Introduction: Where Spirituality Meets Cosmic Energy
Nestled on a ridge in the Kumaon Himalayas at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters (6,888 feet), Kasar Devi Temple is not just another hilltop shrine—it is one of the most unique spiritual destinations on the planet. Located just 8 kilometres from the cultural town of Almora in Uttarakhand, this ancient temple has drawn spiritual seekers, artists, and mystics from around the world for over a century.
What makes Kasar Devi Temple truly extraordinary is its location within the Van Allen Belt—a zone of highly charged geomagnetic particles discovered by NASA. It is one of only three places on Earth with such a powerful magnetic field, alongside Stonehenge in the UK and Machu Picchu in Peru . Visitors and meditators report feeling an immediate sense of calm, rejuvenation, and heightened spiritual awareness upon reaching the temple grounds—a phenomenon attributed to this unique geomagnetic energy.
The temple has been a magnet for luminaries across generations. Swami Vivekananda meditated here in the 1890s and wrote about his transformative experience. The poet Rabindranath Tagore, writer D.H. Lawrence, musician Bob Dylan, Beat poet Allen Ginsberg, and even The Beatles’ George Harrison have all been drawn to this mystical hilltop. During the 1960s and 1970s, Kasar Devi became a pivotal stop on the Hippie Trail, earning its ridge the nickname “Crank’s Ridge” or “Hippie Hill”.
Whether you are a spiritual seeker looking to meditate in a place of profound energy, a history enthusiast tracing the footsteps of Swami Vivekananda, a trekker exploring the beautiful Kumaon forests, or a traveller seeking a peaceful retreat with stunning Himalayan views, Kasar Devi Temple offers an experience that is truly one of a kind.
Key Information at a Glance:
History: From Ancient Temple to Global Spiritual Hub
The Ancient Temple (2nd Century CE)
The Kasar Devi Temple structure dates back to the 2nd Century CE, making it over 1,800 years old. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kasar Devi, a local incarnation of Goddess Durga, who is considered the protective deity of the region. The original rock temple was carved out of a cave formation, and its present structure was given shape in 1948 by the Birla family.
The temple is actually a complex of two different groups of temples—one dedicated to the Goddess and another to Lord Shiva and Bhairava. The main temple houses an Akhand Jyoti (eternal flame) that has been burning continuously for years, and a dhuni (havan kund) where wood logs are burned 24 hours a day. The ash from this dhuni is believed to be so powerful that it can even cure mental illness.
Swami Vivekananda’s Visit (1890s)
The first wave of global attention came to Kasar Devi when Swami Vivekananda visited and meditated here in the 1890s. He mentioned his profound experience in his diaries, and his visit put this remote Himalayan village on the spiritual map of the world.
Following Vivekananda, Walter Evans-Wentz—the pioneer in Tibetan Buddhist studies who later translated The Tibetan Book of the Dead—stayed here for some time.
The Mystics and Scholars (1930s-1960s)
In the 1930s, the Danish mystic Sunyata Baba (Alfred Sorensen) arrived and made Kasar Devi his home for over three decades. His presence attracted other Western seekers, including Ernst Hoffman, who became the Tibetan Buddhist Lama Anagarika Govinda, and his partner Li Goutami. In 1961, Govinda was visited by Beat poets Allen Ginsberg, Peter Orlovsky, and Gary Snyder.
The American psychologist Timothy Leary spent time here in the 1960s, writing much of his “psychedelic prayers” on what became known as Crank’s Ridge.
The Hippie Era (1960s-1970s)
At the peak of the Hippie movement, Kasar Devi became a prominent stop on the Hippie Trail—the overland route taken by Western travellers from Europe to India. Crank’s Ridge (colloquially known as Hippie Hill) became home to numerous bohemian artists, writers, and Western Tibetan Buddhists.
George Harrison of The Beatles, Cat Stevens, and the mystic-saint Anandamayi Ma all visited. Robert Thurman (father of actress Uma Thurman), a prominent Western Buddhist scholar, also spent time here. The writer D.H. Lawrence spent two summers in the area.
The Van Allen Belt Discovery
NASA’s exploration of the Van Allen Radiation Belt—a zone of energetic charged particles captured by Earth’s magnetosphere—revealed that Kasar Devi is one of only three places on the planet with such a highly charged geomagnetic field, alongside Stonehenge and Machu Picchu.
