Ans: Haridwar is one of the prime Hindu pilgrimage destinations in India, which is believed to have served as the abode of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in Vedic times. One of the most sacred cities in the country, it is where the holy river Ganges bid goodbye to its origin in the Himalayan realms before entering the plains of North India. The sacred town is home to innumerable temples of religious significance, while also sitting as a gateway to the Chota Char Dham comprising of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath. Additionally, the place is a historic learning centre and imparts great knowledge about the country's age-old cultures, its ancient science of medicine and various primeval art forms. Not to forget, Haridwar is one of the hosts to the world-renowned fairs of Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh Mela, the two largest congregations recognized across the globe, attended by millions of devotees and pilgrims every twelve and six years respectively.