occurring after a rotation of every twelve Years) and Ardh Kumbh (after every six years).
According to mythology drops of Amrit (Elixir) fell into the Brahmkund of Har-Ki-Pauri, therefore a dip in the Brahmakund on this particular day is considered very auspicious.