If you are looking to rejuvenate yourself in an offbeat destination, then Kasar devi temple is your perfect getaway. Situated near Almora in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand it is a beautiful temple dedicated to the Godess Kasar devi. You can also explore many interesting places nearby like the Binsar wildlife sanctuary, Jageshwar dham and Katarmal sun temple.
About the temple
In this cave Swami Vivekanand performed spiritual practices. The temple consists of two different groups one of Devi and another of lord Shiva and Bhairava. The main temple consists of 'akhand jyoti' which keeps on burning permanently. The region surrounding the temple has an enormous geomagnetic field. You can spend hours meditating, contemplating and experiencing the spiritual peace which we have lost in this materialistic world.
Things to do near Kasar devi temple
Explore local cafes
If you are visiting in the spring season of March-April, you can try the delicious 'buransh' or rhododendron flower juice in Kasar kitchen or Kasar heart cafe while enjoying the scenic beauty of the mountains.
Visit Binsar wildlife sanctuary
If you are a nature lover fond of bird watching, Binsar wildlife sanctuary will exceed your expectations! It is truly a must visit hidden gem; a protected wildlife area comprising oak, rhododendron and pine forests. Binsar will take you by surprise especially in the spring season between March- April when the rhododendron flowers are in full bloom making the entire landscape paradisical!
It is only 17 km from Kasar Devi, and you can rent a two-wheeler to reach and explore the forest since the roads inside the sanctuary are rugged and narrow, not ideal for cars.
Visit the Katarmal Sun temple
Katarmal Surya Mandir is a beautiful ancient sun temple of Kumaon region known particularly for its Nagara style of architecture. It is located around 15 km from Almora.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kasar Devi is usually between the months of October to January after the monsoons because the skies are clear and you can view the Himalayan peaks Kedarnath, Trishul, Nanda devi and Shivling from the Binsar wildlife sanctuary.
Also read: Places to visit in Nainital
How to reach
Kathgodam and Haldwani are the nearest railway stations from where shared and private taxis to Almora are easily available. Almora is a three-hour drive from these places.