This scientific discovery explains why visitors have reported for centuries feeling an unusual sense of calm, energy, and spiritual upliftment at this location. The geomagnetic field is believed to enhance meditation and spiritual practices.
Kasar Devi Temple Today
Today, the temple continues to attract a diverse mix of pilgrims, trekkers, spiritual seekers, and tourists. The Uttarakhand government is developing the area as a tourist destination, with a ropeway from Almora to Kasar Devi currently under construction.
The Van Allen Belt: The Cosmic Connection
What is the Van Allen Belt?
The Van Allen Radiation Belt is a zone of energetic charged particles (mostly from solar wind) that are captured by and held around Earth by its magnetosphere. These belts were discovered by NASA scientist James Van Allen and are named after him.
Why Kasar Devi is Special
Kasar Devi is one of only three places on Earth where this highly charged geomagnetic field is accessible at ground level, alongside:
The Experiential Effect
Visitors to Kasar Devi consistently report:
- An immediate sense of calm and peace upon reaching the temple
- Disappearance of fatigue despite the steep climb
- Enhanced meditation experiences
- A feeling of being “rejuvenated” and “energized”
As one traveller described: “The climb up was steep, but the minute you set foot on the flat area surrounding the temple, the tiredness simply vanished. All you felt was a deep sense of serenity, uplifting energy and ease”
Geography and Location
Geographic Coordinates
Location
Kasar Devi is situated in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas. The village lies approximately:
- 8 km from Almora town
- 50 km from Nainital
- 88 km from Kathgodam Railway Station
- 125 km from Pantnagar Airport
Topography
The temple is perched on a hilltop on the edge of a ridge off the Almora-Bageshwar highway. It is situated on the Kaashay hills of the Kumaon Himalayas, overlooking the Hawalbagh Valley and offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range from Bandarpunch peak on the Himachal border to Api Himal in Nepal.
The Trek Route
There are two ways to reach the temple:
- By Road: A motorable road leads to the village, followed by a short walk
- By Trek: A 3-3.5 hour trek from Almora bus stand (8 km) through pine and deodar forests
Flora and Fauna
Forests and Vegetation
The Kasar Devi area is blessed with rich Himalayan vegetation:
| Forest Type | Dominant Species | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Pine Forests | Chir, Blue Pine | Scented air, carpeted with needles |
| Deodar | Cedrus deodara | Fragrant, tall evergreen trees |
| Oak | Quercus species | Dense canopies, autumn colors |
| Rhododendron | Rhododendron arboreum | Spring blooms (March-April), vibrant red/pink flowers |
The area is home to deodar and pine (Pinus roxburghii) forests, which provide a stunning backdrop to the temple.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located approximately 30 km from Kasar Devi, the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most significant protected areas in the Kumaon region.
Quick Facts:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Area | Approximately 45 sq km |
| Altitude Range | 900–2,400 meters |
| Established | 1988 |
| Famous For | Himalayan views, birdwatching, trekking |
Wildlife Highlights:
| Species | Description |
|---|---|
| Leopard | Present in the sanctuary |
| Himalayan Black Bear | Found in forested areas |
| Musk Deer | Endangered species |
| Barking Deer | Common |
| Fox | Present |
| Langur | Frequently seen |
Birdlife: The sanctuary is home to over 200 species of birds, including the colourful Himalayan Monal (state bird of Uttarakhand), koklass pheasant, cheer pheasant, and Himalayan griffon.
Zero Point: At an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters, Zero Point is the highest viewpoint in the sanctuary, offering panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, and Trishul. It is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset viewing.
How to Reach Kasar Devi Temple
By Air
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (approximately 125–127 km from Kasar Devi)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 125–127 km |
| Travel Time | 4–5 hours by taxi |
| Airlines | Regular flights from Delhi to Pantnagar (approx. 1 hour) |
| Onward Travel | Taxis available from the airport to Kasar Devi via Almora |
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (approximately 88–105 km from Kasar Devi)
| Train Name | From Delhi | Departure | Arrival (Kathgodam) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranikhet Express | Delhi | 10:05 PM | 5:05 AM | 7 hours |
| Shatabdi Express | Delhi | 6:00 AM | 11:40 AM | 5h 40m |
From Kathgodam station, taxis and buses are available for the 3–4 hour drive to Kasar Devi via Almora.
By Road
Kasar Devi is well-connected by road to major cities in North India:
Road Conditions: The roads are generally good but winding, especially after Almora. The final approach to Kasar Devi involves a scenic drive through pine forests.
