Kaddukhal is a small but scenic village in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. It is best known as the gateway to the famous Surkanda Devi Temple, one of India’s revered 51 Shakti Peethas. According to Hindu tradition, this is the place where Goddess Sati’s head (sir) is believed to have fallen.
Highlights
Altitude: About 2,756 metres (9,042 ft) above sea level.
Location: Around 8 km from Dhanaulti, 10 km from Kanatal, 24 km from Mussoorie, and 65 km from Dehradun.
Panoramic views: On clear days, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Himalayan peaks including the Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Gangotri ranges.
How to Reach the Temple

There are two ways to reach the temple from Kaddukhal:

Ropeway
Approximately 5-minute scenic ride.
Covers around 502 metres.
Suitable for elderly visitors, children, and those who prefer to avoid trekking.
Trek
A paved uphill trek of about 1.5–2 km.
Takes around 45–90 minutes, depending on fitness and weather.
Best Time to Visit
March to June: Pleasant weather with clear mountain views.
September to November: Crisp skies after the monsoon.
Winter (December–February): Snowfall is common, making the area especially picturesque.
Major Festivals
Navratri
Ganga Dussehra, when thousands of devotees visit the temple
Nearby Attractions
Dhanaulti
Kanatal
Mussoorie
Eco Park Dhanaulti
Tehri Lake

Kaddukhal combines spiritual significance with beautiful Himalayan scenery, making it a popular destination for both pilgrims and nature lovers.