15 Must Visit Temples in Uttarakhand

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand is often referred to as the "Devbhoomi" or the Land of Gods, owing to its rich spiritual heritage and an abundance of ancient shrines. Known for their divine aura, mesmerizing architecture, and serene surroundings, the temples in Uttarakhand hold immense religious and cultural significance. These sacred sites attract devotees, pilgrims, and tourists alike, offering a perfect blend of spirituality and natural beauty. Whether you seek blessings, inner peace, or a journey into the past, these temples promise an unforgettable experience. 

Here is a list of Uttarakhand temples that you must visit.

1. Kedarnath Temple
2. Badrinath Temple
3. Gangotri Temple
4. Yamunotri Temple
5. Tungnath Temple
6. Dhari Devi Temple
7. Kainchi Dham Temple
8. Triyuginarayan Temple
9. Chitai Golu Devta Temple
10. Surkanda Devi Temple
11. Kartik Swami Temple
12. Jageshwar Dham
13. Mahasu Devta Temple
14. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
15. Mansa Devi Temple

Best time to visit Uttarakhand:

The best time to visit Uttarakhand depends on your interests:

• Summer (March to June): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and temple visits.
• Monsoon (July to September): Lush greenery and the Valley of Flowers bloom, but caution due to landslides.
• Autumn (October to November): Clear skies, perfect for adventure and temple tours.
• Winter (December to February): Snowy landscapes, great for skiing and snow activities.

For most travellers, March to June and October to November are the best times to explore Uttarakhand.

Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath Temple, one of the most famous temples in Uttarakhand, is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. Nestled amidst the majestic snow-clad peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas, it is part of the revered Char Dham Yatra and the Panch Kedar pilgrimage. Believed to have been built by the Pandavas and later restored by Adi Shankaracharya, the temple stands as a symbol of devotion and spiritual endurance. Its remote location at an altitude of 3,583 meters adds to its mystique, drawing pilgrims and adventurers from all over the world.

Things to do and see in Kedarnath Temple:

• Attend the Aarti: Witness the mesmerizing morning and evening aarti ceremonies, filled with chants and divine rituals. These moments offer a deeply spiritual and uplifting experience.
• Admire Scenic Views: Surround yourself with the breathtaking beauty of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the serene Mandakini River. Perfect for photography and peaceful reflection.
• Visit Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi: Explore the memorial of Adi Shankaracharya, the saint who revived the Kedarnath shrine. It’s a site of historical and spiritual significance.
• Trek to Bhairav Temple: Take a short trek to Bhairav Temple, which is considered the guardian deity of Kedarnath. The temple also offers stunning panoramic views of the valley.

Badrinath Temple

Badrinath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and forms a crucial part of the Char Dham Yatra. Situated in the picturesque town of Badrinath at an altitude of 3,300 meters, the temple is surrounded by the majestic Nar and Narayan Mountain ranges, with the Alaknanda River flowing nearby. Believed to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, it holds immense spiritual and historical significance. Thousands of pilgrims visit this sacred site annually to seek blessings and experience its divine ambience.

Things to do and see in Badrinath Temple:

• Attend the Aarti: Participate in the serene morning and evening aarti rituals, accompanied by Vedic chants, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
• Visit Tapt Kund: Take a dip in the natural hot spring near the temple, which is believed to cleanse sins and offer healing properties.
• Explore Charan Paduka: Trek to the sacred rock with Lord Vishnu's footprints, located amidst beautiful surroundings that offer a spiritual connection.
• Visit Mana Village: Explore the last Indian village near the Indo-Tibetan border, known for its cultural significance and scenic beauty.

Gangotri Temple

Gangotri Temple, one of the most famous temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the revered river goddess in Hinduism. Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, this temple is an integral part of the Char Dham Yatra. It is believed to mark the origin of the sacred River Ganga, which descended from heaven to Earth at this spot, according to Hindu mythology. Surrounded by serene landscapes and the Bhagirathi River, the temple offers a spiritually enriching experience, attracting thousands of pilgrims and nature lovers each year.

Things to do and see in Gangotri Temple:

• Attend the Temple Aarti: Witness the divine morning and evening aarti ceremonies, filled with devotional chants and rituals, offering a spiritually uplifting experience.
• Visit Bhagirath Shila: Explore this sacred stone near the temple, which is believed to be the spot where King Bhagirath meditated to bring the Ganga to Earth.
• Explore Gangotri Glacier: Embark on a trek to the Gangotri Glacier, the origin of the Bhagirathi River, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
• Visit Pandava Gufa: Take a short trek to this ancient cave, believed to be the resting place of the Pandavas during their journey to the Himalayas.

Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri Temple, one of the revered Hindu temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the deity of the sacred Yamuna River. Situated at an altitude of 3,293 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple marks the starting point of the Yamuna River and is a key part of the Char Dham Yatra. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, hot springs, and snow-clad peaks, the temple offers both spiritual solace and natural beauty. Believed to be established by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri, it is a significant pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of devotees seeking blessings and purification.

Things to do and see in Yamunotri Temple:

• Take a Dip in Surya Kund: Immerse yourself in the holy hot springs near the temple, which are believed to have therapeutic and purifying properties.
• Cook Prasad in Hot Springs: Pilgrims often cook rice and potatoes in the boiling waters of Surya Kund, which is later offered as prasad to the deity.
• Trek to Yamunotri Glacier: Embark on a scenic trek to the Yamunotri Glacier, the source of the Yamuna River, surrounded by mesmerizing Himalayan views.
• Visit Divya Shila: Pay homage to this sacred rock pillar near the temple, which is considered auspicious and an integral part of the temple visit.

Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple, one of the most prominent temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds the distinction of being the highest Shiva temple in the world, situated at an altitude of 3,680 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas. Part of the revered Panch Kedar pilgrimage, this temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and snow-capped peaks, Tungnath offers a unique combination of spirituality and adventure, attracting both pilgrims and trekkers from across the globe.

Things to do and see in Tungnath Temple:

• Trek to Tungnath Temple: Embark on a scenic trek to the temple through lush meadows, rhododendron forests, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas, making the journey as captivating as the destination.
• Visit Chandrashila Peak: Continue the trek to Chandrashila Peak, located just above Tungnath, to enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range, including Nanda Devi and Trishul.
• Explore Deoria Tal: Visit the nearby Deoria Tal, a pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by dense forests that offer stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.
• Experience Spiritual Serenity: Spend time meditating and soaking in the divine ambience of Tungnath, which is known for its tranquil atmosphere and deep spiritual significance.

Dhari Devi Temple

Dhari Devi Temple, one of the revered temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Goddess Dhari, who is considered the guardian deity of the region. Located on the banks of the Alaknanda River near Srinagar in the Garhwal region, this temple is deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural traditions of Uttarakhand. The temple houses the upper half of the idol of the goddess, while the lower half is worshipped in the Kalimath Temple. Known for its serene surroundings and divine energy, Dhari Devi Temple attracts pilgrims and devotees seeking blessings and protection.

Things to do and see in Dhari Devi Temple:

• Seek Blessings of Goddess Dhari: Offer prayers to Goddess Dhari, revered as the protector of the region, and experience the temple's divine and peaceful atmosphere.
• Enjoy Scenic Views: Relish the breathtaking views of the Alaknanda River and the surrounding hills, which create a serene and picturesque setting for the temple.
• Explore Nearby Kalimath Temple: Visit the Kalimath Temple, where the lower half of the Dhari Devi idol is worshipped, adding to the spiritual significance of your journey.
• Witness the Unique Idol: Observe the distinct idol of Goddess Dhari, which is believed to change its appearance based on the time of the day and the devotee’s faith.

Kainchi Dham Temple

Kainchi Dham Temple, a renowned spiritual destination in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Neem Karoli Baba, a revered Hindu saint and mystic. Located amidst the tranquil hills of Nainital district, this ashram and temple are surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing waters of the Kosi River. Known for its serene ambience and divine energy, Kainchi Dham has attracted devotees and seekers from around the world, including notable personalities like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. The temple is a hub for spiritual growth and meditation, making it a must-visit for those seeking peace and inspiration.

Things to do and see in Kainchi Dham Temple:

• Seek Blessings at the Temple: Offer prayers and seek blessings at the shrine of Neem Karoli Baba, known for its divine energy and peaceful atmosphere.
• Meditate in the Ashram: Spend time meditating in the serene surroundings of the ashram, which are perfect for introspection and spiritual rejuvenation.
• Explore the scenic surroundings: Enjoy the picturesque views of the lush green hills and the tranquil Kosi River flowing near the temple, which offers a calming retreat.
• Visit Nearby Attractions: Explore nearby places like Nainital, Bhimtal, and other scenic spots in the region to complement your spiritual journey.

Triyuginarayan Temple

Triyuginarayan Temple, one of the famous temples in Uttarakhand, is a sacred site dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Located in the Rudraprayag district, this ancient temple is renowned as the mythical venue of the celestial marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, with Lord Vishnu acting as the presiding deity of the ceremony. The temple features a perpetual flame, believed to have been burning since the divine wedding, adding to its spiritual significance. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan ranges, Triyuginarayan Temple is a blend of mythology, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike.

