Kasar Devi temple is one of India’s most sacred temples, built in the 2nd century, but was renovated in 1948. The temple is only 8 kms away from Almora and is known for its serene view, fresh environment and magnetic energy. The temple is adjacent to the Shiva temple of Kasar, which is also a sacred place in Uttarakhand. Earlier, it was hidden in the peaceful valley of Kumaon village, but the place is now popular among many travellers worldwide. The place is perfect for spiritualists, nature lovers and hippies. As a part of the Van Allen Belt, Kasar Devi temple was explored by many NASA scientists and other archaeologists worldwide.
Kasar Devi Temple: The Great Hippie Movement Spot
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During the great Hippie movement, Kasar Devi temple became part of the Hippie trail and was declared the ‘Power Centre’ of the ’60s. ‘Many famous philosophers and artists, including Bob Dylan and actress Uma Thurman, visited the place to seek spirituality and peace of mind.
During this movement, one spot made a special appearance in the journals of these philosophers, the Crank’s Ridge or Hippie Hill. This ridge was home to most artists, musicians, bohemian theologians and writers, including Timothy Leary, the great American psychologist who compiled most of his psychedelic prayers here. Hence, this is how Kasar Devi became the best spot in the Hippie trail of the Hippie movement and the most sacred counterculture spot in the world.
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The Religious History Of The Temple
It is believed that this temple was built by the legendary Yakshas and Gandhars (nature spirits and heavenly beings) as written in the Skanda Purana, which enhances the religious significance of Kasar Devi temple. According to Devi Bhagwan Purana, this place is the site of the destruction of demons Shumbh and Nishumbh by the hands of Kaushiki Devi, making it more sacred and significant in Indian history. One can also find imprints of Devi Durga with her Lion in the back stone of the temple, giving more signs of this temple being essential and mysterious. Surrounded by the lush forests of Uttarakhand, the temple is located on a hilltop, and to reach there, you need to climb 100 steps at a time.
Location: JMR6+PP7, Binsar Rd, Kasardevi, Uttarakhand 263601
Entry Fee: Free Entry
Distance from Almora: Located 8 kms away from the city of Almora and can be reached by hiking or driving.
The NASA Story Of Kasar Devi Temple
Kasar Devi temple has many unique qualities but is one of the most mysterious and exciting stories. As the temple sits on the Van Allen Belt of Earth, it creates a special bond with Machu Picchu of Peru and Stonehenge of the UK. Local anecdotes say that many NASA experts came here to study the geomagnetic energy of the place, which creates a robust cosmic energy similar to Machu Picchu in Peru and Stonehenge in the UK. Since this is only half confirmed by the officials, local devotees believe in cosmic energy and suggest people meditate here for a clear head and calm soul. This is one of the reasons many artists and philosophers, such as Swami Vivekanand, Bob Dylan, Rabindranath Tagore and DH Lawrence, visited this place.
There is a cave located near the temple known as Kasar Devi temple. It is famous for being the spot where Swami Vivekanand meditated. The locals believe that Swami Vivekanand was about to attain enlightenment when he let go of his meditation practice to help society from misery. In the present, there is a rugged yoga mat resting at the side of the cave where one can meditate and introspect one’s thoughts and emotions.
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Things To Do At Kasar Devi Temple
Village Walking: At the end of the Kasar Devi temple’s stairs is a beautiful village known as the untouched beauty of rural India. Explore and learn all about the simplicity of life and the importance of contentment. The townspeople are welcoming and will entertain you with their stories and philosophies.
Capture the Nature: Located on the hilltop, the temple is surrounded by Uttarakhand’s natural beauty. From the side of the temple, you can see the Himalayan range, which is decorated with lush green forests and pahadi fauna.
Yoga and Meditation: With the power of cosmic energy, serene nature, and fresh breath, Kasar Devi temple is one of the best places to practise yoga and meditation. There is a remarkable cave, the Kasar Devi cave or Swami Vivekanand cave, where you can attain deep meditation and heal your inner chakras from top to bottom. The place is one of the best places to regain focus and positive energy.
