Haat Kalika Temple Pithoragarh

Visit Haat Kalika Temple in Pithoragarh – a sacred abode of Goddess Kali, radiating divine power, faith, and devotion. Experience the spiritual aura, rich history, and captivating Himalayan surroundings of this holy Shakti Peeth.

About Haat Kalika Temple Pithoragarh

Haat Kalika Temple, located in Gangolihat near Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Goddess Kali. Also known as Maa Haat Kalika Dham, the temple holds immense religious importance for devotees of the Goddess and for the Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment, who consider her their guardian deity. According to legend, Adi Shankaracharya established this temple in the 8th century to enshrine the divine power of Goddess Kali. Perched atop a scenic hill, the temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and the majestic Himalayan peaks. The shrine exudes powerful spiritual energy and attracts devotees seeking blessings, protection, and inner strength. Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit Haat Kalika Temple, especially during Navratri and Kali Puja, when the temple is adorned with lights, chants, and festive devotion. The rhythmic sound of bells, the fragrance of incense, and the serene Himalayan atmosphere make the experience truly divine. The temple stands as a timeless symbol of faith, valor, and spirituality — a place where devotion meets the eternal energy of the Goddess herself.

1.Haat Kalika Temple 2.History of Haat Kalika Temple 3.Haat Kalika Temple Religious Significance 4.Architecture of the Haat Kalika Temple 5.Haat Kalika Temple Timings 6.Offerings at the Temple 7.How to Reach Haat Kalika Temple

Haat Kalika Temple

Haat Kalika Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located in the Gangolihat region of Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, this temple holds immense religious importance, not just for local devotees but also for members of the Indian Army's Kumaon Regiment, who consider the goddess their Kuldevi (patron deity). Known for its spiritual power and mysterious stories, this temple is often compared to the famous Kali Temple in Kolkata in terms of devotion and reverence.

History of Haat Kalika Temple

The temple's roots trace back thousands of years and are prominently mentioned in the Skanda Purana, particularly in the Manaskhanda section. According to legend, this region once known as Darukavan was terrorized by a demon named Sumya, who defeated even the gods. The gods prayed to Goddess Durga on Shail Parvat, and pleased with their devotion, the goddess manifested as Mahakali and defeated the demon. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya, regarded as an incarnation of Lord Shiva in the 6th century, identified this sacred location and re-established the temple using Tantric mantras. The temple then rose in spiritual prominence. Local legends also speak of Mahakali slaying other demons like Mahishasura and Raktabija here. One haunting tale recounts that the area once remained deserted due to the terrifying roars of Maa Kali at night. It was believed that anyone who heard her voice would die. It was Adi Shankaracharya’s intervention that restored calm and made the temple accessible again. In 1971, during the India-Pakistan war, Subedar Sher Singh of the Kumaon Regiment is said to have installed a formal idol of Mahakali in the temple.

Haat Kalika Temple Religious Significance

The temple is a powerful center for Shakti worship. Devotees believe that every wish made to Goddess Mahakali here is fulfilled. It is common to see prayers for victory, protection, and strength. Kumaon Regiment soldiers often visit the temple before heading into battle to seek blessings. One fascinating belief is that the priests arrange a bed for the goddess each evening. By morning, they find divine impressions on the bed, symbolizing that Maa Kali rests there at night. Animal sacrifice, especially of goats and rams, is practiced as an offering to the goddess a tradition that some still follow to please the fierce form of Kali and to fulfill vows.

Architecture of the Haat Kalika Temple

Haat Kalika Temple is situated amid scenic deodar forests, about 57 km from Pithoragarh city. The temple complex is peaceful, with a tin-roofed path leading down from the road to the shrine. Along the way, devotees can see bells tied by pilgrims a symbol of fulfilled wishes. The main deity is Goddess Kali in her fierce form. Within the temple premises, there is a designated area for animal sacrifices. Nearby, ashrams and resting places have been built for visitors and pilgrims.

Haat Kalika Temple Timings

General Temple Hours: 05:00 AM – 09:00 PM

Morning Aarti: 06:00 AM – 06:30 AM

Evening Aarti: 08:00 PM – 08:30 PM

Offerings at the Temple

Devotees commonly offer coconuts, fruits, lemons, sweets, bangles, and sarees. The offerings are made with devotion to seek protection, power, and the removal of obstacles in life.

How to Reach Haat Kalika Temple

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (approx. 262 km). Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Gangolihat.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (approx. 210 km), well connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From there, buses and taxis are easily available.

By Road: Gangolihat is well connected by road. You can travel from Delhi to Pithoragarh via Haldwani or Almora. Regular buses, shared jeeps, and taxis operate on this route.