places

Bara Bazaar Haridwar

June 13, 2025

Welcome to Bara Bazaar in Haridwar—a place where the holy scent of incense sticks mixes with the colours of bangles, rudraksha beads, and fresh flowers. Located near the famous Har Ki Pauri, this bustling market isn’t just a shopping street—it’s an experience of Haridwar’s soul.

Whether you’re a pilgrim, a tourist, or a curious explorer, Bara Bazaar Haridwar is the perfect spot to shop, eat, and soak in the city’s spiritual charm.

What is Bara Bazaar Haridwar Famous For?

Bara Bazaar is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Haridwar. The word “Bara” means “big,” and it truly lives up to its name. Stretching through narrow lanes just behind Har Ki Pauri, the market offers a fascinating mix of traditional culture, religious energy, and commercial activity. This marketplace is a one-stop destination for religious items, handicrafts, Ayurvedic products, and authentic sweets. It’s not only frequented by locals, but thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit daily to shop, seek blessings, and experience the local flavour.

What Can You Buy Here?

Shopping in Bara Bazaar is like walking through a spiritual museum:

Rudraksha malas and spiritual jewellery: Available in various sizes and varieties like Ek Mukhi, Panch Mukhi.
Gangajal (Holy Ganga Water): Carried back by devotees in sealed bottles or copper pots.
Brass idols of deities: Statues of Lord Shiva, Lakshmi, Ganesh, and Durga are beautifully handcrafted.
Puja samagri: From camphor, ghee wicks, to havan samagri and incense.
Ayurvedic items: Organic soaps, herbal oils, pain relief balms, and digestive churnas.
Sweets and snacks: Mathura pedas, laddoos, besan barfi, and ghee jalebis.

👉 Don’t forget to ask for “rare rudraksha” or “tantric pendants”—some shopkeepers even have hidden treasures wrapped in old cloth!

Street Food in Bara Bazaar

Yes! You’ll find tasty and affordable vegetarian street food around Bara Bazaar. The market is dotted with food stalls, sweet shops, and local eateries that serve piping hot snacks all day long. Whether you’re taking a break from shopping or just indulging your taste buds, here are the must-try items:

Aloo puri with kaddu sabzi: Fluffy deep-fried puris served with spicy potato curry and a sweet pumpkin side.
Kachori & sabzi: Crisp kachoris stuffed with lentils or potatoes, served with tangy chutney and sabzi.
Fresh jalebis with rabri: Hot, golden jalebis soaked in sugar syrup, paired with thick rabri.
Lassi and badam milk: Served in clay cups, they are refreshing and filling.
Chaat and pakoras: Enjoy spicy papdi chaat, dahi bhallas, or crispy paneer pakoras.

The best part? Most of this food is satvik (pure vegetarian), in tune with the city’s religious customs.

👉 Craving more? Read our blog on [Best Street Foods in Haridwar (Coming Soon)] to plan your food trail!

Hidden Stories & Spiritual Facts

Bara Bazaar is not just about shopping and food—it’s steeped in local myths, spiritual legends, and cultural tales:

Centuries-old shops: Some stalls here are over 100 years old, run by families who have served pilgrims for generations.
Sacred timing: Locals believe shopping after a holy Ganga dip brings divine blessings and removes negative energy.
Mystical shrines: Hidden between shops, you’ll find small temples with eternal diyas (flames that never go out).
Kumbh Mela vibes: During the Kumbh Mela, this market transforms into a spiritual fair with saints, sadhus, and millions of visitors.
Antique traders: Some vendors quietly sell old religious coins, manuscripts, and heritage trinkets collected over decades.

These stories make the shopping experience deeper and more spiritual, making Bara Bazaar truly different from a regular market.

Top Places to Visit Near Bara Bazaar, Haridwar

1. Har Ki Pauri (2–5 mins walk)

Why visit: The most sacred ghat on the Ganga River. It’s believed that Lord Vishnu left his footprint here.
Don’t miss: Ganga Aarti at sunrise or sunset—an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Tip: Visit just before or after shopping at Bara Bazaar.

