History:

is a 900 year old Hindu sun temple located in the Almora district of the Kumoan region of Uttarakhand, India. The temple is dedicated to the sun god, Surya, and is one of the most important pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand state. It is believed to be one of the oldest sun temples in India and said to date from the 8th century AD. The temple architecture is of the Pahadi style and shows the strong ancient craftsmanship of the region. The temple has been extensively renovated in recent years and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year, mostly during the peak months of May and October. It is one of the best temple in Uttarakhand which you must visit.

Facts:

Katarmal Sun Temple is an ancient temple located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated on the top of the mountain and is venerated by pilgrims. This temple is a unique example of 2nd Century Gupta style architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Surya (also known as Sun God). This temple is believed to be one of the oldest Sun Temples in the country and is said to be constructed by the Katyuri Kings in the 9th century. The complex is comprised of many temples and other ruins which date back to the same era. Its chief deity is an image of Surya carved in red sandstone. The temple is also known for its various mythologies associated with diverse beliefs and legends. According to the legend, the image of the deity inside the temple is believed to be that of Parshuram, who is the sixth avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu. He is believed to have visited this temple in rage and threw his axe from the top of the temple, which later became the source of the river Kho. The architecture of the temple is unique and magnificent. The walls of the temple are adorned with sculptures and carvings of various deities and mythical creatures. The temple complex also has a tank which is believed to have enormous healing powers. The temple is a very popular pilgrimage destination and is visited by a large number of tourists and devotees from all over the country. It also hosts various festivals throughout the year. Katarmal Sun Temple also has immense environmental significance. It is situated in the middle of a lush green forest of pine, oak and rhododendron trees, which serves as a natural habitat for a variety of birds and animals. Here are some facts about the Uttarakhand temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Uttarakhand

Worship Method:

The worship method of the Katarmal Sun Temple follows the same rituals and traditions of the ancient Vedic religion of India. Devotees start their visit by offering prayers to the presiding deity, Lord Surya, and then start the proceeding of offering Gandhammal (clay or sandalwood) and flowers. After performing the puja, the devotees take a round of the temple in the clockwise direction and perform a pradakshina. After completing the pradakshina, the Kara prasad or offering of food is given to the deity. This is usually followed by the chanting of Vedic hymns, mantras and shlokas.On auspicious occasions, the devotees visit the temple for a special puja (avyanjana) or to perform special havans. For those who seek the blessings of Lord Surya, they bring a pair of white horses or yellow cows to be offered to the deity. There are also various offerings of jewellery, flowers, and fruits like Brahmi, lotus, and munga. This most visited temple in Uttarakhand

Opening Timing:

Katarmal Sun Temple usually opens at 8 AM and closes at 8 PM. top temples in Uttarakhand

How to reach:

Katarmal Sun Temple is located in Almora district in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand state in northern India. By Air : The nearest airport is at Pantnagar, which is about 163 km away from Almora. Pantnagar Airport is well connected to Delhi with regular flights. By Rail : Almora railway station is the nearest railway station, which is about 30 km away from Katarmal Sun Temple. Almora railway station is well connected to major cities of India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkatta and more. By Road : Almora is connected to major cities of India through road network. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Delhi to reach Almora. It will take approximately 12-14 hours to reach. famous temples in Uttarakhand