Kasar Devi Temple – A Spiritual Gem of Uttarakhand

Kasar Devi Temple is a serene and spiritually significant destination located just 8 km from Almora in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. Perched on a quiet hilltop at an altitude of around 2,100 meters, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Kasar Devi, believed to be a form of Goddess Durga.

The temple holds immense historical and spiritual value, dating back to the 2nd century CE. It gained prominence after Swami Vivekananda meditated here in the 1890s, and over the years, it has attracted several global thinkers, spiritual seekers, and artists including Bob Dylan, Allen Ginsberg, and Timothy Leary.

Ene& Mrgy agnetism: One of the most unique aspects of Kasar Devi is its location on the Van Allen Belt, which gives it a naturally strong geomagnetic field. This places it among a handful of spiritually charged places in the world, alongside Stonehenge (UK) and Machu Picchu (Peru). Many visitors report deep meditative experiences and a sense of mental clarity here

 Peaceful Retreat with Himalayan Views: The temple offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad Himalayas, including peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul. Surrounded by deodar and pine forests, the tranquil environment makes it a perfect spot for meditation, yoga, and quiet reflection.
 

Nature, Peace & Panoramic Views

• The hilltop offers 360° views of the Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, Panchachuli, and other snow-capped peaks.
• Surrounded by pine and deodar forests, the location is perfect for nature lovers, peace seekers, and bird watchers.
• Sunrise and sunset from Kasar Devi are magical experiences not to be missed.

Nearby Attractions
🐾 Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary – for nature walks and wildlife spotting (20 km)
🏙️ Almora Town – explore local markets, Kumaoni food, and culture (8 km)
🌅 Bright End Corner – stunning sunsets and calm meditation zone
🏞️ Kalimath, Katarmal Sun Temple, and Jageshwar Dham – ancient spiritual sites nearby

Best Time to Visit
October to March: Clear skies, snow views, ideal weather
April to June: Pleasant and green, perfect for nature and photography
Avoid July–September: Monsoon season – cloudy and muddy roads

Nearby Places to Visit from Kasar Devi

1. Almora Town (Approx. 8 km)

• Why Visit: Known as the “Cultural Capital of Kumaon,” Almora is a picturesque town with old bazaars, temples, and scenic views.

• Highlights:

  • Bright End Corner for sunrise and sunset views
  • Nanda Devi Temple – a centuries-old shrine
  • Lala Bazaar – famous for woollen clothes and handicrafts
  • Almora Museum – preserving Kumaoni culture and art

2. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (Approx. 20 km)

• Why Visit: A paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. The sanctuary is surrounded by oak, rhododendron, and pine forests.

• Highlights:

  • Home to barking deer, Himalayan goral, leopards, and many bird species
  • Zero Point – offers panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath peaks
  • Peaceful trekking routes inside the sanctuary

3. Katarmal Sun Temple (Approx. 19 km)

• Why Visit: A 9th-century ancient temple dedicated to the Sun God, also called the “Gem of Kumaon Architecture.”

• Highlights:

  • Rare stone carvings and idols
  • Scenic Himalayan backdrop
  • A blend of history, spirituality, and architecture

4. Jageshwar Dham (Approx. 36 km)

• Why Visit: Considered one of the most important temple clusters in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Highlights:

  • Over 100 ancient stone temples surrounded by deodar forests
  • Peaceful and spiritual ambiance
  • Major pilgrimage site, especially during Shivratri

5. Chitai Golu Devta Temple (Approx. 10 km)

• Why Visit: Dedicated to Golu Devta, the God of Justice, this temple is unique as devotees write their wishes on paper and tie them here.

• Highlights:

  • Thousands of bells tied by devotees
  • A spiritual and cultural insight into Kumaon traditions

6. Kausani (Approx. 50 km)

• Why Visit: Popularly called the “Switzerland of India,” Kausani offers unmatched Himalayan views and tea gardens.

• Highlights:

  • Breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over Himalayan peaks
  • Anasakti Ashram (where Mahatma Gandhi once stayed)
  • Kausani Tea Estate – perfect for nature walks

7. Dunagiri Temple (Approx. 50 km)

• Why Visit: A powerful Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Durga, surrounded by dense forests and mountain views.

• Highlights:

  • Mythological connection to Mahabharata
  • A place for meditation and spiritual seekers
  • Trekkers also love the peaceful trails around this temple

8. Ranikhet (Approx. 60 km)

• Why Visit: A charming hill station and cantonment town known for its scenic beauty and colonial feel.

• Highlights:

  • Jhula Devi Temple
  • Chaubatia Gardens (famous for apple orchards)
  • Army Museum
  • Peaceful walking trails with pine forests

Travel Tips
1. Carry light woolens or jackets even in summer, as weather can change quickly
2. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the ridge and forest trails
3. No entry fee; open to all
4. Morning and evening hours are best for meditation and views