Last Updated: February 2026
Are you looking for a peaceful hill village in Kumaon that carries centuries of spiritual history and a genuinely unique cosmic connection? Kasar Devi, perched just 8 km from Almora in Uttarakhand, is exactly that kind of place. This tiny hamlet sits at an altitude of about 2,116 metres (roughly 6,940 Ft) on the Kaashay hills, offering panoramic views of the Kumaon valleys and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Unlike the crowded tourist spots, Kasar Devi rewards you with silence, forest walks, and a temple that dates back to the 2nd century CE.
I have been traveling through the Kumaon region for years, and Kasar Devi remains one of those places that pulls you back. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history lover, or simply someone who wants to sit on a ridge and watch the Himalayas turn gold at sunset, this guide covers everything you need to plan your trip. Let me walk you through the complete details.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Quick Facts About Kasar Devi
Kasar Devi is a small village and pilgrimage site near Almora in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand. The village is named after the Kasar Devi Temple, dedicated to a local goddess (a form of Durga or Shakti), and the temple structure is believed to date to the 2nd century CE. The village sits at approximately 2,116 metres above sea level. It is located 8 km from Almora by road, 88 km from Kathgodam railway station, and 124 km from Pantnagar airport. The area falls under the Van Allen Belt, a geomagnetic zone that places it in the same energy category as Machu Picchu in Peru and Stonehenge in the UK.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Kaashay Hills, 8 km from Almora, Kumaon, Uttarakhand |
| Altitude | 2,116 m (approx. 6,940 Ft) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Kathgodam (88 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Pantnagar (124 km) |
| Distance from Delhi | Approx. 375 km (10-12 hours by road) |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June, September to November |
| Known For | Kasar Devi Temple, Van Allen Belt cosmic energy, Crank’s Ridge (Hippie Hill) |
| Budget Stay | Rs 500 – Rs 1,500/night (budget), Rs 2,000 – Rs 5,000/night (mid-range) |
What Makes Kasar Devi Special? The Van Allen Belt Connection
One of the most fascinating aspects of Kasar Devi is its location on the Van Allen Belt, a geomagnetic zone surrounding the Earth. According to various studies and local belief, there are three spots on our planet where gaps in this magnetic field create an unusually high geomagnetic pull and a strong connection to cosmic energy. These three places are Machu Picchu in Peru, Stonehenge in the UK, and Kasar Devi in Almora. This triangle of cosmic energy has drawn researchers and spiritual seekers alike.
The geomagnetic properties of this area are believed to influence alpha brain waves, which are linked to calmness, creativity, and deeper states of meditation. This is likely why Swami Vivekananda chose to meditate here in the 1890s, and why spiritual seekers from around the world continued to gravitate toward this ridge for over a century. Whether you are a believer in cosmic energy or a skeptic, the fact remains that Kasar Devi has attracted some of the most significant spiritual and creative minds in modern history. That, in itself, makes it worth experiencing.
What Is the History of Kasar Devi?
The Kasar Devi Temple is believed to date back to the 2nd century CE and finds mention in the Skanda Purana. However, the village truly came into prominence in the 1890s when Swami Vivekananda visited and meditated here. He was so deeply moved by the place that he mentioned Kasar Devi in his writings. This put the village on the spiritual map of India.
In the 1930s, Danish mystic Alfred Sorensen (known as Sunyata Baba) made Kasar Devi his home and lived here for over three decades. Ernst Hoffman, who later became Tibetan Buddhist Lama Anagarika Govinda, along with Li Goutami, also settled here. Their presence attracted a steady stream of western spiritual seekers. In 1961, Govinda was visited by Beat poets Allen Ginsberg, Peter Orlovsky, and Gary Snyder, further cementing the village’s reputation as a spiritual hub.
Crank’s Ridge and the Hippie Trail
At the peak of the Hippie movement in the 1960s and 1970s, Kasar Devi became a part of the famous Hippie Trail. A particular ridge just outside the village, known as Crank’s Ridge (or colloquially, Hippie Hill), became a gathering point for bohemian artists, writers, and western Tibetan Buddhists. The ridge got its name in hippie circles after American psychologist Timothy Leary visited in the 1960s and wrote the majority of his “psychedelic prayers” here.
