Known for its immense religious and cultural significance, Haridwar draws millions of tourists each year. Yet, outside the city limits, there is a lot more to see and see. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, adventure, sports, and historic sites, making for an enriching trip. Locations like Rishikesh, Dehradun, and Mussoorie are guaranteed to captivate tourists. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most interesting places to visit near Haridwar.
1. Rishikesh
2. Dehradun
3. Mussoorie
4. Kanatal
5. Dhanaulti
1. Rishikesh- Yoga Capital of the World
Rishikesh is a tehsil in Uttarakhand's Tehri Garhwal region, right on the Ganges. It is well-known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular cafes, and as the "World Yoga Capital." It is one of the most popular and nearby places to visit near Haridwar.
Every temple here, from the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple to the Raghunath Temple to the 13-storey Trimbakeshwar Temple, has its own beautiful legend that draws visitors from all over the world. The twin Ram and Lakshman Jhulas are architectural marvels in their own right.
Note: In the first week of March, the International Yoga Festival is held here, attracting yoga enthusiasts from all over the world.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best Time To Visit: September to June
Famous Attractions: Triveni Ghat (4 km), and The Beatles Ashram (13.9 km)
Distance From Haridwar: 27 km (approx)
Also Read: 10 Popular Yoga Ashrams In Rishikesh
2. Dehradun- Winter Capital of India
Dehradun, Uttarakhand's capital and largest city, is the closest place to visit near Haridwar. At an elevation of 1400 feet above sea level, Dehradun has a comfortable environment all year long. It is often referred to as the "Educational Center of Uttarakhand" because it is home to some of the most famous boarding schools and universities in the nation.
There are many caverns, waterfalls, and freshwater springs in Dehradun. One such well-liked location is Robber's Cave, a naturally occurring cave encircled by hills. Another well-known location is Tiger Falls, one of India's highest direct waterfalls at 312 metres above sea level.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Famous Attractions: Robber’s Cave (9.3 km), and Mindrolling Monastery (9.1 km)
Distance From Haridwar: 50.7 km (approx)
3. Mussoorie- The Queen of Hill Stations
Mussoorie, located 40 km from the state capital of the Indian state of Uttaranchal, Dehradun, has earned the title of "queen of the hill stations." The city's British relics can be found in the archaic architecture of the hotels and churches.
The Mall, a slightly steep boulevard lined with eateries and other shops, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mussoorie. The Ropeway to Gun Hill is another major attraction. Gun Hill is Mussoorie's second highest peak, and tourists can take the cable car ropeway ride there for an alluring view of the entire city.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best Time To Visit: September to June
Famous Attractions: Lal Tibba (5.7 km), and Gun Hill (1.5 km)
Distance From Haridwar: 81 km (approx)
Also Read: Mussoorie Travel Tip
4. Kanatal
On the Mussoorie-Chamba route, the little hamlet of Kanatal is positioned at an altitude of 8,500 feet above sea level. Kanatal is a great camping location and a great place to visit in the winter because it snows there. You can take a stroll through the hamlet, visit the apple orchards, take in the rhododendron aroma, collect wildflowers, take photos, and connect with nature.
Adventure seekers can embark on a trek into the deep Kodia Jungle, which is just 1 km from Kanatal. The Surkanda Devi temple, one of the most well-known tourist destinations, is just 10 km from Kanatal. Moreover, Tehri Dam, another popular tourist destination in Kanatal, ought to be seen at all costs.
Ideal Duration: 1 day
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Famous Attractions: Surkanda Devi Temple (10 km), and Kodia Forest (1 km)
Distance From Haridwar: 96 km (approx)
5. Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti sits 2,250 m above sea level and is far from traffic, crowded markets, and pollution. Dhanaulti, which is surrounded by dense, pristine woods of deodar, oak, and rhododendron trees, serves as the starting point for a variety of treks into the Himalayas, including routes to the Surkanda Devi Temple, Chandrabadni, and Kunjapuri.
There are many adventure resorts in this area that provide activities like zip-lining and rappelling. It also boasts a number of well-known skating rinks. Throughout the winter, the small town is completely covered in snow, and it is the closest place to visit near Haridwar, making it an ideal getaway.
Ideal Duration: 1 day
Best Time To Visit: September to June
Famous Attractions: Dhanaulti Eco Park (0.5 km), and Surkanda Devi Temple (6.7 km)
Distance From Haridwar: 75 km (approx)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which hill station is the closest to Haridwar?
A. Some of the closest hill stations to Haridwar are Mussoorie (81 km), Kanatal (103 km), Lansdowne (104 km), and Nainital (246 km).
Q. What are the best places to go for adventure activities near Haridwar?
A. For adventure activities, the best places to visit near Haridwar are Rishikesh, Dehradun, and Shimla.
Q. What are the best places to visit within 300 kilometres of Haridwar?
A. Within 300 kilometres of Haridwar, the best places to visit are Jim Corbett National Park, Dhanaulti, and Chail.
Q. How do I get from Rishikesh to Haridwar?
A. Rishikesh, about 20 km from Haridwar, is easily accessible by road and train. Between the two locations, two trains, Hemkunt Express and Link Express, run daily and take approximately 55 mins. The bus, which runs every 30 mins and takes 25 mins, is the more convenient option, or a cab/self-drive.
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