Rishikesh

Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar

A hilltop shrine above Haridwar, on the Bilwa Parvat spur of the Sivalik Hills, and one of the five Panch Tirth a pilgrim in the city is meant to cover. The tree inside is what people remember: you tie a thread to a branch when you ask the goddess for something, and come back to untie it once the wish is granted, so the branches carry both halves of other people's bargains. Mansa means wish. Coconuts, fruit, garlands and incense go to the shrine. Go early if you want to hear yourself think.