The Kasar Devi Temple is an ancient temple located near Almora in Uttarakhand, India. It is situated on the Kashyap Hill and is dedicated to the goddess Kasar Devi. The temple holds historical and spiritual significance and is known to have been a destination for many spiritual seekers and hippie travelers, including renowned figures like Swami Vivekananda.
The best time to visit the Kasar Devi Temple is from March to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering a wonderful view of the Himalayas. The winter months from December to February can also be a good time for those who enjoy the cold, although it can get quite chilly.
Tourists can reach the Kasar Devi Temple by first traveling to Almora town. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 115 km away, and the nearest railway station is at Kathgodam, approximately 90 km away. From either, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Almora. The temple is located just around 9 km from Almora town and can be reached by hired taxi, local shared taxis, or by trekking.
The Kasar Devi Temple becomes a hub of activity during the Kasar Devi Fair, which is held annually in the month of November/December during the Kartik Poornima (full moon). It is a time when the local culture is showcased, and pilgrims from various places visit the temple. There are also other spiritual gatherings and events at different times of the year.
As of the last update, there is no entry fee for visiting the Kasar Devi Temple. However, visitors can make voluntary donations for the maintenance of the temple premises.
The area around Kasar Devi Temple has several guest houses, homestays, and hotels catering to different budgets and preferences. There are also restaurants and cafes offering local Kumaoni cuisine as well as international dishes. Additionally, one can find shops selling local handicrafts and organic products.
Apart from visiting the temple, tourists can enjoy nature walks, trekking, bird watching, and exploring nearby attractions such as Crank's Ridge, also known as 'Hippie Hill', Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Almora town market. The serene and picturesque environment is also perfect for meditation and yoga.
The temple dates back to the 2nd century CE and has been mentioned in the Skanda Purana as a revered site. In the 1890s, Swami Vivekananda visited and meditated here, which is one of the main reasons for its historical importance. In the 1960s and 1970s, it was part of the Hippie Trail, attracting many western seekers and intellectuals, including Timothy Leary, famous for his advocacy of psychedelic drugs.
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