Discover the MysticalKalimath
One of the Shakti Peethas - Where Goddess Kali Went Underground
Kalimath: A Sacred Shakti Peeth
Kalimath is a revered village in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, known for its ancient Shree Kalimata Temple. It is one of the Shakti Peethas in India and the only one in the Kedarnath valley, offering a unique spiritual experience on the banks of the Saraswati River.
Located at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters (6,000 feet) above sea level, Kalimath lies on the lap of nature, offering a salubrious and divine environment. The temple is situated near the route to Kedarnath Dham, making it an important stop for pilgrims on their spiritual journey.
The Legend and Spiritual Significance of Kalimath
The Sacred Sri Yantra
No idol exists in the main sanctum. A silver plate known as the Sri Yantra covers the sacred pit where the Goddess disappeared—unveiled only on Ashtami during Navratri at midnight.
Defeat of Raktabija
The sacred spot where Goddess Kali descended underground after vanquishing the demon Raktabija, whose every blood drop spawned a new demon.
Trinity of Goddesses
A rare temple where Kali, Lakshmi, and Saraswati are worshipped together—representing destruction, prosperity, and wisdom in divine unity.
Kalidasa's Blessing
The great Sanskrit poet Kalidasa meditated here and received the Goddess's blessing, transforming from an unlearned man to India's greatest literary genius.
“Where the Goddess vanished, devotion remains eternal”
Plan Your Pilgrimage: Location, Timings, and How to Reach
Location
Kalimath, Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand, India
Altitude: 1,800 meters (6,000 feet) above sea level
49 km from Rudraprayag, 20 km from Ukhimath, 13 km from Guptkashi
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kalimath is during summer (April to June) and autumn (September to November) for pleasant weather. The temple is accessible throughout the year, but winter months can be challenging due to snow.
How to Reach Kalimath
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (approximately 204 km away). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kalimath.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (187 km away) or Dehradun (228 km away). From these stations, you can take local transport or hire a taxi to reach Kalimath.
By Road
Kalimath is well-connected by road to major towns. It is a deviation from the main Kedarnath route. You can hire a taxi from Guptkashi (13 km away) or Gaurikund. Shared jeeps are also available from Rudraprayag.
Visiting Hours
The temple is open daily. Special prayers and rituals are conducted during festival times, particularly during Navratri. The Sri Yantra is unveiled only on the eighth day of Navratri (Ashtami) at midnight by the Chief Priest.
Explore the Region Around Kalimath
Enhance your trip by visiting these nearby holy and scenic spots:
Guptkashi
A significant town with ancient temples, located just 13 km from Kalimath.
Ukhimath
The winter residence of Lord Kedarnath, located 20 km from Kalimath.
Triyuginarayan Temple
The mythical location of Lord Shiva and Parvati's wedding, a sacred pilgrimage site.
Chopta & Tungnath
Known for its natural beauty and high-altitude trekking to the highest Shiva temple in the world.
Kedarnath Dham
One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, located on the same route as Kalimath.
Kalishila
About 6 km uphill from Kalimath, believed to bear the footprints of the Goddess.
Watch Videos of the Holy Kalimath Temple
Experience the mystical aura of Kalimath through these videos:
Experiencing the Mystical Aura of Kalimath
A spiritual journey through Kalimath Temple showcasing its divine atmosphere and mystical energy.
Contact & Stay Information
For information regarding the temple trust, accommodations, or special pujas, you can contact the local temple authorities. There is a Dharamshala (guest house) available for pilgrims to stay, built by Satpal Maharaj, MP and spiritual guru.
Address
Kalimath, Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand, India
Stay
Dharamshala available for pilgrims. Contact local temple authorities for booking.