Bus Services: Regular state transport and private buses operate from Delhi, Nainital, and Kathgodam to Almora. From Almora, local taxis and buses are available to Kasar Devi.
The Trek from Almora (3–3.5 hours)
For those seeking a more adventurous approach, a trek from Almora to Kasar Devi is a rewarding option.
What to Expect:
- The trail begins near the Almora bus stand
- In the first 500 meters, you enter beautiful pine and deodar forests
- The path does not branch out—it is easy to follow
- In an hour, you reach clearings with views of Himalayan peaks
- You will see migratory birds (Woodpeckers, Blackbirds, Forktail, Pheasant, Laughing Thrush, Kalij) arriving from early November
Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance (km) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | 380 |
| Nainital | 50 |
| Almora | 8 |
| Kathgodam | 88 |
| Pantnagar Airport | 125 |
| Haldwani | 100 |
| Bhimtal | 40 |
| Ranikhet | 50 |
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Climate Overview
Kasar Devi experiences a pleasant climate with distinct seasons. The village’s elevation ensures cool temperatures even in summer, while winter brings cold weather and occasional snowfall.
Month-by-Month Temperature Guide
Best Time to Visit by Season
Kasar Devi Fair – Kartik Poornima (November–December)
The annual Kasar Devi Fair is held at the temple on the occasion of Kartik Poornima (full moon day in the Hindu month of Kartik), corresponding to November–December.
What to Expect:
- A large fair with local cultural programs
- Special prayers and rituals at the temple
- A vibrant atmosphere with local food and handicraft stalls
- An ideal time to witness the local Kumaoni culture
Best Time of Day for Visit
| Time | Activity | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Early Morning (5:00–7:00 AM) | Meditation, sunrise viewing | Best for peaceful experience, clear Himalayan views |
| Late Morning (9:00–11:00 AM) | Temple visit | Comfortable temperatures |
| Afternoon (12:00–3:00 PM) | Photography | Good light for valley and peak views |
| Late Afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) | Sunset viewing | Stunning colors over the Himalayas |
Top Attractions and Places to Visit
1. Kasar Devi Temple – The Main Shrine
The Kasar Devi Temple is the primary attraction, dedicated to Goddess Kasar Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
What to Expect:
- Age: 2nd Century CE (over 1,800 years old)
- Architecture: Simple rock temple carved from a cave formation; the present structure was built in 1948 by the Birla family
- Akhand Jyoti: An eternal flame that burns continuously
- Dhuni (Havan Kund): A sacred fire pit where wood logs burn 24 hours a day; the ash is believed to have healing properties
- Shiva Temple: A second temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Bhairava
Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (daily)
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time: Early morning for peaceful darshan and meditation
2. Crank’s Ridge – Hippie Hill
Just outside the village lies Crank’s Ridge, colloquially known as “Hippie Hill”. This pine-covered ridge was a popular destination during the Hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s and continues to attract trekkers and tourists seeking its unique energy.
What to Expect:
- Stunning views of the Himalayas
- A peaceful, offbeat atmosphere
- The ridge got its name from American psychologist Timothy Leary, who “streaked” here in the 1960s
- George Harrison, Cat Stevens, and Allen Ginsberg all visited this ridge
Best Time: Sunrise for breathtaking Himalayan views
3. Almora Town – The Cultural Capital
Almora is the district headquarters and a cultural hub of the Kumaon region, located just 8 km from Kasar Devi.
Key Attractions in Almora:
- Nanda Devi Temple: The most revered temple in Almora
- Bright End Corner: Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Chitai Temple: Famous for thousands of brass bells
- Lala Bazar: A 200-year-old market with paved stone streets
- Kasar Devi: The temple village itself
Distance from Kasar Devi: 8 km
4. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located approximately 30 km from Kasar Devi, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers.
What to Expect:
- Zero Point: The highest viewpoint (2,400 m) with 270-degree Himalayan views
- Wildlife: Leopards, Himalayan black bears, barking deer, musk deer
- Birdwatching: Over 200 bird species, including the Himalayan Monal
- Trekking: Several trails through oak and rhododendron forests
- Binsar Mahadev Temple: An ancient temple within the sanctuary
Distance from Kasar Devi: 30 km
Entry Fee: ₹150 per person (approx.)