Things to do and see in Triyuginarayan Temple:

• Offer Prayers at the Eternal Flame: Witness the perpetual flame in front of the temple, believed to have been burning since the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and offer your prayers.
• Explore the Temple Architecture: Admire the ancient stone architecture of the temple, which reflects the rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance of the site.
• Visit the Holy Kunds: Take a dip in the sacred kunds (water tanks) near the temple, such as Saraswati Kund, Brahma Kund, and Vishnu Kund, which are believed to have purifying properties.
• Enjoy the Scenic Himalayan Views: Relish the stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and lush landscapes, offering a serene and picturesque experience.

Chitai Golu Devta Temple

Chitai Golu Devta Temple, one of the unique temples to visit in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Golu Devta, the God of Justice, who is highly revered in the Kumaon region. Located about 9 kilometres from Almora, this temple is famous for its distinctive tradition of devotees submitting written petitions to seek justice or blessings. The temple premises are adorned with thousands of bells and letters, offered by devotees as tokens of gratitude and faith. Surrounded by lush forests and scenic beauty, Chitai Golu Devta Temple offers a blend of spirituality, culture, and natural charm.

Things to do and see in Chitai Golu Devta Temple:

• Submit a Petition to Golu Devta: Write your wish or grievance on a piece of paper and hang it in the temple, following the unique tradition of seeking justice from the deity.
• Witness Thousands of Bells: Marvel at the sight of countless bells of varying sizes adorning the temple premises, offered by devotees as a gesture of gratitude for fulfilled wishes.
• Explore the scenic surroundings: Enjoy the serene beauty of the lush forests and picturesque views around the temple, which offer a peaceful retreat.
• Learn About Local Traditions: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and folklore of the Kumaon region by interacting with locals and learning about the deity's significance.

Surkanda Devi Temple

Surkanda Devi Temple, one of the revered temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Goddess Surkanda, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati. Located at an altitude of 2,757 meters near Dhanaulti in the Tehri district, this temple is part of the Shakti Peeths and is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed to be the spot where the head of Goddess Sati fell during Lord Shiva's Tandava, following her self-immolation. Surrounded by lush forests and offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, the temple is a spiritual and scenic destination for pilgrims and nature lovers alike.

Things to do and see in Surkanda Devi Temple:

• Trek to the Temple: Enjoy a scenic trek of approximately 2 kilometres from Kaddukhal to reach the temple, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscapes.
• Seek Blessings of Goddess Surkanda: Offer prayers and seek the blessings of Goddess Surkanda at this sacred Shakti Peeth, revered for its spiritual significance.
• Admire Panoramic Views: Relish breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges and the surrounding valleys from the temple premises.
• Explore Nearby Attractions: Visit nearby spots like Dhanaulti and Tehri Lake to complement your spiritual journey with adventure and natural beauty.

Kartik Swami Temple

Kartik Swami Temple, one of the famous temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, the elder son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Located at an altitude of 3,048 meters near Kanak Chauri village in the Rudraprayag district, this temple offers a serene and spiritually enriching experience. Surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, it is believed to be the place where Lord Kartikeya offered his bones to his father, Lord Shiva, as an act of devotion. The temple is not only a significant pilgrimage site but also a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers due to its stunning views and peaceful ambience.

Things to do and see in Kartik Swami Temple:

• Trek to the Temple: Embark on a scenic 3-kilometre trek from Kanak Chauri village to the temple, surrounded by lush forests and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Seek Blessings of Lord Kartikeya: Offer prayers to Lord Kartikeya and experience the spiritual tranquillity of this sacred site.
• Enjoy Stunning Himalayan Views: Relish breathtaking 360-degree views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba, from the temple premises.
• Experience Sunrise or Sunset: Witness mesmerizing sunrise or sunset views, which add a magical charm to the serene surroundings of the temple.

Jageshwar Dham

Jageshwar Dham, one of the most significant temples to visit in Uttarakhand, is a group of over 100 ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located amidst dense deodar forests in Almora district, this temple complex dates back to the 9th century and reflects exquisite Nagara-style architecture. Jageshwar Dham is believed to be one of the Jyotirlingas and holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism. Surrounded by natural beauty, the site exudes a tranquil ambience, attracting pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of spirituality, history, and serene landscapes.

Things to do and see in Jageshwar Dham:

• Explore the Ancient Temples: Discover the architectural beauty of over 100 stone temples, each showcasing intricate carvings and rich historical significance.
• Offer Prayers to Lord Shiva: Seek blessings at the main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered as one of the Jyotirlingas in Hindu tradition.
• Visit the Jageshwar Museum: Explore the Archaeological Museum near the temple complex, which houses ancient idols, scriptures, and artefacts from the region.
• Enjoy the Serene Surroundings: Relish the peaceful ambience created by the dense deodar forests and the soothing sound of the Jataganga River flowing nearby.

