Religion is the foundational pillar of Haridwar, which is recognized as one of the seven holiest cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism.
* **Demographics**: The population is overwhelmingly Hindu, though there are established minority communities of Muslims, Sikhs, and Jains who contribute to the city's fabric. * **Pilgrimage Center**: The entire city's infrastructure supports pilgrims visiting to bathe in the Ganges, perform ancestral rites (*shraddha*), and seek spiritual guidance. * **Ashrams**: Beyond Shantikunj and Patanjali, historic ashrams like the Ramakrishna Mission, Prem Nagar Ashram, and Anandamayi Ma Ashram play pivotal roles in religious and social life. * **Piran Kaliyar Sharif**: Located in nearby Roorkee (within Haridwar district), this 13th-century Sufi shrine is highly revered by both Muslims and Hindus, symbolizing regional syncretism.