Sureshwari Devi Temple Indore

Haridwar’s Sureshwari Devi Temple is dedicated to Durga Devi and located atop Soorkoot Mountain, within Raja Ji National Park. After a minimal uphill climb, the temple offers a delightful view of the surrounding jungle. It is common to witness peacocks visiting the temple premises, adding to the enchanting ambience of this sacred place. During monsoons, the path to the temple becomes challenging as the stream flowing here usually floods. However, during other seasons, the stream adds to the scenic charms of this locale.

Although not much is known of the origin, a story that remains constant includes Garuda, a Hindu demigod, and a pot full of ‘immortal’ nectar. According to Indian mythology, the Sureshwari Devi Temple is one of the four sacred sites where drops of Amrita, a divine elixir, were accidentally spilt while being carried away in a pitcher by Garuda – who is also honoured as the vehicle of Lord Vishnu.

The Sureshwari Temple is an ancient and historically significant religious site with a rich traditional background. Perched atop a small hill, reaching the temple requires ascending a few steps, leading to an open courtyard at the temple's entrance. At the heart of the main temple, resplendent idols of Mata Sureshwari Devi are enshrined, while in the outer courtyard, a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and his divine family, including the revered Shiva Linga, can be found. One of the courtyard's prominent features is a majestic banyan tree, which has stood there for countless generations, exuding an aura of age and wisdom.

The temple is built on a small hilltop and has a spacious open courtyard. The idol of Goddess Sureshwari sits inside the sanctum sanctorum, and outside it, there is a shrine of Lord Shiva, his family, and a Shivling. On the summit of the hill, there is also a temple dedicated to Kali Mata, which can be reached by climbing stairs carved into the mountainside. The temple complex provides panoramic views of the surrounding Rajaji Tiger Reserve and forests, enhancing the spiritual and visual experience.

Devotees offer laddus, peda, sweets, and dry prasad at the Sureshwari Devi Temple. Chunari and flowers are also commonly offered to the Goddess.

By Air The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, located approximately 38 km from the temple. Taxis and cabs are readily available from the airport to reach the forest entry point. By Train The closest railway stations are Haridwar Junction (9 km) and Jwalapur (6.5 km). From either station, taxis or auto-rickshaws can take you near the temple entrance via the forest checkpost. By Road Sureshwari Devi Temple is located about 8 km from Haridwar city. You can reach the temple via personal car or forest safari jeeps. A nominal entry fee is charged at the Rajaji National Park gate. From there, the temple is a 2 km drive on a well-maintained road, followed by a short walk uphill.