Kunjapuri Temple Rishikesh : A Sacred Himalayan Shrine Above The Clouds

Garhwal is home to some of the most beautiful temples. These small and big temples make Uttarakhand “Land Of The Gods”. One beautiful temple in this Devbhoomi is Kunjapuri Temple. This is a sacred shrine located in Rishikesh. The Kunjapuri temple is not just any temple but is among the 52 Shakti Peeths.

Introduction To Kunjapuri Temple

Kunjapuri Temple is a pilgrimage in Rishikesh devoted to Goddess Shakti. This temple is a combination of devotion and beauty. It is believed that this is the place where the chest of Goddess Sati fell. The temple is standing at an altitude of 1650 m. Devotees trek to the temple and offer their prayers. Kunjapuri Temple Trekking is very rewarding. This is a small trek of 5-8 km. Walking on the trail to Kunjapuri temple is a scenic journey. The Kunjapuri Temple is a place that can fill your heart with peace. 

How To Reach Kunjapuri Temple?

Kunjapuri Temple is located in the beautiful city of Rishikesh. This city is often known as “The Yoga Capital Of The World”. You should add Kunjapuri Temple to your list whenever you visit Rishikesh. Just a 25 km drive from Rishikesh and you will reach the Kunjapuri base location. Now you have to climb 312 steps to reach the temple. 

If you are a trekking enthusiast then choose the different route. Reach Tapovan to start the journey to Kunjapuri Temple Riskhish. This is a beautiful trail of 5-8 km. You will see villages, fields, and forests on Kunjapuri Trekking route. You will reach the temple in 3-4 hours. 

Know About The Mythology And Historical Importance Of Kunjapuri Temple

The Kunjapuri Temple has deep roots with the Hindu mythology. Goddess Sati was the daughter of King Daksha and consort to Lord Shiva. One day, King Daksha organized a yajna and did not invite her daughter. Sati still attended the Yajna but faced the insult. King Daksha also insulted Lord Shiva and then Goddess Sati became angry. She immolated herself as she couldn't hear anything against her husband. 

Lord Shiva, enraged by her death, carries her burning body. He started performing Tandava which can destroy the whole universe. Lord Vishnu takes out his Sudarshan Chakra to protect the universe and calm Lord Shiva. He cut Sati’s body in 52 parts with Sudarshan Chakra which fell in different parts of the earth. Kunjapuri Rishikesh is a place where the chest part of Goddess Sati fell. Today this temple is known as one of the 52 Shakti Peeth’s of India. 

Sunset Viewpoint: A Spiritual and Visual Delight

The sunset is the most rewarding thing for Kunjapuri Temple Rishikesh trekking. The temple is located at a good height and the sunset from that location is amazing. The sun will dip behind the Himalayan ranges. The sky will look like a different painting. Some canvas of orange, pink and purple hues. Everywhere you see will look golden. The cool air and the sunset feels magical. 

The sound of bells and chirping birds are the long sounds you will hear. Every moment feels spiritual and peaceful. Trekkers and devotees usually sit on the rocks near the temple to feel their heart with that moment. The period between sunset to dusk is very fascinating. 

Architecture and Temple Complex of Kunjapuri Rishikesh

The temple of Kunjapuri is a refinement of traditional Pahadi architecture. Unlike Kedarnath and other temples, Kunjapuri is not very grand. It is a small temple but stands out due to this significance. The Kunjapuri Temple Rishikesh is a shrine dedicated to Goddess Shakti. There is a saying, “When wind moves, so do our prayers”. When the wind blows, the flags and bells make the surroundings more spiritual and divine.

The temple is old but still designed in a great manner. The complex can manage the pilgrims and trekkers well. The steps towards the temple are well-maintained. The trekking route is also well marked and beautiful.   

Festivals and Rituals Celebrated At Kunjapuri Temple

Navratri at Kunjapuri temple feels different. The Kunjapuri Rishikesh temple looks very magnificent during Navratri. The locals decorate the temple with fresh flowers and lights. Thousands of locals and devotees visit this temple in these nine days. People sing Aartis in the morning and evening. The festival vibe during Navratri is an exclusive spiritual vibe. 

Dussehra and Diwali and Makar Sankranti are also very special in Kunjapuri temple. Locals perform centuries old rituals that have spiritual and traditional roots. Your visit to Kunjapuri Temple is always unique. Everyday in Kunjapuri temple with devotees feels like a festival. 

