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Often called the “Land of Gods,” Uttarakhand is renowned for its fantastic landscapes and spiritual values. Tucked away into the laps of the Himalayas, this northern Indian state houses many temples, attracting a lot of pilgrims and tourists. Temples in Uttarakhand are not only sacred but also placed in ancient architecture and colorful culture. From the sacred banks of Ganges to serene hills, every temple has a different tale of worship and history.
10 Best Temples In Uttarakhand
Here’s a glance at twelve of the most famous temples of Uttarakhand that you cannot afford to miss during your trip:
1. Badrinath Temple
Photo: Naresh Balakrishnan / Wikimedia Commons
Badrinath Temple, one of the most revered shrines in Hinduism, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It forms part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. Situated in the scenic town of Badrinath, the temple is flanked by the majestic Nar and Narayan mountain ranges. Built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, the temple showcases stunning architecture and intricate carvings. Pilgrims come to this temple seeking blessings, especially during the auspicious season. This begins with the temple’s opening in late April or early May. The annual Badrinath Yatra attracts thousands, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the spiritual heritage of Uttarakhand.
Location: Badrinath, Chamoli District
Best Time To Visit: April to November
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 4:30 AM – 1 PM and 3 PM – 8 PM
2. Kedarnath Temple
Photo: Shivam Kumar 766 / Wikimedia Commons
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath Temple is located at an altitude of 3583 m in the great Kedarnath Valley. The temple is surrounded by various majestic snow-capped peaks, presenting an enchanting backdrop to this sacred ambiance. The journey to Kedarnath is an adventure in itself, as devotees often trek through picturesque landscapes filled with cascading rivers. Despite the difficulty of high altitude, here spiritual values coupled with peaceful feelings are unparalleled. It is accessible mainly from May to October since it closes its doors during winter due to heavy snowfall.
Location: Kedarnath, Rudraprayag District
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 4 AM – 2 PM and 5 PM – 9 PM
3. Gangotri Temple
Photo: DipankarSen68 / Wikimedia Commons
Gangotri Temple, located in the pristine Gangotri region of Uttarkashi district, is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. This temple is considered one of the holiest shrines in the Char Dham pilgrimage and holds immense spiritual significance. The temple’s architecture is simple yet beautiful, made of white granite. It is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and lush forests. The spiritual atmosphere is enhanced by the sacred sound of flowing water from the Ganges. Pilgrims and nature lovers come to immerse themselves in the temple’s serene environment and rich heritage.
Location: Gangotri, Uttarkashi District
Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to November
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 2 PM and 3 PM – 9 PM
4. Yamunotri Temple
Photo: Atarax42 / Wikimedia Commons
Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, is a significant pilgrimage site and one of the Char Dham temples. Located at an elevation of 3,235 meters in the Uttarkashi district, the temple is revered as the origin of the Yamuna River. The journey to Yamunotri is an enchanting trek through scenic landscapes. Here pilgrims can witness the stunning beauty of the Himalayas. The region is known for its natural hot springs, and a dip in the warm waters is a must for devotees seeking purification.
Location: Yamunotri, Uttarkashi District
Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to November
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM and 3 PM – 9 PM
5. Har Ki Pauri
Photo: Livefree2013 / Wikimedia Commons
Har Ki Pauri is a sacred ghat located in Haridwar, renowned for its spiritual significance and vibrant atmosphere.The ghat is famously associated with the legend of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have left his footprint here. Visitors flock to Har Ki Pauri for the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a nightly ritual where lamps are floated down the river, creating a spectacular sight. The temple’s ambiance during the aarti is spiritually uplifting. Whether for spiritual reasons or to experience the local culture, Har Ki Pauri is a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand.
Location: Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 24*7
6. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Photo: Shakti / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nestled amidst lush greenery near Rishikesh, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds immense importance in Hindu mythology. The temple is situated at an elevation of 1,330 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The serene ambiance, combined with the gentle sound of the river and rustling leaves, creates a tranquil atmosphere for meditation and worship. Devotees often visit the temple during the Maha Shivaratri festival, attracting large crowds. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is an ideal spot for those seeking peace and spiritual connection.
Location: Near Rishikesh
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
7. Mansa Devi Temple
Photo: Barthateslisa / Wikimedia Commons
Mansa Devi Temple, located atop the Bilwa Parvat in Haridwar, is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees, the temple attracts countless visitors. The temple complex features beautiful sculptures and tranquil gardens, for prayer and reflection. The temple’s elevation provides a unique vantage point to witness the Ganges flowing through the valley. Mansa Devi Temple is a significant landmark in Haridwar, symbolizing faith and devotion.
Location: Haridwar
Best Time To Visit: March to October
Entry Fees: Free (cable car charges apply)
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
8. Daksheswara Mahadev Temple
Photo: World8115 / Wikimedia Commons
Daksheswara Mahadev Temple, in Kankhal near Haridwar, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and closely linked to the legend of Daksha Yagna. The temple is beautifully adorned with intricate carvings and has a peaceful ambiance. It has an enormous courtyard where people can gather there to pray and meditate. Besides religious ceremonies, it is a place of many other events, especially the festival of Maha Shivaratri. Daksheswara Mahadev Temple is both a place for worship and an important symbol of culture in Haridwar.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
9. Baleshwar Temple
Photo: ArmouredCyborg / Wikimedia Commons
Baleshwar Temple, located in the town of Champawat, is an ancient Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. Constructed by the Chand dynasty in the 10th century, this temple is celebrated for its intricate stone carvings and historical significance. The architecture of Baleshwar Temple reflects a blend of Kumaoni and Indo-Aryan styles. Pilgrims visiting the temple are captivated by the elaborate design work on its sanctum and walls. The temple complex includes smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as the goddess Chandika and Ratneshwar.
Location: Champawat
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
10. Jageshwar Temple
Photo: Jaiambey / Wikimedia Commons
The Jageshwar Temple complex, situated in the Almora District, is an important pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ancient temple complex consists of over 100 temples. Each is adorned with intricate carvings that reflect the rich architectural heritage of the region. Surrounded by tall deodar trees, the temple complex exudes a tranquil ambiance that captivates visitors. Festivals like Mahashivratri see a significant influx of devotees, adding to the spiritual vibrancy of the site.
Location: Jageshwar, Almora District
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Uttarakhand is a treasure trove of spiritual heritage and beauty, with its temples standing as symbols of devotion and artistry. Each temple in this sacred state offers a unique experience, inviting visitors to delve into Hindu traditions. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the serene banks of the Ganges, temples in Uttarakhand provide a spiritual refuge. As you explore these sacred sites, you’ll find a deeper connection to the divine and a greater appreciation for nature. Get ready for your next spiritual trip to Uttarakhand with none other than TripXL!
Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