Places To Visit Near Kasar Devi Temple
Here is the list of famous tourist attractions located near Kasar Devi temple:
1. Balta Waterfall
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Balta waterfall is a hidden gem located in the Balta village. Many people do not know this waterfall, as it is located in this small village, which makes this place more exciting and unique. The considerable waterfall is surrounded by a lush green forest, offering a beautiful path to capture.
Location: Balta Uttarakhand 263601
Timings: Open 24 hours
Distance from Kasar Devi Temple: 2.5 kms away from the Temple
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2. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Image Credit: Shyamal for Wikimedia Commons
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area of Almora. It is home to various rare species of flora and fauna that are on the verge of extinction. For bird lovers, the place is a haven, as they can spot numerous colourful birds and take pictures of them for memories.
Location: PQ43+6H4, Binsar, Regariya, Uttarakhand 263628
Timings: 9:00 am to 7:30 pm
Distance from Kasar Devi Temple: 20 kms Away From the Temple
3. Chitai Golu Devta Temple
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Chitai Golu Devta, the Bell Temple, is known for fulfilling people’s wishes. Once the wishes are fulfilled, people hang bells on the temple’s walls, creating the temple’s present shape. The Golu Devta is an incarnation of Lord Shiva and is known as the God of Justice, making the place sacred and popular.
Location: Chitai, SH 37, Almora, Uttarakhand 263601
Timings: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
Distance from Kasar Devi Temple: 15 kms away from the Temple
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4. Hans Himadri Handloom Museum
Hans Himadri Handloom Museum is where you will discover the importance and process of handloom products. Around 700 women make supreme-quality shawls and other products that consumers sell at a reasonable rate.
Location: Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Almora, Kuchar, Uttarakhand 263601
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Distance from Kasar Devi Temple: 5 Kms Away From the Temple
How To Reach The Temple
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By Road: Travelling in Uttarakhand is best known by road. Kasar Devi temple is well connected by roads to Almora, which is only 8 kms away. One can take local buses from the Almora bus stand, which will take you directly to the temple. You can also drive your car from Delhi to Kasar Devi in around 9 hours, making it more accessible among travellers.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Kasar Devi temple in Almora is Kathgodam, which is around 82 kms away, and is connected to all the major cities of India, such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow. You can easily hire a taxi from the station to take Almora to the temple.
By Air: The closest airport from the temple in Almora is the Pantnagar Airport – Udham Singh Nagar Uttarakhand, around 116 kms away. From the airport, you can quickly get a taxi to Almora or take a bus from Haldwani, Nainital or Kathgodam for a budget-friendly trip to Almora.
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Kasar Devi temple perfectly blends history, religion, and spirituality. It has been part of the historic hippie movement, the religious Skanda Purana, and spiritual cosmic energy, making it a must-visit place on your next trip to Uttarakhand. Visited by various famous personalities from time to time, including Swami Vivekanand, Bob Dylan, and Rabindranath Tagore, the temple has become a renowned yoga and meditation centre worldwide.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kasar Devi Temple
How old is Kasar Devi Temple?
Kasar Devi temple is believed to be built in the 2nd Century and renovated in the year 1948. The place has seen many events since its existence such as the hippie movement of the 90s.
How many steps are there in the Kasar Devi Temple?
There are 100 steps which need to be climbed up to reach the main spectrum of the temple. It is located on a hilltop which offers a beautiful view of the surrounding forest.
Why is Kasar Devi Temple famous?
Kasar Devi temple is part of the Van Allen Belt of the earth which creates special cosmic energy which is only experienced either at Machu Picchu in Peru or Stonehenge in the UK. This great energy makes the temple unique and famous, attracting many artists, philosophers and musicians to visit the temple. The temple is also part of the hippie belt from the hippie movement of 60s’.
How far is Kasar Devi temple from Almora?
Kasar Devi temple is around 8 kms away from the city centre of Almora, which can be reached by road via bus, hike or car.
Which part of Sati fell at Kasar Devi temple?
Sati’s eyes fell at the Kasar Devi temple while burning her body was carried by Lord Shiva during his cosmic destruction dance routine.
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