Best Time: March–June and September–November
5. Katarmal Sun Temple
Katarmal is famous for its 800-year-old Sun Temple, the only Sun temple in Kumaon and the second most important Sun temple in India after Konark.
What to Expect:
- Constructed by the Katyuri Kings in the 9th century CE
- 44 smaller temples surrounding the main deity of Surya (called Burhadita or Vraddhaditya)
- Given the status of a monument of national importance in 1958
Distance from Kasar Devi: 17 km
Best Time: October–March for clear views
6. Jageshwar Dham – The Valley of Temples
Jageshwar is one of the most important religious places in Kumaon, believed to be the abode of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
What to Expect:
- 124 temples and hundreds of magnificent statues of exquisite craftsmanship
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva, mentioned in the Mahabharata
- Located in a narrow valley covered with cedar trees
- Two streams, Nandini and Surabhi, flow down the hills and meet near the sacred spot
- A huge fair is held every year during the monsoons
Distance from Kasar Devi: 35 km
Best Time: Year-round; special fair during monsoons
7. Ranikhet – The Queen’s Meadow
Ranikhet is a beautiful cantonment town located approximately 50 km from Kasar Devi.
What to Expect:
- Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum: Displays military artefacts
- Chaubatiya Gardens: Orchards of apples, plums, peaches, and apricots
- Jhoola Devi Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Durga, covered in bells
- Golf Course: Beautifully maintained
Distance from Kasar Devi: 50 km
Best Time: March–June, September–November
8. Kausani – The Switzerland of India
Kausani is famous for its breathtakingly close views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli.
What to Expect:
- Anasakti Ashram: Where Mahatma Gandhi stayed and wrote his commentary on the Gita
- Sumitranandan Pant Museum: Birthplace of the famous Hindi poet
- Kausani Tea Estate: Locally grown Himalayan tea
Distance from Kasar Devi: 52 km
Best Time: Year-round; October–March for clearest views
Things to Do in Kasar Devi
1. Meditation at the Temple
The temple’s location within the Van Allen Belt makes it a powerful place for meditation. Many visitors report feeling an immediate sense of calm and heightened awareness upon reaching the temple grounds. The dhuni (sacred fire pit) and Akhand Jyoti (eternal flame) add to the spiritual atmosphere.
Best Time: Early morning (5:00–7:00 AM)
2. Sunrise and Sunset Viewing
The hilltop offers spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset over the Himalayan peaks.
Sunrise: The first rays of the sun hit Nanda Devi and other peaks
Sunset: Golden hues spreading across the Kumaon hills
Best Viewpoints: Crank’s Ridge, the temple premises
3. Trekking
The area offers several trekking opportunities :
| Trek | Distance | Difficulty | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Almora to Kasar Devi | 8 km | Easy | 3–3.5 hours |
| Kasar Devi to Katarmal | 17 km | Easy | 3–4 hours |
| Kasar Devi to Binsar | 30 km (drive) + trek | Easy-Moderate | 1 hour drive + 2–3 hours trek |
4. Birdwatching
The forests around Kasar Devi and the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary are home to over 200 bird species, including the colourful Himalayan Monal.
Best Time: Early morning (November–March for migratory birds)
5. Photography
The combination of ancient temple architecture, pine forests, and Himalayan views makes Kasar Devi a photographer’s paradise.
Best Spots: Temple premises, Crank’s Ridge, viewpoints along the Almora-Kasar Devi road
6. Explore Local Cafes and Restaurants
The Kasar Devi area has several charming cafes offering good food and stunning views :
7. Visit Nearby Waterfalls
Dhokaney Waterfall is a natural attraction located near Kasar Devi, offering a refreshing experience amidst lush green surroundings.
Distance: Near Kasar Devi
Best Time: Post-monsoon (September–October)
Local Cuisine: What to Eat
The Kasar Devi area and Almora offer a range of dining options, from local Kumaoni cuisine to continental food.
