If you are looking for a spiritual retreat in the Himalayas, you might want to visit the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram in Nainital. This ashram is a sacred place where the Hindu guru and Hanuman devotee Neem Karoli Baba lived and taught.
He was known for his miracles, teachings, and love for all beings. He influenced millions of people around the world, including celebrities like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this ashram, such as its history, architecture, significance, location, and best time to visit.
History of Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
The Neem Karoli Baba Ashram was established in 1962 by Neem Karoli Baba himself. He was inspired by a local saint named Sombari Maharaj, who lived in a hut on the same land. Sombari Maharaj had a vision of Hanuman, the monkey god, who told him to build a temple there. He also predicted that a great saint would come and stay there.
Neem Karoli Baba was that great saint. He came to the place and decided to build a temple complex there. He named it Kainchi Dham, meaning scissors-shaped valley, because of the shape of the hills that surround it. He also built a small hut for himself, where he used to meditate and receive visitors.
The ashram became a center of spiritual activity and service. Neem Karoli Baba initiated many projects to help the poor and needy, such as schools, hospitals, orphanages, etc. He also organized an annual festival called Pratishtha Divas on 15th June, when thousands of devotees came to receive his blessings and prasad (sacred food).
The ashram also witnessed many miracles performed by Neem Karoli Baba. He could heal the sick, read minds, manifest objects, disappear and reappear at will, etc. He could also travel across long distances in an instant. He once visited America without a passport or visa.
Neem Karoli Baba left his body in 1973 at the age of 73. His samadhi (tomb) is located at the ashram. His disciple Shri Ma is the current caretaker of the ashram. She continues his legacy of love and service.
Architecture of Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
The Neem Karoli Baba Ashram is a beautiful temple complex that consists of several structures and shrines. The main attraction is the Hanuman Temple, where a large statue of Hanuman is installed. Hanuman is the symbol of devotion, strength, and service in Hinduism. He is also the patron deity of Neem Karoli Baba and his followers.
The other temples in the complex are dedicated to Shiva, Kali, Durga, Ganesha, etc. There are also statues of Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Krishna, Radha, etc. The temples are decorated with colorful flags and flowers. There are also paintings and photos of Neem Karoli Baba and his disciples on the walls.
One of the special features of the ashram is a cave where Neem Karoli Baba used to meditate. It is said that he attained enlightenment in this cave. The cave is open to visitors who want to experience its peaceful atmosphere.
Another special feature of the ashram is a well that never dries up. It is believed that Neem Karoli Baba blessed this well with his touch. The water from this well is used for drinking and bathing by the devotees.
The ashram also has a kitchen where free meals are served to everyone who visits the ashram. The food is cooked with love and offered to Hanuman before being distributed to the guests.
The ashram also has a library where books on spirituality and religion are available for reading and borrowing. The library also has audio and video recordings of Neem Karoli Baba’s teachings and bhajans (devotional songs).
The ashram also has accommodation facilities for visitors who want to stay overnight or longer. There are dormitories and cottages for rent at nominal charges. The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable.
Significance of Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
The Neem Karoli Baba Ashram is not just a place of worship but also a place of learning and transformation. It is here that Neem Karoli Baba imparted his wisdom and grace to his disciples and followers. He taught them the essence of Hinduism and the universal values of love, compassion, service, and surrender.
He also taught them the power of chanting the name of God, especially Ram and Hanuman. He said that by repeating the name of God, one can attain liberation and happiness. He also said that by serving others, one can serve God.
He also taught them the importance of living in the present moment and being detached from worldly desires and attachments. He said that by being content with what one has and giving what one can, one can achieve peace and joy.
He also taught them the value of simplicity and humility. He said that by being humble and respectful to everyone, one can earn the respect and love of everyone.
He also taught them the secret of miracles. He said that miracles are nothing but the natural expression of love. He said that by loving God and all beings, one can manifest anything.
The ashram is a place where one can experience the presence and blessings of Neem Karoli Baba. It is a place where one can feel his love and guidance. It is a place where one can connect with his spirit and energy.
Location and How to Reach Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
The Neem Karoli Baba Ashram is located in Kainchi village, about 17 km from Nainital, a popular hill station in Uttarakhand. It is situated on the Nainital-Almora road, near Bhowali town.
The ashram is easily accessible by road from Nainital and other nearby places. There are buses, taxis, and shared jeeps available from Nainital bus stand to Kainchi Dham. The fare is around Rs. 50 per person. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
The nearest railway station to the ashram is Kathgodam, about 35 km away. There are trains from Delhi, Lucknow, Dehradun, etc. to Kathgodam. From Kathgodam, one can take a bus, taxi, or shared jeep to Kainchi Dham. The fare is around Rs. 100 per person. The journey takes about an hour.
The nearest airport to the ashram is Pantnagar, about 70 km away. There are flights from Delhi, Mumbai, etc. to Pantnagar. From Pantnagar, one can take a taxi or a bus to Kainchi Dham. The fare is around Rs. 1000 per person. The journey takes about two hours.
Best Time to Visit Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
The best time to visit the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram is from March to June and from September to November. These are the months when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and activities. The summer months (March to June) are ideal for enjoying the cool breeze and greenery of the hills. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C during this time.
The autumn months (September to November) are ideal for witnessing the colorful foliage and festivals of the region. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C during this time.
The winter months (December to February) are not recommended for visiting the ashram as it gets very cold and foggy. The temperature drops below zero at night and snowfall may occur occasionally.
The monsoon months (July to August) are also not recommended for visiting the ashram as it gets very wet and slippery due to heavy rainfall. Landslides and roadblocks may also occur during this time.
The ashram is open throughout the year from 7 am to 6 pm for visitors. However, if you want to experience the special events and celebrations at the ashram, you should plan your visit according to these dates:
Pratishtha Divas:
This is the most important festival at the ashram. It is celebrated on 15th June every year to commemorate the installation of Hanuman’s statue at the temple by Neem Karoli Baba in 1964. Thousands of devotees come to the ashram on this day to offer prayers and receive prasad.
Guru Purnima:
This is another important festival at the ashram. It is celebrated on the full moon day of July or August every year to honor Neem Karoli Baba as their guru or spiritual master. Devotees perform puja (worship) and sing bhajans (devotional songs) in his memory.
Hanuman Jayanti:
This is another important festival at the ashram. It is celebrated on the full moon day of March or April every year to celebrate the birthday of Hanuman, the monkey god. Devotees chant Hanuman Chalisa (a hymn dedicated to Hanuman) and offer flowers and sweets to him.
Diwali:
This is another important festival at the ashram. It is celebrated in October or November every year to mark the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Devotees light diyas (earthen lamps) and candles around the ashram and enjoy the fireworks and sweets.
The Neem Karoli Baba Ashram in Nainital is a spiritual retreat for seekers and celebrities alike. It is a place where you can learn about the life and teachings of Neem Karoli Baba, the Hindu guru and Hanuman devotee. It is also a place where you can admire the architecture and beauty of the temple complex and experience the miracles and blessings of the ashram. It is also a place where you can enjoy the festivals and celebrations of the region and mingle with the devotees and locals.
If you are interested in visiting this ashram, you can plan your trip according to the best time and location mentioned above. You can also read reviews and ratings from other travelers who have visited this ashram before.
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