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India / Haridwar / History

Literally translated, Haridwar means the 'Gateway to the abode of gods,' Its long history going back to pre-historic times has given it many names. In mythology it is known as Kapilsthan. Legend goes that the Suryavanish Prince Bhagirath performed penance here to salvage the souls of his ancestors who had perished due to the curse of the sage kapila. The penance was answered and the river Ganga trickled forth from Lord Shiva's locks and its bountiful waters revived the sixty thousand sons of King Sagara.

Amongst its other names, are Gangadwar, Tapovan and Mayapuri. Even the Chinese traveller, Huien Tsang has mentioned it in his memories.

Mythologically, drops of nectar churned out from the primordial ocean fell at the four sites of the Kumbh fair including Haridwar Haridwar. The Kumbh, (marking a 12-year solar cycle) and the Ardh Kumbh fairs are held here when millions of devoted Hindus take a holy dip in the Ganga.

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