Gangolihat

Gangolihat is a Himalayan hill town in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. It is renowned for the Haat Kalika Temple, a prominent Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Kali, which was consecrated by Adi Shankaracharya. The town sits at an elevation of 1,760 meters and serves as a gateway to nearby attractions like Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple. Surrounded by deodar cedar groves and offering panoramic mountain views, it holds deep religious significance for devotees and the Kumaon Regiment.

Visitors can expect a serene spiritual atmosphere amidst dense deodar and pine forests. The main attraction is the Haat Kalika Temple, accessible via approximately 100 stairs from the main gate. The temple complex features traditional architecture, numerous bells offered by devotees, and smaller shrines. The town offers scenic Himalayan views and serves as a base for exploring nearby caves and valleys. The environment is peaceful, suitable for meditation and pilgrimage.

Gangolihat was historically known as Gangavali and served as a primary market center. The region was ruled by Katyuri and Mankoti kings before coming under the Chand dynasty. A stone inscription dated 1264 AD in Janhavi naula records the names of Mankoti kings. The Haat Kalika Temple was established in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya.

The Haat Kalika Temple is one of the 108 Shakti Peeths and holds immense religious importance. It is the patron deity of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army. The temple hosts grand celebrations during Navratri, Diwali, and Dussehra. Local folklore associates the site with Goddess Kali's victory over the demon Raktavija.