Last Updated on 19/01/2026
Kainchi Dham is a sacred ashram situated in Uttarakhand in the Kumaon Hills. It is situated at a distance of around 38 km from Nainital. In 1964, the ashram was established by a famous saint, “Maharaj-Ji” or Neem Karoli Baba. The spiritual aura of this site has attracted many celebrities, like Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs.
The ashram hosts bhajans and meditation sessions on a daily basis, making it a peaceful stop for devotees choosing Kainchi Dham tour packages. The unique thing about Kainchi Dham is that it is not only known for its spiritual prominence but also for its spiritual energy and sense of peace.

The Origin and History of Kainchi Dham
Kainchi Dham’s history dates back to 1962, when the ashram complex and temple were built by Neem Karoli Baba Ji along with his disciple Poornanand Ji. In the ashram, the first temple was dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who was worshipped by Baba. More temples were added at a later stage for other deities.
As per the devotees, the temple was built on the site where Baba Ji once performed spiritual practices and deep meditation. In 1973, after Baba Ji left his physical form, his followers maintained the ashram. Today, a trust manages his ashram and is visited by many devotees daily. People who visit this place claim to experience miracles that completely change their lives.
Why Visit Kainchi Dham?
You should visit Kainchi Dham to seek the blessings of Neem Karoli Baba. The ashram houses a temple that is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Since the ashram is situated around the serene Himalayan ranges, you can enjoy breathtaking views. You can also meditate at the ashram and experience peace.
Neem Karoli Baba and His Spiritual Legacy
Born in the early 1900s as Lakshman Narayan Sharma, the journey of Neem Karoli Baba to sainthood was unconventional.
- Married at fourteen, Neem Karoli Baba tried to leave his prosperous family life twice for renunciation.
- According to a legend, his spiritual name was born in 1958 from a fateful train ride. After he was asked to disembark at a small village, people started calling him Neem Karoli for traveling on the train without a ticket.
- He adopted the name of the village and established a movement that was deeply rooted in devotion to Hanuman.
- He passed away on September 11, 1973, in Vrindavan, but his influence kept on growing.
- His devotees affectionately called him Maharaj-ji.
Layout and Architecture of the Ashram
- On the night of 10 September 1973, Babaji left his physical body.
- In Shri Kainchi Dham, the Kalash that contained his ashes was installed.
- Then, in 1974, the construction work of the temple of Babaji started without any specific design plan. Many of his devotees cooperated in this.
- The masons and artisans engaged in the temple’s construction work recited the Hanuman Chalisa before starting the construction.
- Ramnam was written on the bricks, and then they were passed on to the workers.
- On 15th June 1976, Maharajji’s murti was consecrated and installed.
- It is believed that Maharajji Himself fixed June 15th as Kainchi Dham’s consecration.
- The Yajna and Bhagwat Saptah were completed before the consecration and installation ceremony.
The Main Attraction of Kainchi Dham
- The annual Bhandara (feast) is held at Kainchi Dham every year on 15 June. On this auspicious day, thousands of devotees gather at the sacred site to celebrate Baba’s birthday and seek his blessings.
- On this auspicious day, free meals are served to those who visit the ashram, and the entire ashram is filled with bhajans, prayers, and devotional chants.
Best Time to Visit Kainchi Dham
September to November and March to June are considered to be the best times to visit Kainchi Dham. During these months, you can have a peaceful darshan and smooth travel.
March to June – Peak Pilgrimage Season
- Weather: Around 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
- Highlights: Bhandara, which is held on 15th June. Free food is offered to visitors.
- Things to keep in mind: The ashram is overcrowded, and the ashram rooms may not be available.
September to November- Ideal for Pilgrimage
- Weather: Cool and comfortable weather
- Ideal for: Those who want to visit the ashram without the hefty crowd.
December to February (Off-Season)
- Weather: Extremely cold weather. The temperature often drops below 5°C.
- Things to Keep in mind: Carry woollen clothes as the weather is very cold.
July and August (Monsoon)
- Weather: Heavy rainfall leading to roadblocks and landslides.
