Kalinka, Pauri Garhwal

Kalinka is a Hindu temple positioned on a rocky hilltop at 2100 meters with a lotus-shaped dome structure. The location offers views toward the Dudhatoli hills and Trisul peaks in the surrounding landscape.

The temple began when a shepherd from the Badiyaari semi-nomadic herding community received a divine calling to establish a shrine at the summit. The sanctuary then became a spiritual focal point for this group and surrounding communities.

The temple draws people from surrounding villages for collective worship and seasonal gatherings that strengthen community bonds. Visitors can observe how the site functions as a gathering place for shared religious and social occasions.

The temple can be reached by multiple pathways from different areas, situated roughly two hours travel from major transport hubs. Visitors should prepare for the elevation and wear shoes with good grip for the rocky terrain.

A local network of twelve village communities formed a cooperative to maintain the temple and carry out development initiatives. This form of shared management is uncommon for Himalayan shrines.