Kerala is referred to as God’s own country in India, but I don’t see how we cannot refer to the little state of Uttaranchal when talking of God's country. It has the majestic Himalayas and the graceful Ganges flowing across it, as well as abundant flora and fauna. It’s the abode of nearly all the Hindu Gods and Goddesses. One such place is Haridwar or the Gateway of the Gods. Legend says that for some reason Lady Ganges was very mad and in a destructive mood. When she was about to flow in from the heavens in fa ury and touch the earth such large-scale destruction was unparalleled. The Gods went to Shiva and asked him to save mother earth from the lady’s fury. Shiva who was undertaking a penance at Haridwar agreed. So when Lady Ganges touched Haridwar, Shiva captured her in his tresses or Jatta. He refused to release her until she behaved. That’s why you see the mighty Ganges flowing so calmly in Haridwar.

Haridwar is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, an important place of worship. I almost feel that what Jerusalem is to Christians and Mecca is to Muslims Haridwar is to Hindus. One look at this place and a feeling of peace descends. In the melee of humans and animals, especially cows, you can visit temples. The most famous one is Mansa - Devi Temple. During an earlier time people walked trails on hillsides in order to visit Devi Temple. Even now the devout use the same trails. But if you are running short on time its better to use the ropeway.