Nestled at an altitude of approximately 2,700 metres in the Saklana Range of the Tehri Garhwal district in Uttarakhand, the Surkanda Devi Temple is a sacred shrine steeped in myth and mountain-serenity. According to legend, it is one of the revered 51 Shakti Peethas, the places where the body of the goddess Sati is believed to have fallen; in this spot the “head” (Sur) is said to have fallen, thus the name “Sur-kanda”.
Dedicated to the goddess in her powerful form, the temple draws devotees from across India especially during festive occasions such as Navratri and Ganga Dussehra. The journey itself adds to the experience: whether by the moderate trek of about 1.5 km from Kaddukhal village or via the ropeway that has recently eased access.
From its vantage point one can enjoy sweeping views of the Himalayan ranges, offering not just spiritual upliftment but also a memorable natural setting. For pilgrims and travellers alike, Surkanda Devi represents a blend of devotion, nature and tranquillity.
Kalkaji Mandir Complete Guide 2025: Timings, Navratri Crowd, History and Tips
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kaddukhal village, Saklana Range, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India |
| Altitude | Approximately 2,700–2,756 metres (≈9,000 ft) |
| Deity | Goddess Surkanda (form of Sati/Parvati) |
| Significance | One of the 51 Shakti Peethas |
| Access | By trek (1.5-2 km) or ropeway from Kaddukhal |
| Entry Fee | No general entry fee; certain sevas/ropeway have charges |
Temple Timings
Daily Darshan and Opening Hours
| Season | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (approx. April-September) | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Winter (approx. October-March) | 7:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
Ropeway Service Timing
| Season | First Ride Up | Last Ride Down |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 8:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| Winter | 9:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
Note: These timings may vary during festivals or in case of weather disruptions.
Sevas, Darshans & Offering
Available Darshans / Sevas – Timings & Price
| Service | Timing | Price (approx.) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | During temple open hours | Free (temple entry) | Regular queue for devotees |
| VIP/Special Darshan | Onsite counter (no online booking) | ₹200-₹300 (as of 2025) | Faster access, special queue |
| Ropeway (two-way) | During ropeway hours | Adults ~ ₹200; Children (5-12) ~ ₹100 | From Kaddukhal to temple summit |
| Aarti / Puja Sevas | Set times (e.g., Morning 6:00-6:30 AM; Midday 12:00-12:30 PM; Evening 7:00 PM) | Charges vary (check on site) | Devotional services during festivals |
Note: Charges and availability may change. It’s best to inquire at the temple counter on arrival.
How to Reach the Temple
- By Road: The base village is Kaddukhal, located on the Chamba-Mussoorie road (via Kanatal). From Mussoorie it’s about 24 km and from Dhanaulti about 8 km.
- By Rail: Nearest major railway station is Dehradun Railway Station (~65-70 km away)
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) at approximately 90 km
- Final Ascent: From Kaddukhal either take the ropeway or trek the path (~1.5–2 km uphill) to reach the temple summit.
Tip: Travel early morning to avoid traffic and enjoy clearer views.
Booking Darshan Tickets
- For general darshan, you may simply arrive and join the queue during temple hours; there is no separate online booking for standard entry.
- For VIP or special darshan passes (₹200-₹300 as in 2025) you must purchase onsite at the temple counter. Currently no official online booking portal is available for these.
- For ropeway tickets, purchase is onsite at the ropeway station in Kaddukhal. At present, online booking may not be available or may be very limited.
Advice: On peak festival days expect longer queues; arrive early and carry some extra cash for sevas and offerings.
Nearby Attraction
Here are some places you might like to combine with your visit:
- Dhanaulti — A nearby hill station offering calm forests and eco-parks.
- Kanatal — A scenic village on the way to the temple, with lovely views and nature walks.
- Chamba — Town near the base road that offers local market, cultural spots and eateries.
- Trekking/forest walks around the Saklana Range — ideal for nature-lovers visiting the temple summit.
Accommodation Options
| Category | Property | Approx. Price* | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | “The Gypsy Soul” (Kaddukhal) | From ~₹1,500–2,500 per night | Very near the temple |
| Mid-Range | “The Green Valley Resort” (Kaddukhal) | From ~₹2,400 (Breakfast included) | ~460 m from temple |
| Luxury / Boutique | “The Vintage Hill Village – Himalayan Boutique Resort” (Jwarna/Kanatal) | ₹4,500+ and up | ~4–5 km from temple |
*Prices vary by season, availability and deals.
Tip: During festivals like Navratri, book early; winter nights get cold—choose well-heated rooms and check availability ahead.
Important Instructions for Visitors
- Dress modestly; as it’s a sacred site. Avoid overly casual or beach-wear attire.
- The altitude is high — carry warm clothing even in summer as early mornings or evenings can be cold.
- Carry a water bottle and snacks if needed; food options near the summit may be limited.
- If trekking, wear good walking shoes; path may be uneven or slippery in rain.
- Follow the ropeway staff instructions and safety norms if using ropeway.
- Avoid plastic bags, littering or disturbing wildlife. The area is ecologically sensitive.
- Be aware of crowd control during festivals; keep children under supervision.
- Photography may be restricted inside the inner sanctum — check signage or ask.
- Ensure you have planned return before dark; the road is hilly and may be tricky at night.
Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Arrive early for less crowd and clearer views.
- Choose ropeway if you have mobility constraints.
- Respect local customs and rituals inside the temple.
- Carry light jacket, hat, and good footwear.
- Stay hydrated and acclimatise if you come from lower altitude.
Don’t:
- Don’t wear shorts or sleeveless tops in the inner premises.
- Don’t litter or use plastic bottles/bags unnecessarily.
- Don’t disrupt queues for special darshan or push ahead.
- Don’t trek in slippery conditions without proper footwear.
- Don’t assume facilities like restaurants will always be open late at summit.
FAQs about Surkanda Devi Temple
Q1. Is there an entry fee for the temple?
A. No general entry fee for standard darshan. However, ropeway ride and VIP passes incur charges.
Q2. Can I book online for special darshan?
A. As of 2025, VIP/special darshan passes must be purchased onsite; online booking is not yet fully available.
Q3. When is the best time to visit?
A. The best period is April–June (clear weather) or September–October (post-monsoon greenery). Avoid heavy rain or snow periods.
Q4. Is the ropeway mandatory?
A. No, you can still trek from Kaddukhal (~1.5–2 km uphill). Ropeway is optional and convenient especially for elders/families.
Q5. What are the Aarti timings?
A. Approximate times: Morning ~ 6:00–6:30 AM, Midday ~ 12:00 PM, Evening around ~ 5:00-7:00 PM depending on season.
Q6. Are there accommodation options nearby?
A. Yes — in and around Kaddukhal/ Kanatal/ Dhanaulti. Budget to luxury stays are available; book early for peak times.
Q7. Are there medical or emergency facilities at the temple top?
A. Basic facilities may exist at the base; however for emergencies one should plan accordingly as altitude and terrain may pose challenges. (Advise to carry necessary medications).
Q8. Can I visit during festival days?
A. Yes — but expect far more crowd, longer queues and higher prices for accommodation. Plan early, aim for very early darshan, and be prepared for logistical delays.