Katarmal Surya Mandir – History, Facts, and Guide

Katarmal Surya Temple is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. It is approx. 17 km from Almora City.

Katarmal Surya Mandir is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand in northern India, about 18 km from Almora town. Here are some ways to reach the temple:
By Road: The easiest way to reach Katarmal Surya Mandir is by road. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from Almora town to reach the temple. The temple is located on the Almora-Ranikhet road, which is well-connected by road to major cities in northern India.
By Air: The nearest airport to Katarmal Surya Mandir is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 115 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Almora town and then proceed to the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Katarmal Surya Mandir is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is about 83 km away. From the railway station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Almora town and then proceed to the temple.
It is recommended to plan the travel in advance and make necessary arrangements for a comfortable and safe journey.
You have to uphill 150 meters on foot to reach the Temple.

The temple is located at an elevation of 2,230 meters from sea level.

Katarmal Surya Mandir is believed to have been built by the Katyuri dynasty, which ruled the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand in northern India from the 7th to the 11th century AD. However, the exact identity of the person who built the temple is not known, and there are no historical records or inscriptions that provide information about the temple’s construction. It is believed that the temple was built in the 9th century AD, during the reign of the Katyuri king Katarmalla, after whom the temple is named. The temple is considered an important example of Indian temple architecture and is renowned for its intricate carvings and unique design.

Katarmal Surya Mandir is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God). It is believed to have been constructed in the 9th century AD by the Katyuri dynasty, which ruled the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand in northern India. The temple is known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings, which make it a significant example of Indian temple architecture.
The temple was built as a place of worship and is said to have been an important center for the study of astronomy and astrology. It is believed that the temple was built in such a way that it allowed sunlight to pass through a small opening in the roof, illuminating a panel of idols inside the sanctum sanctorum. This phenomenon is said to have allowed the temple priests to accurately calculate the exact time of day and the position of the planets.
The temple was damaged over the centuries due to earthquakes and natural calamities, but it was restored in the 20th century by the Archaeological Survey of India. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and is visited by thousands of people every year who come to admire its historical and cultural significance.

The visiting hours for Katarmal Surya Mandir are from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. However, it is recommended to check the official website or contact the local tourism office for the latest information on visiting hours as they may vary depending on the season or other factors. It is also important to note that the temple may be closed on certain days due to maintenance or other reasons, so it is advisable to confirm the timings before planning a visit.