- Things to keep in mind: Not an ideal time to visit the ashram due to adverse weather conditions.
Timings & Ideal Duration
Visiting Hours
- Daily Darshan: Kainchi Dham temple opens during daylight hours every day. Exact closing or opening can shift slightly with crowd control and season.
| Day |
Opening Time |
Closing Time |
Notes |
| Monday |
6:45 AM |
8:00 PM |
No meals served |
| Tuesday |
6:45 AM |
9:00 PM |
Evening Kirtan & Dinner available |
| Wednesday |
6:45 AM |
8:00 PM |
No meals served |
| Thursday |
6:45 AM |
8:00 PM |
No meals served |
| Friday |
6:45 AM |
8:00 PM |
Public lunch served at 12:30 PM |
| Saturday |
6:45 AM |
8:00 PM |
Public lunch served at 12:30 PM |
| Sunday |
6:45 AM |
8:00 PM |
Public lunch served at 12:30 PM |
- Best Slot: In peak season, the afternoon is busy, morning is cooler and calmer.
- Festival Note: The mid-June foundation day week brings traffic diversions and heavy crowds.
Ideal Duration
- Slow visit: 2–3 hours in case you want to stay for prasad, langar, or to meditate.
- Quick darshan: 60–90 minutes, including prayer and entry.
Entry Tickets
Cost Details
| Item |
Cost |
Notes |
| Ashram entry |
No entry ticket |
Darshan is free for all |
| Parking |
Chargeable (local rate) |
Depends on season/crowd setup |
| Donations / seva |
Optional |
Voluntary, as per your wish |
How to Reach Kainchi Dham
By Road
Kainchi Dham is around 9 km from Bhowali and 17 km from Nainital on the road that goes to Almora from Nainital. From Delhi, you will have to undertake a 320 km (6-7 hours) journey on NH9. You will pass through Haldwani and Moradabad. Buses run on a frequent basis between Delhi and Nainital. Then you will have to take a short cab ride to the Neem Karoli Baba ashram.
Distance from the main cities of Uttarakhand to Kainchi Dham
| Cities |
Distance from Kainchi Dham |
| Haridwar |
255 Km |
| Rishikesh |
268 Km |
| Dehradun |
300 Km |
| Almora |
45 Km |
| Kathgodam |
42 Km |
Distance from Delhi NCR to Kainchi Dham
| Cities |
Distance from Kainchi Dham |
| Delhi |
339 Km |
| Ghaziabad |
288 Km |
| Meerut |
281 Km |
| Kanpur |
414 Km |
| Chandigarh |
471 Km |
By Train
Kathgodam Railway Station is the nearest railway station situated at a distance of around 38 km (1-2 hours). Many trains are available, such as the Shatabdi Express and Ranikhet Express that link Kathgodam to Delhi. Then you can take a shared cab or taxi to reach the ashram.
By Air
Pantnagar Airport is the closest airport situated around 70 km away approximately 2-3 hours by road). From the airport to Kainchi Dham, taxis are easily available.
Tips for Visiting Kainchi Dham
Let’s take a look at the tips that you need to keep in mind while visiting Kainchi Dham.
- If you’re travelling in winter, carry woollen clothes as the temperature drops very low, especially during the night.
- Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip, as inside shrine zones, you will have to walk barefoot.
- Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trip.
- Keep buffer time if you’re planning to visit any other destination on the same day, as Kainchi Dham has a lot to offer.
- Dress moderately, and when entering the ashram, keep voices low.
- Avoid taking photos inside the ashram.
- Do not litter and try to keep the valley and the ashram clean.
Accommodation Options Near Kainchi Dham
Basic accommodation is available at Kainchi Dham with basic rooms and a peaceful environment. At the ashram, accommodation is limited. Contact the authorities of the ashram beforehand, as the slots get full, especially during peak season.
Nearby Guesthouses and Hotels
If you’re looking for better amenities, you can plan your stay at nearby towns such as Nainital, Bhimtal, and Naukuchiatal. You will find all kinds of accommodation options near Kainchi Dham.
