A Spiritual Sojourn to Surkanda Devi Temple from Lekhwar Homestay, Kaddukhal
Nestled amidst the misty mountains and dense forests of Uttarakhand lies a sacred retreat—Surkanda Devi Temple, a jewel of the Garhwal Himalayas. If you’re staying at Lekhwar Homestay in Kaddukhal, you’re just a short and scenic journey away from one of the most spiritually revered and visually breathtaking destinations in the region.
The Legend and Legacy of Surkanda Devi
Perched at an altitude of 2,756 meters, Surkanda Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths in India. According to Hindu mythology, this is the site where the head of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen when Lord Shiva, grieving and enraged, wandered the earth with her dismembered body. As a result, this temple holds deep religious significance and draws thousands of devotees every year.
Getting There: Trek or Ropeway
From Lekhwar Homestay, it’s just around 2 km to the temple base in Kaddukhal. From there, you can choose your path:
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Trek: The traditional route is a steep 2 km hike through lush deodar forests. Though moderately challenging, the trail rewards you with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere away from the noise of city life.
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Ropeway: Recently introduced, the ropeway is perfect for those who wish to avoid the trek while still experiencing the panoramic vistas of the Himalayan range. The cable car glides over dense woods and opens to sweeping views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
When to Visit
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Best Time: March to June and September to November.
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Festive Highlight: The annual Ganga Dussehra festival in May–June sees vibrant local celebrations and traditional rituals at the temple.
What Makes It Special
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Unmatched Views: On clear days, the temple offers jaw-dropping sights of the snow-clad Bandarpunch, Swargarohini, and Kedarnath ranges.
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Spiritual Serenity: Unlike crowded temples in urban areas, Surkanda Devi offers peace, purity, and an untouched spiritual energy.
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Photography and Nature: The route is a paradise for photographers, with rhododendron blooms in spring and a golden glow in autumn.
2. Kunjapuri Devi Temple (Approx. 35 km from Kaddukhal, en route to Rishikesh)
While slightly farther away, Kunjapuri Devi Temple is another revered Shakti Peeth and can be visited as a day trip from Kaddukhal. Located at 1,676 meters above sea level, it offers incredible views of the Garhwal Himalayas, especially during sunrise.
Why Visit:
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Revered among the 52 Shakti Peeths
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Beautiful panoramic views of snow-clad peaks like Gangotri and Chaukhamba
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Offers a peaceful, less commercialized spiritual experience
Nearby Attractions:
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Neer Garh Waterfall (on the way to Rishikesh)
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Tapovan (spiritual hub in Rishikesh)
3. Chandrabadni Temple (Approx. 40 km from Kaddukhal)
Perched atop a ridge in the Tehri Garhwal district, Chandrabadni Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandika, another form of Durga. This temple is also considered a Shakti Peeth and holds great significance among local communities.
Key Highlights:
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The temple is believed to be the spot where Goddess Sati’s torso fell
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Popular pilgrimage site for locals during the Chandrabadni Mela
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Stunning views of the Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Surkanda ranges
Trek Info: Light hike required from the nearest road-head
4. Mahasu Devta Temple, Hanol (Approx. 60 km from Kaddukhal)
If you’re up for a more extensive journey through Jaunsar-Bawar’s cultural landscape, the Mahasu Devta Temple in Hanol is well worth the effort. Dedicated to Lord Mahasu, the chief deity of the region, this ancient temple is an architectural wonder carved in traditional Kath-Kuni (wood and stone) style.
Why It’s Unique:
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Ancient rituals and governance systems still tied to the deity
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Rich oral folklore passed through generations
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Beautiful drive through pine forests and the Tons River Valley
5. Kaudia Forest Shiva Temple (Near Kanatal, ~15 km from Kaddukhal)
Just a short drive from Lekhwar Homestay, the Kaudia Forest area in Kanatal hides a small Lord Shiva temple nestled amidst towering deodar and oak trees. Though not grand or widely known, the peaceful vibe of this shrine makes it a perfect stop for reflection and solitude.
Why Visit:
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Located in the middle of a serene forest trail
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Ideal for short hikes and nature lovers
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Great for meditation or simply escaping crowds
🗺️ Bonus: Other Nearby Attractions Around Kaddukhal
While you’re on your spiritual journey, don’t miss out on these serene and scenic spots close to Lekhwar Homestay:
🌿 Dhanaulti Eco Park (9 km from Kaddukhal)
Perfect for nature walks, ziplining, and unwinding in the cool shade of alpine forests. The Eco Park is divided into two sections—Amber and Dhara—and is great for families and solo travelers alike.
🏞️ Kanatal (15 km from Kaddukhal)
Known for its charming apple orchards and adventure camps, Kanatal is perfect for camping, rappelling, and Jeep safaris through dense forests.
🚣♂️ Tehri Lake (Around 45 km)
An emerging destination for water sports like jet skiing and kayaking, Tehri Lake also offers houseboat stays and beautiful sunset cruises. Combine this with a visit to Chandrabadni Temple for a full-day adventure.
🧘♀️ Planning Your Temple Trail
🗓️ Ideal Itinerary (2–3 Days):
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Day 1: Arrive at Lekhwar Homestay, rest, and visit Surkanda Devi Temple
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Day 2: Drive to Kanatal for forest trail and visit Kaudia Shiva Temple → Optional evening at Dhanaulti Eco Park
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Day 3: Early start for Chandrabadni Temple or Mahasu Devta Temple (longer drive)
🧳 Travel Tips:
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Carry warm clothing even in summer; the weather can change quickly at high altitudes
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Comfortable trekking shoes are a must if you plan to walk up to Surkanda or other temples
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Mornings are best for views and fewer crowds
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Respect local customs—many of these temples are active places of worship
🌸 In Conclusion
Lekhwar Homestay in Kaddukhal is more than a place to stay—it’s a gateway to experiencing the spiritual soul of the Himalayas. With ancient temples perched on hillsides, divine legends carved into every stone, and nature offering a silent blessing at every turn, this region lets you walk where myths live and breathe.
Whether it’s the mystical aura of Surkanda Devi, the cultural heritage of Mahasu Devta, or the simple peace found in a forest shrine, each visit is a step deeper into the timeless spirit of Uttarakhand.