Surkanda Devi Trek

Surkanda Devi Trek Overview

Embark on the Surkanda Devi trek that will take you to the Surkanda Devi Temple, located near Dhanaulti in the town of Uniyal gaon of Tehri District. The temple is perched on the top of a hill at an elevation of 2,756 m (9,042 ft) above sea level. The area is surrounded by dense forest and has a stunning view of the Garhwal region of the Himalayas with its snow-covered peaks, along with the Dehradun valley. Apart from the temple, the trek also includes a visit to Kanatal, known for its hilltop experiences.


Your trekking tour will start from Haridwar, from where you will be driving to reach Kaddukhal, one of the two bases for the Surkanda Devi trek. You will be trekking for 1.5 - 2 hrs to reach the Surkanda Devi Temple. You will be taking the second route during your downward journey and reach Kanatal by traveling for 10 km. You will have the option of spending the next day at Kanatal or traveling to New Tehri to visit Tehri Dam and enjoy water sports at the Dam. The 3-day trekking trip will end on the next day with you returning with memories of the pleasant trip and beautiful sceneries.

Surkanda Devi Trek Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3

Haridwar to Surkanda Devi Temple (2,756 m ) (122 km drive followed by 02 km trek, 4.5 hrs)


  • You will be starting your Surkanda Devi Trek early in the morning from Haridwar.
  • Have a delicious breakfast and drive down to Kaddukhal village near Kanatal on Chamba Dhanaulti road in Tehri District, the base for your trek to the temple.
  • From Kaddukhal, embark on a short trek along the natural trail to reach the temple in 1.52 hrs.
  • Reach the temple to perch at the height of about 10,000 feet.
  • Offer your prayers to Mata Sati at the main temple.
  • Delight in watching the 360-degree view of the Garhwal region of the Himalayas with its snow-covered peaks, along with the Dehradun valley.
  • Feel amazed looking at the picturesque beauty of the surrounding region of the temple with its dense forest.
  • Next, you will journey a further 10 km through forests to reach Kanatal.
  • Stay overnight at Kanatal.

Excursion to New Tehri(1750 m)( 53m drive)


  • On Day 2 of your trekking trio, you will have the option of either staying back at Kanatal or you can trek to reach New Tehri.
  • If you have decided on an excursion in Kanatal, you can head for a nature walk on forest trails and stop to admire the spectacular views of the Bandarpoonch Range of the Garhwal Himalayas.
  • Visit the apple orchards and observe the rustic life of the locals.
  • If you have opted for the New Tehri trek, you will be heading towards Tehri Dam, the tallest dam in the country.
  • Reach New Tehri, located 27 km from Kanatal and be prepared to spend some time enjoying water activities.
  • Opt for activities such as Kayaking, paragliding, jet skiing, Water Zorbing, Banana boat ride etc. at your own cost while at New Tehri.
  • Admire the breathtaking view surrounding the Tehri Dam.
  • Spend your evening enjoying the serene atmosphere of Kanatal.
  • Stay overnight at Kanatal.

Kanatal, Haridwar (99 kms drive, 3.5 hrs)


  • Your trip ends on the third day of the trip.
  • Wake up in the midst of the beautiful surroundings of Kanatal and admire the natural beauty while having your morning tea.
  • Enjoy a delicious breakfast before starting on a drive back to Haridwar.
  • Reach Haridwar and embark on your journey back to your hometown with memories of the beautiful places that you have visited during the trip.

What To Pack For Your Surkanda Devi Trek?


Clothes & Footwear: 

  • Trek Pants will be more comfortable during the trek than jeans or trousers.
  • Get yourself sturdy well-fitted trekking footwear so that your feet do not hurt during the trek.
  • Wear sneakers or other sports shoes as well as woolen socks.
  • Jackets to protect you against chilly weather.
  • Warm clothing such as fleece or woollen layers for nights.
  • T-shirts are more comfortable than shirts and dry fast.
  • Protect your head during the trek by wearing a cap or balaclava.


