Kainchi Dham Neem Karoli Baba
Kainchi Dham is a Hindu ashram and temple complex located at an altitude of 1,400 meters, about 18 km from Nainital, on the Nainital-Almora road. Founded in 1964 by Neem Karoli Baba, the temple is dedicated primarily to Lord Hanuman, who was deeply worshipped by Maharaj-ji. After his samadhi in 1973, the place gained immense recognition and became a hub for spiritual seekers worldwide.
Kainchi Dham is a peaceful spiritual destination located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. This sacred ashram was established by the revered saint Neem Karoli Baba, a mystic who gained global fame after visits by famous personalities like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg.
Neem Karoli Baba, also known as Maharaj-ji, was a humble Hindu saint known for his miraculous powers, boundless compassion, and simplicity. Though he never preached or promoted any religion, his divine presence attracted countless devotees from India and abroad.
His followers include:
- Ram Dass (author of Be Here Now)
- Steve Jobs (Apple Co-founder)
- Mark Zuckerberg (Meta CEO)
- Julia Roberts (Hollywood actress)
Nainital to Kainchi Dham Distance
The distance from Nainital to Kainchi Dham is approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) by road.
Travel Time:
- By car/taxi: Around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- By bus/shared jeep: Available from Nainital to Bhowali; from there, you can take another vehicle to Kainchi Dham (total ~1 hour).
Route:
Nainital → Bhowali → Kainchi Dham
- The road is scenic and winds through pine-covered hills.
- Bhowali is about 10 km from Nainital; Kainchi Dham is 8 km ahead from Bhowali on the Almora Road
Kathgodam to Kainchi Dham distance Approximately 37 km by road, taking around 1.5 hours via taxi or car.
Delhi to Kainchi Dham Distance
Kainchi Dham Weather
Summer (March–June): Daytime temps range 20–35 °C; pleasant but humid afternoons with occasional rain.
Monsoon Onset (July–September): Heavy rainfall expected; not ideal for travel .
Winters (December–February): Cold—nights near or below freezing (0–10 °C)
Kainchi Dham Nearest Railway Station
The nearest railway station to Kainchi Dham is Kathgodam:
- Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM) is about 38 – 43 km away, depending on the route—typically around 40 km.
- The journey by taxi or private car takes 1 to 1.5 hours over hilly roads.
Delhi to Kainchi Dham Bus
Dehradun to Kainchi Dham Distance
FAQs
1. Where is Kainchi Dham located?
Kainchi Dham is located on the Nainital-Almora road in the Bhowali region of Uttarakhand, approximately 18 km from Nainital and about 40 km from Kathgodam Railway Station.
2. Who founded Kainchi Dham?
It was founded by Neem Karoli Baba (also called Maharaj-ji) in 1964. The ashram is built in honor of Lord Hanuman, whom Neem Karoli Baba deeply worshipped.
3. What is the distance from Nainital to Kainchi Dham?
The distance is 18 km, and it takes about 35 to 45 minutes by car or taxi.
4. What is the nearest railway station to Kainchi Dham?
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (KGM), located about 40 km from the ashram. Taxis and buses are available from there.
5. What is the best time to visit Kainchi Dham?
The best time is March to June and September to November. June 15th is the most important day — Annual Bhandara Festival, attended by thousands of devotees.
6. What are the temple timings of Kainchi Dham?
- Morning Aarti: Around 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
- Evening Aarti: Around 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Opening Hours: Approximately 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Timings may vary slightly depending on the season.
7. Is photography allowed at Kainchi Dham?
Photography is restricted in certain parts of the ashram, especially near the inner sanctum and Neem Karoli Baba’s samadhi. Always follow the rules and signs.
8. Are there hotels near Kainchi Dham?
Yes, you can find hotels and guesthouses in:
- Bhowali (8–10 km away)
- Nainital (18 km away)
- Jeolikote, Bhimtal, and Gethia
9. Why is Kainchi Dham famous among tech leaders?
Famous personalities like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg visited the ashram seeking spiritual inspiration. Neem Karoli Baba’s teachings influenced many global thinkers and spiritual seekers.