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DEVI MAA

Kasar Devi: The Himalayan Retreat That Time Forgot

Location: Almora District, Uttarakhand, India
Altitude: ~2,100 meters
Famous For: Kasar Devi Temple, spiritual energy, scenic Himalayan views, and its legacy among mystics and creatives.

 Introduction: Where Silence Speaks

Nestled quietly in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Kasar Devi is more than just a hilltop temple — it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Overlooking the Himalayan ranges and sitting on a geomagnetic field that some say rivals Machu Picchu and Stonehenge, Kasar Devi has long attracted seekers of peace, artists, and wanderers from around the globe.

A Brief History of Kasar Devi

The temple is believed to date back to the 2nd century CE and is dedicated to Kasar Devi, a local goddess. But what truly catapulted this sleepy hamlet into global consciousness was its mysterious magnetic energy field, studied by scientists — including NASA.

In the late 1800s, Swami Vivekananda meditated here, and the place later became a hub for writers, artists, mystics, and spiritual seekers.

Notable visitors include:

• Swami Vivekananda
• Bob Dylan
• D.H. Lawrence
• Allen Ginsberg
• Timothy Leary

The ridge above Kasar Devi became known as “Crank’s Ridge” — a meeting point for creative eccentrics and spiritual experimenters.

 The Energy Vortex

Kasar Devi is one of the only three places on Earth believed to lie on the Van Allen Belt — a powerful geomagnetic field that affects brain waves and consciousness. Many visitors report feeling unusually calm, introspective, and even creatively inspired while spending time here.

Whether it’s scientific or spiritual, there’s something in the air that makes people stay longer than they planned.

 Things to Do in Kasar Devi

1.  Visit the Kasar Devi Temple

A short hike leads you to this ancient temple perched on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. Sunrise here is ethereal.

2.  Watch the Sunset from Crank’s Ridge

Walk along this pine-forested ridge for stunning sunsets, with the occasional sighting of monks, meditators, or creative nomads sketching in silence.

3.  Chill in Cozy Cafes

Tiny cafes like Baba Cake, Dolma’s, and The Pahadi Organic Café serve local food, great coffee, and stories from fellow travelers.

4.  Stay in Artist Retreats or Homestays

Many homestays offer artist residencies, meditation camps, and nature retreats — often with local Kumaoni families.

5.  Day Trips Around Kasar Devi

• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary – for wildlife and Himalayan views
• Chitai Golu Temple – with thousands of bells
• Jageshwar Temple Complex – an ancient Shaivite pilgrimage site

 How to Reach Kasar Devi

• Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (approx. 125 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (approx. 90 km)
• From Almora: 8–10 km by road, easily accessible via shared taxis or private vehicles

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: March–June and September–November
• Weather: Cold in winters (can drop to sub-zero); light layers needed even in summer
• Ideal Duration: 2–4 days (or forever, if you fall in love with it like many do)
• Connectivity: Mobile signals are decent; some cafes have Wi-Fi
• Eco Tip: Avoid plastics, respect the silence, and buy local

 A Personal Note

“I came here to spend 2 days. I stayed for 2 weeks. Something about Kasar Devi makes you slow down — not because you must, but because you want to. The silence is loud, the stars are closer, and time doesn’t seem to matter.”
– A traveler’s journal, Jan 2022

 Final Thoughts

Kasar Devi is not about doing — it’s about being. Whether you’re a solo traveler, spiritual seeker, digital nomad, or burnt-out city soul, this quiet ridge in Uttarakhand might just become your next home away from home.