Surkanda Devi Temple

Uttarakhand, known as the land of Hindu deities, is home to several ancient temples. From Haridwar to Kedarnath, there are many ancient temples in this region. You can also explore the famous Siddhpeeths dedicated to goddesses on this sacred land. Among the 101 Siddhpeeths, one of them is the "Surkanda Devi Temple." This temple is located on a high mountain near the village of Kaddukhal in the development block of Jaunpur in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand. The temple is situated at an altitude of approximately 3030 meters above sea level. The deity worshipped in this magnificent temple is Goddess Kali. This Siddhpeeth of the goddess is one of the highest in Uttarakhand. According to legends, it is believed that Mata Sati's head fell at Surkunda due to the disintegration of her body, and hence this place is known as the "Shri Surkanda Devi Temple." Here, the goddess is worshipped as Sureshwari. There is a story about fulfilling wishes associated with this temple in the Kedarkhand and Skanda Puranas. According to this story, this is the place where Lord Indra regained his lost kingdom by praying to Maa Sureshwari. This is the reason why anyone who comes here with a true heart for the goddess receives the fulfilment of all their desires. Within the temple complex, there are also temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman.

It is said that the construction of this temple is nearly 1000 years old and was built during the rule of King Kanakpal. The temple has a mythological story associated with its ancient history: According to beliefs, wherever parts of Mata Sati's body fell, those places were later worshipped as Shakti Peeths. It is said that when Mata Sati chose Lord Shiva as her husband, her father King Daksha was not pleased. Once, King Daksha organized a Vedic Yagna to which he invited everyone except Lord Shiva. Despite Lord Shiva's persuasions, Mata Sati went to participate in her father's yagna. There, she was insulted by King Daksha's derogatory comments about Lord Shiva. As a result, she immolated herself in the sacrificial fire. When Lord Shiva heard of Mata Sati's death, he became extremely sorrowful and angry. He carried her lifeless body on his shoulders and roamed the universe in deep grief. To quell his anger and end his sorrow, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshana Chakra to disintegrate Mata Sati's body into 51 parts. Wherever her body parts fell became sacred Shakti Peeths. The place where her head fell is known as Sirkanda, which is now popularly known as Surkanda.

Due to Mata Sati's head falling at this place, this Shakti Peeth holds special significance. It is considered a famous pilgrimage site, and people have deep faith in Goddess Surkanda Devi. Every devotee who comes here with a sincere heart has their wishes fulfilled by the goddess. Devotees tie red scarves as offerings and, when their wishes are fulfilled, return to the goddess's shrine to untie them. Puja and Archana continue in the temple throughout the year. During the Navratri festival and Ganga Dussehra, this temple holds great importance. Many devotees visit Surkanda Devi during these times. On Ganga Dussehra, a grand fair is organized, attracting devotees from far and wide.

Surkanda Devi Temple is an ancient temple with traditional Garhwali-style architecture. The temple is known for its stone walls and tiled roof, which are characteristic of the region. It consists of a main sanctum where the idol of Surkanda Devi is enshrined, as well as an assembly hall or mandap for devotees to offer prayers. The temple is constructed using locally sourced stones and wood. The walls are made of stone, and the roof is covered with wooden tiles. The temple's walls and pillars feature intricate carvings done by local artisans using traditional tools. Its location atop a mountain adds to its spiritual significance as it offers breathtaking views of the majestic peaks of Trishul, Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Gangotri Yamunotri. The scenic beauty of places like the Doon Valley, Mussoorie, New Tehri, Chamba, Kunjapuri, and Chandrabani can also be seen from here. Due to its extremely high altitude, this place receives snowfall during the winter months, making the view resemble heaven.

An offering of halwa made from ghee and wheat flour is made to Goddess Surkanda Devi. Devotees also offer Chunri, coconut, flowers, incense, and lamps.

If you wish to reach the Temple by air, you will need to arrive at the Jolly Grant Airport, which is approximately 94 kilometres from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or other vehicles to reach Rishikesh, Chamba, or Dehradun Mussoorie. Dehradun Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Surkanda, located at a distance of 66 kilometres from the temple. From here, you can take a taxi or other transportation to reach Dehradun or Mussoorie, which are well-connected to the famous Siddhpeeth. Surkanda Devi Temple is easily accessible by road, as it is well connected to the country's highway network. Taxi services and booking vehicles are readily available in nearby cities such as Mussoorie, Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Tehri. You can also reach here with your vehicle.