Surkanda Devi Temple, Uttarakhand

Overview:

Surkanda Devi Temple is a famous Hindu temple located near Dhanaulti in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga (Parvati) and is one of the Shakti Peeths, where it is believed that Goddess Sati’s head fell. The temple is situated at 2,756 meters (9,042 feet) and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Visitors must trek 2 km uphill from Kaddukhal to reach the temple.

Location: Near Dhanaulti, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
Altitude: 2,756 meters (9,042 feet)

Dedicated to: Goddess Durga (an incarnation of Parvati)

Religious Significance & Mythology

• The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga (Parvati) and is one of the Shakti Peeths.
• According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Sati, the first wife of Lord Shiva, self-immolated in her father’s Yajna.
• Lord Shiva, in grief, carried her burning body across the universe.
• As he walked, parts of Sati’s body fell at different places, which became Shakti Peeths.
• It is believed that Sati’s head fell at this place, making it a powerful and sacred site.

Temple Architecture

• The temple has traditional Himalayan architecture with wooden and stone structures.
• It is beautifully decorated with bells, red flags, and flowers.
• Devotees tie sacred threads and bells as a symbol of their wishes and prayers.

Trekking to Surkanda Devi Temple

• The temple is 2 km uphill from Kaddukhal village.
• The trek is steep but offers beautiful views of the mountains.
• Ponies and mules are available for those who cannot trek.

How to Reach Surkanda Devi Temple?

• By Road:
  
  • Nearest towns: Dhanaulti (8 km), Mussoorie (38 km)
  • The base point is Kaddukhal, from where the 2 km trek begins.
• By Train:
  
  • Dehradun Railway Station (80 km) is the closest railway station.
• By Air:
  
  • Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (90 km) is the nearest airport.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (April–June): Pleasant weather, perfect for trekking.
• Post-Monsoon (September–November): Clear skies and fresh greenery.
• Winter (December–February): Snowfall covers the temple in white.
• During Ganga Dussehra: Grand festival celebrations take place.

Nearby Attractions

✅ Dhanaulti Eco Park – A peaceful nature park with greenery.
✅ Kanatal – A beautiful hill station nearby.
✅ Tehri Lake – A scenic lake for boating and adventure activities.
✅ Mussoorie – A famous hill station, just 38 km away.

Why is it Famous?

Surkanda Devi Temple is a holy place dedicated to Goddess Durga (Parvati). It is believed that when Goddess Sati (Shiva’s wife) sacrificed herself, Lord Shiva carried her body, and her head fell at this place. That’s why it is considered a Shakti Peeth (a powerful temple of the Goddess).

Why Visit Surkanda Devi Temple?

• Spiritual Blessings – Seek blessings from the Goddess.
• Trekking & Adventure – Enjoy a scenic hike.
• Himalayan Views – Capture stunning landscapes.
• Peace & Devotion – Experience the divine and peaceful atmosphere.