Though all the Hindu festivals are celebrated here with pomp and gaiety, it is the Ardh Kumbh and Kumbh Mela which attracts the mind of any tourist to this place.
The history of Kumbh Mela dates back to the creation of the Universe legends. Mythology states that the Gods and the demons once churned the ocean to retrieve the Kumbh (pot) containing nectar of immortality (Amrit). As Dhanvantri, the divine healer appeared with the Kumbh containing nectar in her palms, a great fight followed between the Gods and the demons to wrist the pitcher. During the fierce battle in the sky, a few drops of nector fell at four different places, Prayag, Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain. Since then devotees converge to commemorate this divine event.

The Ardh Kumbh is held every six years and then after six years Kumbh Mela is held. It is said that a holy dip in the river Ganges during the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh gives you Moksha or Nirvana. People gather in huge numbers to take the holy dip during these holy days. There are saints, naga sadhus, politicians, almost every one is there. The city is overflowing with people. If going to Haridwar during the Kubh or Ardh Kumbh then avoid the over crowded ghats. Every time there are reports of stampedes and the various factions or akharas of sadhus clash with each other. Ensure your accommodation well in advance if going during the Kumbh.

Ten days before Shivteras (during the months of Shravan and Phagun) thousands of devotees throng to Haridwar to collect holy waters of the river Ganga. Then they carry it back to their hometown and offer it at the local Shiv temple. Colourful shops spring up and Haridwar resounds to the chanting of hymns.