Haridwar is an ancient city and important Hindu pilgrimage site where the River Ganges exits the Himalayan foothills. Har Ki Pauri, the largest of several sacred ghats, hosts a nightly Ganga Aarti (river-worshipping ceremony) in which tiny flickering lamps are floated off the steps into the river. Worshipers fill the city during major festivals including the annual Kanwar Mela.