Haridwar Uttarakhand
CategoriesLocal Destination Travel and Tourism By Garhwali Traveller

Places to visit near Haridwar within 50 Km – Haridwar Tourism

Our exploration of hidden gems around Haridwar continues! Here are some captivating destinations, all within a 50 km radius, offering unique experiences for the curious traveller.

Have you ever wandered the sacred streets of Haridwar, bathed in the spiritual aura of the Ganges, and yet craved a hint of adventure? The holy city might be your anchor, but the whispers of the Himalayas beckon further exploration. Well, fret no more, fellow traveller! Today, we embark on a delightful journey, venturing beyond the ghats of Haridwar to discover hidden gems nestled within a 50 km radius. Imagine majestic temples perched atop serene hills, echoes of ancient wisdom resonating from ashrams, and the untamed beauty of a national park teeming with wildlife. Intrigued? Let’s unfurl the map and delve into the captivating secrets that lie just a stone’s throw away from Haridwar!

Haridwar’s Hidden Gems: A Journey Beyond the Ghats (Within 50 Km)

Haridwar, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is revered as one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites. But beyond the sacred ghats and soul-stirring Ganga Aarti lies a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders waiting to be explored. Here’s a glimpse into some captivating destinations, all within a 50 km radius of Haridwar, perfect for the curious tourist seeking a deeper dive:

1. Mansa Devi Temple (4.5 km):

  • Historical Significance: Mansa Devi, perched atop the Bilwa Parvat, is a Shakti Peeth, a revered pilgrimage site associated with Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Legends narrate that Mansa Devi’s wish-fulfilling powers brought prosperity to devotees.
  • Cultural Importance: This vibrant temple complex, with its intricate carvings and colourful flags, showcases traditional Hindu architecture. Witnessing the aarti (prayer ceremony) and the panoramic view of the Ganges valley is a truly enriching experience.

Reaching Mansa Devi: You can reach the temple by trekking up the mountainside, a moderately challenging yet rewarding experience. Alternatively, a ropeway (cable car) offers a scenic journey to the top.

2. Chandi Devi Temple (7 km):

  • Historical Significance: This temple, dedicated to Goddess Chandi, the embodiment of power and victory, is another revered Shakti Peeth. Mythology suggests that Chandi Devi’s blessings grant strength and courage to devotees.
  • Cultural Importance: Similar to Mansa Devi temple, this complex showcases beautiful architecture and breathtaking views. Witnessing the vibrant pujas (rituals) and the lively atmosphere during festivals offers a glimpse into local traditions.
  • Reaching Chandi Devi: Similar to Mansa Devi, you can choose between a scenic ropeway ride or a moderately challenging trek to reach the temple.

3. Rishikesh (22 km):

  • Historical Significance: Renowned as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh has been a spiritual centre for centuries. Ancient sages and saints are said to have meditated in these serene environs.
  • Cultural Importance: Rishikesh is a haven for yoga enthusiasts, offering a plethora of ashrams (spiritual centres) and yoga schools catering to all levels. The city also boasts numerous temples and vibrant markets, reflecting the rich Hindu heritage.
  • Reaching Rishikesh: Rishikesh is easily accessible by road from Haridwar. Regular buses, taxis, and shared rickshaws are readily available.

4. Rajaji National Park (25 km):

  • Historical Significance: Established in 1936, Rajaji National Park is named after India’s first Governor-General, C. Rajagopalachari. It was previously known as the Shivalik National Park.
  • Cultural Importance: The park serves as a refuge for diverse wildlife species, including the majestic Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and a variety of birds. It also holds cultural significance for the indigenous communities who have resided in the area for generations.
  • Reaching Rajaji National Park: Public buses and taxis connect Haridwar to Rajaji National Park. Jeep safaris can be arranged within the park for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

5. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (23 km):

  • Historical Significance: Nestled amidst the serene Himalayan foothills, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva drank the poison that emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean.
  • Cultural Importance: This ancient Shiva temple holds immense significance for devotees. The peaceful ambience and scenic beauty surrounding the temple make it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle.
  • Reaching Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Taxis and shared rickshaws are the most convenient modes of transport to reach the temple from Haridwar.

