Katarmal Sun Temple
The Katarmal Sun Temple, dedicated to Burhadita or the Old Sun God, is a protected monument of national importance, believed to have been built by the Katyuri King Katarmalla in the 9th century, making it the second most important Sun Temple in India after Konark. It comprises one main temple surrou nded by 44 smaller shrines, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and religious devotion. The idol of the presiding deity was stolen in the 10th century, and the intricately carved wooden doors were subsequently moved to the National Museum, Delhi, for preservation. The temple complex sits on a hill, providing serene views and requiring a short trek.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2-3 HoursPlace Type:
Religious, Historical, TrekkingEntry Fees:
Entrance Fee: Entry to the temple complex itself is Free for all visitors, as it is a place of worship and a nationally protected monument.
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Fees: As it is an ASI site, there are no specific entry tickets,...Entrance Fee: Entry to the temple complex itself is Free for all visitors, as it is a place of worship and a nationally protected monument.
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Fees: As it is an ASI site, there are no specific entry tickets, but there might be a small nominal charge for photography or video recording, which varies based on the current regulations of the Uttarakhand circle of ASI.Timing:
Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Generally accessible from dawn to dusk).
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning, just after sunrise (around 6:30 AM to 8:00 AM), to experience the first rays of the Sun hitting the shrine, or late afternoon (aro...Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Generally accessible from dawn to dusk).
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning, just after sunrise (around 6:30 AM to 8:00 AM), to experience the first rays of the Sun hitting the shrine, or late afternoon (around 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) for comfortable trekking and golden hour photography. The site is a day-time only destination.Special Events:
No Major Festivals on Site: Due to its remote and protected nature, major events are infrequent, though local villages celebrate Makar Sankranti (mid-January) with special reverence for the Sun God, often undertaking a pilgrimage to the temple on that day. The most signific...No Major Festivals on Site: Due to its remote and protected nature, major events are infrequent, though local villages celebrate Makar Sankranti (mid-January) with special reverence for the Sun God, often undertaking a pilgrimage to the temple on that day. The most significant religious observances are the daily prayers offered by the residing priest.Best Photo Spots:
East-Facing Entrance: The main entrance, designed to capture the first rays of the Sun, is the ideal spot for architectural and spiritual photography at dawn.
The Panoramic Valley View: The raised platform offers sweeping vistas of the Kosi ...East-Facing Entrance: The main entrance, designed to capture the first rays of the Sun, is the ideal spot for architectural and spiritual photography at dawn.
The Panoramic Valley View: The raised platform offers sweeping vistas of the Kosi valley and surrounding terraced fields, best captured with a wide-angle lens.
The Cluster of Shrines: A wide-angle shot that captures the main temple framed by the 44 surrounding miniature shrines provides a sense of the complex's unique scale and symmetry.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Trekking to the Temple: Enjoy the moderate 1. 5 KM hike from Kosi through pine and oak forests, breathing in the fresh Himalayan air.
Photography and Viewpoint: Capture the ancient stone architecture and the breathtaking panoramic views of the Kumaon valleys and hills, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Studying Stone Carvings: Spend time observing the detailed carvings on the temple walls, which depict various myths, deities, and aspects of Hindu cosmology.
Bird Watching: The surrounding temperate forest is an excellent spot for birding, with many Himalayan species inhabiting the area.
Meditation and Reflection: The quiet, elevated location is perfect for a peaceful session of meditation and connecting with the site's ancient spir...
Information
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Why Famous:
Historical Significance: It is one of the few ancient Sun Temples in India and the only one in the Kumaon region, connecting the history of the Katyuri dynasty with a profound solar cult.
Spiritual Aura: Known for its serene and powerful spi...Historical Significance: It is one of the few ancient Sun Temples in India and the only one in the Kumaon region, connecting the history of the Katyuri dynasty with a profound solar cult.
Spiritual Aura: Known for its serene and powerful spiritual energy, the remote location amplifies its meditative and devotional appeal, attracting history buffs and spiritual seekers alike. -
Architecture:
Katyuri Style Architecture: The temple is built on a raised platform using local stone in the unique Katyuri style, blending regional influences with classical Indian temple design. The walls feature intricate figures and carvings of Hindu deities like Shiva-Parvati and Lak...Katyuri Style Architecture: The temple is built on a raised platform using local stone in the unique Katyuri style, blending regional influences with classical Indian temple design. The walls feature intricate figures and carvings of Hindu deities like Shiva-Parvati and Lakshmi-Narayana.
Architectural Dimensions: The main shrine is surrounded by 44 smaller temples, creating a clustered complex unique to the region. The temple's eastern orientation is deliberate, designed to capture the first rays of the rising Sun god's light, symbolizing the deity's power and divine presence. The exquisite wooden carvings, though mostly relocated, were a hallmark of its design, showcasing the dynasty's artistic patronage. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 127 KMS away, followed by a taxi or cab ride via Haldwani to Almora and then to the Kosi roadhead.
By Train: Nearest major railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM), about 9... -
Near Tourist Places:
Chitai Golu Devta Temple (9 KMS), Jageshwar Dham (34 KMS), Kasar Devi Temple (15 KMS), Bright End Corner (18 KMS), Simtola Eco Park (25 KMS), Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (40 KMS), Deer Park (20 KMS), Govind Ballabh Pant Museum (17 KMS), Almora Bazaar (17 KMS), Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple (12 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & safety: Wear good trekking shoes as the final path is rough and uneven. Carry sufficient water and snacks as there are no shops at the temple complex. Be cautious of monkeys.
Packing: Carry a camera, binoculars for birdwatching/vi...
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