Other Essentials:

  • Carry a light backpack with all the necessary items.
  • Personal toiletry items such as toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitiser etc.
  • Carry sunscreen to protect your skin.
  • Personal medical kit with items such as prescribed medicines and common ones for altitude sickness, pain relief, headache, fever, stomach problems, motion sickness, allergies, diarrhea, etc.
  • Also an antiseptic cream, a pain relief spray, bandage and cotton for cuts.
  • Water bottle to refill with water to hydrate yourself during the trek.
  • Sunglasses for protecting the eyes.
  • Torch to use at night.
  • Camera with rechargeable batteries to capture the scenic beauty.

Know Before You Go To Surkanda Devi Trek?

  • By Road: Haridwar is connected with other cities of the state by National Highway no 45. If you are traveling from Delhi, you can travel by National Highway 58 as well. Also, National Highway 74 originates from Haridwar and connects it to cities such as Kashipur, Bareilly and others.
  • By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located 35 km away is the nearest domestic airport. From the airport, you can travel 38.9 km via Ambala-Dehradun-Haridwar Road or Haridwar Road or Haridwar Dehradun Road and NH 34 and reach the city in 50 mins.
  • By Train: Haridwar Railway Station located in Haridwar is well connected with several major cities of India such as Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and others. 

Cemented walkway: You can take the cemented walkway and use it to reach the temple in about 45 min to reach the temple starting from Kaddukhal. You will be able to enjoy the breathtaking view of the valley while journeying through this route.


Natural Walkway: You can also take the natural walkway to reach the temple. This route is 8 km long and passes through the forest of Dhanaulti. If you travel by this route, it will take you 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the temple. Initially, for the first few meters, you will be climbing stairs and then you will face a concretized fenced trail overlooking the valley. The trail is very scenic and will also give you a panoramic view of the Himalayan Peaks.

Those going for the Surkanda Devi Trek will be briefed on the logistics and other important details of the trek before starting the expedition. To make their journey safe and enjoyable, a few tips need to be noted:


  • Get your medical checkup done to ensure fitness before you go on a trek. 
  • The trek is also not recommended for pregnant ladies.
  • Pay attention to your trek instructor to enjoy a safe and sound trek. Know about the routes and destinations.
  • While walking, don't get distracted, which could lead to losing your foothold or spraining your leg.
  • Do not use earplugs during the journey.
  • You will trek through an eco-friendly zone, so refrain from littering the local sites or campsites or you may be fined.
  • Inform your guide before you go anywhere.
  • Carry all the necessary documents, your ID proof, tickets and vouchers with you during the entire trip.
  • All personal expenses including water activities at Tehri Dam need to be borne by you.
  • Please be respectful while visiting the temple and as well as meeting the locals.

FAQs of Surkanda Devi Trek

Are there horses available for offloading at the Surkanda Devi trek?

Yes, horses and ponies are available for offloading at the Surkanda Devi temple. You can ride a horse or a pony from Kaddukhal and reach the temple by the cemented route which takes around 45 minutes to reach.

Where is Surkanda Devi Trek located?

Surkanda Devi Temple is located near Dhanaulti on the Chamba - Mussoorie Road of Unniyal Village in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand. It is perched on a hilltop and is located around 1000 feet above sea level. The surrounding areas of the temple are covered with dense as well as thick backwoods.

How difficult is the Surkanda Devi trek?

The Surkanda Devi Trek is an easy and comfortable trail which you can complete within a few hours. You can choose either of the two routes available. If you are a beginner, you will prefer to take the Kanatal route which is cemented and takes only 45 minutes to reach from Kaddukhal. If you prefer a little more adventurous route, you can take the longer route through the Dhanaulti forests. This route is slightly more difficult than the other route.

What is the best time to do the Surkanda Devi trek?

Although Surkanda Devi is accessible throughout the year, the best time to visit this temple would be during the summer season between April to July. If you visit during the months of May and June, you can also attend the Ganga Dussehra festival which is held during this time. If you visit during winter, you will find the weather chilly as the whole place gets covered with snow.

What is the highest altitude of the Surkanda Devi Trek?

The highest altitude of the Surkanda Devi Trek is the location of the Surkanda Devi Temple which is at an elevation of 2,756 m (9,042 ft) above sea level. 

Is it possible to trek Surkanda Devi solo?

Yes. You can go for the Surkanda Devi trek on your own. Take a guide along if you want to be sure about the destination and the route.

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