Must-Try Kumaoni Dishes
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Aloo Ke Gutke | Spiced fried potatoes with local Kumaoni flavors |
| Bhatt ki Churkani | Spiced fried potatoes with local Kumaoni flavours |
| Chainsoo | Protein-rich black gram curry |
| Gahat Ki Dal | Horse gram lentil soup, warming and nutritious |
| Mandua Roti | Black soybean curry, a regional speciality |
| Jhangora Kheer | Barnyard millet sweet pudding |
| Bal Mithai | Famous chocolate-like sweet from Kumaon |
Popular Restaurants in Kasar Devi
| Name | Cuisine | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Himalayan Hobbit House | Continental, Indian | Himalayan views, good food |
| The Himalayan Hippies Cafe | Multi-cuisine | Art gallery, creative ambiance |
| Mohan’s Cafe | Indian | Scenic view, good food |
Dining Tips
- Most guesthouses and homestays offer meal packages
- Carry packaged snacks for treks
- Pure vegetarian options are widely available
- Try the local chai (tea) at small stalls
Accommodation Options
Kasar Devi offers a range of accommodation options, from budget homestays to comfortable guesthouses.
Types of Accommodation
Where to Stay
| Area | Best For | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kasar Devi Village | Nature lovers, peace seekers | Close to temple, stunning views, homestays |
| Almora Town | Convenience | More options, shops, restaurants, 8 km away |
Booking Tips
- Book well in advance for peak seasons (March–June, September–November) and during the Kasar Devi Fair (November)
- Homestay rates are negotiable and depend on the season
- For camping, bring your own tent or arrange through local contacts
- Carry a valid ID proof for check-in
Sample Itineraries
1-Day Kasar Devi Day Trip (From Almora)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Depart from Almora |
| 7:30 AM | Arrive at Kasar Devi, visit temple, meditate |
| 9:00 AM | Explore Crank’s Ridge, enjoy Himalayan views |
| 10:30 AM | Breakfast at a local cafe (Himalayan Hobbit House) |
| 12:00 PM | Nature walk in the surrounding forests |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch at Mohan’s Cafe |
| 3:00 PM | Photography and relaxation |
| 4:00 PM | Depart for Almora |
2-Day Kasar Devi & Almora Weekend Getaway
Day 1: Arrival and Kasar Devi Exploration
- Morning: Arrive in Almora from Kathgodam/Delhi
- Afternoon: Drive to Kasar Devi (8 km), check into homestay
- Evening: Visit Kasar Devi Temple, Crank’s Ridge, sunset views
- Night: Dinner at Himalayan Hobbit House, overnight in Kasar Devi
Day 2: Almora Exploration and Departure
- Morning: Sunrise views, meditation at the temple
- Late Morning: Drive to Almora, visit Nanda Devi Temple, Bright End Corner
- Afternoon: Explore Lala Bazar, lunch at a local restaurant
- Evening: Depart for the return journey
3-Day Kasar Devi & Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 1: Arrival in Almora, drive to Kasar Devi, temple visit, overnight in Kasar Devi
Day 2: Early morning to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (30 km), trek to Zero Point for Himalayan views, birdwatching, overnight near Binsar
Day 3: Return to Kasar Devi, explore Almora, depart
Travel Tips and Important Information
Before You Go
- Carry Cash: ATMs are limited in Kasar Devi; bring sufficient cash from Almora or Kathgodam
- Check Weather: Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to slippery trails and landslide risk
- Advance Booking: Recommended for peak seasons (March–June, September–November) and during the Kasar Devi Fair
- Dress Modestly: Kasar Devi is a sacred site; dress appropriately when visiting the temple
- Carry Water: For the trek from Almora, carry at least 2 litres of water as there are no water sources on the trail
During Your Visit
- Maintain Silence: People meditate here; maintain silence and never disturb others
- Dress modestly: Respect local traditions and dress appropriately
- Carry Warm Clothing: Even in summer, evenings are cool; winter requires heavy woollens
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The temple involves walking on uneven surfaces and stone steps
- Respect the Dhuni: The sacred fire pit is considered holy; do not disturb it
Safety Tips
- Road Safety: Mountain roads require patience; avoid night driving
- Monsoon Travel: Avoid July–August due to landslide risk
- Trekking Safety: The trail from Almora is well-marked but can be steep; wear appropriate footwear
- Wildlife: In Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, maintain a safe distance from animals
Packing Checklist
| Season | Essentials |
|---|---|
| All Year | Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, power bank, camera, cash |
| Summer (Mar-Jun) | Light cotton clothes, a light sweater for evenings, a hat |
| Monsoon (Jul-Aug) | Raincoat, waterproof footwear, umbrella (avoid travel if possible) |
| Winter (Oct-Mar) | Light cotton clothes, a light sweater for evenings, hat |
Photography Tips
- Best Spots: Temple premises, Crank’s Ridge (Himalayan views), sunrise/sunset points
- Best Time: Early morning for clear mountain views; golden hour (4:00–5:30 PM) for landscapes
- Camera Gear: Carry extra batteries—cold drains them quickly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Kasar Devi Temple famous for?
