The history of the Haat Kalika Temple dates back thousands of years. It is said that the Skanda Purana, written 5,000 years ago, vividly describes the deity situated in Darukavan (Gangolihat), which is in the Manaskhanda section of the text. It is believed that Jagat Guru Shankaracharya, who was considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva in the late 6th century, chose this place for the establishment of the Shaktipeeth and subsequently reinstated the Haat Kalika Temple, after which the temple gained popularity. According to the Manaskhanda of the Skanda Purana, there was great turmoil caused by a demon named Sumya in the Gangolihat region. He had defeated even the gods. To seek freedom from this demon, the gods performed the worship of the goddess on the Shail Parvat. Pleased with the devotion of the gods, Goddess Durga assumed the form of Mahakali and vanquished the demon Sumya. Since then, worship of Mahakali has begun at this place. Some sources also mention that Mahakali had slain demons like Mahishasura and Raktabija at this very location. According to the legend, the place where the temple stands today was desolate due to the anger of the Devi Maa. It is said that Maa Kali used to call Lord Mahadev's name at night, and anyone who heard it would meet their demise. People were afraid to pass by the temple. Adi Guru Shankaracharya pleased the Goddess through his tantric mantras and re-established the temple. Locals narrate that in 1971, during the war with Pakistan, Subedar Sher Singh of the Kumaon Regiment, who resided in Gangolihat, installed the idol of Mahakali in the temple.

Devotees offer sacrifices of goats and rams to please Goddess Kali and fulfil their desires It is believed that mentioning the name of Goddess Haat Kalika saved the Kumaon soldiers from a sinking ship. Before going to war, soldiers come here to seek blessings. It is said that the priests of the temple set up a bed in the temple during the evening. When they open the temple gates in the morning, they find impressions on the bed. It is believed that Goddess Mahakali rests at this place during the night. It is believed that every wish made to Mahakali in the temple is fulfilled.

The Haat Kalika Temple is located in Gangolihat, 57 kilometres away from the main city of Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand. Beautiful deodar trees surround it. To reach the temple from the road, one must descend some steps. The pedestrian path to the temple is covered with tin roofs and has bells tied in various places. The main deity in the temple is Goddess Kali. There is also a place within the temple premises for animal sacrifices. In addition, some ashrams have been constructed nearby.

Devotees offer coconuts, fruits, sarees, bangles, sweets, and lemons among other things at the Haat Kalika Temple.