2. Mansa Devi Temple (10–15 mins walk + cable car or trek)

Why visit: Dedicated to Goddess Mansa, this hilltop temple gives a panoramic view of Haridwar.
How to reach: Take the Udan Khatola (cable car) or trek up the hill.
Tip: Visit early morning to avoid queues and heat.

3. Chandi Devi Temple (3 km from Bara Bazaar)

Why visit: Another major Shakti peeth, located atop Neel Parvat.
How to reach: Cable car or a 3 km uphill trek.
Bonus: You can buy a combo ticket for both Chandi Devi and Mansa Devi cable cars.

4. Kusha Ghat (10–12 mins walk)

Why visit: A peaceful ghat often missed by tourists.
Perfect for: Silent Ganga meditation, bathing, or photography.
Local legend: Saints say this ghat has purifying energies for past-life karma.

5. Moti Bazaar (8–10 mins walk)

Why visit: Another bustling market lane with more decorative items, bangles, and pooja samagri.
Bonus: Slightly cheaper than Bara Bazaar, and more focused on women’s goods.

6. Daksha Mahadev Temple (4–5 km / 15 mins by auto)

Why visit: Associated with the story of Sati and Lord Shiva. A powerful and emotional temple site.
Atmosphere: Calm, less crowded, full of spiritual energy.
Nearby: You can also visit the Sati Kund.

7. Bhimgoda Kund (10 mins walk)

Why visit: A water tank where Bhim (from Mahabharata) is said to have struck the ground with his knee.
Perfect for: Mythology lovers and those looking for peaceful surroundings.

8. Shanti Kunj (5 km / 15–20 mins by rickshaw or cab)

Why visit: Spiritual centre of the Gayatri Parivar movement. Offers free yoga, meditation classes, and clean food.
Vibe: Modern spiritual learning in a serene ashram setting.

9. Rajaji National Park Entry Gate (10–12 km / 25–30 mins)

Why visit: If you’re staying a full day or two, go on a jungle safari to spot elephants, deer, and even leopards.
Booking tip: Book safaris in advance or through local tour guides.

10. Ganga Ghat Boating (Near Malviya Dweep) (🚶‍♀️ 15 mins walk)

Why visit: Quiet area to enjoy short boat rides on the Ganga, especially early morning or sunset.

Place	Type	Distance from Bara Bazaar	Highlights
Har Ki Pauri	Ghat/Spiritual	2–5 mins walk	Ganga Aarti, holy dip
Mansa Devi Temple	Temple/Hilltop	15 mins walk + ropeway	City view, goddess blessings
Chandi Devi Temple	Temple/Hilltop	3 km	Trek or cable car, historic temple
Kusha Ghat	Peaceful Ghat	10 mins walk	Quiet, meditative spot
Moti Bazaar	Shopping	10 mins walk	More women’s goods, souvenirs
Daksha Mahadev Temple	Mythological	15 mins by car	Shiva-Sati connection
Bhimgoda Kund	Historical site	10 mins walk	Linked to Mahabharata
Shanti Kunj	Spiritual Center	15–20 mins by cab	Yoga, meditation, and spiritual talks
Rajaji National Park	Wildlife/Safari	30 mins by vehicle	Jungle safari, elephants, birds
Ganga Boat Ride Area	Leisure	15 mins walk	Scenic boating

Each of these places adds a different flavour to your Haridwar trip—from scenic views to spiritual calm to even wildlife nearby (Rajaji National Park is just 12 km away!).

💡 Want to explore more? Read our detailed blog on [Spiritual Places to Visit in Haridwar (Coming Soon)]

How to Reach Bara Bazaar, Haridwar Conveniently

📍 Location:

Bara Bazaar is located near Har Ki Pauri, one of the most famous and centrally located spots in Haridwar.

If You Are Already in Haridwar

1. From Har Ki Pauri (2–5 mins walk):

Bara Bazaar is just a few steps away.
Follow the path from the ghat toward the inner market lanes.
Ask locals or follow the crowd—it’s very easy to spot.

2. From Railway Station or Bus Stand (1.5–2 km):

Use a cycle rickshaw or auto-rickshaw (₹20–₹50).
You can also walk if you enjoy city strolls (around 15–20 mins).
Nearest landmark to tell the rickshaw driver: “Har Ki Pauri” or “Bara Bazaar ke gate pe chhod dena.”