A: Kasar Devi Temple is famous for being one of only three places on Earth located within the Van Allen Belt (alongside Stonehenge and Machu Picchu), giving it a unique geomagnetic field. It is also known for its association with Swami Vivekananda, Bob Dylan, George Harrison, and as a stop on the Hippie Trail.
Q2: What is the Van Allen Belt?
A: The Van Allen Belt is a zone of energetic charged particles captured by Earth’s magnetosphere. Kasar Devi is one of only three places on the planet where this highly charged geomagnetic field is accessible at ground level.
Q3: What is the best time to visit Kasar Devi Temple?
A: The best time to visit is March to June (summer) and September to November (post-monsoon). The weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear.
Q4: How far is Kasar Devi Temple from Delhi?
A: The distance from Delhi is approximately 380 km, with a travel time of 9–10 hours by road.
Q5: How do I reach Kasar Devi Temple?
A: By road from Almora (8 km), by train to Kathgodam (88 km) followed by taxi/bus, or by flight to Pantnagar Airport (125 km) followed by taxi.
Q6: What is the altitude of Kasar Devi Temple?
A: The temple is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters (6,888 feet) above sea level.
Q7: Is there a trek to Kasar Devi Temple?
A: Yes, there is an 8 km trek from Almora bus stand to Kasar Devi that takes 3–3.5 hours through pine and deodar forests.
Q8: What is the history of Swami Vivekananda at Kasar Devi?
A: Swami Vivekananda visited and meditated at Kasar Devi in the 1890s and mentioned his transformative experience in his diaries.
Q9: What is Crank’s Ridge?
A: Crank’s Ridge, also known as “Hippie Hill,” is a pine-covered ridge near the temple that was a popular destination during the Hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s. It was visited by George Harrison, Cat Stevens, and Allen Ginsberg.
Q10: What is the Kasar Devi Fair?
A: The Kasar Devi Fair is held annually at the temple on Kartik Poornima (November–December). It features special prayers, rituals, and local cultural programs.
Q11: What are the temple timings?
A: The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Q12: Is there an entry fee for the temple?
A: No, entry to the temple is free.
Q13: Are there accommodation options in Kasar Devi?
A: Yes, Kasar Devi offers homestays (₹500–800 per night) and guesthouses (₹2,500+ per night). Camping is also possible.
Q14: What is the Akhand Jyoti?
A: The Akhand Jyoti is an eternal flame that has been burning continuously for years at the temple. There is also a dhuni (havan kund) where wood logs are burned 24 hours a day.
Q15: Is Kasar Devi suitable for senior citizens?
A: Yes, Kasar Devi is accessible by road, making it suitable for senior citizens. The temple is a short walk from the parking area. For those who prefer trekking, the 8 km route from Almora may be challenging.
Plan Your Kasar Devi Temple Journey with Discover Uttarakhand
At Discover Uttarakhand, we’ve been organising unforgettable spiritual journeys across Devbhoomi since 1997. As a trusted local operator with deep knowledge of Kasar Devi, Almora, and the Kumaon region, we offer:
- ✅ Customised Kasar Devi tour packages (1 to 4 days)
- ✅ Combined itineraries covering Kasar Devi, Binsar, Jageshwar, Almora, and Ranikhet
- ✅ Comfortable transport with experienced hill drivers
- ✅ Verified accommodations in Kasar Devi and Almora (homestays to resorts)
- ✅ Trekking arrangements with local guides
- ✅ 24/7 customer support throughout your journey
Recommended Packages
| Package | Duration | Starting Point | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kasar Devi Day Trip | 1 Day | Almora | Temple darshan, Crank’s Ridge, Himalayan views |
| Kasar Devi & Almora Weekend | 2 Nights / 3 Days | Kathgodam | Temple, Nanda Devi Temple, Bright End Corner, Lala Bazar |
| Kumaon Spiritual Trek | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Kathgodam | Kasar Devi, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point |
| Complete Kumaon Explorer | 5 Nights / 6 Days | Delhi | Kasar Devi, Almora, Jageshwar, Ranikhet, Binsar |
Book your Kasar Devi Temple journey today and experience the unique cosmic energy of this mystical Himalayan shrine.
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