Trek to Chandi Devi, Haridwar – Photo journal
In Haridwar, all roads do lead to river Ganga :-)
Birla bridge, Haridwar
The starting point for our trek, Birla bridge overlooking the red-spired Birla temple, is a busy place. Got an auto here to take us to the base of the hill across Neel Dhara Ganga.
This is April, and the force of the river is amazing! No rains so far, the waters are pure snow-melt.
The less taken path
The auto driver dropped us at a stall selling fruit and flowers, which devotees take as a tribute to Chandi Devi. Alongside the decorative stall, smelling of incense and apples, a narrow, part-cemented track led us up the hill. There is a ropeway trolley service up the hill, but we preferred to climb. The climb is steep :-)
Higher we go
And higher still
A shortcut is irresistible :-) This rough track carved by rain water channels is even more fun than the winding cemented road.
At the temple
Chandi Devi temple is right on the peak of this hill. Renovation work is on at the moment in the temple premises, and this lion, a vehicle of Chandi Devi seems pleased with his new surroundings.
Red, gold, green and blue are the presiding colours here. Red and gold of Chandi Devi herself. And her beautiful smile! Green and blue of the view from the top! River Ganga, the city of Haridwar and the Shivaliks – a stretch of blues blending into greens.
Taking the well-trodden path :-)
The broad road down provided more variation in views. The entire hillside is fragrant with a tree variety which is in bloom – delicate cream blossoms share their scent…
Enjoying a summer cucumber
A mule happily partakes of fresh cucumbers as he waits for orders to trudge back downhill. Mules bring supplies to the temple and shops.
Food and drink
Chips, lemon-juice (shikanji) and soft-drinks too! Shikanji any day on such a vibrant summer day…
And matar chaat?
Beads, bangles, rudraaksh, yantras, anyone?
Nearly back
Back to River Ganga. Where else?
In Haridwar, all roads do lead to the river Ganga and its canals.
[Photo credit: Anisha and Naval Sharma]