08/07/2024
Surrounded by dense deodar forests, the temple is located about 3 kilometers uphill from its base. There are both walking paths and a ropeway to reach the temple. The steep climb makes the walking path quite challenging, so it is not recommended for the elderly or those with serious health conditions; the ropeway is a better option for them. From the temple complex, one can see the high peaks of the Himalayan range and the picturesque villages and terraced fields in the valleys below. The pollution-free environment and clean air provide a divine experience. This place offers a chance to see nature up close and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere, as well as opportunities for trekking and taking the ropeway.
There are no public transport facilities available to reach Surkanda Temple from Dehradun or Mussoorie. You will need to travel by your own vehicle or hire a taxi. Nowadays, two-wheelers are also available for rent, which can be a good option. To avoid traffic jams and easily find parking, using a two-wheeler is advisable as there is no proper parking facility at the base of Surkanda Temple; vehicles are parked along the roadside, which is a major cause of traffic congestion. Only those with experience driving in the hills should drive themselves; otherwise, it is better to take an experienced driver or use a local taxi.
It is advisable to leave early in the morning to avoid traffic jams on the way to Surkanda Temple. There are many small restaurants along the way from Dehradun or Mussoorie to Surkanda where you can stop for tea and snacks.
According to legend, King Daksha, the father of Goddess Sati, organized a grand yajna (sacrificial ritual) in Kankhal, Haridwar, inviting all gods and goddesses except Lord Shiva. Sati sought Lord Shiva's permission to attend the yajna, and despite Shiva's refusal, she went. At the yajna, Sati felt humiliated by the disrespect shown towards Lord Shiva and immolated herself in the sacrificial fire. In his anger, Lord Shiva roamed the universe with Sati's charred body. To calm Shiva's rage, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut Sati's body into several pieces, which fell at various places. Sati's head fell on Surkuta Parvat, which later became known as Surkanda Devi, a revered Shakti Peeth.
From the temple complex, you can see beautiful views of Dehradun, Rishikesh, Chandrabadni, Pratapnagar, and Chakrata. The area is adorned with various colorful flowers, local herbs, and some beautiful birds of the Western Himalayas. During the month of Jyeshtha (May-June), the Ganga Dussehra fair is held here, attracting hundreds of devotees.
The temple was established by Shri Anand Singh Jadhari, and its management is handled by the Jadhari community. The priests of this temple belong to the Lekhwar Brahmin caste from the village of Pujaldi and have been performing rituals here since ancient times.
