About Haat Kalika Temple
Haat Kalika Temple is a revered Shaktipeeth dedicated to Goddess Kali, located in Gangolihat within the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand at an elevation of approximately 1,760 meters. The temple holds significant religious importance as the patron deity of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army. Nestled in a grove of deodar trees, this ancient temple is believed to have been consecrated by Adi Shankaracharya and features traditional North Indian temple architecture with distinctive military connections.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a serene temple complex situated amidst dense deodar forests at 1,760 meters elevation. The temple features traditional architecture with walls displaying Kumaon Regiment aesthetics. A stairway through the forest leads from the main gate to the temple. The sanctum houses the idol of Goddess Kali, and visitors will notice numerous bells gifted by army personnel. The temple overlooks the Kalika River and offers peaceful surroundings with melodious chants and incense aroma.
Key highlights
- 01
Patron deity of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army
- 02
Ancient Shaktipeeth believed to be consecrated by Adi Shankaracharya
- 03
Distinctive practice of making a bed for Goddess Kali every night
- 04
Located in a sacred grove of large deodar trees
- 05
Numerous bells inscribed with names of Kumaon Regiment soldiers
- 06
Traditional North Indian temple architecture with military influences
History of Haat Kalika Temple
The temple has a rich history dating back to Guru Adi Shankaracharya, who is believed to have consecrated the temple during his journey to Kedarnath. According to legend, the temple was originally established in the 8th-9th century when Shankaracharya pacified the fierce form of Goddess Kali through Tantra sadhana. The present structure was built by the rulers of the Chand Dynasty in the 14th century. The temple has maintained a formal and longstanding connection with the Kumaon Regiment since 1918, when soldiers were miraculously saved during a storm at sea after praying to Goddess Kali.
Culture & Context
Haat Kalika Temple serves as the Isht Devi (patron goddess) of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army, whose war cry is 'Kalika Mata ki Jai'. The regiment maintains the temple and contributes significantly to its upkeep. Soldiers visit before postings and upon return, offering bells inscribed with their names. The temple features a unique practice where a bed is made for Goddess Kali every night, which shows signs of having been slept in by morning. This reflects the domestic mode of devotion where the deity is treated as a resident rather than merely a symbol.