Surkanda Devi Temple sits on Surkanda peak in Tehri Garhwal, and a visit from Mussoorie involves reaching Kadu Khal before walking uphill to the temple. You can plan the outing around that trek and, if time allows, add Dhanaulti’s forested Eco Park to the day.
- Setting: Surkanda peak, in the western part of Tehri Garhwal district, at 2,750 m.
- Final approach: An uphill walk from Kadu Khal, with official sources giving differing distance estimates.
- Dhanaulti: The temple is about 7–8 km from Dhanaulti, depending on the source.
- Hours: Open daily
Where is Surkanda Devi Temple in relation to Mussoorie?
Surkanda Devi Temple is on Surkanda peak in the western part of Tehri Garhwal district, at an altitude of 2,750 m. It is about 8 km from Dhanaulti by the Mussoorie–Chamba motor road, making Dhanaulti a useful point of reference when planning the outing from Mussoorie.
From Hotel Ratan, plan the road leg to Kadu Khal before tackling the steep uphill walk.
The temple stands amid dense forest, and views from the area include Dehradun, Rishikesh, Chandrabadni, Pratapnagar and Chakrata. Local tradition holds that Sati’s head fell at this site; the district account says the name developed from Sirkhanda to Surkanda.
How do you get from Mussoorie to Surkanda Devi Temple?
To reach the temple by road, travel toward Kadu Khal, then make the final ascent on foot. Kadu Khal is where visitors leave the Mussoorie–Chamba motor road and begin the uphill approach.
Official estimates for the walk range from about 2 km to 3 km. The climb is steep, so plan for an uphill trek rather than a level stroll.
For a wider road-trip plan, the Mussoorie-to-Dhanaulti route is relevant because the temple lies near that onward corridor. Narendra Nagar is about 61 km away by motor road, and Tehri is about 41 km away.
Buses and cabs connect major cities across the Garhwal region, including Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun. Buses also connect Mussoorie with nearby places, but no specific service to Kadu Khal or Surkanda is identified. Mussoorie’s roads, walks and local transport are part of planning the journey from town.
If relying on public transport, confirm the onward connection locally rather than assuming a direct service.
What should you check before visiting?
Check the temple’s current opening arrangements and access conditions before you travel, since the published hours do not explain seasonal or weekday variations. The hours given are 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM; the Tehri district page does not provide visiting hours, entry fees or visitor access rules. Check the official site before you go.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 5:08–22:09
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Ganga Dussehra is celebrated at Surkanda every year between May and June and draws pilgrims; an annual fair also takes place during May–June. If you are planning around the festival, verify its timing and any arrangements before departure rather than relying on the general annual pattern.
Because the approach is a steep uphill walk and published distances differ, allow time for the climb and check local conditions before setting out. The temple’s published altitude is 2,750 m, while Dhanaulti is at 2,250 m; April through October is recommended for visiting Dhanaulti, but there is no temple-specific seasonal opening schedule.
Can you combine the temple with a Dhanaulti outing?
Yes. Dhanaulti offers a nearby forest stop to pair with the temple, which is about 7–8 km away according to differing published estimates. The Mussoorie-to-Dhanaulti route and day-trip guide can help you plan the road leg between them.
Dhanaulti Eco Park consists of two parks, Amber and Dhara, about 200 m apart. Together they cover 13 hectares of deodar and oak forest. Plan the temple trek and the parks as separate parts of the outing.
Dhanaulti is also described as a starting point for treks including Surkanda Devi. Its recommended April-to-October period applies to visiting Dhanaulti, not to a confirmed seasonal schedule for the temple itself.
FAQs
How long is the walk to Surkanda Devi Temple?
Published estimates for the Kadu Khal-to-temple walk range from about 2 km to 3 km. The uphill route is steep.
When is Ganga Dussehra celebrated at the temple?
The annual celebration is held between May and June and attracts pilgrims. Check locally for the timing and any arrangements for the visit you are planning.
Which airport is closest to Surkanda Devi Temple?
Jolly Grant Airport, about 94 km away, is the closest airport. Taxis are available from the airport to Surkanda and neighboring areas.