6. Daksha Mahadev Temple (18 km):

  • Historical Significance: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is believed to be built on the site where Daksha, the father of Sati, performed a yagna (ritual sacrifice) without inviting Shiva. The ensuing rage of Shiva and Sati’s self-immolation are recounted in Hindu mythology.
  • Cultural Importance: The temple complex, though partially renovated, holds significant cultural significance. Witnessing the unique architecture and experiencing the daily rituals practiced by devotees provides a glimpse into local beliefs and traditions.
  • Reaching Daksha Mahadev Temple: Taxis and shared rickshaws offer convenient transportation options from Haridwar.

7. Sapt Rishi Ashram (16 km):

  • Historical Significance: This ashram (spiritual hermitage) is believed to have been established by the seven sages (Sapt Rishi) of Vedic lore.
  • Cultural Importance: Sapt Rishi Ashram is revered as a place of immense spiritual significance. The serene atmosphere and proximity to the Ganges River make it an ideal destination for meditation and introspection.
  • Reaching Sapt Rishi Ashram: Local buses or taxis can take you from Haridwar to the ashram.

8. Shanti Kunj Ashram (2.5 km):

  • Historical Significance: Founded by Acharya Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, a renowned scholar and peace advocate, Shanti Kunj Ashram promotes the message of universal peace and non-violence.
  • Cultural Importance: The ashram organizes various workshops, seminars, and cultural events throughout the year, fostering interfaith dialogue and spiritual understanding.
  • Reaching Shanti Kunj Ashram: Given its proximity to Haridwar, this ashram is easily accessible on foot, by rickshaw, or by taxi.

9. The Beatles Ashram (Rishikesh, 22 km):

  • Historical Significance: Originally known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram, this place gained fame as the residence of the legendary Beatles band in 1968. The band spent time meditating and composing music here, leaving an indelible mark on the ashram’s history.
  • Cultural Importance: Today, the ashram, renamed “Chaurasi Kutia,” continues to be a popular destination for yoga enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
  • Reaching the Beatles Ashram: Public buses, taxis, and shared rickshaws connect Haridwar to Rishikesh. Once in Rishikesh, you can reach the ashram by rickshaw or taxi.

10. An Evening at Har Ki Pauri (Haridwar):

Cultural Importance: No trip to Haridwar is complete without experiencing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti (river worship ceremony) at Har Ki Pauri, the holiest ghat along the Ganges. Witnessing hundreds of diyas (earthen lamps) illuminate the river as priests chant mantras creates a truly unforgettable experience.

Remember:

  • Respectful Exploration: When visiting religious and cultural sites, dress modestly and be mindful of local customs.
  • Responsible Tourism: Opt for eco-friendly transportation and support local businesses whenever possible.
  • Embrace the Journey: Go with the flow, be open to new experiences, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

By incorporating these additional destinations and keeping these tips in mind, you can transform your Haridwar trip from a pilgrimage to a captivating exploration of history, culture, and spirituality.

Planning Your Trip:

  • Seasonality: The best time to visit Haridwar and its surrounding areas is generally considered to be between March and June, offering pleasant weather. However, September to November can also be ideal if you prefer cooler temperatures.
  • Accommodation: Haridwar offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels.
  • Local Transport: Rickshaws, taxis, and shared cabs are readily available for exploring the nearby destinations.

Exploring beyond the ghats allows you to experience the soul of Uttarakhand. So, lace up your walking shoes, embrace the adventure, and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems that lie within a stone’s throw of Haridwar!

CategoriesLocal Destination Temples By Garhwali Traveller

Karna Temple Karanprayag – Uttarakhand

Karanprayag is famous for the ancient and historic place of Mahabharata, the karm Bhoomi of Karna. Karna temple is located on the holy junction of river alaknanda and Pinder. The temple is situated in the Karanprayag city of Chamoli, Uttarakhand. It is just 100 meters from the State Bank of India, Karanprayag branch (location – Krishna Palace). Karna temple is one of the best places to visit in Karanprayag.

