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Haridwar literally means Gateway to Gods and it was aptly named by the ancient rishis or seers who lived in this land thousands of years ago. Haridwar, which lies in the plains of the Shivalik ranges, is situated on the right bank of the mighty Ganges. Being an ancient holy town, which is frequented by thousands of people, it is always bustling with activity. Shopping in Haridwar can truly be an amazing experience for the tourists. The market area teems with shops, which sell assorted handicrafts, auspicious stones, figurines of Gods and Goddesses in different metals and crystal stones.
Most of the shops are located close to temples, which are frequented by tourists and devotees. Anyone visiting this town is not likely to go back without having bought at least a few holy rudhraksha beads. Many shops sell imitation jewellery like chains, bangles, earrings and nose rings. You can also get nice glass bangles, which come in a wide assortment of colors. All these jewellery come in a variety of designs and colors and are really very attractive. Many foreign tourists would be seen buying some colored bangles for their hands and even some nice earrings.
There are shops that sell items made out of stone and it is here that you will be able to pick up a variety of naturally polished stones. When the Ganges enters the plains from Rishikesh the waters bring down plenty of stones in all sorts of shapes and sizes, which are simply amazing and come naturally polished. These stones are then carved intricately to make small idols of Gods and Goddesses. There are also kitchen set toys which have been made out of stone and are worth buying. You will also find transparent quartz stone known as Spatika which have been strung as beads in different shapes and sizes. They can be worn as malas around the neck. Small idols are also made out of this stone.
Some of the prime areas for shopping in Haridwar are Moti Bazaar, Jwalapur, Upper Road and Kankhal. Most of the shops sell religious items like rudhraksha beads with faces ranging from one to many, and vermillion or kumkum, which women wear on their foreheads. Ganges water stored in sealed copper pots of all sizes are also sacred items to shop. The rudhraksha beads also come as garlands and can be bought and worn around the neck, and even used for chanting. These rudhraksha beads are said to contain healing powers. You can also buy some Ayurvedic medicines and orange robes, which are mostly worn by the saints and sadhus.
You can also find all sorts of spiritual books on yoga, holistic healing, and pictures of Gods here for sale. You can shop at the UP Handloom Emporium for handicrafts for exotic shawls and other gift items, which can be taken back as souvenirs. Along the roadside, you may come across many old people who are seen selling trinkets and old coins of various denominations, which make great collectors' items or mementos.
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