Kainchi Dham – the quaint holy ashram near Nainital is a popular destination for spiritual travellers and devotees. Situated in the serene state of Uttarakhand, India, Neem Karoli Baba’s Kainchi Dhaam ashram has a special place in the hearts of people. This spiritual sanctuary provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While planning a trip to the ashram in Nainital, you might want to visit other attractions nearby. In this blog post, let us share the top 10 places to visit near Kainchi Dham so that you can plan your trip well.
Neem Karoli Baba Ashram Kainchi Dham
Kainchi Dham Ashram near Nainital is a must-see for anyone looking for spiritual comfort. This ashram is devoted to the renowned saint Neem Karoli Baba and is about 20 KM away from Nainital. The saint’s teachings and legacy, combined with the ashram’s serene setting, make it the ideal location for introspection and meditation.
Top 10 Places to Visit Near Kainchi Dham
While planning a trip to the ashram you might want to check out other places to visit near Kainchi Dham, Nainital itself is a beautiful lake town in Uttarakhand and a famous tourist spot among Indian and foreign nationals. Here are the top 10 attractions near Kainchi Dham that you can visit with your family and friends.
#1 Naina Devi Temple
Nainital is home to several holy Hindu pilgrimage sites. Naina Devi Temple is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Nainital for devotees. This temple from the fifteenth century is dedicated to Goddess Sati, Lord Shiva’s wife, who is symbolized by just her two eyes.
Moti Ram Shah, a devotee, is thought to have placed the idol inside the temple in 1842. Even after being damaged by a large landslide in 1880, the temple was rebuilt there because of its fortunate location. This pilgrimage site also has the statues of Lord Ganesha, Kali Mata, and Lord Hanuman.
Timing – Monday to Sunday 6 am – to 10 pm
Location – 3 km from the Nainital city bus stand
#2 Bhimtal
If you are looking for a lake which is equally beautiful as Nainital but quieter, you must check out Bhimtal.
At Bhimtal you can enjoy the less busy and more tranquil side of this hill station. This quaint town is one of the top places to visit near Kainchi Dham if you are travelling with your family for a relaxed stay and unparalleled views.
With its island in the middle, the lake provides beautiful scenery and boating opportunities. An ancient Bhimeshwar Temple is also located in Bhimtal, which gives your trip a more spiritual feel.
Location – 21 km from the Nainital and about 19 km from Kainchi Dham Ashram
#3 Almora
Almora is a charming hill town located about 45 km from Kainchi Dham. Almora, which is well-known for its rich cultural legacy, is home to historic temples, winding cobblestone streets, and breathtaking vistas.
You can visit the Kasar Devi Temple in Almora, renowned for its expansive views and spiritual significance. It’s also worthwhile to explore the town’s distinctive handicrafts and traditional cuisine.
Timing of Kasar Devi Temple – Monday to Sunday 5 am – to 7 pm
Location – 45 km from Kainchi Dham Ashram
#4 Naukuchiatal Lake
Naukuchiatal, known as the “lake of nine corners,” is a peaceful lake located 21 km from Nainital. With a depth of 175 feet and stunning natural beauty, this lake serves as a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Encircled by vibrant greenery, Naukuchiatal is ideal for activities like boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Its calm atmosphere and picturesque views make Naukuchiatal an excellent retreat from the chaos of urban life.
Location – 21 km from Nainital and 17.3 km from Kainchi Dham Ashram
#5 Mukteshwar Temple
Want to make a trip further ahead? You can check out Mukteshwar – a serene hill station in the Kumaon hills about 52 km away from Nainital. This 350-year-old Shiva Temple is regarded as a holy site for devotees. Apart from spirituality Mukteshwar Dham also offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of The Himalayas and is a favoured destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Timing of Mukteshwar Temple – Mon to Sun 5 am to 7:30 pm
Location – 52 km from Nainital and 40 km from Kainchi Dham Ashram
#6 Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls
Near Mukteshwar you can find Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls also called Bhalugarh Waterfalls. This particular waterfall stands 60 feet tall and has a horseshoe shape, featuring a dramatic plunge at the end. It flows continuously throughout the year, making it accessible no matter when you visit. It is one of those rare places to visit near Kainchi Dham that is less crowded and can be enjoyed anytime you visit.
Location – 40 km from Nainital and 35 km from Kainchi Dham Ashram
#7 Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
If the enchanting view of the forest draws your attention and fills you with joy, then Kilbury is a destination you shouldn’t miss. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature and observe a variety of exotic Himalayan birds as they flit among the trees.
The Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary is located approximately 14 km from the heart of Nainital. It’s famous among visitors for its diverse bird species, including woodpeckers, Whistling Thrush, and Barbets, all set against a backdrop of pine, oak, and rhododendron trees.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 6 am – to 5 pm
Location – 14 Km from Nainital Mall Road
#8 Governor’s House Raj Bhawan
The summer residence of the British Governers is today’s Raj Bhavan in Nainital – the home of Governor of Uttarakhand. This yesteryear’s architectural marvel built around the beautiful landscapes of the Kumaon is spread across 45 acres of land. The Scottish-look castle was built in 1897 with 113 rooms and lush green gardens.
The Golf Course at Raj Bhawan is one of the oldest and most historic golf courses in India. There are guided tours available at the Raj Bhavan, you can lounge at the Club House or enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
Timing: Monday to Saturday 8 am – to 5 pm
Location – 14 Km from Nainital Mall Road, 20 km from Kainchi Dham
#9 Kumaon Regimental Central Museum
Ranikhet is another popular place to visit near Kainchi Dham. This charming town also is home to KRC or Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum. The museum serves as a tribute to the rich military history and bravery of the Kumaon Regiment. Founded in the 1970s to safeguard and display the traditions and heritage of the Kumaon Region, this museum features an intriguing array of exhibits within its walls.
At this museum, you can see notable artefacts like silver sceptres of Rani of Jhansi, wireless telephones of the 1962 war, weapons and uniforms of the Kumaon Regiment and more.
Timing: Monday to Sunday 9 am – to 5 pm
Entry Fee – 75/-
Location – 14 Km from Nainital Mall Road, 20 km from Kainchi Dham
#10 G B Pant High Altitude Zoo
Nainital Zoo or the G B Pant High Altitude Zoo is a must-visit place if you travel with family and kids. Situated 6900 feet above sea level, this zoo on Sher ka Danda Hill covers an area of 4.6 hectares of lush greenery and exotic wildlife. This zoo is one of only three high-altitude zoos in India, alongside those in Sikkim and Darjeeling.
This is one of the most enjoyable places to visit near Kainchi Dham as it is home to a variety of endangered species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sambar, Tibetan Wolves, Leopard Cat, Barking Deer, Japanese Macaque, and the Himalayan bear.
Additionally, the zoo features numerous bird species such as the Golden Pheasant, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Kalij Pheasant, Lady Amherst Pheasant, Steppe Eagle, Hill Partridge, White Peafowl, Blossom Headed Parakeet, and Red Junglefowl.
Conclusion
Now that you know about the Top 10 places to visit near Kainchi Dham, you can include some of these must-visit spots in your itinerary. Consider booking your stay at Blue Book, a luxury hotel in Nainital, one of the best places to stay near Kainchi Dham, to fully enjoy the tranquillity of this charming town.
