Ancient 1,000-Year Spiritual Citadel of the Chand Dynasty & Patron Goddess of Kumaon
Nestled in the heart of Almora just off the lively bazaar lanes, the Nanda Devi Temple is one of the most culturally revered and historically prominent shrines in all of Kumaon. Dedicated to Goddess Nanda—a manifestation of Goddess Parvati regarded intimately as both the patron royal deity of the Chand dynasty and the beloved daughter (*dhyani*) of the Himalayan people—this temple has anchored the spiritual life of Almora for over a millennium.
The temple was originally established within the ancient Malla Mahal fort complex by Raja Kalyan Chand in the 16th century, and later moved to its current location during early British administrative reorganization. The architectural complex features an expansive open stone courtyard with an intricately sculpted sanctum sanctorum adorned with floral bas-reliefs, stone pillars, and historic images of Shiva, Durga, and Ganesha.
Every year during Shukla Ashtami in the month of Bhadrapada (September), the temple becomes the epicenter of the grand **Nanda Devi Mela**. Tens of thousands of pilgrims from across India converge here as two sacred, life-sized Murtis of Goddess Nanda and her sister Sunanda are meticulously sculpted from banana plant trunks (*Kela ke ped*), adorned in royal finery, worshipped with intense devotion, and processed through the streets.
Exquisite stone masonry with relief carvings of deities and decorative motifs reflecting classical Kumaoni artistry.
Historic 7-day September cultural fair featuring Chholiya sword dances, folk music, mountain fairs, and royal processions.
Unique sacred tradition of hand-crafting the divine sisters from living banana stems during the annual festival.
A peaceful cobblestone enclosure shielded from town bustle, ideal for quiet prayer, reflection, and photography.
Participate in the soul-stirring morning (6:30 AM) or evening (7:00 PM) aarti accompanied by rhythmic brass bells and drums.
Visit during September to witness traditional Kumaoni women in gold Nath nose rings, folk recitals, and festive markets.
Walk seamlessly from the temple courtyard into Lala Bazar to explore traditional copper crafts and local sweet shops.
Study the ancient Katyuri and Chand dynasty stone idols displayed around the ambulatory courtyard walls.
Pantnagar Airport is 125 km away (~4 hours drive via NH-109).
Kathgodam Railway Station is 90 km away (~3 hours drive via Bhowali).
Located right in Almora town center, within easy 5-minute walking distance from the main bus stand and Mall Road.
If visiting during the September fair, book accommodation well in advance as hotels across Almora fill up completely.
Modest traditional dress is expected. Footwear must be deposited at the shoe counter at the courtyard gate.
Courtyard photography is welcomed, but refrain from taking flash photos inside the innermost sanctum.
Easily visited together with Lala Bazar, Govind Ballabh Pant Museum, and Bright End Corner in a half-day tour.
Goddess Nanda is worshipped as the supreme mother and daughter of the Himalayas. The Chand dynasty kings considered her their kuldevi (clan deity), crediting her blessings with their military and civil triumphs.
The fair is celebrated annually in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (usually late August or September), culminating on Nanda Ashtami with grand ritual immersion.
The sanctum houses permanent ancient stone deities. However, during the annual Mela, special temporary Murtis are traditionally sculpted from banana trunks and immersed in water on the final day.
No, entry is completely free for all devotees and tourists throughout the year.
From sacred bell temples and cosmic magnetic ridges to ancient Katyuri stone spires, Almora offers an authentic Himalayan journey steeped in living history and Himalayan serenity.
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