Karna Temple in Karanprayag

The holy shrine is dedicated to a mythical character of Mahabharata, which was Karna. He is widely regarded as the most righteous and charitable of the Pandavas siblings. To please the Sun god, Karna meditated here at this holy place, from that time the place was named Karanprayag. Karanprayag is one of the five revered river confluences(Panch Prayag) in Uttarakhand. In Karnaprayag there is the confluence of the River Alaknanda and Pinder, which is known as Karnaprayag Sangam. Where you can consider visiting.

Mytholody Behind Karna Temple

According to some popular beliefs, it is at this place Karna meditated to please the Sun God (father of Karna) and was granted the impregnable armour by the deity himself. Another legend says that Karanprayag is the place where lord Krishna buried Karna after his tragic death in Mahabharata. When Arjuna fatally wounded Karna. Lord Krishna realized that the noble Karna is not dead as he was being protected by the Dharma Devi due to the innumerable charitable deeds he performed all in his life.

It was almost impossible to defeat and kill Karna when the goddess was protecting him. Lord Krishna disguised himself as a Brahmin and asked Karna about his good merits. The wounded Karna on his deathbed obliged and gave all his merits to the poor Brahmin. With no good merits with him any more, the goddess of righteousness just disappeared.

Lord Krishna nodded Arjuna to take the kill shot and before Karna eyes were closed forever. The Lord rewarded Karna with the view of his Vishwaroopam. In his dying breath, Karna asked Lord Krishna to bury him at a virgin land, which he obliged and cremated Karna at the holy land of Karanprayag.

CategoriesLocal Destination By Garhwali Traveller

Karnaprayag Sangam

Karnaprayag is an ancient holy town located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Badrinath is 130 Km away from here and Gauchar is 10 Km before from where you can take heli services to Dehradun, Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib. At Karnaprayag the 2 holy rivers meet with each other Alaknanda and the Pindari River. Alaknanda flows nearby from Badrinath and Pindari from the Pindari glacier. Karnaprayag Sangam is the confluence of the river Alaknanda and Pindari rivers.

According to legends and it is also written in some holy books of the Hindu religion, Karna the warrior of Mahabharata and the elder brother of the Pandavas, performed severe penance at Karnaprayag to acquire an impregnable shield(Kavach and Kundal) from lord Surya(Sun).

This place has special religious importance and it also offers huge opportunities to adventure lovers and avid nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, photographers, content creators and vloggers.

Karna the bigger brother of Pandavas meditated here and there is a famous Karna temple in Karnaprayag that you can consider visiting. Karnaprayag sangam is the holy confluence of river Alaknanda and Pindari river. The Panch Prayag yatra has religious importance, it is considered a holy yatra and a crucial achievement concerning an individual’s spiritual progress.

The panch prayag yatra is encompassed around a route that includes 5 halts of Uttarakhand which are known as Panch Prayag, which are – Vishnuprayag, Nandprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag and Sonprayag.

Places to visit near Karnaprayag

The Karnaprayag is one of the panch prayag which is a very holy place that a Hindu must visit. It is one of the 5 confluences of the river Alaknanda and Pinder rivers. The holy town is located on the Badrinath route. The valley is surrounded by beautiful green hills.

Karnaprayag Sangam is one of the best places to see in Karnaprayag. Every day, hundreds of students and other people visit Karnaprayag Sangam and do photoshoots here, enjoying their free time with their loved ones.

If you are in Karnaprayag, then you must visit Karnaprayag Sangam. It is the perfect location for peace, enjoying the views of the rivers Alaknanda and Pinder meeting with each other, doing photography and videography here. Whenever I visit Karnaprayag, I visit the Sangam and it makes my mind at peace, this location is best for content creators.

It is very easy to reach Karnaprayag Sangam, the location is just near the NH7 Badrinath highway, Karnaprayag Chamoli. It is just a walking distance away, also there is an ancient Shiva temple at Sangam you must visit there.

