Frequently Asked Questions about Shree Kainchi Mandir
How can I book a room at Shree Kainchi Mandir?
Currently, the shree kainchi mandir trust accepts room booking requests primarily via phone. Please call +91 85710 27645 to check availability.
Is online booking available for Kainchi Dham Ashram?
Direct online booking is limited. It is best to call the Ashram administration directly to confirm your stay at Kainchi Dham.
What is the price range for rooms at the Ashram?
Rooms generally range from ₹800 to ₹2500 per night depending on the type of accommodation (Dormitory vs. Private Room).
Can I book accommodation for my family?
Yes, family rooms are available at the Kainchi Dham Neem Karoli Baba Ashram guest house.
Is it possible to stay inside the main Ashram premises?
Accommodation inside the main Neem Karoli Baba Ashram is limited and often reserved for those performing Seva. Most pilgrims stay in the trust-managed guest houses nearby.
Do the rooms have attached bathrooms?
Yes, our Deluxe and Standard private rooms come with attached bathrooms and basic amenities.
Is hot water available in the rooms?
Yes, hot water facilities are available, especially essential during the winter months in Kainchi Dham.
What is the check-in and check-out time?
Standard check-in is at 12:00 PM and check-out is at 10:00 AM.
Can I book rooms for a large group?
Yes, for large groups visiting SHREE KAINCHI HANUMAN MANDIR, please contact us in advance to arrange dormitory or bulk room bookings.
Is air-conditioning available in the rooms?
Given the cool climate of the hills, AC is generally not required, but some premium rooms may have heating/cooling options.
Are unmarried couples allowed to book rooms?
No, in keeping with the spiritual sanctity of the shree kainchi mandir, unmarried couples are not permitted to share rooms.
Do I need to carry ID proof for booking?
Yes, a valid Government-issued ID (Aadhar/Voter ID) is mandatory for all guests during check-in.
Can I cancel my booking and get a refund?
Please refer to our Refund Policy page. Generally, cancellations made 48 hours prior are eligible for a partial refund.
Is food included in the room rent?
Room rent covers the stay. Prasadam is available at the Ashram, and there are canteens nearby for other meals.
How far is the accommodation from the main temple?
The trust-managed accommodation is located within walking distance of SHREE KAINCHI HANUMAN MANDIR.
Who is Neem Karoli Baba?
Neem Karoli Baba, also known as Maharaj-ji, was a great Indian saint and a devotee of Lord Hanuman, believed by many to be an incarnation of Hanuman ji himself.
When was Kainchi Dham established?
The Kainchi Dham Neem Karoli Baba Ashram was established in 1964 by Maharaj-ji.
Why is it called "Kainchi" Dham?
It is named "Kainchi" because of the two sharp hairpin bends on the road near the ashram that resemble a pair of scissors (Kainchi in Hindi).
Did Steve Jobs visit Kainchi Dham?
Yes, Steve Jobs visited India in the 1970s and was advised to visit Kainchi Dham to find spiritual guidance.
Did Mark Zuckerberg visit the Ashram?
Yes, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg visited the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram upon Steve Jobs' suggestion during a difficult phase in his company.
What is the significance of the blanket (Kambal)?
Neem Karoli Baba always wore a plaid blanket. Devotees consider the blanket a symbol of his protection and simplicity.
Is Neem Karoli Baba still alive?
Maharaj-ji took Mahasamadhi in 1973, but his spiritual presence is strongly felt by devotees at shree kainchi mandir.
What is the main teaching of Neem Karoli Baba?
His core teaching was "Sub Ek" (All is One) and "Love Everyone, Serve Everyone, Remember God."
Where is Neem Karoli Baba's Mahasamadhi?
His Mahasamadhi Temple is located in Vrindavan, but Kainchi Dham remains his most famous ashram.
What deities are worshipped at the temple?
