Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, Kasar Devi is a hidden gem that whispers secrets of a bygone era. This ancient temple, steeped in history and mythology, is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking spiritual enlightenment and natural beauty. This 2000-year-old temple, situated on the Crank’s Ridge, also known as Hippie Hill, is one of the three places on earth that sits on the Van Allen Belt, a zone of highly energetic charged particles trapped in the Earth’s magnetic field. According to NASA, the other two places are Stonehenge in England and Machu Picchu in Peru.
As we delve into the history of Kasar Devi, we find that the temple was established by King Rudrak in the 2nd century. The temple has undergone several renovations and revivals throughout its history, yet it still stands in its original form, making it a testament to the advanced architectural skills of the ancient civilization. The temple honors the Kaushiki-Durga avatar of Goddess Parvati, who is said to have killed two demons, Shumbh-Nishumbh, on the hill of Kasar Devi. The impressions of Goddess Durga’s lion can still be seen on a rock behind the statue.
Kasar Devi is not just a historical site, but also a spiritual hub that attracts seekers from all over the world. The temple is bordered by other ancient temples, including the Shiva Temple and the Bhairava Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s fierce form. In the 1890s, Swami Vivekananda visited Kasar Devi with a group of Western seekers, including Lama Anagarika Govinda and Sunyata Baba Alfred Sorensen. This influx of spiritual seekers has contributed to the site’s mystique, making it a place of great spiritual significance.
The 1960s saw a surge in popularity of Kasar Devi, thanks to the visit of Timothy Leary, who dubbed the site “Hippie Hill.” The hippies who flocked to the site experimented with alternative lifestyles. Today, Kasar Devi is a place of great natural beauty, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The site is surrounded by dense forests, home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers.
As we explore the site, we can feel the positive energy that pervades the air. The temple, with its ancient architecture and spiritual significance, is a place of great peace and serenity. The surrounding natural beauty, with its breathtaking views and dense forests, makes Kasar Devi a must-visit destination for anyone seeking mental peace and tranquility.
Kasar Devi is a place of great historical, spiritual, and natural significance, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking mental peace and tranquility. So come and experience the mystique of Kasar Devi for yourself.
Offbeat Uttarakhand 