Bharat Mata Mandir, Haridwar
Location
Haridwar
Distance
6 km from City Center
Opening Hours
05:00:00 - 21:00:00
About Bharat Mata Mandir, Haridwar
Bharat Mata Mandir is an eight-storey temple on the Rishikesh road in Haridwar. Unlike most temples, it is dedicated to the idea of India itself. Each floor tells a different part of the country's story, from freedom fighters to saints, and the top floors are devoted to the Hindu deities. It is a good stop for families and for anyone who wants a break from the ghats.
Bharat Mata Mandir at a glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Sapt Sarovar Road, Haridwar |
| Height | 8 floors, about 180 ft |
| Timings | About 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| Entry fee | Check at the gate, as it varies by listing |
| Distance | About 6 km from Haridwar Junction railway station |
| Time needed | 1 to 2 hours |
| Lift | Available at 5 Rupees Per Person |
History
The temple was founded by Swami Satyamitranand Giri and inaugurated in 1983 by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It was built as a place where people of all religions and regions could honour the country and its heritage. It stands close to the Ganga and the Sapt Sarovar area.
What each floor shows
| Floor | What you will see |
|---|---|
| 1 | Statue of Bharat Mata holding a pot of milk and a bundle of grain, and a large raised map of India |
| 2 | Shoor Mandir, devoted to heroes of India |
| 3 | Matru Mandir, honouring women such as Meera Bai and Savitri |
| 4 | Sant Mandir, with saints from several faiths including Jain, Sikh and Buddhist traditions |
| 5 | Hall showing the unity of religions and paintings of the provinces |
| 6 | Forms of Goddess Shakti |
| 7 | Incarnations of Lord Vishnu |
| 8 | Lord Shiva, with views over the Himalayas and the Sapt Sarovar area |
Why visit
The rooftop gives a wide view of the foothills, and the lower floors are an easy way to explain Indian history and culture to children. The building is covered, so it works in light rain or heat. It is not a traditional darshan temple, so you do not need to queue for hours.
How to reach
Bharat Mata Mandir is about 6 km from the railway station. Take an auto or cab along the Rishikesh road. If you are coming from Har Ki Pauri, allow about 20 to 30 minutes by road. Our Haridwar taxi service can combine this temple with others on the same route.
Best time to visit
October to March is pleasant. In summer go in the morning. On festival days the lift line can be long, so go on a weekday if you can. The top floor is best on a clear day, when you can see the hills.
Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, because there are several levels to walk if the lift is busy.
- Remove footwear at the entrance and keep a small bag.
- Take your time on the floors with paintings and statues, because there is a lot to read.
- Go early to avoid tour buses.
- Photography rules vary, so check signs on each floor.
Nearby places
Shanti Kunj, Pawan Dham, Sapt Rishi Ashram and Daksha Mahadev are all on the same side of the city. You can cover them in one half-day drive.
Plan your trip with Gokeys India
Our drivers know the Rishikesh road route and the best timing for each stop. See the Haridwar sightseeing tour or the Haridwar and Rishikesh two-day tour.
Related on Gokeys India
- Tour packages: Haridwar sightseeing tour · Haridwar, Rishikesh and Neelkanth 2-day tour
- Read next: Haridwar travel guide: best places to visit
Frequently asked questions
How many floors does Bharat Mata Mandir have? Eight floors.
What are the timings? About 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Confirm at the gate.
Who built it? It was founded by Swami Satyamitranand Giri and inaugurated in 1983.
Is it suitable for elders? Yes, there is a lift.
How much time is needed? One to two hours.
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