Surkanda Devi temple is a famous shrine located near Kaddukhal, 24 kms from the town of Chamba and 40kms from Mussoorie.
Surkanda Devi Temple is not only a revered pilgrimage destination but also one of the most scenic temples in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by dense forests and majestic Himalayan landscapes, the temple attracts devotees, trekkers, photographers and nature lovers throughout the year. The peaceful atmosphere and panoramic mountain views make the journey to the temple a memorable spiritual experience.
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This temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeth located all over Indian subcontinent and is dedicated to Goddess Surkanda – a manifestation of feminine divine. The temple is famous for its architectural beauty and its location – perched at an altitude 2,700 meters that offers a 360 degree view of the surrounding region along with the snowy Himalayan peaks.
According to the mythology, the origins of the Surkanda Devi temple can be attributed to Goddess Sati, wife of Lord Shiva who immolated herself in her father Daksha’s sacrifice when he embarrassed Shiva by not inviting the couple to the Yajna. Enraged by the death of Sati, Shiva wandered all over the region and performed tandav (dance of cosmic destruction). Feared, the heaven Gods requested Lord Vishnu to stop Shiva. Lord Vishnu uses his discus Sudarshana to destroy the corpse of Sati and pieces of her body fell all over the region, which are known as Shakti Peeths.
Surkanda Devi Temple receives snowfall mainly during December, January and February. The temple and surrounding forests turn completely white during peak winter, attracting tourists, photographers and snow lovers from nearby destinations like Mussoorie, Dhanaulti and Dehradun.
Surkanda Devi Temple is located in Chamba - Mussoorie Rd, Saklana Range ( 6.7 km from Dhanaulti, 2km uphill trek from Kaddukhal).
Devotees and visitors can Surkanda Devi temple can be reached by trekking 2 km uphill from the Kaddukhal, which is the nearest town. Kaddukhal is connected via motorable roads and is 40 kms from Mussoorie and 24 kms from Chamba.
By Road: Kaddukhal the nearest town to the temple and is located 40 kms form Mussoorie. Visitors can hire a taxi or take shared cabs from Mussoorie. Buses also ply from Mussoorie to Chamba via Kaddukhal – however, less frequently. Mussoorie is well-connected with majority of northern cities including Delhi.
By Rail: Situated at a distance of 67 km, Dehradun Railway station in the valley is the nearest railhead. Visitors can book a taxi directly from Dehradun to Surkanda Devi via Mussoorie as well.
By Air: Jolly Grant in Dehradun is the nearest airport located 100 kms from Surkanda Devi temple. It is well connected to Delhi with daily flights and taxis to Surkanda Devi are easily available from here.
Pleasant weather and clear Himalayan views make summer ideal for temple visits and trekking.
The region becomes lush green and misty, though occasional rainfall may affect visibility and trekking conditions.
Winter is famous for snowfall and mesmerizing snow-covered landscapes around the temple.
Surkanda Devi Temple is popular place for following activities/ interests - Devi Temples, Religious, Temples.
