Nestled in the serene Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, about 17 km from Nainital on the Nainital–Almora road, Neem Karoli Baba Ashram, also known as Kainchi Dham, is a sacred spiritual retreat visited by devotees from across the globe. Established in 1964, the ashram honors the life and teachings of Neem Karoli Baba — a saint renowned for his message of unconditional love, selfless service, and devotion to God.
The name Kainchi Dham comes from the unique location of the ashram, set between two sharp turns (“kainchi” meaning scissor in Hindi) in the road, surrounded by lush pine forests and the soothing flow of the Kosi River. The peaceful environment here inspires meditation, prayer, and introspection.
Why Visit Kainchi Dham?
Spiritual Significance – A powerful place of worship, especially for devotees of Lord Hanuman.
Global Recognition – Visited by notable personalities like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg, who found inspiration here.
Annual Bhandara – Held on 15th June, attracting thousands of devotees for prayers, kirtan, and free community meals.
Meditation & Peace – The ashram’s quiet surroundings make it ideal for deep reflection.
Located about 17 km from Nainital and 8 km from Bhowali on the Nainital–Almora road, Neem Karoli Baba Ashram – Kainchi Dham is easily accessible by road from major cities in Uttarakhand and neighboring states. Here’s a complete guide to help you plan your journey:
1. By Air
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (Approx. 70–75 km / 2–2.5 hours drive).
Pantnagar has limited flights, mostly connecting to Delhi.
From the airport, you can hire a private taxi from Uttarakhand Dream Valley for a direct, scenic drive to the ashram.
2. By Train
Nearest Major Railway Station: Kathgodam (Approx. 35 km / 1–1.5 hours drive).
Well-connected to Delhi, Lucknow, Dehradun, and other major cities via trains like Ranikhet Express and Shatabdi Express.
From Kathgodam, you can book a cab or shared taxi to Kainchi Dham.
Tip: Traveling by train to Kathgodam and then by road offers both comfort and great mountain views.
3. By Road
Kainchi Dham lies on the NH109 (Nainital–Almora route) and is well-connected to cities like Nainital, Almora, Haldwani, and Kathgodam.
From Delhi: Approx. 320 km (8–9 hours) via NH9. Recommended route – Delhi → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Kathgodam → Bhowali → Kainchi Dham.
From Nainital: 17 km (30–40 minutes). A short, beautiful drive through pine forests.
From Almora: Around 50 km (1.5–2 hours).
Travel Options:
Private Taxi (Most Convenient): Book with Uttarakhand Dream Valley for a safe, comfortable ride with experienced hill drivers. Ideal if you’re traveling with family or in a group.
Shared Taxis / Local Buses: Available from Nainital, Haldwani, and Kathgodam to Bhowali or Kainchi directly.
Self-Drive: Suitable for confident drivers used to hill roads.
4. Special Pilgrim Transport
During the Annual Bhandara on 15th June, special transport services run from Nainital, Haldwani, and Kathgodam, but pre-booking is essential due to heavy crowds. Uttarakhand Dream Valley can arrange group tempo travellers or minibuses for devotees.
Travel Tips
Start Early: Especially if coming from Delhi or Dehradun to avoid hill traffic and reach before evening.
Weather Check: Carry warm clothes in winter and light jackets in summer as temperatures drop in the evenings.
Stay Nearby: Combine your visit with overnight stays in Nainital, Bhimtal, or Mukteshwar for a fuller Kumaon experience.
Local Etiquette: Maintain silence inside the ashram, remove footwear before entering, and respect the peaceful environment.
Morning:
Early morning pick-up from your location in Dehradun by Uttarakhand Dream Valley.
Scenic drive through Rishikesh, Devprayag, and the Kumaon hills.
Short tea and snack breaks en route.
Afternoon:
Lunch stop in Rudrapur or Haldwani.
Continue to Nainital (approx. 9–10 hrs total journey).
Evening:
Check-in at hotel in Nainital.
Evening stroll at Mall Road and a quiet moment by Naini Lake.
Overnight stay in Nainital.
Morning:
After breakfast, drive to Kainchi Dham Ashram (40 min).
Attend morning prayers, meditate, and visit the samadhi of Neem Karoli Baba.
Spend time exploring the peaceful surroundings.
Afternoon:
Lunch at a local eatery in Bhowali or nearby.
Visit Ghorakhal Temple and Tea Garden.
Evening:
Return to Nainital.
Free time for shopping and exploring local cafés.
Overnight stay in Nainital.
Morning:
Breakfast and check-out.
Visit Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, and Sattal for boating and photography.
Afternoon:
Lunch on the way and begin return journey to Dehradun.
Evening/Night:
Drop-off in Dehradun with sweet memories of the trip.
