Purnagiri Temple

This ancient hill temple is dedicated primarily to Goddess Shakti (Amman), with sanctums also for Lord Shiva, Goddess Kali, Lord Hanuman, Lord Ganesha, and Siddha Baba, making it a significant spiritual destination for devotees seeking darshan and blessings.

The temple is situated atop a forested hill, requiring pilgrims to undertake a 3–5 km uphill trek from the Thuligad base camp, accessible by road from Tanakpur.

The journey to Purnagiri Temple begins by arriving at Tanakpur, which is well-connected by highways and trains from major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Lucknow.

From Tanakpur, visitors can drive or take local transport to Thuligad, the base camp and parking zone, before starting the trek via the Baans ki Charhaai stairway through scenic mountain terrain.

Parking facilities are available at both Tanakpur and Thuligad, but the steep stairs and terrain mean the temple is not wheelchair accessible. Darshan at Purnagiri Temple is free for all devotees.

The temple timings vary by season: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM during regular months, 24 hours during Navratri, and 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM in the monsoon.

The best time to visit is early morning (5–8 AM), during winter (November to February), or during the vibrant festival seasons, including the annual brahmotsavam.

Major festivals celebrated here include the Purnagiri Mela/Chaitra Navratri (March–April), Shardiya Navratri (September–October), and Vishuwat Sankranti (April), drawing large numbers of pilgrims.

Daily poojas include the Morning Aarti at 7:30 AM and the Evening Aarti at 7:30 PM, with individual offerings such as Havan or Chunri Prasad available. Rituals are conducted in Sanskrit and Hindi.

Traditional Indian attire is recommended for both men and women, with shorts and sleeveless garments discouraged.

For accommodation, pilgrims can choose from the KMVN Tourist Rest House in Tanakpur or Champawat, local dharamshalas and guest houses at Tanakpur and Thuligad, and private hotels near the Tanakpur railway station and market area.

Nearby attractions include Sharda Ghat, Banbasa Barrage, Shyamlatal, and Champawat Town with the Baleshwar Temple.

Traditional prasadam such as coconuts, sweets, red vermillion, and floral garlands is distributed, and during peak mela seasons, free or subsidized food and tea are provided along the trekking route by local trusts and bhandaras.

Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the sanctum and during rituals, though landscape photography is allowed in the outer premises. For more information, pilgrims can visit the official website or contact the temple authorities by phone.