We all have, at some point in time, felt positive energies or deep emotional sensations while visiting certain spiritual places. These energies are quite often associated with scientific reasons which then make the place even more unique. Intrigued by such stories, we visited Kasar Devi Temple, a small temple in Uttarakhand known for its cosmic energy and powerful geomagnetic field.
What makes Kasar Devi Temple stand out?
Kasar Devi temple is widely popular for its magnetic pull which is due to the presence of a unique energy field that intersects in this region. Because of the highly charged geomagnetic field, visitors feel a deep sense of calmness while meditating.
As per scientists and NASA research, this region of Kasar falls under the Van Allen Belt. This belt is the zone of the strong magnetic field of Earth which lies only in 3 places on Earth,- One being Kasar Devi, the other in Machu Pichu, and the third in Stonehenge, UK.
Renowned visitors of Kasar Devi Temple
Swami Vivekanand visited Kasar Devi in 1890 and meditated here, an account of which is mentioned in his diaries. Sunyata Baba (Alfred Sorensen), Robert Thurman, D.H. Lawrence, are among other popular names who visited Kasar Devi
Within the temple premises
Painted in red, Kasar Devi temple’s humble sanctum houses the idols of Goddess Durga and her avatars. The temple dates back to the 2nd century CE. A beautiful pathway through the forest leads to the entrance of the temple. The temple has two different group of temples- one of Kasar Devi and another of lord Shiva and Bhairav. The latter overlooks a vast expanse of the Kumaon mountains and the blue horizon that envelops the view.
Another small temple lies hidden on a smaller pathway under the Kasar temple in a creek. This is a Shiva Temple where you have to crawl in to get into the cave. It is said renowned spiritual leaders meditated in this tiny temple. We couldn’t enter the cave temple as it was occupied. Nonetheless, the best place to meditate is in the open space right outside the Bhairav Temple.
The meditation experience
Honestly, we did not know about the Van Allen Belt’s phenomenon before visiting Kasar Devi Temple. However, the serene atmosphere of the temple instantly had a calming effect on our minds. We sat across the Bhairav Temple facing the mountain creek to meditate. The silence coupled with occasional temple bells felt like music to ears. A few minutes into the meditation brought stillness to our souls. The weight started lifting away and a sense of peace engulfed us. We felt light in our heads.
I can’t say if every visitor feels the same way or senses the calmness settling in. This experience may be different for all individuals and not everyone may feel it at all. But for those who have a lot going on in their life or are searching for answers to complex issues in life, we’d recommend visiting Kasar Devi once. For others, the tranquil view and the pleasant ambiance may do the charm.
Location and how to reach Kasar Devi Temple
Kasar Devi temple is on a hilltop, on the edge of a ridge, close to the Almora-Bageshwar highway. Away from the crowded Almora hill station, Kasar is comparatively quieter and less commercialized. You can hike for 8km or drive for 10km from Almora to reach Kasar. The temple is on a hillock for which you have to hike 200 meters or take a flight of steps.
Local buses ply between Kasar and Almora. You can also drive on roads or hire a taxi/scooty.
Places to visit near Kasar Devi
- Katarmal Sun Temple- Around 30 km from Kasar Devi, this 9th-century Sun Temple is a must-visit marvel, known for its intricate stone carvings and gorgeous architecture.
- Chitai Golu Devta Temple- Dedicated to the God of Justice, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, this temple is adorned with numerous copper bells. Located around 8 km from Kasar Devi.
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary- Visit Binsar National Park for grand views and rich flora& fauna of the Himalayan range, located 38 km from Kasar Devi.