Read our guide on how to reach Karnaprayag

Karnaprayag distance from various cities

DelhiKarnaprayag400 Kms (approx)
BareillyKarnaprayag318 Kms (approx)
LucknowKarnaprayag565 Kms (approx)
ChandigarhKarnaprayag377 Kms (approx)
ShimlaKarnaprayag435 Kms (approx)

Karnaprayag Distance Chart

The best time to visit Karnaprayag

The best time to visit Karnaprayag is from January to December. Summers and winters are both the seasons that are best to visit Karnaprayag. But we don’t recommend you to visit Karnaprayag or any other hill station during the monsoon season, because the hill areas become so risky and there are much chances of heavy rainfall that results in landslides.

CategoriesLocal Destination By Garhwali Traveller

Karnaprayag Travel Guide

Karnaprayag is a historic town where the rivers Alaknanda and Pinder meet at Karnaprayag Sangam. It is located between Rishikesh and Badrinath in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The town is named after the great Karna of the Mahabharata. It is said that Karna meditated at this place, and after that, the town was named Karnaprayag.

You can also visit the Karna Temple in Karnaprayag. It is one of the oldest temples of Chamoli and dates back to the Mahabharata.

It is said that Karna revered the Sun God for many years at this place to get the Kawach Kundals so that no one could defeat him on the battlefield. The Panch Prayag Yatra has a very important consideration in the Hindu religion. This yatra is considered very holy and a crucial achievement concerning an individual’s spiritual process. It is one of the valley towns of Chamoli, Uttarakhand.

The other historians and facts told us that at Karnaprayag Lord Krishna did the crimination of Karna. This place has holy importance and it is the 3rd Prayag from the Panch Prayag of Uttarakhand. The 5 prayags are Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandprayag and Vishnuprayag. These all prayags are located in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.

Karnaprayag is located at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Pindari rivers. Karanprayag is one of the Panch Prayag of Uttarakhand or the 5 confluences of river Alaknanda. The town is situated at an elevation of 1451 meters above sea level.

Karnaprayag is famous for the Karna temple, Karna was the elder brother of the 5 Pandavas. It is also known as the city of Karna of Mahabharata. Karanprayag City connects the Garhwal region with the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand via NH 109. There are many other places to visit in Karanprayag that you can consider visiting when you are in Karanprayag.

Get the Karanprayag travel guide, travel tips and places to see in Karanprayag. Our guides are always ready to help you.

If you are planning to visit Karnaprayag, then here is a guide on how to reach Karnaprayag guide.

Why should you visit Karnaprayag Chamoli?

Karnaprayag is surrounded by green hills and a foaming white river. You can meditate at the Karna temple, Karnaprayag, or spend your time here for mental peace. Tourists can also visit the ancient Uma Devi temple dedicated to Goddess Sati, the first wife of Lord Shiva, who later took birth as Parvati.

It is said that the great Hindu monk and philosopher, Swami Vivekanand along with his teacher Guru Bhai, Guru Turianand Ji, and Akharanand Ji indulged in a series of meditations at Karnaprayag, which lasted for 18 days.

There are some places to visit nearby Karnaprayag such as Nauti Village and Adi Badri Temple. You can also visit the exclusive places nearby Karnaprayag which are Nandprayag, Gauchar, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Gopeswar, Gwaldam, and Joshimath. These places are located in the proximity of Karnaprayag.

Karnaprayag  Travel Tips

Karnaprayag is a small town where you can spend your night during the Char Dham Yatra or Badrinath Yatra.

It is the 3rd panch prayag of Uttarakhand.

Karanprayag is one of the busiest towns and commercial hubs in the Chamoli district, so you will get all the facilities here such as ATMs, Petrol Pumps resorts, and others.

How to reach Karnaprayag

By Air

The nearest airport to Karnaprayag is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, which is situated at a distance of 192 Km. There are regular flights from Delhi to Dehradun and from Dehradun you can travel to Gauchar via Helicopter, and then you can take a cab from Gauchar to Karnaprayag which is just 10 Km away.

