Maa Kachula Devi Temple in Uttarakhand

India is a land of many mysteries and spiritual places. In the beautiful hills of Uttarakhand, there is a small town called Bhimtal. This town is famous for its peaceful lake and natural beauty. But there is something very special and mysterious about this place – the Maa Kachula Devi Temple.

This temple is not visible like other temples. That is because it is submerged under water. Yes, this ancient temple is said to be hidden beneath Bhimtal Lake. Even though we cannot see it, people still believe in the power of Maa Kachula Devi, the goddess who protects the region.

Let us explore the story, mystery, and spiritual energy behind Maa Kachula Devi Temple.

Where is Maa Kachula Devi Temple Located?

Maa Kachula Devi Temple is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, near the town of Bhimtal. Bhimtal is around 22 kilometers from Nainital and is a quiet and beautiful hill station.

• State: Uttarakhand

• District: Nainital

• Town: Bhimtal

• Nearest Landmark: Bhimtal Lake

According to local beliefs, the temple was built many years ago but is now submerged in the Bhimtal Lake. Though the exact spot is not clearly marked, many people believe the divine energy of Maa Kachula Devi still exists in the area.

The Story and Belief Behind the Temple

The story of Maa Kachula Devi Temple is not written in many books, but it lives strongly in the hearts of local people. According to old villagers and priests:

• The temple was built long ago in honor of Goddess Kachula, a form of Shakti or the divine feminine power.

• Over time, due to changes in nature and water levels, the temple slowly became submerged under the waters of Bhimtal Lake.

• Even though it is underwater, devotees feel the presence of the goddess and offer prayers from the lakeside.

Many believe that the goddess protects the village from natural disasters and brings peace and harmony to the area.

Why is the Temple Submerged?

The exact reason why the temple is submerged is not confirmed, but people share a few ideas:

1. Natural Changes – Long ago, the shape and size of Bhimtal Lake may have changed due to floods, rains, or other natural events. These changes could have caused the temple to be flooded.

2. Construction Around the Lake – Some say when the lake area was developed in later years, water was stored at higher levels, which may have caused the temple to go underwater.

3. Old Legends – According to some spiritual stories, the goddess chose to become part of the lake and protect it from within.

Whether the reason is natural or spiritual, one thing is sure – the story of the temple continues to live on.

Spiritual Importance of Maa Kachula Devi

Even though you can’t see the temple, people from nearby areas still visit the lake to:

• Pray to Maa Kachula Devi

• Offer flowers and prayers

• Ask for blessings, especially for health, protection, and peace

Many say they feel a strong, peaceful energy when they sit quietly near the lake. The temple may be hidden, but the faith of the people is strong and alive.

On certain festival days, especially during Navratri, locals come to the lake and hold special prayers and pujas. This shows that the goddess is still remembered and respected.

How to Reach Maa Kachula Devi Temple

Though the temple is submerged, you can still visit Bhimtal Lake and offer your prayers there. Here’s how to reach:

By Road:

• Bhimtal is well-connected by roads.

• You can drive from Haldwani (35 km), Kathgodam (22 km), or Nainital (22 km).

• Buses and taxis are easily available.

By Train:

• The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, about 22 km away.

• From the station, you can take a taxi or local bus.

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 58 km from Bhimtal.

• From the airport, hire a taxi to reach Bhimtal.

Once you reach Bhimtal, visit the lake and spend some time near the water. Locals can guide you to the spot where people believe the temple lies underwater.

Nearby Places to Explore Around Maa Kachula Devi Temple (Bhimtal)

1. Bhimtal Lake

• This is the main attraction of Bhimtal.

• A peaceful and large lake surrounded by green hills.

• You can enjoy boating, sit by the lakeside, or take pictures.

• In the middle of the lake, there’s a small island that has an aquarium with colorful fish.

Distance: Right at the center of Bhimtal

2. Aquarium Island

• Located on a small island in the middle of Bhimtal Lake.