The complex houses SHREE KAINCHI HANUMAN MANDIR, along with temples for Lord Shiva, Vaishno Devi, and the Baba’s Tuck (seat).
What is "The Tuck"?
The Tuck is the wooden bed/seat where Neem Karoli Baba used to sit and give darshan. It is now a shrine.
Are there other ashrams of Baba?
Yes, there are ashrams in Vrindavan, Rishikesh, Shimla, and even in Taos, New Mexico (USA), but Kainchi Dham is the summer home.
Is the Ashram open to people of all religions?
Yes, Neem Karoli Baba believed in the unity of all faiths. Everyone is welcome.
Can I meet a Guru at the Ashram today?
While Maharaj-ji is no longer in physical form, senior devotees and temple priests maintain the spiritual traditions of the shree kainchi mandir trust.
What is the spiritual vibe like?
Visitors describe it as an intensely peaceful place where the chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa creates a powerful meditative atmosphere.
What are the opening hours of Shree Kainchi Mandir?
The temple generally opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 7:00 PM (timings may vary slightly by season).
When is the Morning Aarti?
Morning Aarti is usually performed around 7:00 AM.
When is the Evening Aarti?
Evening Aarti takes place around 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
Is the temple open every day?
Yes, SHREE KAINCHI HANUMAN MANDIR is open 365 days a year.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Early morning is the best time for peace and meditation before the tourist crowd arrives.
Is there a special day for visiting?
Tuesdays and Saturdays (Hanuman ji’s days) see more crowd. June 15th is the biggest annual festival.
How much time does Darshan take?
On regular days, 30-45 minutes. On weekends or festivals, it may take 1-2 hours.
Can I perform meditation inside the temple?
Yes, there are designated areas where you can sit and meditate silently.
Is photography allowed inside?
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the main shree kainchi mandir premises to maintain sanctity.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry to Kainchi Dham is free for all devotees.
Can I offer Prasad?
Yes, you can offer sweets or fruits, but please follow the guidelines of the temple priests.
Do I need to book Darshan in advance?
No, general Darshan does not require booking. Room booking is separate.
Is the Ashram closed in winter?
The temple remains open, but the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram activities may be reduced due to extreme cold.
Are mobile phones allowed?
You may carry them, but they must be on silent mode, and taking photos is not allowed.
What happens on June 15th?
It is the foundation day (Bhandara) of Kainchi Dham. Over 1 lakh devotees visit for Prasad.
Where exactly is Kainchi Dham located?
It is located on the Nainital-Almora Road, approx 17 km from Nainital and 9 km from Bhowali.
What is the nearest airport?
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), about 70 km away.
What is the nearest railway station?
Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM) is the nearest, about 38 km from Kainchi Dham.
How do I get there from Kathgodam?
You can hire a private taxi or take a shared jeep/bus heading towards Almora or Ranikhet.
Is there a direct bus to Kainchi Dham?
Buses going from Haldwani/Kathgodam to Almora stop at Kainchi Dham.
How far is it from Delhi?
It is approximately 320 km from Delhi (7-8 hours drive).
Is the road condition good?
Yes, the road is a National Highway and is generally in good condition, though winding (hilly).
Is parking available at the Ashram?
Parking is limited and mostly roadside. It is advisable to park carefully or use designated spots in Bhowali.
Can I drive my own car?
Yes, you can drive, but be prepared for hill driving and limited parking during weekends.
How far is Nainital from the Ashram?
Nainital is about 17 km away, which takes 45 minutes to 1 hour by car.
Are taxis available from the Ashram to Nainital?
Yes, shared jeeps and taxis are frequently available on the main road outside shree kainchi mandir.
Is it safe to travel at night?
It is recommended to travel during daylight hours due to hill roads and fog.
Is there network connectivity?
Yes, most major networks work, but the signal might be weak inside the valley.
Are there ATMs nearby?
There are ATMs in Bhowali (9 km away). It is better to carry cash.
Is the location wheelchair accessible?