By Train

The nearest railway station to Karnaprayag is Rishikesh, which is approx 172 Km from Karnaprayag. Rishikesh is well-connected with the other major railway stations and destinations of India. From Rishikesh, buses and cabs are available to Karnaprayag directly.

By Road

You can take it directly from ISBT Kashmiri gate, Delhi to Karnaprayag. It takes approx 10 hours to reach Karnaprayag from Delhi via bus. Or you can take a cab to Karnaprayag from Delhi.

CategoriesLocal Destination By Garhwali Traveller

5 Places to Visit in Gauchar Chamoli

Gauchar is a small town located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at a distance of 800 meters from sea level. It is a small town which is surrounded by beautiful small hills and is popular for the Gauchar Airbase. There is not much more to explore in Gauchar, but a few places are here you can explore and visit if you are in Gauchar.

If you are in Gauchar then you can visit Gauchar Airport which is always open for travellers to visit, Bhatnagar village, Sari Village, Riverbank Alaknanda, Rano village near Gauchar, Govt Polytechnic Gauchar.

If you want to explore Gauchar more, you can also visit the Copper mine, which is approximately 10+ km away from Gauchar. It is a very old copper mine in Dhanpur village that was discovered by the Britishers in the 18th century, but due to some reasons, later after years of copper mining, the mine was discontinued. But it is open for visitors to see.

5 Best Places to Visit in Gauchar

There are some places in Gauchar that you can visit if you are in Gauchar. If you are in Gauchar or planning to visit Gauchar and are confused about where to start. We have dedicated travel guides in Gaucher who will help you to roam in Gaucher. Also, there are hotels in Gauchar where you can stay during your trip.

Gauchar Airport

Gauchar airport is one of the strategic airstrips which was constructed in the year 2000 and it is the most popular place. The total length of the Gauchar Aiport is 1.6 km. If you are in Gauchar then you must visit Gauchar Airport.

Bhatnagar Village

Bhatnagar is a small village which is located in Gaucher town on the bank of the Alaknanda river. If you are a person who loves to visit the villages and loves to explore the lifestyle and uniqueness of the villages, then you must visit there. Alaknanda River is just 500 meters away from Bhatnagar village.

Rano Village

Rano is another village near Gauchar that you can also visit if you are in Gauchar. You can travel to this village on foot or via vehicle. But we recommend visiting there on foot so you can enjoy the beauty of the Alaknanda River and the artificial beach near it.

Sari Village

This village is just 1 Km away from Gauchar and easily accessible by road as well as on footpath. But we recommend you to visit Sari via 2-wheeler with a shortcut way. If you visit here by Car, then you will have to cover a road route of 7 km. Sari, another village near Gauchar, is one of the best villages nearby Gauchar where you can also visit. Don’t confuse the name Sari village with another Sari village, which is near Deoriatal Lake in Ukhimath. The name is the same, but the locations are different.

Angrejo ka Bangla

Bangla is a historic place where there was a British bungalow of Britishers at that time. Which was constructed in the 12th century when India was under the regulations of the Britishers. The Bungalow is located at a distance of 6 to 8 km from the main market, Gauchar. It will take 15 to 20 minutes to get there. Currently, the Bungalow is under renovation and restoration from the new end.

Interesting Places To Visit

  • Rawal Devta Temple
  • Mata Kali Temple
  • Bhairavnath Temple

How to reach Gauchar

You can reach Gauchar via helicopter from Dehradun. Or you can reach Gaucher via road route from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Delhi and so on. The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh. But the new railway line from Rishikesh to Karnaprayag is under construction. So within a few years reaching to Garhwal region will be more affordable and time-saving.

CategoriesLocal Destination By Garhwali Traveller

Gauchar the Valley of Flat Lands

Gauchar Chamoli

Gauchar is a small town located in Chamoli district on the riverbank of the Alaknanda River, which is about 800 meters above sea level. Gauchar is famous for its flat land and historic trade fair, which is also known as Gauchar Mela. Gauchar is surrounded by mountains all around it. Gauchar is a beautiful valley of flatlands. Gauchar is located in the Chamoli district of Karanprayag Tehsil of Uttarakhand. Gauchar town is located on the left riverbank of the Alaknanda River.