• You can reach here by boat ride.

• The aquarium has fish from different countries.

• It’s fun and educational, especially for kids.

Distance: In the middle of Bhimtal Lake (5–10 min boat ride)

3. Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple

• A peaceful and old temple near the lake, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Local people say it was built during the Pandava time.

• Many tourists and pilgrims come here for blessings.

Distance: Around 500 meters from Bhimtal Lake

4. Hidimba Parvat & Vankhandi Ashram

• A small hill area named after Hidimba, the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata.

• Great for short treks and nature walks.

• On the hill is the Vankhandi Ashram, started by a saint who loved nature and animals.

Distance: Around 5 km from Bhimtal

5. Butterfly Research Centre

• One of the biggest butterfly farms in India.

• You can learn about different types of butterflies, moths, and insects.

• Ideal for kids and people who love nature and science.

Distance: Around 1.5 km from Bhimtal Lake

6. Folk Culture Museum (Lok Sanskriti Sangrahalaya)

• A small museum near Bhimtal that shows traditional Kumaoni life.

• You can see old utensils, clothes, artwork, and tools used by the mountain people.

• A good place to learn about the local culture.

Distance: Around 2 km from Bhimtal Lake

7. Naukuchiatal (Lake of Nine Corners)

• A beautiful lake just a few kilometers from Bhimtal.

• Known for its calm waters and scenic surroundings.

• You can do kayaking, paragliding, boating, and birdwatching here.

Distance: Around 5 km from Bhimtal

8. Sattal (Seven Lakes)

• A group of seven small lakes surrounded by dense forests.

• A perfect place for birdwatching, hiking, and photography.

• Peaceful and less crowded than other hill stations.

Distance: Around 7 km from Bhimtal

9. Kainchi Dham Ashram

• Kainchi Dham Ashram is a famous spiritual place where Neem Karoli Baba lived.

• People from all over the world come here to pray and meditate.

• Known for peace, miracles, and blessings.

Distance: Around 17 km from Bhimtal (on the way to Nainital)

10. Nainital

• A popular hill station with the famous Naini Lake.

• Explore Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road, Zoo, Snow View Point, and more.

• Ideal for shopping, sightseeing, and boating.

Distance: Around 22 km from Bhimtal

Summary Table

Best Time to Visit

You can visit Bhimtal and the sacred site of Maa Kachula Devi Temple any time of the year, but the best months are:

• March to June – Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing.

• September to November – Clear skies and cool breeze after the monsoon.

• Avoid heavy monsoon season (July–August) as it may cause roadblocks or landslides in the hills.

Tips for Visitors

• Respect the local culture and beliefs.

• Avoid throwing waste or plastic near the lake.

• Talk to locals to learn more about the story of Maa Kachula Devi.

• Carry light woollens if you are visiting during winter months.

• If you are spiritual, take time to sit quietly near the lake and meditate.

Conclusion

The story of Maa Kachula Devi Temple is one of faith, mystery, and devotion. Even though the temple is not visible, the energy of the goddess lives on in the hearts of the people and the waters of Bhimtal Lake. It reminds us that true belief does not always need a visible structure. It lives in our hearts and minds.

If you are ever visiting Bhimtal, do take a few minutes to sit by the lake, close your eyes, and connect with the divine presence of Maa Kachula Devi. You may not see the temple, but you might feel the peace and blessings she gives.

FAQs about Maa Kachula Devi Temple

Q1. Where is Maa Kachula Devi Temple located?
It is believed to be submerged under Bhimtal Lake in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand.

Q2. Can we visit the temple?
The temple itself is underwater, but people visit the lake to offer prayers and feel connected to the goddess.

Q3. What is special about the temple?
The temple is mysterious because it is hidden under the lake. It is still believed to be powerful by the locals.

Q4. Is there any other temple nearby?
Yes, you can visit Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple, which is also near the lake.

Q5. What’s the best time to visit?
March to June and September to November are the best months to enjoy good weather.