The temple is in a valley; while there are ramps, some areas might be difficult for wheelchairs without assistance.
Is food available at the Ashram?
Yes, simple Satvik food (Prasad) is served at specific times.
Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, there are small dhabas outside the Kainchi Dham gate serving tea and snacks.
Is the water safe to drink?
The Ashram provides filtered water. Bottled water is also available at nearby shops.
Are there medical facilities?
Basic first aid is available. The nearest hospital is in Bhowali or Nainital.
Is there a locker facility for luggage?
If you have a room booked, you can keep luggage there. Day visitors should keep luggage in their vehicles.
Are shoes allowed inside?
No, you must remove shoes at the designated shoe stand before entering SHREE KAINCHI HANUMAN MANDIR.
Is there a souvenir shop?
Yes, you can buy books about Neem Karoli Baba, photos, and beads near the temple.
Are washrooms available for day visitors?
Yes, public washrooms are available near the entrance.
Is there a meditation hall?
The temple premises themselves serve as a meditation space.
Do you provide blankets in the rooms?
Yes, the shree kainchi mandir trust provides blankets as nights can be cold.
Is there a generator/power backup?
Yes, power backup is available for essential lighting.
Can I volunteer at the Ashram?
Yes, you can inquire at the trust office if you wish to perform Seva (service).
Is it safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Kainchi Dham is a very safe and spiritual place for all travelers.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not allowed inside the temple complex.
Is there a library?
There is a collection of spiritual books available for purchase/reading.
What is the best time to visit Kainchi Dham?
March to June and September to November are the best months.
Does it snow in Kainchi Dham?
It rarely snows in the valley itself, but nearby areas like Nainital do receive snow in winter.
Is it very cold in summer?
Summers are pleasant (15°C to 25°C), making it a great escape from city heat.
What clothes should I pack?
Carry light woolens in summer and heavy woolens in winter.
Can I visit during the monsoon (July-August)?
You can, but the area is prone to heavy rain and landslides, so check the weather forecast.
Is the Ashram crowded in June?
Yes, specifically around June 15th (Foundation Day), it is extremely crowded.
What is the temperature in winter?
It can drop to 0°C to 5°C.
Is it safe to drive in fog?
Fog is common. Drive slowly and use fog lights.
Are the rooms heated?
Standard rooms usually do not have central heating; heavy blankets are provided.
Do I need an umbrella?
It is always good to carry one, especially if visiting between July and September.
Why is this place famous?
It is famous for the spiritual vibes of Neem Karoli Baba and the visits by Apple and Facebook founders.
Can I donate to the trust?
Yes, donations to shree kainchi mandir trust are accepted at the office.
Is there an official website for donations?
Please verify with the office physically to avoid online scams.
What is the "Hanuman Chalisa" practice here?
Devotees often sit and recite the Hanuman Chalisa multiple times a day.
Are there guides available?
You don't need a guide; the ashram is self-explanatory and peaceful.
Can I stay for a month?
Long-term stays require special permission from the Trust management.
Is alcohol permitted in the rooms?
Absolutely not. Consumption of alcohol or non-veg food is strictly prohibited.
What languages are spoken here?
Hindi and Kumaoni are local, but English is understood by the staff.
Is there a dress code for Aarti?
No specific uniform, but clean and modest traditional attire is preferred.
Can I bring my own food?
You can bring snacks, but cooked food is usually taken from the Ashram kitchen or nearby dhabas.
How do I contact the manager?
You can call the booking number +91 85710 27645.
Are there hotels nearby if the Ashram is full?
Yes, there are hotels in Bhowali (9km) and Nainital (17km).
Is there a river nearby?
Yes, the Kosi river flows alongside the Ashram.
Can I take a bath in the river?
It is generally not advised due to currents and rocks; please follow local advice.
How can I get the blessings of Neem Karoli Baba?
Visit Kainchi Dham, pray with a pure heart, and serve others. His grace is always there.
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