Gauchar lies on NH 7 (which was formerly known as NH 58) and it serves as the halt for the tourists on the way to Badrinath Temple, Auli, Hemkund Sahib, and many other tourist places. Gauchar Airport played a big role at the time of the Kedarnath Flood in 2013 many people’s lives were saved through the rescue operation.

You can reach Gauchar from Dehradun via a Helicopter also

Culture of Gauchar and Importance of Gauchar

Gauchar Mela Ground is very famous in the Garhwal region, where the Gauchar Fair (Mela) starts in November. Gauchar Mela is one of the largest fairs in Garhwal and Uttarakhand. Gauchar Mela has been hosted for many years. In 1943, it was the largest trade fair of the Garhwal and Uttarakhand, which was hosted for the first time by the Bhotias of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. Bhotias mainly live in the Mana Village,which is 3 Km from the Badrinath Temple. 70 Km far from the Mana Village, China Border is situated there.

About Gauchar Mela

Gauchar Mela(Fair) is held every year in the month of November, which starts on 14 November and lasts for 7 days. Gauchar Mela is a great attraction for traders, the local peoples of Gauchar, and the peoples of Garhwal. Cultural programs are also taken there until the 6 nights of the Fair. Garhwali and Kumaoni singers and actors come there and entertain the people with their performances. Local dances and songs are also performed by the students of different Schools.

Activities to do in Gauchar

There are not many more places to visit in Gauchar, only you can visit Gauchar Airport, Gauchar Mela Ground, Riverbank of Gauchar near Bhatnagar Village. Like Nainital or Mussoorie which are the tourist hubs of Uttarakhand. Gauchar is a hilly town covered with mountains all around it.

Gauchar is a small town near the Alaknanda River, lies between the Badrinath Route NH 7. 

Places to Visit in Gauchar: There are some famous temples in Gauchar like Kalinka Devi, Rawal Devta, Panneshwar Mahadev temple in Panai village of Gauchar, and Gauchar Airport.

For what Gauchar is famous for?

Gauchar, a valley town, is so famous for the historical Gauchar Mela which is held in the month of November (14 to 20) every year and also for the Gauchar airport.

Places to visit near Gauchar

  • Bhattnagar Village
  • Sidoli Road
  • Duwa Kanda Road
  • Sari Village
  • Rano Village
  • Haryali Devi temple
  • Karnaprayag

and there are a few other locations to visit in Gauchar.

Nature Visits

Gauchar is surrounded by green forests and hills and small rivers known as Gadhera in the local Garhwali language.

Shopping Area

There are many shops and stores in Gauchar. Wine shops, fashion stores, shoe stores and grocery stores have all the necessary things available there.

Accommodation in Gauchar Chamoli

Gauchar is a small town in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. As a result, there are many options for staying here like GMVN Guest House near Gref Chok Gauchar which is a 1-star hotel and restaurant. There are other restaurants and hotels like Hotel Taj Palace near the New bus stand Gaucher, Wooden Umbrella Restaurant Gauchar, Hotel Arjuna and Restaurant, Hotel Sahara (Sahara Lodge), Hotel Mohini, Kolonel Cottages, etc are the best options for staying in Gauchar.

Food Guide for Gauchar

Being a small town, there are not many big restaurants for luxury food items, but there are some hotels where you can enjoy Chinese and Indian foods at budget prices. Some popular restaurants in Gaucher are Kanak Restaurant, Om Ji, Hunger point Gauchar, Prem Chowmein Center, etc.

How to reach Gauchar

Via road – Gauchar town lies on NH58 buses, taxis are available from Rishikesh directly.

Via Air – You can reach Gauchar via helicopter from Dehradun directly. Read the complete guide and information about the route, ticket pricing, and schedule.