KKN Gurugram Desk | Devotees in the Delhi-NCR region no longer need to travel hundreds of kilometers to reach Haridwar for a holy dip in the Ganga. With the advent of India’s first semi-high-speed Namo Bharat train, the spiritual experience of Ganga Snan (holy bath) and religious rituals is now just 20–25 minutes away from Delhi. Located in Muradnagar, Uttar Pradesh, the popular religious spot nicknamed ‘Chhota Haridwar’ (Little Haridwar) is witnessing a surge in footfall, especially with the auspicious Ganga Dussehra festival approaching.

 Where is Chhota Haridwar Located?

Chhota Haridwar, also referred to as Muradnagar Ganga Canal Ghat, is situated just a short walking distance from the Muradnagar station on the Namo Bharat corridor — a semi-high-speed rail line currently operational between New Ashok Nagar (Delhi) and Meerut South (U.P.).

• Distance from Anand Vihar (Delhi): 35 km

• Travel Time via Namo Bharat: 22–23 minutes

• Fare (Standard Coach): ₹80

• Fare (Premium Coach): ₹95

• Distance from Ghaziabad: 18 km (12 minutes, ₹40)

• Distance from Meerut South: 23 km (13–14 minutes, ₹60)

With modern facilities and reduced commute time, Chhota Haridwar has emerged as a convenient spiritual destination for NCR residents.

 Why Chhota Haridwar is Becoming a Popular Pilgrimage Site

Situated along the Ganga canal, Chhota Haridwar recreates the spiritual ambience of Haridwar with a cleaner, calmer, and closer alternative. Devotees from Delhi, Ghaziabad, Meerut, and nearby towns are increasingly choosing this site for:

• Ganga Snan (Holy Bath)

• Ganga Jal Collection

• Pitru Tarpan and Pujan

• Festivals like Ganga Dussehra and Kartik Purnima

The location has seen a rise in religious tourism, especially among families, elderly devotees, and those unable to travel to Haridwar due to time or financial constraints.

Namo Bharat Train: A Game Changer in Regional Connectivity

India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) train — the Namo Bharat — has revolutionized travel across Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Meerut. With air-conditioned coaches, cushioned seating, mobile charging points, and onboard security, the journey is:

• Fast: Delhi to Muradnagar in under 25 minutes

• Affordable: Starting at ₹40

• Safe: With dedicated security personnel and surveillance

• Comfortable: Especially for women, senior citizens, and children

The train service not only supports spiritual and cultural tourism, but also benefits local vendors, food stalls, and small businesses near Chhota Haridwar.

 Ganga Dussehra 2025: A Major Draw for Devotees

With Ganga Dussehra 2025 falling in the Shukla Paksha Dashami of the Jyeshtha month, devotees are preparing for ritualistic Ganga baths, charity, and pujas at sacred ghats. Traditionally celebrated in Haridwar and Varanasi, the festival now sees significant footfall at Chhota Haridwar.

What Happens on Ganga Dussehra?

• Holy dip in the Ganga (symbolic purification)

• Offering ‘tarpan’ to ancestors

• Charity of clothes, food, and essentials

• Recitation of Ganga Stotra and chanting of mantras

Muradnagar’s Ganga ghat is expected to host thousands of pilgrims, with local administration working to ensure safety, sanitation, and crowd management.

 Spiritual Atmosphere at Chhota Haridwar

Though relatively small in scale compared to the original Haridwar, Chhota Haridwar retains the essence of devotion:

• Flowing Ganga canal with clean waters

• Designated bathing ghats for men and women

• Temples and puja stalls along the banks

• Availability of pundits for religious rituals

The site becomes particularly vibrant during Hindu festivals and full moon days, drawing families for day trips and rituals.

 Impact on Local Economy and Tourism

The transformation of Muradnagar into a mini spiritual hub has benefited local communities in many ways:

• Small vendors sell flowers, puja samagri, and snacks

• Rickshaw and auto operators ferry pilgrims from the station

• Nearby dhabas and eateries see a spike in visitors

• Employment opportunities have increased around the station and ghat

Local authorities are reportedly considering further infrastructure improvements to accommodate the rising number of visitors.

 Modern Infrastructure, Traditional Soul

Thanks to the RRTS initiative, Chhota Haridwar enjoys state-of-the-art connectivity while maintaining its traditional spiritual roots.

Features Supporting Spiritual Tourism:

• Paved roads and signboards from station to ghat

• Public toilets and changing rooms

• Drinking water facilities

• Police patrolling for safety during festivals

• First-aid booths set up during major religious events

This balance of modern transport and ancient ritual is encouraging even the younger generation to participate in traditions like Ganga Snan.

 How to Reach Chhota Haridwar from Key NCR Locations

Things to Keep in Mind While Visiting

• Visit during early mornings or late evenings for a peaceful experience

• Carry your own water and towel, especially during festivals

• Dress modestly and avoid bathing during crowd surges

• Use official ticket counters or verified apps for booking Namo Bharat tickets

• Respect local customs and environmental rules — do not litter or use soap in the canal

 Local Administration’s Efforts

The local municipality and religious organizations are actively working on:

• Crowd control measures during festivals

• Improved sanitation and waste disposal

• Deployment of volunteer help desks

• Increasing frequency of Namo Bharat trains during peak days

A long-term beautification and safety plan is also under review to make Chhota Haridwar a national spiritual destination.

The Chhota Haridwar ghat in Muradnagar has become a beacon of accessible spiritual tourism in northern India. With the support of modern transport via the Namo Bharat semi-high-speed rail and strong administrative backing, Delhi-NCR residents now have a faster, safer, and deeply fulfilling alternative to Haridwar — just 20 minutes away.

Whether you’re planning a quick spiritual retreat, marking Ganga Dussehra, or simply longing for a sacred experience with your family, Chhota Haridwar offers the soul of Haridwar with the convenience of home proximity.