Haridwar is often seen only through the lens of spirituality, Ganga Aarti, and religious rituals. While Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi, and Chandi Devi attract millions, there’s a quieter, more mystical side of Haridwar that remains untouched by the regular tourist rush.
In this blog, we’ll take you through the hidden places of Haridwar—the forest trails, secret ghats, lesser-known ashrams, and nature spots that offer peace, perspective, and a deeper connection with the holy city.
1. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar – A Paradise for Bird Lovers
Just a short walk from Har Ki Pauri lies Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, a serene bird sanctuary situated on the banks of the Ganga Canal. It’s a world away from the chaos, especially in the early morning.
Why visit: Migratory birds, peaceful ambiance, nature trails.
Best time: Winter (November to February).
Tip: Carry binoculars and reach at sunrise for the best bird sightings.
2. Bhimgoda Tank & Gardens – A Mythical Water Spring
Though close to Har Ki Pauri, the Bhimgoda Tank is often overlooked. Believed to have been formed by Bhim’s footstep during the Mahabharata era, this peaceful spot is surrounded by well-maintained gardens.
Why visit: Mythological significance, ideal for evening strolls.
Local charm: Old vendors still share ancient stories of Bhim and Ganga.
3. Sapt Rishi Ashram & Sapt Sarovar – Ancient Silence
One of the most underrated spiritual spots, Sapt Rishi Ashram is believed to be where seven sages meditated. The Sapt Sarovar nearby is a quiet river spot perfect for reflection and solitude.
Why visit: Sacred energy, zero commercial activity.
Best time: Early morning for sunrise or post-sunset for meditation.
4. Chilla Forest Range – The Wild Side of Haridwar
Part of Rajaji National Park, Chilla Forest is a hidden treasure for nature lovers. Home to elephants, leopards, and deer, it also offers guided safaris. Most tourists miss it while focusing only on temples.
Why visit: Jeep safari, birdwatching, forest bathing.
Tip: Book safaris in advance via official forest department site or local operators.
5. Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple – Shiva’s Hidden Abode
Located on a hill near the railway station, Bilkeshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s surrounded by dense forest and narrow trails that are rarely explored.
Why visit: Spiritual atmosphere, hilltop views.
Ideal for: Spiritual trekkers and early morning worshippers.
6. Kankhal – The Forgotten Pilgrim Town
Kankhal is technically part of Haridwar, but its spiritual power is often ignored. It’s home to Daksha Mahadev Temple, Sati Kund, and several ancient ashrams, including Anandamayi Ma Ashram.
Why visit: Mythology-rich neighborhood, local markets, calm temples.
Don’t miss: The holy pond at Sati Kund—it’s steeped in ancient lore.
7. Bara Bazaar’s Backlanes – Local Culture Unfiltered
While tourists roam the main market, the narrow lanes behind Bara Bazaar reveal a rich local culture. Here, you’ll find hand-pounded spices, 100-year-old halwais, Ayurvedic shops, and spiritual tools.
Why visit: Street photography, local interactions, hidden eateries.
Must try: Chotiwala Sweets’ jalebi and Ganga-uttaran puja samagri shops.
8. Rajaji’s Elephant Trail – A Secret Trekking Path
A relatively unknown trail starts from the Shyampur area and leads deep into Rajaji Park. This elephant trail is a safe (but guided) trekking route that offers panoramic views and occasional wildlife sightings.
Why visit: Jungle trek, panoramic views, no mobile network—true disconnect.
Safety tip: Go with an authorized guide, and start before noon.
9. Maya Devi Temple Backside Trail – A Viewpoint Unknown
While the Maya Devi Temple is a major pilgrimage site, few people know about the small backside trail that leads to a little-known viewpoint over the city and Ganga River.
Why visit: Hidden view of Haridwar, peaceful escape from crowd.
Best time: Sunset hour for golden-hour photography.
10. Prem Nagar Ashram – Peace Over Popularity
Tucked away from the central Haridwar buzz, Prem Nagar Ashram is a sprawling spiritual retreat that very few outsiders know about. The gardens, library, and prayer halls are open to quiet seekers.
Why visit: Non-commercial, spiritual learning, scenic Ganga banks.
Who it’s for: Ideal for spiritual readers, solo thinkers, and long stays.
11. Doodhadhari Barfani Temple – Marble Magic
Built entirely in white marble, this temple complex in the Doodhadhari area feels like something out of Rajasthan or Italy. Tourists often miss it due to its location away from the main town.
Why visit: Marble architecture, peaceful complex, hidden charm.
Photography tip: Morning light reflects beautifully on the white domes.
12. Piran Kaliyar Sharif – Spiritual Harmony
About 20 km from Haridwar lies Piran Kaliyar Sharif, a dargah that’s one of the most sacred Sufi shrines in India. Though technically closer to Roorkee, it holds strong spiritual energy and remains surprisingly unknown to Haridwar tourists.
Why visit: Sufi music, peace, unity of faiths.
Best time: Thursday evenings for Qawwalis.
13. Kushavarta Ghat – Quieter Than Har Ki Pauri
If Har Ki Pauri is the heart of Haridwar, Kushavarta Ghat is its soul. It’s quieter, cleaner, and historically older. Saints like Adi Shankaracharya are believed to have meditated here.
Why visit: Peaceful Ganga darshan, spiritual depth.
Best experience: Sit in silence at dawn—let the Ganga speak to you.
14. Shantikunj’s Meditation Caves – A Hidden Wellness Space
While Shantikunj Ashram is well-known, most people skip its underground meditation caves, which are open to sincere seekers. These caves are built to aid deep meditation and healing.
Why visit: Guided meditation, yogic energy, inner reflection.
Note: Requires permission or registration at the front office.
15. Ganga Canal Trails – Cycling Along Sacred Waters
The stretch of the Ganga Canal heading towards Rishikesh is lined with quiet walking/cycling paths used mostly by locals. Rent a cycle and ride past mango orchards, ashrams, and untouched Ganga banks.
Why visit: Offbeat cycling, countryside feel, local interaction.
Ideal for: Solo riders, morning walkers, photographers.