Other well-known personalities who visited Kasar Devi include Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Cat Stevens, and the mystic-saint Anandamayi Ma. Hence, if you are someone who appreciates history and counter-culture heritage, walking along Crank’s Ridge is almost like walking through a living museum of the 1970s spiritual movement.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Kasar Devi?
The best months to visit Kasar Devi are March to June and September to November. During spring and early summer (March to June), temperatures are pleasant, ranging between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius, with clear skies that offer spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks. Post-monsoon months (September to November) bring a similar temperate climate with fresh greenery and cleaner air after the rains.
Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dipping close to freezing, and you may even experience snowfall in December and January. If you enjoy the cold and want a quieter experience, winter is fine, but keep in mind that some accommodations may close during this period.
Monsoon (July to August) is best avoided. The roads in this part of Uttarakhand can get battered by heavy rains, and landslides are a genuine concern. If you are not an experienced hill driver, I suggest staying away during monsoon.
If you want to experience the cultural side, plan your visit around the Kasar Devi Fair, held at the temple on Kartik Poornima (typically November or December). It is one of the biggest local events and gives you a taste of authentic Kumaoni culture.
How to Reach Kasar Devi from Delhi?
The distance from Delhi to Kasar Devi is approximately 375 km and takes about 10-12 hours by road if you travel via Moradabad and Haldwani. Here are all the ways you can reach Kasar Devi.
By Road (Self-Drive)
The most common route from Delhi is: Delhi – Moradabad – Haldwani – Kathgodam – Bhimtal/Bhowali – Almora – Kasar Devi. The roads up to Almora are well-maintained, and any car can handle this drive comfortably. From Almora to Kasar Devi is just 8 km on a narrow but motorable hill road. I suggest starting early from Delhi (around 4-5 AM) to avoid traffic through Ghaziabad and Moradabad.
By Bus
UTC (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation) and KMOU (Kumaon Motor Owners Union) buses ply regularly from ISBT Anand Vihar, Delhi to both Kathgodam and Almora. From Kathgodam, you can take another bus or shared taxi to Almora (about 88 km, 3-3.5 hours). Once in Almora, hire a local taxi for the remaining 8 km to Kasar Devi (costs around Rs 300-500 one way). You can also check UTC Online for bus schedules and online booking.
By Train
Kathgodam is the nearest railway station, located about 88 km from Kasar Devi. The Ranikhet Express and Sampark Kranti Express are two popular trains from Delhi to Kathgodam. From Kathgodam, taxis and buses run frequently to Almora. A taxi from Kathgodam to Kasar Devi will cost approximately Rs 1,500-2,000 for the full 96 km journey.
By Air
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located 124 km from Kasar Devi. Flights from Delhi to Pantnagar are available but limited. From Pantnagar, you will need to hire a taxi to Almora (about 3-4 hours) and then continue to Kasar Devi. A taxi from Pantnagar to Kasar Devi will cost approximately Rs 2,500-3,500.
What Are the Top Things to Do at Kasar Devi?
Despite being a small village, Kasar Devi and its surroundings offer plenty to do. Here is everything you can explore in the area.
Visit the Kasar Devi Temple
This is the primary attraction. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kasar Devi, a form of Shakti. A winding walkway from the gateway on the main road leads up to the temple. The temple consists of two groups of shrines, one dedicated to the Devi and the other to Shiv Ji and Bhairav. The main temple houses an akhand jyoti (eternal flame) that has been kept burning for many years, and a dhuni (havan kund) where a wood log burns continuously. Devotees believe that the ash from this dhuni has healing properties, including for mental health issues.
The views from the temple are spectacular. On a clear day, you can see from Bandarpunch peak on the Himachal Pradesh border all the way to Api Himal in Nepal, with the Almora ridge and Hawalbagh Valley in the foreground. While you can hire a cab to reach the temple, the best way is to hike up. The walk takes about 20-30 minutes from the main road and the views along the way will not disappoint.
Walk Along Crank’s Ridge (Hippie Hill)
Just beyond the Kasar Devi Temple lies the famous Crank’s Ridge. This forested trail is peaceful and ideal for reflection, with viewpoints that offer spectacular sunrise and sunset views. The trail is easy and can be done by anyone with basic fitness. In the 1960s and 70s, this ridge was home to poets, artists, and spiritual seekers from across the world. Walking here gives you a sense of that history.
