INDIA CROSSING THE RIVER GANGES One of the most famous and most visited sites of Haridwar; Har ki Pauri is considered as one of its five main holy sites. Ganga Aarti takes place on the ghat in the evening; after sunset. A group of Brahmans hold huge fire bowls in their hands and offer their holy mantras to river Ganges; Shiva - the Hindu God of destruction; Surya - the Sun God and the entire Universe. The devotees then offer flowers and earthen lamps - diyas - to river Ganges; in order to pay due regards to their ancestors in heaven. The scenario at Har ki pauri at the time of Ganga-Aarti is mesmerizing. Har Ki Pauri is the place where the divine nectar fell from celestial Kumbh. The Kumbh mela is held here (last held in 1998; next in 2010). The holy river Ganga; enters Brahmakund from one side and exits from the other. Though the water here is around waist-high; one has to be very cautious while bathing on the Ghats since the flow is swift and speedy. Chains and rails have been provided to enable devotees to catch on safely while they take a holy dip. Famous temples - Ganga Mandir and Haricharan mandir are also located here. Har Ki Pauri gets its name from the feet (Pauri) of lord (Hari). Vishnucharanpaduka; the footprints of the Lord; are believed to be imprinted on the wall beneath the waters of Ganga here and with the guidance of a priest; it is also possible to touch it.