Mahasu Devta Temple

Mahasu Devta Temple, located in the quaint village of Hanol in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, is a revered temple dedicated to Mahasu Devta, the deity of justice and the regional god of the Jaunsar-Bawar region. This ancient temple believed to date back to the 9th century, is known for its unique wooden architecture that blends elements of Himachali and Garhwali styles. Surrounded by lush greenery and the serene Tons River, the temple holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for the local communities and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. It is a symbol of faith, tradition, and heritage in the region.

Things to do and see in Mahasu Devta Temple:

• Offer Prayers to Mahasu Devta: Seek blessings from Mahasu Devta, the god of justice, revered by the locals for granting protection and justice to devotees.
• Admire the Unique Architecture: Explore the temple's exquisite wooden architecture, a blend of Himachali and Garhwali styles, showcasing intricate carvings and craftsmanship.
• Attend the Local Festivals: Experience the vibrant cultural heritage of the region during festivals like Mahasu Puja, which are celebrated with traditional music, dance, and rituals.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Relish the tranquil surroundings of the temple, nestled amidst lush greenery and the serene Tons River, offering a peaceful retreat.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, one of the most revered temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated near Rishikesh at an altitude of 1,330 meters. Surrounded by dense forests and nestled between the Nar and Narayan Mountain ranges, the temple holds immense mythological significance. It is believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva consumed the poison (halahala) during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), which turned his throat blue, earning him the name "Neelkanth." Known for its serene ambience and divine energy, the temple attracts pilgrims and nature enthusiasts throughout the year.

Things to do and see in Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:

• Offer Prayers to Lord Shiva: Seek blessings at the sacred shrine and witness the spiritual rituals performed by devotees in honour of Lord Shiva.
• Explore the Temple Architecture: Admire the intricate carvings and vibrant depictions of Hindu mythology, including the Samudra Manthan episode, on the temple walls.
• Take a Holy Dip in the Kund: Purify your soul by taking a dip in the sacred water tank (kund) near the temple, which is believed to cleanse sins and bring blessings.
• Enjoy the Scenic Trek: Embark on a peaceful trek through lush forests and hilly terrains to reach the temple, offering stunning views and a connection to nature.

Mansa Devi Temple

Mansa Devi Temple, one of the most famous temples in Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Goddess Mansa, a form of Shakti and the goddess of wishes. Situated atop the Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, this temple is part of the Siddhpeeth triangle and holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. It is believed that Goddess Mansa fulfils the wishes of her devotees, who often tie sacred threads to the temple's trees as a mark of their prayers. Offering panoramic views of Haridwar and the Ganges River, Mansa Devi Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for both spiritual seekers and tourists.

Things to do and see in Mansa Devi Temple:

• Seek Blessings from Goddess Mansa: Offer prayers to Goddess Mansa, who believes in granting wishes and fulfilling the desires of her devotees.
• Tie Sacred Threads: Participate in the unique ritual of tying sacred threads to the temple’s trees as a symbol of your wishes and prayers.
• Enjoy the Cable Car Ride: Take a thrilling cable car ride (ropeway) to the temple, offering stunning aerial views of Haridwar and the Ganges River.
• Admire the Panoramic Views: Relish the breathtaking views of Haridwar, the surrounding hills, and the serene flow of the Ganges from the temple premises.

How to reach Uttarakhand:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
• By Train: Major railway stations include Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Kathgodam, with regular trains from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow.
• By Road: Uttarakhand is well-connected by road with national highways. Regular buses and taxis operate from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other nearby cities.
• By Car: Self-driving or hiring a car is a great option for exploring Uttarakhand, offering flexibility and scenic routes.

Where to stay in Uttarakhand:

If you are visiting Uttarakhand to explore its natural beauty and serene hill stations, Club Mahindra Mussoorie Resort is an excellent place to stay. Nestled amidst the picturesque hills of Mussoorie, this resort in Mussoorie offers a perfect blend of comfort and class. With its breathtaking views, cosy accommodations, and a range of activities, it serves as an ideal base to unwind after exploring the scenic charm of Uttarakhand. 

Along with staying at Club Mahindra Mussoorie Resort, a Club Mahindra membership offers you access to over 140+ Club Mahindra resorts worldwide, allowing you to explore diverse destinations with the same level of comfort and hospitality. Member reviews often highlight the exceptional service, family-friendly atmosphere, and unique experiences provided at each resort, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent travellers.

These Hindu temples in Uttarakhand are a testament to the state's rich spiritual heritage, offering a unique blend of devotion, history, and natural beauty. These temples to visit in Uttarakhand not only provide a deep sense of tranquillity and spiritual fulfilment but also showcase the region's cultural and architectural legacy. Whether you're a pilgrim or a traveller seeking peace amidst the Himalayas, Uttarakhand's temples promise an experience that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated.