10 Most Famous Temples To Explore In Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, often referred to as "Dev Bhoomi" or “Land of the Gods”, holds a special place in Hindu mythology. Many pivotal episodes from ancient scriptures unfolded across this sacred land, giving it a deeply spiritual aura. Home to revered pilgrimage destinations, Uttarakhand is where divinity meets adventure and nature meets mysticism.

The state is blessed with numerous holy rivers, including the Ganga and the Yamuna, which originate here. These rivers are considered sacred and their waters are believed to purify the soul and body.

Every temple in Uttarakhand carries a mythical tale, attracting not just Indian devotees but also spiritual seekers from around the world. One such legend is tied to the Triyuginarayan Temple—believed to be the venue of Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati's celestial wedding. The eternal flame from their havan kund still burns here, and many believe that visiting this temple brings happiness and longevity in marriage.

Here’s a curated list of prominent temples and sacred sites in this divine land:

Kedarnath Temple

Located in the Rudraprayag district, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a vital stop on the Char Dham Yatra. Perched at 3,584 meters near the Mandakini River, this temple was originally built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya. It is also part of the Panch Kedar circuit. Pilgrims can reach the temple via a 17 km trek or choose helicopter, pony, or doly services.

Best Time to Visit: May–June and November

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Rishikesh

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Location: Rudraprayag district

# Jageshwar Dham Temples

Situated 37 km from Almora at 1,870 meters altitude, this temple cluster is nestled among deodar forests beside a flowing stream. According to legends, it served as a halting point for pilgrims en route to Kailash Mansarovar. The peaceful ambiance, aided by the gentle sound of the Jata Ganga River, makes it perfect for meditation.

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Kathgodam

Airport: Pantnagar

Location: Almora district

# Binsar Mahadev Temple

Built in the 16th century by Raja Kalyan Chand of the Chand Dynasty, this Shiva temple is renowned for its exquisite architecture. Located near Ayarpani, close to the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, it draws thousands of devotees annually.

Best Time to Visit: October to May

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Kathgodam

Airport: Pantnagar

Location: Almora district

# Chitai Golu Devta Temple

Dedicated to Golu Devta—considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva in the form of Gaur Bhairav—this temple is just 9 km from Almora. Devotees believe their prayers for justice are answered here. Unique to this temple are the thousands of letters pinned with bells as offerings.

Best Time to Visit: May to October

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Kathgodam

Airport: Pantnagar

Location: Almora district

# Jhoola Devi Temple

Located in Ranikhet, this 700-year-old temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, seated on a wooden cradle or jhoola, hence the name. Devotees tie bells as offerings after their wishes are fulfilled. It is also believed that the goddess protects the area from wild animals.

Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Kathgodam

Airport: Pantnagar

Location: Almora district

# Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple

A mysterious underground limestone cave located in the Pithoragarh district, this sacred spot is said to house the presence of 33 crore Hindu deities. Along with Lord Shiva, idols of Ganesha, Kaal Bhairav, and Sheshnag are also seen here. Ideal for meditation, a nearby Narayan Ashram offers spiritual retreats.

Best Time to Visit: April to June

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Tanakpur

Airport: Pantnagar

Location: Pithoragarh district

# Kalimath Temple

One of the 108 Shakti Peethas, Kalimath Temple is located at 1,800 meters in the Rudraprayag district, on the banks of the Saraswati River. It is believed that Goddess Kali vanished into the earth here after slaying the demon Raktbeej. The spot is now symbolized by a sacred silver plate.

Best Time to Visit: April to June

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Rishikesh

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport

Location: Rudraprayag district

# Hariyali Devi Temple

Situated between Rudraprayag and Karnprayag at 1,400 meters, this temple honors Goddess Sitla along with idols of Heet Devi and Kshatrapal. Mythology states that a part of Mahamaya fell here when she was thrown down by Kansa, making it a significant Shakti Peeth.

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Rishikesh

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport

Location: Rudraprayag district

# Dhari Devi Temple

Perched above the Alaknanda River between Rudraprayag and Srinagar, this temple is dedicated to the upper half of Goddess Kali, while her lower half is believed to be at Kalimath. The goddess’s idol is left under open skies, as it is believed it should not be housed under a roof. Locals claim the idol transforms through three stages of a woman's life.

Best Time to Visit: November to June

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Rishikesh

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport

Location: Srinagar district

# Surkanda Devi Temple

One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, this temple is perched at 2,700 meters near Mussoorie and Chamba. Known for its panoramic Himalayan views and serene ambiance, it sees large crowds during the Ganga Dussehra festival.

Best Time to Visit: May to June (or anytime for spiritual seekers)

How to Reach:

Railway Station: Dehradun

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport

Location: Tehri Garhwal district