If you're planning a visit to Adi Kailash, a trip to Kali Mandir is a must. Nestled in the serene Vyas Valley of the Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand, this sacred temple is located at Kalapani, approximately 28 kilometers from Adi Kailash.
Surrounded by majestic mountains, Kali Mandir serves as an essential spiritual stop for devotees on the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat pilgrimage.
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Here, you can witness the origin of the Kali Nadi, or Kali River, which flows in India for six months before shifting to Nepal for the remainder of the year. According to local belief, during this time, Kali Maa visits her maternal home in Nepal.
The temple is managed and maintained by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), ensuring a welcoming and safe environment for visitors. Additionally, during your Adi Kailash tour, you can customize your itinerary to include a visit to the enchanting Kali Mandir, enhancing your spiritual journey with a deeper exploration of the region's rich mythology and natural beauty.
Mythology Behind Kali Temple
The origin of Kali Mandir is deeply rooted in mythology. It is believed that Ved Vyas, the great sage who compiled the Mahabharata, meditated in a cave (gufa) located behind the temple valley. During his meditation, Kali Maa appeared before Ved Vyas and instructed him to build a temple in her honor.
This temple, built at her divine request, is said to preserve the greenery and joy of the surrounding areas. Pilgrims performing the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra first offer their prayers to Maa Kali here, seeking her blessings for a safe and divine journey. The temple also houses an idol of Lord Shiva and mata Parvati, symbolizing the union of both deities in the spiritual landscap
What is Kali Mandir Famous for?
Kali Mandir is famous for being a vital spiritual stop during the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra, where pilgrims seek blessings from Maa Kali for a safe and divine journey. It is also revered as the origin of the sacred Kali River.
Reaching Kali Mandir in Kalapani, located in the remote Vyas Valley of Uttarakhand, travelers can first reach Dharchula, which is well connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand, such as Haldwani, Almora, and Pithoragarh. From Dharchula, you must travel approximately 71 km by road to reach Gunji. From Gunji, a 10-12 km journey on a rough and uneven road leads to Kalapani, where Kali Mandir is situated.
Location of Kali Mandir
Kali Mandir is located at Kalapani in the Vyas Valley, which lies within the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 3600 meters, about 10-12 kilometers from Gunji village.
Kali Mandir Kalapani is popular place for following activities/ interests - Devi Temples, Temples.