Coming from Outside Haridwar?

1. By Train:

Get down at Haridwar Junction Railway Station.
Take an auto or rickshaw to Bara Bazaar (approx 2 km).
Cost: ₹20–₹60 depending on time of day.

2. By Bus:

Buses from Delhi, Rishikesh, and Dehradun arrive at Haridwar ISBT (near Haridwar railway station).
From there, take a rickshaw to Har Ki Pauri/Bara Bazaar.

By Car or Taxi

If you’re coming by car, park at Har Ki Pauri Parking (official public parking).
Bara Bazaar is a walking-only zone, so you’ll need to walk 5–10 mins from parking.
It’s a crowded area, especially during peak hours and festivals, so avoid bringing your car too close.

By Scooter or Bike (If You’re Local)

You can go as close as the Bada Bazaar entrance or side lanes, but park before the walking zone begins.
Paid two-wheeler parking is available near Subhash Ghat or Shoe Stand areas.

Pro Tips for Convenience:

Best Time to Go:
Morning (9 AM to 11 AM) or evening (4 PM to 7 PM). Avoid peak noon time in summer.

Wear Comfortable Shoes:
You’ll be walking through narrow lanes and possibly standing in queues during festivals.

Carry a Small Backpack:
To keep your purchases and essentials safe, no big handbags, as it can get crowded.

Keep Some Cash:
While some shops accept UPI, many still prefer cash, especially smaller stalls.

Use Google Maps Smartly:
Search for “Bara Bazaar Haridwar” or just “Har Ki Pauri” and ask locals for directions from there.

Bargaining Tips

Yes, bargaining is totally acceptable here! Especially in non-fixed-price stalls. Here’s how to do it smartly:

Be polite: Always smile and use phrases like “Bhaiya, thoda kam kar do.”
Buy in bulk: If you’re buying multiple items, ask for a combined discount.
Compare prices: Check 2-3 shops before finalising your purchase.
Time it right: Morning hours or just before closing may get you better deals.

Remember, respectful negotiation is part of the fun shopping culture in Indian markets!

Conclusion

Bara Bazaar Haridwar is not just a market—it’s a living symbol of India’s cultural, spiritual, and traditional richness. Whether you’re here for souvenirs, sweets, or just soaking in the vibes, you’ll leave with a heart full of peace and a bag full of divine treasures.

FAQs about Bara Bazaar Haridwar

1. What is the best time to visit Bara Bazaar in Haridwar?

The best time to visit Bara Bazaar is during the early morning or late afternoon. Mornings are ideal for peaceful shopping, while evenings offer vibrant street life, especially near Ganga Aarti time at Har Ki Pauri.

2. Is Bara Bazaar open every day?

Yes, Bara Bazaar remains open all days of the week, typically from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, it may close early on certain festival days or if there’s heavy rainfall.

3. Can I use UPI or card payment in Bara Bazaar?

Most shops still prefer cash, especially small stalls. However, some stores and sweet shops do accept UPI (PhonePe, Paytm, GPay) or cards. It’s wise to carry small change for convenience.

4. Are there public restrooms or ATMs near Bara Bazaar?

Yes, there are public restrooms near Har Ki Pauri and several ATMs within walking distance of Bara Bazaar. Some shops also offer restroom facilities for customers.

5. Is Bara Bazaar safe for solo travellers or women?

Absolutely. Bara Bazaar is located in a crowded and safe area with heavy footfall throughout the day. Local police and surveillance make it secure, even for solo women travellers.

6. What should I not miss buying from Bara Bazaar?

Don’t miss buying Rudraksha malas, Ganga jal, brass idols, Ayurvedic items, and local sweets like pedas and jalebis. These are authentic and culturally significant souvenirs.

7. How far is Bara Bazaar from Haridwar railway station?

Bara Bazaar is about 2 km from Haridwar Junction railway station. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw or e-rickshaw within 10–15 minutes.

8. Can I hire a guide for Bara Bazaar?

While there are no official guides for Bara Bazaar, some local tour guides include it in their Haridwar city walking tours. You can also use digital guides or blogs like this to self-navigate.