Haridwar is a paradise for nature lovers and a vibrant reflection of India’s rich culture and civilization. Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Gods,” this sacred city is also known by several ancient names, including Mayapuri, Kapila, and Gangadwar. The name Haridwar has different interpretations: devotees of Lord Shiva (Har) call it Hardwar, while followers of Lord Vishnu (Hari) refer to it as Haridwar. The city also serves as the main entrance to Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand and the revered Char Dham pilgrimage, which includes Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
According to legend, King Bhagirath performed intense penance to bring the sacred River Ganga down from heaven to earth in order to liberate the souls of his ancestors. Haridwar is believed to be blessed by the presence of the holy trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva). One of the most sacred places in the city is Har Ki Pauri, where a footprint of Lord Vishnu is believed to be imprinted on a stone embedded in the wall. The holy waters of the Ganga constantly touch this sacred spot, making it a place of immense spiritual significance.
Devotees from across the world visit Haridwar with deep faith, believing that taking a dip in the sacred Ganga here cleanses their sins and grants spiritual liberation, ultimately leading them closer to salvation.
Haridwar is one of the four sacred locations where the world-famous Kumbh Mela is held once every twelve years, while the Ardh Kumbh Mela takes place every six years. According to Hindu mythology, drops of Amrit (the divine elixir of immortality) fell at the Brahmakund in Har Ki Pauri. Because of this sacred association, taking a dip in the holy waters at Brahmakund during the auspicious Kumbh period is believed to bring spiritual purification and divine blessings. The grand festival is celebrated when the planet Jupiter (Brihaspati) enters the zodiac sign Aquarius (Kumbh), which occurs approximately once every twelve years.
Beyond its deep spiritual significance and mythology, Haridwar also fascinates visitors with its rich heritage and timeless charm. As one of the oldest living cities in India, Haridwar finds mention in ancient Hindu scriptures and historical accounts, tracing its presence from the era of Gautama Buddha to the period of British rule in India. For centuries, the city has been a place of refuge and rejuvenation for those seeking peace of body, mind, and spirit. At the same time, it has also attracted scholars and seekers interested in learning about India’s arts, science, culture, and traditional knowledge.
Haridwar has long been known as an important centre for Ayurvedic medicine and herbal remedies. The city is also famous for its traditional Gurukul system of education, where students receive holistic learning rooted in ancient Indian traditions. Combined with its scenic beauty, lush greenery, and spiritual atmosphere, Haridwar offers a unique charm that makes it one of the most attractive destinations in Uttarakhand, suitable for visitors throughout the year.
Geographically, Haridwar holds a special place as one of the first towns where the sacred Ganges emerges from the Himalayan mountains and flows into the plains. Because of this, the water here is exceptionally clear, cool, and refreshing. The region is surrounded by green forests and dotted with small ponds, enhancing the natural beauty of this holy land. Just about 10 kilometers from the city lies the renowned Rajaji National Park, a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure lovers.
In the evening, the ghats of Haridwar present a mesmerizing sight during the sacred Ganga Aarti. Thousands of floating lamps (diyas) and marigold flowers drift along the river, illuminating the waters and creating a breathtaking spiritual atmosphere.
In modern times, Haridwar has also grown as a centre of industrial and educational development. The presence of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), a prestigious Navratna public sector enterprise, reflects the city’s contribution to modern industry. Additionally, the State Infrastructure and Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarakhand Limited has established a large Integrated Industrial Estate (IIE) in Haridwar, spread across more than 2000 acres, promoting industrial growth in the region.
The district is also home to some of India’s most respected educational institutions. Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, formerly known as Roorkee University, is among the oldest and most prestigious institutions for science and engineering education in the country. Another notable institution is Gurukul Kangri University, which preserves the traditional Gurukul system and provides education rooted in Indian cultural values.
Thus, Haridwar beautifully blends ancient spirituality, natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern development, making it a truly unique destination for pilgrims, scholars, nature lovers, and travelers alike.
| Sl.No. | Block Name | No. of Nyay Panchayat | No. of Gram Panchayat | No. of Villages |
| 1 | Bahadrabad | 11 | 72 | 151 |
| 2 | Roorkee | 8 | 49 | 116 |
| 3 | Bhagwanpur | 8 | 53 | 87 |
| 4 | Narsan | 9 | 61 | 123 |
| 5 | Laksar | 7 | 50 | 113 |
| 6 | Khanpur | 3 | 23 | 53 |
| Total | 46 | 308 | 643 | |
Senior Superintendent of Police |
| District Office Roshnabad, Haridwar Phone : 01334-239109, Control Room(Haridwar):01334-239100, 265876, Control Room(Roorkee):01332-272896 Toll Free:100, Mahila Helpline:1090 , E-Mail: ssp-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| Sl.No. | Name of Officer | E-mail Address |
| 1. | District Magistrate | dm-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 2. | Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) | ssp-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 3. | Chief Development Officer (CDO) | cdo-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 4. | Chief Medical Officer (CMO) | cmo-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 5. | District Development Officer (DDO) | ddo-har-uk[at]nic[dot]in |
| 6. | Project Director, DRDA | pd-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 7. | Sr. Treasury Officer, Haridwar | treas-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 8. | Treasury Officer, Roorkee | treas-roo-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 9. | District Economics & Statistical Officer (DEStO) | dsto-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 10. | District Excise Officer | dxo-har-uk[at]nic[dot]in |
| 11. | District Supply Officer | dso-har-uk[at]nic[dot]in |
| 12. | District Police Control Room | dcr-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 13. | Exam Controller, Uttarakhand Public Service Commission | ec-psc-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 14. | Mela Officer, Kumbh Mela Haridwar | melaofficer-har-uk[at]nic[dot]in |
| 15. | Chief Agriculture Officer(CAO) | caohar-agri-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 16. | Chief Veterinary Officer(CVO) | cvo-har-ua[at]nic[dot]in |
| 17. | Chief Education Officer(CEO) | deohar-edu-uk[at]nic[dot]in |
| 18. | Executive Engineer, RES | eeres-har-uk[at]nic[dot]in |
| 19. | GM, District Industries Centre | gmdic-har-uk[at]nic[dot]in |
| SIIDCUL, a Government of Uttarakhand Enterprise, was incorporated asa Limited Company in the year 2002 with an authorized share capital of Rs. 50 Crores and Rs. 28.50 Crores paid up capital through Government of Uttarakhand in order to promote Industrial development in the State, provide financial assistance in the shape of debt, equity, venture capital, develop infrastructure and assist private initiative in Industry and Infrastructure and implement, manage projects and provide specialized financial, consultancy and construction and all such other activities to promote industries and develop Industrial Infrastructure in the State of Uttarakhand directly or through Special Purpose Vehicles, Joint Ventures, assisted companies etc. |
| BHEL, Haridwar has two manufacturing plants, Heavy Electricals Equipment Plant (HEEP) and Central Foundry Forge Plant (CFFP). It also has a Pollution Control Research Institute, PCRI. The Heavy Electricals Equipment Plant is one of the major manufacturing units of BHEL. The core business of HEEP includes design and manufacture of large size steam and gas turbines, turbo generators, heat exchangers, condensers and auxiliaries. The Central Foundry Forge Plant (CFFP) is engaged in manufacture of large size Castings and Forgings of various types of steels like alloy steels, creep resistant steel and supercritical grade steel. The Pollution Control Research Institute (PCRI) provides services in the field of Environmental Management and Pollution Control in the areas of air, water, noise and solid waste. |