Kainchi Dham Ashram Tour

Description

FAQs

1. What is Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• Kainchi Dham Ashram is a sacred ashram located near Nainital in Uttarakhand, founded by Neem Karoli Baba, a renowned Indian saint. It is a popular spiritual destination attracting devotees from around the world, including famous personalities like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg.

2. Where is Kainchi Dham Ashram located?

• The ashram is located in the Kainchi village in the Bhowali area of Nainital district, Uttarakhand. It is about 17 km from Nainital and sits at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters.

3. What is the best time to visit Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• The best time to visit is between March and June and from September to November. The weather during these months is pleasant. The ashram is also crowded during June 15th, the day Neem Karoli Baba’s pratistha is celebrated with a large annual bhandara (feast).

4. How do I reach Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• By Road: The ashram is well connected by road. You can hire a taxi from Nainital or Kathgodam (the nearest railway station).

• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, which is about 37 km from Kainchi Dham. Taxis and buses are available from Kathgodam to the ashram.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, around 70 km from the ashram. You can take a taxi from the airport to Kainchi Dham.

5. Can we stay at Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• Yes, there are accommodation facilities at the ashram. However, the number of rooms is limited, and priority is given to devotees visiting for spiritual purposes. You must contact the ashram in advance for bookings, and stays are typically allowed for 2–3 days only.

6. Is there any entry fee to visit Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• No, there is no entry fee. The ashram is open to everyone, and visitors can enter to meditate, pray, or seek blessings.

7. What are the major attractions of Kainchi Dham?

• The key highlights include:

  • Neem Karoli Baba’s Samadhi: A sacred site inside the ashram where devotees pay respects.

  • The Hanuman Temple: A major temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, closely associated with Neem Karoli Baba.

  • The surrounding natural beauty: The ashram is located amidst serene hills, offering a peaceful environment ideal for meditation and spiritual practices.

8. What is the significance of Neem Karoli Baba?

• Neem Karoli Baba was a revered Hindu saint known for his teachings on bhakti (devotion) and service to humanity. He gained international recognition, especially in the West, for his spiritual guidance to famous devotees like Ram Dass, Steve Jobs, and others. His teachings emphasize simplicity, humility, and love for all.

9. What is the daily schedule at Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• The daily routine involves morning and evening prayers (aarti), chanting, and meditation. Visitors can participate in these activities. Langar (community meals) is also served to devotees. The ashram follows a disciplined schedule with set times for prayers and meals.

10. Can I meditate at Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• Yes, the ashram provides a peaceful atmosphere for meditation. Many devotees visit the ashram for personal retreats, meditation, and reflection.

11. Is photography allowed at Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• Photography is generally restricted inside the ashram to maintain the sanctity of the place. It’s advisable to check with the ashram authorities regarding specific rules on photography.

12. Are there any festivals or special events held at the ashram?

• The biggest event at the ashram is the annual bhandara held on June 15th to commemorate the pratistha (inauguration) of the Hanuman temple. Thousands of devotees attend this event, and food is served to all visitors.

• Other Hindu festivals like Navratri, Ram Navami, and Hanuman Jayanti are also celebrated with devotion.

13. Can I volunteer at the ashram?

• Yes, the ashram welcomes volunteers, especially during the annual bhandara and other major events. You may need to get prior approval from the ashram authorities to participate in volunteer activities.

14. What are the accommodation options near Kainchi Dham Ashram?

• In case accommodation at the ashram is unavailable, there are several guesthouses and hotels in the nearby towns of Bhowali and Nainital. You can easily find options that fit various budgets.

15. Are there food facilities at the ashram?

• Yes, the ashram serves prasad and langar (free meals) to devotees daily. During the bhandara, thousands of devotees are served meals. Outside the ashram, you can find small restaurants and dhabas.

16. How much time should I spend at Kainchi Dham?

• Most visitors spend a few hours at the ashram to meditate, attend aarti, and explore the temple grounds. However, if you want to stay for a spiritual retreat or meditation, a 2–3 day stay at the ashram would be ideal.

17. Are there any rules or guidelines to follow while visiting the ashram?

• Yes, as the ashram is a sacred place, visitors are expected to maintain silence, dress modestly, and show respect to the ashram’s rules. Alcohol, smoking, and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited on the premises.

18. What other attractions are near Kainchi Dham?

• Nainital (17 km away): A popular hill station with lakes, temples, and scenic views.

• Sattal (22 km away): A group of seven interconnected lakes offering boating and birdwatching.

• Bhimtal (25 km away): A beautiful lake town near Nainital.

• Mukteshwar (45 km away): A quaint hill station known for its scenic beauty and trekking options.

19. Can I get blessings or prasad from Neem Karoli Baba?

• While Neem Karoli Baba passed away in 1973, devotees visit his samadhi at the ashram to seek blessings and prasad from the temple.

20. Is there any specific attire required for visiting the ashram?

• There is no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear modest and comfortable clothing in respect of the spiritual atmosphere of the ashram.