- Budget Accommodation options for visitors: Hotel Kainchi View, Pinewood Guest House, Bhowali
- Mid-Range Accommodation options for visitors: Hotel Traveller’s Paradise, Bhowali, The Tal Paradise, Bhimtal
- Luxury Accommodation options for visitors: Shervani Hilltop, Nainital, The Naini Retreat, Nainital
Homestays Near Kainchi Dham
You can have an authentic stay experience by planning your stay at homestays near Kainchi Dham. You can enjoy authentic food, interact with the locals, and live like a local while residing here.
- Best homestays for visitors: The Lake House Homestay, Bhimtal, Himalaica Homestay, Bhowali
Nearby Attractions Around Kainchi Dham
Bhimtal
Bhimtal is a lake city that has been named after Bhima. The famous places that you can see in Bhimtal include Bhimtal Lake, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple, and Victoria Dam.
- Distance from Kainchi Dham: 19 km
Nainital
Nainital is one of the most picturesque hill stations in India, known as the ‘Lake District’, and is surrounded by seven hills. The main attractions of Nainital include Naina Devi Temple, Naini Lake, and Eco Cave Gardens.
- Distance from Kainchi Dham: 17 km
Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is a peaceful hamlet in the Kumaon region known for its 350-year old temple. The winding alleys and verdant paths of Mukteshwar make it ideal for various adventure activities.
- Distance from Kainchi Dham: 35 km
Bhowali
Bhowali is a picturesque hill station where you can enjoy stunning natural vistas. It has many picturesque lakes, snow-capped hills, and lush green forests.
- Distance from Kainchi Dham: 8 km
Best Restaurants and Cafes Near Kainchi Dham
- Kainchi Café is situated outside the main temple. Here, you can relish authentic dishes while listening to devotional songs. There is also fresh poha available.
- Himjyoti Café is located on Bhowali Road, which is approximately 2 km from Kainchi Dham. You can relish sweets, snacks, as well as other delicious food items in this café.
- You will also find small roadside Dhabas between Kainchi Dham and Bhowali. You can try various local dishes such as Mandua roti, Pahadi Rajma Chawal, and Aloo ke Gutke at these places.
FAQs
Q-1: Is an accommodation option available at Kainchi Dham Ashram?
Ans: There are diverse accommodation options for devotees at the Kainchi Dham Ashram. If you’re travelling in peak season, you’re advised to book the accommodation beforehand.
Q-2: What are the opening and closing times of Kainchi Dham Ashram?
Ans: Kainchi Dham Ashram remains open on all days from 6:45 AM to 8:00 PM. On Tuesday the ashram remains open till 9:00 PM.
Q-3: What is the best time to visit Kainchi Dham?
Ans: September to November and March to June are considered to be the best times to visit Kainchi Dham. During these months, you can have a peaceful darshan and smooth travel.
Q-4: When should you avoid visiting Kainchi Dham?
Ans: You should avoid visiting Kainchi Dham during the monsoon due to the chances of heavy rainfall leading to roadblocks and landslides.
Q-5: Are meals offered at Kainchi Dham Ashram?
Ans: Free meals are offered to devotees who visit the Kainchi Dham Ashram on every Friday, Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Q-6: Why should you visit Kainchi Dham Ashram?
Ans: Kainchi Dham is one of the most religious sites in India, established by Neem Karoli Baba in 1964. You can seek the blessings of Babaji, meditate, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas during your visit.
Q-7: Who built Kainchi Dham’s main complex and temple?
Ans: Neem Karoli Baba Ji, a revered saint, built the Kainchi Dham temple and its complex.
Q-8: When is the Bhandara feast held at Kainchi Dham?
Ans: Bhandara is organized at Kainchi Dham on 15th June every year. During this feast, free food is offered to the devotees, and bhajans and kirtans are organized.
Q-9: Who is Neem Karoli Baba?
Ans: Neem Karoli Baba is a holy saint and a religious figure known for his miraculous powers and simple life.
Q-10: Which celebrities have visited Kainchi Dham?
Ans: Mark Zuckerberg, Steve Jobs, Anushka Sharma, and Julia Roberts, have visited the ashram and sought the blessings of Babaji.