Meditation and Yoga
Given the Van Allen Belt connection and the temple’s spiritual history, Kasar Devi is a popular spot for meditation and yoga. Several accommodations in the area offer yoga sessions, and the quiet environment makes it easy to find a spot and sit with your thoughts. If you are coming specifically for meditation, the early morning hours at the temple or along Crank’s Ridge are the best.
Explore the Village
Exploring the village and understanding the way of life in the hills is something I personally enjoy. Villages like Kasar Devi give you a unique opportunity to truly unwind and immerse yourself in the local experience. The dense forests around the village are a treat for nature lovers. You also get to learn about Uttarakhand’s Kumaoni culture, traditions, and the simple lifestyle of hill communities. Keep in mind that these are real communities, not tourist setups. Please be respectful of their space and way of life.
Bird Watching at Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is just about 22 km from Kasar Devi and is an ideal spot for spotting exotic birds and wildlife. A pair of binoculars is all you need to spot a wide range of residential and migratory birds that visit the sanctuary during the migratory season. The forest trails inside Binsar are well-maintained and make for a lovely half-day outing.
Visit Nearby Attractions
There are several places worth visiting near Kasar Devi:
- Bright End Corner (2 km from Almora): A viewpoint famous for Himalayan sunrises and sunsets. Especially stunning in winter.
- Jageshwar Dham (35 km): A temple complex of 124 ancient shrines in a cedar forest. One of the most significant Shiva temple complexes in India.
- Katarmal Sun Temple (17 km): A 9th-century sun temple with remarkable stone architecture, second only to the Konark Sun Temple.
- Kausani (52 km): Known as the “Switzerland of India” for its panoramic Himalayan views, a great day trip or overnight extension.
- Almora Town (8 km): Visit the heritage markets on Mall Road for Kumaoni sweets (especially bal mithai and singauri), woolen shawls, and copper crafts.
Where to Stay at Kasar Devi?
Kasar Devi has a growing number of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts. Since the village is small, I suggest booking in advance, especially during peak season (April-June) and around the Kasar Devi Fair.
Here are some options across different budgets:
- Budget (Rs 500 – Rs 1,500/night): KMVN Guest House (KMVN website), Mohan Cafe, Kripal Guest House. These offer basic but clean rooms with valley views.
- Mid-Range (Rs 2,000 – Rs 5,000/night): The Hosteller Kasar Devi (starting from around Rs 800/bed in dorms, Rs 3,000+ for private rooms), goSTOPS Kasar Devi, Kasar Jungle Resort. These offer better amenities and common areas for socializing.
- Premium (Rs 5,000+/night): Imperial Heights Resort, The Kasar Himalayan Heights. These offer premium views and facilities including in-house restaurants.
You can also plan your travels so that you stay in Almora and visit Kasar Devi as a day trip. Almora has a much wider range of hotels and restaurants. In case you are planning to explore the wider Kumaon region, Almora works as a convenient base.
What to Eat at Kasar Devi?
Given the proximity to Almora (just 8 km), eating options are not an issue at all. You can find cafes and restaurants along the Binsar-Almora Road. Several of the guesthouses and hostels in Kasar Devi also serve meals.
Do try some of the local Kumaoni delicacies when you are here. Bal Mithai (a chocolate-like sweet coated with sugar balls) and Singauri (a coconut sweet wrapped in a green leaf) are Almora’s signature sweets. You will find these at shops on Almora’s Mall Road. For meals, expect simple North Indian food at dhabas and cafes. A meal at a local dhaba will cost about Rs 100-200 per person, while cafe meals run Rs 200-400.
How to Plan Your Kasar Devi Itinerary?
Kasar Devi works best as a 2-3 day trip from Delhi. Here is a suggested itinerary that covers the highlights.
Day 1: Delhi to Almora/Kasar Devi
Start early from Delhi (4-5 AM). Drive via Moradabad and Haldwani. Reach Almora by afternoon (10-12 hours including breaks). Check into your accommodation at Kasar Devi or Almora. If you arrive with daylight remaining, take an evening walk to Bright End Corner for sunset views.