Read more: Rishikesh Guide

Things To Do Near Kunjapuri Temple

Kunjapuri Temple is located in Rishikesh which is a good tourist spot. You can seek blessing in Kunjapuri Temple and then engage yourself in various activities. 

• Kunjapuri Temple Trekking

Kunjapuri temple is also a great spot for trekking enthusiasts. You can start your journey from Tavopan (Rishikesh) towards the temple. The trail is very pretty as you will see beautiful forests and villages. Kunjapuri Trekking is easy and you will reach the temple in just 2-3 hours. Offer the prayers and then you can enjoy the beautiful sunset.

• Explore Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a small and magical city. You can visit temples and explore the local sites. This is a hub for meditation. You will see people around the world performing yoga and meditation on the riverbank. Spending time near the Ganga river is itself very peaceful. 

• Perfect Spot for Adventure 

Rishikesh is probably the best city for river rafting. It is a perfect thrill that can make your day. You can also do bungee jumping and zip-lining. Rishikesh is also a good place for camping. Spend a night at camps at riverbanks and enjoy stargazing. 

Read more related blog: Trekking In Rishikesh

Good Travel Tips For Visitors

• Best time to visit Kunjapuri Temple

You can plan your visit to Kunjapuri temple round-the-year. The weather is always pleasant there. You should avoid Kunjapuri Trekking in monsoon because the trails can become very slippery. Autumn to spring is a great time. The temperature is not very high and the skies remain clear. Start your trek early to witness the sunrise. Or, stay for a while to enjoy the breathtaking views during sunset.

• Respect the culture

Kunjapuri temple is a trekking spot but also a pilgrimage. You should dress modestly and enjoy the journey. Avoid making loud noises and be respectful among the locals. Do not carry any items that can hurt the sentiments of devotees. Offer the prayers respectfully and seek blessings.

• Don’t forget your camera

Kunjapuri Temple Rishikesh is located at a very scenic location. You can see beautiful forests and rare birds on the trail. Take pictures of panoramic views of Himalayan ranges. The Doon valley also looks very charming from the temple. Follow temple etiquettes while taking pictures or videos inside the temple complex. 

Conclusion

Plan your Kunjapuri temple visit and feel the divineness. Kunjapuri Trekking is a small and beautiful journey. You will walk on beautiful trails to reach the temple. The temple has a great significance and the atmosphere there is always peaceful. The views of Himalayan peaks from the top are stunning. Visit the temple and reconnect to faith and reconciliation.

So, are you ready to explore the divine through a trek to the temple? Well, just pick your favorite destination, speak to the experts at the Himalaya Shelter, and plan your divine walk on the trails to create wonderful memories and fill your soul with praise and worship. 

Let the mountains call you, let your soul find its path, and let this spiritual journey be one of the best adventures of your life!

Call us at: +91 9458386006

Drop an email: info@himalayashelter.com

Read about Rishikesh: Rishikesh Tour Highlights

FAQs 

Q1. What is Kunjapuri Devi Temple?

Ans: Kunjapuri Devi Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga, located in the Tehri Garhwal district near Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It sits at an altitude of about 1,645–1,676 meters, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, Doon Valley, and the Ganga River.

Q2. How do I reach Kunjapuri Temple?

• By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~35–45 km away).
• By Train: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (~25–28 km away).
• By Road: Accessible by taxi or private vehicle from Rishikesh; adventurous visitors can trek from Tapovan or Neer Waterfall.

Q3. What is the best time to visit Kunjapuri Temple?

Ans: October to March is ideal for clear skies and pleasant weather. Sunrise and sunset are especially breathtaking during these months.

Q4. Is there a trek to Kunjapuri Temple?

Ans: Yes. The Kunjapuri Sunrise Trek is popular, starting from Tapovan or Neer Waterfall, covering 7–8 km in about 5–6 hours, with scenic villages and waterfalls along the way.

Q5. Why is it special during Navratri?

Ans: During Navratri, the temple hosts special rituals and attracts large numbers of devotees, making it a spiritually vibrant time to visit.

Q6. Are there accommodation options nearby?

Ans: No stays at the temple itself, but Rishikesh offers everything from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts

Q7. What should I wear?

Ans: Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees. Carry a shawl or jacket as it can be breezy at the top.

Q8. Can I perform rituals or pujas?

Ans: Yes, visitors can participate in aarti and other offerings. Check with temple priests for details.

Q9. Are there photography restrictions?

Ans: Photography is generally allowed, but always ask before taking pictures of the shrine or during ceremonies

Q10. How far is it from Rishikesh?

Ans: About 25 km by road; the drive takes roughly 1 hour.