As the host of Katie’s Abode in Hartola, I often tell my guests that a visit to Neem Karoli Baba’s Kainchi Dham Mandir is something truly special. Because of the strategic location of our Airbnb in Hartola, it is absolutely doable as a comfortable day trip from here. The temple is located about 50 kilometers away, and the drive takes roughly one and half hours, depending on which route you take.
And that’s the beauty of our homestay in Hartola. In fact, there are four different scenic routes you can choose from to reach Kainchi Dham:
Hartola > Rup Singh Dhura > Dhari> Lohali> Garampani – A lesser-known, quiet route ideal for those who love remote mountain drives, though this route could have some rough patches.
Hartola > Nathuakhan > Odakhan > Dhokaney – A beautiful drive through thick forest and hills, great for nature lovers. Though the road is newly laid, be prepared for some rough patches!
Hartola > Nathuakhan > Talla Ramgarh > Malla Ramgarh > Bhowali – The smoothest and most popular route with great road conditions and options for pitstops, especially if you’re combining the trip with a visit to Bhimtal or Bhowali.
Whichever path you take, the journey itself is part of the experience — winding roads, forests, Himalayan views, and fresh mountain air punctuated by birdsong.
Many guests initially think they need to stay near the temple, but I always reassure them that it’s not necessary. In fact, the area around the temple is usually crowded and prone to miles-long traffic jams, especially during weekends and festival days. Staying at Katie’s Abode allows devotees to enjoy the peacefulness of Hartola and visit the mandir without the stress of congested accommodations or noisy surroundings.
The mandir itself is a place of immense spiritual significance. Established by Neem Karoli Baba in the 1960s, it’s dedicated to Lord Hanuman and draws visitors from around the world. Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, and Indian celebrities like Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have all made pilgrimages here. The setting is stunning — nestled in the Kumaon hills with the Kosi river flowing gently beside the temple. Many guests return speaking of the peace and spiritual energy they felt there.
What makes this trip even more fulfilling is the option to return to the calm and comfort of Katie’s Abode by evening. After a morning spent in such a powerful and sacred place, there’s something incredibly grounding about coming back to the stillness of Hartola — having a warm meal, watching the sunset, and reflecting on the experience.
So if you’re planning your stay with us, know that Kainchi Dham Mandir is just a short journey away. From Katie’s Abode, it’s a beautiful, meaningful day trip — one that many guests consider the highlight of their time here.
Katie’s Abode offers the perfect base to explore Kainchi Dham Mandir without the hassle of staying near the crowded temple area. Whether you’re a devotee, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious, this 50 km day trip offers a beautiful blend of inner peace and outer adventure.
A visit to Kainchi Dham while staying at Katie’s Abode is highly recommended — a journey that promises both serenity and spiritual enrichment.