Day 2: Kasar Devi Temple, Crank’s Ridge, and Nearby Sightseeing
Start your morning with a hike to the Kasar Devi Temple. Spend time at the temple, then walk along Crank’s Ridge. Post lunch, drive to Jageshwar Dham (35 km) or Katarmal Sun Temple (17 km). Return to Kasar Devi for the evening. Alternatively, visit Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary for birdwatching (22 km, needs about 3-4 hours).
Day 3: Almora Town and Return
Explore Almora’s Mall Road, pick up Bal Mithai and other local souvenirs. Visit the Nanda Devi Temple in the town. Start your return drive to Delhi by late morning. You can also extend this trip by adding a visit to Kausani (52 km from Almora) or Chaukori for a more extended Kumaon circuit.
What Is the Budget for a Kasar Devi Trip?
Here is a rough budget breakdown for a 2-night, 3-day trip to Kasar Devi from Delhi (per person, assuming a group of 2-4 people in a car).
| Expense | Budget (Rs) | Mid-Range (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (Delhi-Almora-Delhi, ~750 km) | 2,500-3,000 (split) | 2,500-3,000 (split) |
| Accommodation (2 nights) | 1,000-3,000 | 4,000-10,000 |
| Food (3 days) | 600-1,200 | 1,200-2,400 |
| Local Taxi/Transport | 300-500 | 500-1,000 |
| Sightseeing/Entry Fees | 100-200 | 200-400 |
| Total per person | Rs 4,500-8,000 | Rs 8,500-17,000 |
If you are traveling by bus from Delhi, replace the fuel cost with bus tickets (roughly Rs 600-1,200 per person round trip to Kathgodam/Almora). A taxi from Kathgodam to Kasar Devi adds about Rs 1,500-2,000 one way (split between passengers). Hence, a solo budget traveler using buses can manage the entire trip for Rs 4,000-6,000 for 3 days.
Important Tips for Visiting Kasar Devi
- Mobile network: Jio and Airtel work in and around Almora. Coverage at Kasar Devi village can be patchy. BSNL has decent coverage in the region.
- ATMs: Available in Almora town. Carry enough cash before heading to Kasar Devi as there are no ATMs in the village.
- Clothing: Even in summer, evenings can get cool at this altitude. Carry a light jacket. In winter, carry warm woolens. If you are visiting for a snowfall experience near Delhi, Kasar Devi in December-January is a solid option.
- Road conditions: The road from Almora to Kasar Devi is narrow but well-maintained. Any car can handle it. Avoid driving during heavy rain or fog.
- Altitude: At about 6,940 Ft, altitude sickness is not a concern here. However, some people may feel mild exertion on the uphill walks.
- Respect local customs: The Kasar Devi Temple is an active place of worship. Dress modestly and maintain silence inside the temple premises.
A Humble Appeal
It is my humble request to anyone reading this to PLEASE not litter in the hills. Even if you are going to touristy places, and especially in far-flung, isolated villages, please ensure you clean up after yourself. Carry a water bottle with you and keep refilling it. If you have to buy filtered water, please ensure you dispose of the bottle properly.
There are no cleanup crews coming after you to pick up your trash. It breaks my heart to go into the hills and see plastic bottles, cigarette butts, paper plates, half-eaten food containers, and discarded clothes strewn around.
I love the hills, as I am sure you do too! Let us do our part in ensuring that when we return the next time, the place is still the same. Anyone who travels through the hills is a part of a very sacred community. It is our duty to ensure the hills are clean for our community. We should not be making it difficult for people living in these villages in already tough circumstances! With folded hands, I request you to please clean up after yourself.
Kasar Devi as Part of a Larger Kumaon Trip
If you have more than 3 days, I highly recommend combining Kasar Devi with a larger Kumaon itinerary. The Kumaon region is full of offbeat places in Uttarakhand that most tourists miss. From Kasar Devi, you can extend to Nainital and Chaukori, explore Mukteshwar, or head to Kausani for that famous 300 km wide Himalayan panorama. For trekking enthusiasts, the Tungnath and Chandrashilla trek in the Garhwal region is another option if you have a week to spare.
