This obscure place has been hiding itself amidst the mountains since many decades. The likes of Allen Ginsberg, Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens visited here during the peak of Hippie movement in 1960s. Kasar Devi village in Almora region of Uttarakhand is a peace lover’s paradise.
A sharp cliff to one side. Winding mountain roads on the other. And nestled in between, under the tall pine trees is Crank’s Ridge. Also known as Hippie Hill locally.
On a clear day, the destination offers a heavenly panoramic view from Nanda Devi to the five snow-capped peaks of Panchachuli. A single road runs along the top of the ridge, with about 200 homes dotting the slopes on either side.
Band of hippies populated this tiny ridge during the 1960s. Among them was psychologist Timothy Leary who was fired from Harvard University for advocating the use of psychedelic drugs.
many extraordinary poets, philosophers, and spiritual leaders have been drawn to the village. One of the earliest pilgrims was Swami Vivekananda, who wrote in his diaries about meditating near Kasar Devi in 1890.
Kasardevi is situated on Kashyap Hills and is known for its ancient temple that dates back to 2nd century. An annual fair is held every year during Kartik Poornima.
Without much fanfare and touristy sites, the village itself is an uncrowned destination. A simple walk in the village, a cup of tea, local cakes in the village shops, and some amazing conversation is all that this place has to offer.
You can also hike to Kalimath, only a kilometre away from the village. For wildlife lovers, Binsar sanctuary is an option that they can explore. You can also walk through the mist for a perfect break of dawn at the Bright End’s Corner.
One can reach Kasar Devi by taking a flight to the nearest airport which is at Pantnagar and the nearest rail station which is Kathgodam. From either place you can go toAlmora by bus, and then a short ride to Kasar Devi.
Plan a visit to Crank’s Ridge to unravel the real mysteries of verdant nature at its best.
