Surkanda Devi Temple, dedicated to Surkanda Devi, resides inside Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal district. Set at 2,756 meters (9,042 feet) above sea level, the site presents beautiful vistas across the Himalayan mountains. Visitors reach this temple by travelling 3 kilometres through Kaddukhal to the area before walking into dense forest lands from the vehicle checkpoint. The temple stands as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas because Sati is connected to this location. Legends hold that Lord Shiva transported Sati’s body until her head separated from him to rest at the sanctuary site of Surkanda Devi temple.
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Surkanda Devi Temple History and Significance
Located on a hilltop in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal region, the Surkanda Devi Temple is one of India’s 51 revered Shakti Peethas. The temple is devoted to Goddess Sati, Lord Shiva’s consort, according to Hindu mythology. According to the legend, Goddess Sati burned herself alive in the Yajna fire after her father, Daksha, insulted Lord Shiva. In his sorrow, Lord Shiva carried her body and set out to explore the cosmos. As he did, fragments of her body fell in different locations, which turned into the Shakti Peethas.
For followers of Shakti (the divine feminine energy), the Surkanda Devi Temple is a significant site because it marks the spot where the Goddess’s “Dant” (teeth) fell. Although its exact origin is unknown, the temple itself is thought to have been built centuries ago. Since then, it has grown to be a popular destination for pilgrims, particularly those who practice Shakta, who honour the goddess in her most potent form.
In addition to being a Shakti Peetha, Surkanda Devi Temple is extremely significant religiously and spiritually because of its special location. The temple’s mystical charm is enhanced by its stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and valleys from its 2,757-meter (9,045-foot) elevation above sea level.
The temple is regarded as a site of great spiritual power and is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. In addition to seeking health, wealth, and prosperity, devotees go to the temple in the hopes that the goddess will grant their sincere prayers. The temple receives a lot of visitors during the Navratri festival, which honours Goddess Durga’s divine energy.
Surkanda Devi Temple Timings for 2025
Temple Opening and Closing Hours
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Thursday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Friday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Saturday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
| Sunday | 5:00 AM | 7:00 PM |
Morning & Evening Darshan Timings
| Time of Day | Timing (Summer) | Timing (Winter) |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Darshan | 5:00 AM – 7:00 AM | 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Evening Darshan | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
Additional Notes:
- Morning Darshan: The temple opens early in the morning for darshan, allowing visitors to experience the peace and tranquillity of the temple at dawn.
- Evening Darshan: Evening darshan is usually accompanied by evening aartis and poojas, offering a spiritual experience with a serene atmosphere.
Surkanda Devi Temple Ropeway Timings & Services
Ropeway Timings (Kaddukhal–Siddhpeeth)
| Day | Ropeway Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Ropeway Ticket Prices
| Category | Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Adult | ₹177 (two-way) |
| Children (5–12 years) | ₹100 (two-way) |
How to participate in the Surkanda Devi Temple ropeway in 2025,
To participate in the Surkanda Devi Temple ropeway in 2025, follow these steps:
- Reach the Temple: The Surkanda Devi Temple rests close to Mussoorie Chamba Road in Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand. Accessible by flying into Jolly Grant Dehradun airport, as well as taking trains at Dehradun railway station, and using bus transportation from different locations.
- Purchase Ropeway Tickets: At your destination, walk to the ticket counter to acquire your ropeway admission. Visitors must pay ₹177 for adults but kids between the ages of 5 to 12 pay ₹100 for their tickets.
- Board the Ropeway: When your ticket purchase is complete, you should follow the board’s instructions to begin the ropeway journey. The ropeway operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- Enjoy the Ride: During a 2.5 km flight through the platform, you will see wonderful views of nearby mountain ranges. Rides last from 5 to 10 minutes.
- Visit the Temple: You can join the temple activities during the completion of your visit to the temple.
Surkanda Devi Temple VIP Darshan Details
| Seva/Darshan Type | Description | Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Special Darshan | Priority darshan for devotees, available at an additional cost | 5:00 AM – 7:00 AM |
| VIP Darshan | Enhanced darshan experience with additional facilities | 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Ropeway Service | Convenient access to the temple via ropeway, available for a nominal fee | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Puja Services | Various puja services including aarti, havan, and other rituals | Customizable based on prior booking |
| Prasad Distribution | Distribution of sacred food (prasad) to devotees | After each major darshan |
| Temple Cleaning | Regular cleaning and maintenance of the temple premises | Throughout the day |
| Ceremonial Events | Special events and ceremonies conducted on auspicious occasions | As per temple calendar |
Note: During winter, the timings may change to 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Pooja Schedule at Surkanda Devi Temple
Aarti and Pooja Timings
| Event | Time (Summer) | Time (Winter) |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Aarti | 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM | 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM |
| Afternoon Pooja | 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM | 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 7:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
The prices for various sevas and darshans at Surkanda Devi Temple:
| Seva/Darshan Type | Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Special Darshan | ₹200 |
| VIP Darshan | ₹300 |
| Ropeway Service | ₹177 (Adult), ₹100 (Children 5-12 years) |
| Puja Services | Customizable based on the type of puja |
| Prasad Distribution | Free with darshan |
| Ceremonial Events | Varies based on the event |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does the temple remain open to visitors?
The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
Guests can visit the temple without paying any entrance fees.
Entry to the temple establishment remains absolutely free.
How long does the ropeway service operate?
The ropeway operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How can I buy a ropeway ticket?
The price for a ropeway ticket currently stands at ₹177 for adults and ₹100 for children between 5 and 12 years old.
Citizens can purchase ropeway tickets that cost adults ₹177, and children between the ages of 5 to 12 pay ₹100.
What is the process for arranging bookings for temple offerings, including darshan or sevas?
Through the temple’s official website, visitors can purchase their tickets online.
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