Surkanda Devi Temple
Kanatal, India
- Attend the morning aarti
- Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views
- Meditate in the serene environment
- Photography of the landscape
- Trekking to the temple
Known for:
Description:
Surkanda Devi Temple, perched atop a hill near Kanatal, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Surkanda, an incarnation of Parvati. The trek to the temple is approximately 2 km and is relatively easy, making it accessible to most visitors. The serene atmosphere and stunning vistas make it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike. On a clear day, you can witness the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas stretching as far as the eye can see. The temple complex itself is simple yet beautiful, and the energy of the place is palpable. Remember to dress respectfully when visiting the temple.
History:
The history of Surkanda Devi Temple is rooted in Hindu mythology. Legend says that Sati, Lord Shiva's consort, immolated herself after her father, Daksha, insulted Shiva. Shiva, grief-stricken, carried Sati's body across the heavens. Lord Vishnu, to relieve Shiva's suffering, used his Sudarshan Chakra to dismember Sati's body. The parts of her body fell at various locations, which became sacred sites known as Shakti Peethas. It is believed that Sati's head (Sur) fell at the spot where the Surkanda Devi Temple now stands, hence the name. The temple has been renovated over the centuries, but its spiritual significance remains undiminished, drawing devotees from far and wide.