Explore the sacred Shakti Peeth in Uttarakhand, the Devbhoomi of India. Explore the holy temples of Goddess Shakti in Kumaon & Garhwal, rich in faith & culture
Uttarakhand, also known as Devbhoomi (Land of the Gods), is home to many holy Shaktipeeth temples dedicated to Goddess Shakti. These sacred sites in the Kumaon and Garhwal regions are believed to be where parts of Goddess Sati fell, making them important places of worship and pilgrimage. Here are the list of Shaktipeeth Temples in Uttarakhand, Garhwal and Kumaon regions.
Located on Neel Parvat in Haridwar, Chandi Devi Temple is one of the most visited Shaktipeeths of Uttarakhand. Built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandi, an incarnation of Shakti who destroyed demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha. Pilgrims reach the shrine either by trekking uphill or via ropeway, enjoying a panoramic view of the holy Ganga and the surrounding mountains. The temple is especially crowded during Navratri and Kumbh Mela, attracting thousands of devotees seeking blessings of strength, prosperity, and protection. It is considered a Siddh Peeth, where wishes are believed to be fulfilled.
Situated near Devprayag in Tehri Garhwal, Chandrabadani Temple is a highly revered Shaktipeeth where the torso of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. The temple is perched at an altitude of about 2,277 metres and offers breathtaking Himalayan views. Devotees worship the Shree Yantra and ancient idols inside the shrine, as no image of the Goddess exists here. Pilgrims also find scattered weapons and iron tridents around the temple, symbolising Shakti’s power. The temple attracts a large number of visitors during Navratri and holds great significance for those seeking divine blessings and spiritual upliftment amidst nature’s serene beauty.
Dhari Devi Temple, located on the banks of the Alaknanda River near Srinagar in Pauri Garhwal, is regarded as the guardian deity of Uttarakhand. The temple houses the upper half of Goddess Kali’s idol, while the lower half is enshrined in Kalimath Temple. According to legend, the idol changes its appearance from a young girl to a woman and then to an old lady, symbolising different life stages. Devotees believe that the Goddess protects the region from natural calamities. Accessible by a short trek and bridge, the temple is visited year-round by devotees seeking blessings and protection.
Kalimath Temple, located in Rudraprayag district near Ukhimath, is one of the most mysterious and powerful Shaktipeeths. It is believed to be the site where Goddess Kali killed the demon Raktabeej. Unlike other temples, there is no idol of the Goddess; instead, a silver plate is worshipped as a symbol of Shakti. The lower half of Goddess Kali’s idol from Dhari Devi is also worshipped here. Surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks and the Mandakini River, Kalimath is considered a Siddh Peeth where devotees believe their wishes are fulfilled. The temple is especially popular during Navratri and Kali Puja.
Perched at an altitude of 1,676 metres near Rishikesh in Tehri Garhwal, Kunjapuri Devi Temple is one of the 52 Shaktipeeths. According to legend, the chest of Goddess Sati fell at this spot, making it a sacred pilgrimage site. The temple offers stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas and the Doon Valley. Devotees climb over 300 steps to reach the shrine, which becomes vibrant during Navratri celebrations. It is also a popular trekking destination, blending spiritual significance with natural beauty. Pilgrims seek blessings for health, prosperity, and courage from Goddess Kunjapuri, a manifestation of divine feminine power.
Situated atop Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, Mansa Devi Temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Goddess Mansa, believed to be a form of Shakti who emerged from Lord Shiva’s mind, the temple is known as a Siddh Peeth where wishes are fulfilled. Pilgrims often tie sacred threads on trees inside the temple premises as a mark of their prayers. Accessible by ropeway or a steep trek, the shrine offers breathtaking views of the Ganga and Haridwar town. It is especially crowded during Navratri and attracts lakhs of devotees every year.
Naina Devi Temple, located in Nainital, is one of the most famous Shaktipeeths in Kumaon. It is believed that the eyes (Naina) of Goddess Sati fell here, giving the region its name. The temple, situated on the northern shore of Naini Lake, is an important centre of devotion and faith. The shrine houses idols of Goddess Naina Devi, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Kali. Navratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm, drawing thousands of pilgrims. Besides its religious importance, the temple offers scenic views of Naini Lake and surrounding hills, making it a blend of spirituality and natural charm.
Purnagiri Temple, located near Tanakpur in Champawat district, is one of the most revered Shaktipeeths of Uttarakhand. It is believed that the navel of Goddess Sati fell at this site, making it highly sacred. Perched at an altitude of about 3,000 metres, the temple offers sweeping views of the Kali River and Himalayan foothills. During Chaitra Navratri, thousands of pilgrims undertake the steep climb to seek blessings of Maa Purnagiri. The temple is known for granting wishes and spiritual liberation. It remains a significant centre of devotion in Kumaon, visited by devotees from across India.
Surkanda Devi Temple, situated near Dhanaulti in Tehri Garhwal, is a prominent Shaktipeeth where the head of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. The temple, perched at 2,757 metres, is surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Devotees trek about 2 km from Kaddukhal to reach the shrine, which is especially popular during the Ganga Dussehra festival. Known for its spiritual energy and panoramic views, the temple attracts both pilgrims and tourists. Goddess Surkanda is worshipped here as a symbol of strength, courage, and protection, making it one of Uttarakhand’s most significant Devi temples.