Kasar Devi Temple, Almora | Timings, Photos, Address

Kasar Devi Temple, Almora Overview

Kasar Devi is a famous temple on a hilltop dedicated to the local deity of Kasar Devi, situated 8 km away from Almora, Uttarakhand. Very close to Crank's Ridge, this place gained prominence after the hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s. It is known for the many luminaries that have visited it like Bob Dylan, Timothy Leary, Allen Ginsberg, Cat Stevens and Swami Vivekananda. They have meditated in the calm and quiet of this beautiful location, hidden in the Kumaon Hills.

Ideal for people who are spiritual and love being one among nature, the hilly region of Kasar Devi is perfect to unwind and spend time meditating. Adventure driven people can come here for long hikes and treks on hills and surrounded by greenery. The temple overlooks Almora and the Hawabagh Valley, giving a panoramic view of the Himalayas.

Spiritual Things To Do near Kasar Devi Temple

One main reason for people to visit Kasar Devi is for its serenity and quaint, natural surroundings. To take a short break from your hectic daily life, Kasar Devi is the perfect place just to relax and rejuvenate. Surrounded by lush greenery and hills that guard Kasar Devi, it is an ideal place to practice Yoga and Meditation.

Bright End Corner is at a distance of 2 km from Almora. It is given its name because of the beautiful view of the rising moon and the setting sun along with a scintillating range of orange and red shades of colours. This place boasts of a magnificent view of the sunrise and sunset. The place is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda who spent his time here meditating. Hence, it is one of the best spots for meditation as it has natural beauty and a sense of solitude.

There are several temples other than Kasar Devi around the area. Chitai Temple, Katarmal Sun Temple, Jageshwar Temple, Patal Devi Temple and Nanda Devi Temple are the temples you can visit at Kasar Devi.

Best Time To Visit Kasar Devi Temple

The best time to visit the Kasar Devi Temple is November-December. Every year in winter, on the occasion of Kartik Poornima, a large fair is held at the Kasar Devi Temple.

How To Reach Kasar Devi Temple

If you're travelling by road, Kasar Devi is just 8 km from Almora. Taxis and shared cabs are easily available from Kumaon Region. By railways, Kathgodam railway station is the closest to Almora at a distance of 88 km. Ranikhet Express and Sampark Kranti Express are easily available for Kathgodam.

History of Kasar Devi Temple

Kasar Devi is an ancient temple said to have been built in 2nd Century AD. It first gained prominence when Swami Vivekananda visited the place for meditation. He has even written about his experience in his diaries. Soon, a Danish mystic called Sunyata Baba (Alfred Sorenson) came to Kasar Devi and made it his home for 3 decades. This was followed by many spiritual seekers who came here and immersed themselves in this quaint, quiet village.

Much later, at the peak of the hippie movement, the area became a huge part of the Hippie trail and a powerhouse of the '60s counter culture. To know more, you can read about the history of Kasar Devi here.