Kasar Devi, the former Hippie Hill of Uttarakhand, has a lot to offer. No doubt its tranquility and the cosmic energy attracted the peace lovers of the 70s, and today it continues to draw those who seek something deeper than just another hill station. When you visit Kasar Devi, you will realize that Kasol is not the only place to seek peace. The hills have many such places for you to discover 🙂 …
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I hope this travel guide on Kasar Devi was helpful to you! In case you have more questions about the place, planning your trip, or need help with a custom itinerary, feel free to comment below and I will be happy to get into more details. If you know friends or family who are planning a trip to Kumaon, do share this article with them. Also, feel free to check the DwD Community for travel partner requests and more Uttarakhand travel discussions. Happy Travelling 🙂 …
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Kasar Devi Temple?
Kasar Devi Temple dates back to the 2nd century CE and is dedicated to Goddess Kasar Devi, a form of Shakti. What makes it unique is its location on the Van Allen Belt, a geomagnetic zone that it shares with Machu Picchu and Stonehenge. The temple houses an eternal flame (akhand jyoti) and a sacred fire (dhuni) that have been burning continuously for years. Swami Vivekananda meditated here in the 1890s, and numerous spiritual seekers from around the world have visited since then.
How to reach Kasar Devi from Delhi?
Kasar Devi is about 375 km from Delhi. You can drive via Moradabad and Haldwani in 10-12 hours. By train, take the Ranikhet Express to Kathgodam (88 km from Kasar Devi), then taxi or bus to Almora, and a local taxi for the final 8 km. By air, fly to Pantnagar Airport (124 km) and hire a cab. Buses also run from ISBT Anand Vihar to Almora via UTC and KMOU services.
Is Kasar Devi worth visiting?
Yes, Kasar Devi is worth visiting if you value peace, spiritual history, and Himalayan views over crowded tourist attractions. The Van Allen Belt connection, the 2nd century temple, the Hippie Trail heritage, and the panoramic views from Bandarpunch to Api Himal make it a unique destination. It is best suited for 2-3 days as part of a Kumaon trip.
What is the best time to visit Kasar Devi?
March to June and September to November are the best months. Summers are pleasant (15-25 degrees Celsius) with clear Himalayan views. Post-monsoon brings fresh greenery. Winters (December-February) offer snowfall but can be very cold. Avoid July-August due to monsoon road conditions.
Are there hotels near Kasar Devi Temple?
Yes, accommodation options range from budget to premium. Budget stays like KMVN Guest House start from Rs 500/night. Hostels like The Hosteller and goSTOPS offer dorm beds from Rs 800 and private rooms from Rs 2,500-3,000. Mid-range resorts like Kasar Jungle Resort cost Rs 3,000-5,000/night. Premium properties like Imperial Heights go up to Rs 5,000+/night. You can also stay in Almora (8 km) for more options.
What is the Kasar Devi Van Allen Belt connection?
Kasar Devi is located on the Van Allen Belt, a geomagnetic field surrounding the Earth. Three spots globally sit on gaps in this field with unusually high cosmic energy: Machu Picchu in Peru, Stonehenge in the UK, and Kasar Devi in India. This geomagnetic property is believed to influence alpha brain waves, aiding meditation and mental clarity, which may explain why spiritual seekers have been drawn to this location for centuries.
What is Crank’s Ridge at Kasar Devi?
Crank’s Ridge, also known as Hippie Hill, is a forested ridge near the Kasar Devi Temple that became famous during the 1960s-70s Hippie movement. American psychologist Timothy Leary gave it its name after visiting in the 1960s. The ridge was visited by Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Cat Stevens, Allen Ginsberg, and many other counter-culture figures. Today, it is a peaceful walking trail with excellent sunrise and sunset viewpoints.
Can I visit Kasar Devi in winter?
Yes, you can visit Kasar Devi in winter (December to February), though temperatures drop close to freezing and snowfall is possible in December-January. The winter landscape is beautiful and the village is much quieter. Keep in mind that some guesthouses may close during peak winter months. Carry warm clothing and check accommodation availability in advance.
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Hi Shefali Joshi, I was just searching for the guide to kesar devi and you have shared very amazing information about how to reach there and where to stay. Thank You & keep traveling.