By Pallavi Verma My journey through Almora, Uttarakhand, led me to the enchanting Kasar Devi temple, a place known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking views. Situated on Crank’s Ridge, this temple not only offers a divine experience but also panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. My exploration of this area, including the peaceful Mat village, was filled with encounters with nature, hospitable locals, and serene landscapes that left a lasting impression on me.
The Hike to Kasar Devi Temple
The adventure began with a hike to the Kasar Devi temple, located on the famous Crank’s Ridge. The trail, surrounded by lush forests of pines and oak trees, was a few hours long but immensely rewarding. As I ascended, the view of the Himalayan peaks gradually revealed itself, creating a stunning backdrop for the temple. The tranquility of the place was palpable, with only the sounds of the wind rustling through the trees and the occasional chirping of birds. I was fortunate to spot a deer down the ridge, gracefully moving through the dense forest. This moment, combined with the sight of various beautiful birds, made the hike even more memorable. The valley below, home to the village of Mat, added to the picturesque setting, with its terraced fields and traditional houses dotting the landscape.
Kasar Devi: Spirituality, Nature, Art
Kasar Devi is a village near Almora, Uttarakhand. It is known for the Kasar Devi temple, a Devi temple, dedicated to Kasar Devi, after whom the place is also named. The temple structure dates to the 2nd century CE. Swami Vivekananda visited Kasar Devi in 1890s, and numerous western seeker, Sunyata Baba Alfred Sorensen and Lama Anagarika Govinda. Kasar Devi Village Also known as Hippie Hill or Crank’s Ridge, Kasar Devi Temple complex has always been a melting pot of art, spiritualism and poetry. Singer Bob Dylan and actor Uma Thurman, have made this popular and today Kasar Devi continues to attract folks looking for answers to life’s challenging questions.
Discovering the Hidden Shiv Temple
Above the Kasar Devi temple, I discovered another hidden gem—a Shiv temple that offered a panoramic view of Almora and the surrounding forests. The view was simply breathtaking, with the town of Almora nestled amidst rolling hills and dense forests. The sight of the forests beyond the village added to the mystique of the place, making it a perfect spot for reflection and photography.
A Peaceful Walk to Mat Village
After soaking in the views from the Shiv temple, I decided to hike towards Mat village, which is located a few kilometers downhill. The path was lined with trees, and the sounds of birds and animals accompanied me as I made my way through the serene forest. The village of Mat, situated on the downhill side of Binsar Road, is a peaceful retreat, far removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
As I arrived in Mat, I was warmly welcomed by the locals, who were working in the fields or gathering wood in the forest. Their hospitality was heartwarming, and they eagerly shared stories about the temple and the history of their village. The connection to nature and the simple, peaceful life in Mat made it a place I quickly grew fond of.
My visit to Kasar Devi and Mat village was a journey into the heart of Uttarakhand’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The combination of stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and the warm hospitality of the locals made this experience truly special.