Katarmal

Katarmal is a small remote village which is considered to be the hidden gem of Kumaon region. Katarmal is located at a distance of 1.5 km from the Kosi village and 12 km from the district center, Almora and 70 km from Nainital and is located at a height of 2116 meters above the main sea level. It is one of the favorite pilgrimages for all travellers. Katarmal is mainly well-known for the famous Surya temple. The Katarmal Sun Temple is a monument of historical importance and also is an perfect example of intricate sculpturing. The first sunray falls straight on this Sun Temple. The main part of the Sun temple in Katarmal is named Burhadita or Vraddhaditya which means the old Sun God. The idols of some worshiped god and goddess like Shiva-Parvati and the Lakshmi-Narayana are also noted in this temple. Katarmal Sun Temple complex consist of one main temple which is surrounded by 45 smaller ones exquisitely carved temples surrounding it. The Sun temple is noted for its spectacular magnificent architecture, stone made in an artistic way and metallic sculptures and beautifully carved pillars and doors made of wood, the pictures of Surya in the temple established during 12th century.

The Katarmal Sun temple has some amazing and unique architectural style and the images drawn on the walls are very intricately done. Though most of them ruins, it still stands as a major point of attraction in the Kumaon region and many pilgrims visit here to offer prayer to the Sun God. The Katarmal Sun temple is a major pilgrimage center and attracts a huge number of worshipers every year from different states of the country & world.