When the Himalayas turn quieter and temple bells echo through mountain valleys, Uttarakhand takes on an especially spiritual character. During Navratri, its ancient temples become places where mythology, local traditions, mountain culture and centuries-old faith come together.
In 2026, Sharad Navratri begins on 11 October and continues through 19 October, followed by Vijayadashami on 20 October.
If you are planning a spiritual getaway, these seven sacred places offer a beautiful way to experience Navratri in Uttarakhand.
Nanda Devi Temple, Almora
Few temples represent Kumaon’s cultural identity as strongly as the Nanda Devi Temple in Almora. Nanda Devi is revered as a manifestation of Goddess Durga and is regarded as a patron goddess of the Kumaon and Garhwal regions.
The temple is believed to be nearly 1,000 years old and is associated with the Chand dynasty. Its traditional architecture and stone carvings reflect the region’s rich heritage.
During the annual Nanda Devi celebrations, the temple becomes a centre of religious rituals and local traditions. Visiting Almora during Navratri lets travellers experience this living Himalayan culture beyond sightseeing.
Dhari Devi Temple, Rudraprayag
Set along the Alaknanda River, Dhari Devi Temple is one of Uttarakhand’s most revered shrines dedicated to Goddess Kali. Local belief says the goddess’s stone idol changes appearance from a young girl to a woman and then an elderly woman during the day.
According to local tradition, a flood carried away an earlier temple, with the idol becoming lodged against a rock near Dharo village. The shrine was eventually established at the spot.
During Navratri, special worship is offered to Goddess Kali, while the surrounding river and mountains add to the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.
Surkanda Devi Temple, Dhanaulti
If you want to combine pilgrimage with a mountain adventure, Surkanda Devi is worth the climb. Located near Dhanaulti, the temple requires roughly a 3-km uphill trek from Kaddukhal.
The shrine is associated with the Shakti Peetha tradition. According to Hindu mythology, the head of Sati is believed to have fallen here after Lord Shiva carried her body.
The forested trail and Himalayan views make reaching the temple part of the experience itself.
Purnagiri Temple, Tanakpur
Located in Champawat district, Purnagiri Temple is another important Shakti shrine. According to local religious tradition, the navel of Sati is believed to have fallen here.
The temple is reached through a combination of road travel and a staircase trek, making the journey an important part of the pilgrimage.
During Navratri, devotees from different parts of the region visit the shrine to seek blessings, creating a deeply devotional atmosphere.
Haat Kalika Temple, Gangolihat
Surrounded by the Kumaon hills and deodar forests, Haat Kalika Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahakali. The temple is traditionally believed to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya more than a thousand years ago.
A distinctive feature of the shrine is its sacred fire, which devotees believe has been burning for generations.
Compared with some of Uttarakhand’s larger pilgrimage destinations, Haat Kalika offers a quieter glimpse into the region’s traditional mountain worship, making it an interesting stop during Navratri.
Kasar Devi Temple, Almora
Perched on a hill near Almora, Kasar Devi Temple is believed to date back to the 2nd century CE. The temple has attracted spiritual seekers for generations and is also associated with Swami Vivekananda, who is believed to have meditated here.
The surrounding Crank’s Ridge later became known for attracting artists, writers and spiritual seekers from around the world.
For travellers looking for a peaceful Navratri experience, Kasar Devi offers a chance to combine temple visits, village walks and Himalayan views.
Jageshwar Dham, Almora
While Jageshwar is primarily known as a Shiva pilgrimage site, its ancient temple complex makes it an interesting addition to a Navratri itinerary. The complex contains more than 100 stone temples, surrounded by deodar forests and the Jata Ganga stream.
Among its many shrines is a Navdurga Temple, offering visitors another connection to the traditions of Shakti worship.
The setting itself is remarkable, with centuries-old temples tucked into a peaceful Himalayan landscape.
Experience Navratri Beyond the Temples
A Navratri trip to Uttarakhand does not have to be limited to temple hopping. Staying in a local homestay in Uttarakhand can add another dimension to the journey. From waking up to mountain views to enjoying regional food and experiencing village life, homestays let travellers experience the destination more locally.
Platforms like GharOnGo make it easier to discover homestays across Uttarakhand, helping travellers find stays closer to the places they want to explore while experiencing the warmth of local hospitality.
Whether you are visiting ancient temples, trekking to hilltop shrines or simply spending a few peaceful days in the mountains, Navratri offers a wonderful reason to explore Uttarakhand beyond the usual tourist trail.