Incredible Kasar Devi Temple Almora Mat Uttarakhand, India, 2025

Kasar Devi Temple Almora — The Place Where Swami Vivekananda Meditated

Kasar Devi is the place where Swami Vivekananda once visited and meditated. Since then, this place and its temple have become famous among all kinds of travelers. Swami Vivekananda was so deeply impressed by the serenity of this place that he even mentioned it in his writings.

Over time, Kasar Devi Temple Almora gained immense popularity, attracting several renowned personalities such as Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Cat Stevens, Allen Ginsberg, and Timothy Leary. During the 1970s, the era of hippie culture, this place came to be known as Hippie Hill.

Kasar Devi Temple Almora

The Kasar Devi Temple is located in the Almora hills of Uttarakhand, which is famously known as the Land of the Gods (Devbhoomi).

It is believed that Goddess Devi herself appeared here in a divine incarnation. It is said that this is the only place in India where strong magnetic energies naturally exist.

Around the temple, there are several areas that contain large geomagnetic fields beneath the Earth’s surface. It is noteworthy that the region surrounding Kasar Devi Temple lies within the Van Allen Belt, where a geomagnetic body exists beneath the ground.

Many mystical energies are believed to be associated with this temple. Even NASA scientists once visited this place to study these magnetic phenomena, but in the end, they returned without any concrete explanation. People visiting this area often experience a profound sense of mental peace and tranquility.

Famous Personalities Visited Here

The Kasar Devi Temple has a unique historical significance. Swami Vivekananda, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Tibetan Buddhist guru Lama Angarika Govinda, and Western Buddhist teacher Robert Thurman have all visited this temple.

In addition, several prominent Western personalities such as D.H. Lawrence, Cat Stevens, Bob Dylan, George Harrison, and Alfred Sorensen from Denmark have also been here.

Where Kasar Devi Temple Almora?

This temple is located in a village at an altitude of 2,116 meters above sea level, visible from the Almora-Bageshwar highway. The village itself is also known as Kasar Devi.

The special significance of this place is attributed to Kasar Devi, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Interestingly, in 1890, Swami Vivekananda practiced deep meditation in a secluded cave on this hill, further enhancing its spiritual reputation.

History of Kasar Devi Temple Almora

It is believed that the Kasar Devi Temple has existed since the Dvapara Yuga. Its establishment is said to date back to around the 2nd century BCE. Swami Vivekananda visited this place in 1890, and through meditation here, he is said to have experienced supernatural or divine realizations.

Vivekananda mentioned this temple in several of his writings. His guru, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, had also visited this sacred place.

Center of Spirituality

The Kasar Devi Temple is filled with magnetic energy. Meditating here allows devotees to attain samadhi (deep spiritual absorption) quickly. For this reason, the place is also a center of attraction for saints and sages.

Saints and practitioners of tantra and mantra often come here to perform spiritual experiments. At the same time, devotees meditating here experience profound mental peace and tranquility.

An Annual Fair is Organized Here

The Kasar Devi Temple in Almora holds great historical and spiritual significance and is considered one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the region. Every year, during the time of Kartik Purnima, the Kasar Fair (Kasar Mela) is organized here, attracting thousands to lakhs of devotees and visitors.

According to available information, the importance of this fair is not only recognized across India but has also spread internationally, drawing the attention of foreign visitors as well.

Things to Do Around Kasar Devi Temple Almora

For peace and tranquility, you can visit the nearby villages, where the lush greenery and scenic views are sure to captivate your senses.

Moreover, Kasar Devi is located quite close to the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can observe a wide variety of bird species. Around the Kasar Devi Temple, you can also practice yoga and meditation for a spiritually rejuvenating experience.

There is also a Deer Park, located in Narayan Tiwari Devai, which is approximately 3 kilometers from Almora. This park is surrounded by forests of deodar and oak trees, offering a serene natural environment.

Exploring Kasar Devi’s Mystique:

• A Hub of Creative Minds: Kasar Devi, once known as ‘Cranks Ridge,’ has drawn renowned figures like D.H. Lawrence, Swami Vivekananda, and Allen Ginsberg. Discover the magnetic allure that has captured the imaginations of poets, philosophers, and artists for decades.

Sightseeing Adventures:

• Scenic Delights: Experience the breathtaking views of the Kumaon Himalaya, including the majestic Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks, as the sun paints the sky with hues of scarlet and gold.
• Spiritual Connection: Visit the Kasar Devi Temple Almora for an unforgettable sunrise view and explore the Swami Vivekananda rock, a place of profound meditation. Don’t miss the Drikung Kagyu Monastery and Meditation Centre for a spiritual retreat.

Nature’s Playground:

• Hiking and Birdwatching: Kasar Devi Temple Almora offers numerous trails for nature enthusiasts. Hike to Balta waterfall, savor a farm-fresh thali at Tranquility homestay or explore Simtola Eco Park. For birdwatching, take a day trip to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, guided by the expert Hem Joshi.

Where to Stay:

• The Kumaon: Enjoy luxury and minimalist aesthetics with a view of the Himalayas at The Kumaon.
• Mohan’s Binsar Retreat: Experience beautifully designed mid-range rooms and indulge in delectable dining options.
• Kasar 360: A duplex with options for families and couples, offering comfortable accommodation.
• Norling Homestay and Ghuguti Homestay: Clean, serene spaces with a touch of local charm.

Culinary Adventures:

• Rainbow Cafe: Rediscover old favorites with their delectable falafels, shakshuka, and dumplings.
• Dolma: Savor momos and Thukpa by a Tibetan family at Dolma.
• Kasar Kitchen: Enjoy tandoori roti with mountain views and don’t miss the traditional Kumaoni thali.
• Baba Cakes: Treat yourself to freshly baked apple pies and brownies paired with piping hot filter coffee.
• Himalayan Hobbit Cafe: A multi-cuisine haven for a relaxing day in Kasar.

Local Shopping Treasures:

• SOS Organics: Explore beautifully packaged soaps, teas, honey, and more.
• Kumaon Khand: Discover unique hemp products, lip balms, and hemp flour.
• Himadri Hans Handloom: Witness local women crafting shawls, stoles, and weaves.
• Freedom Store: Find local products and daily necessities, along with a cup of lemon tea or coffee.
• Asharfi: For trendy clothing, explore this boutique designer store on the ridge.

• Kasar Devi Temple Almora is approximately an  9-hour motor drive by from Delhi, four lanes highway up to Haldwani.
• Alternatively, you can fly to Pant Nagar Airport from Delhi (four hours to Kasar) or Bareilly Airport (5.5 hours to Kasar Temple).
• Take morning Shatabdi Trail from Delhi, reach Kathgodam railway station around 11:30  and  by private car to Kasar Devi in 3-hours.

Useful Tips:

From Delhi by road trip to Kasar Devi Temple nearby Neem Karoli Baba Ashram,  potential congestion near the Kainchi Ashram , which is very popular spiritual attraction.  You can make there a quick stop to explore this divine ashram.

As it sits on a ridge with a spectacular view of the Himalayas, so any time the weather can turn chilly, ensure you’re well-prepared with warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy hiking shoes for your exploration.

For those who appreciate captivating stories, strike up a conversation with the long-time residents and locals at Kasar’s many hangout spots. They often share intriguing anecdotes about the town’s famous guests and residents.