A Guide to Visiting Kainchi Dham Ashram - Home of Neem Karoli Baba

Neem Karoli Baba, also known as Neeb Karori Baba, was a spiritual guru and saint who lived in India in the 20th century. He was known for his simple and profound teachings, and his followers included prominent figures like Steve Jobs and Ram Dass. In this blog, we will explore the life and teachings of Neem Karoli Baba.

Early Life of Neem Karoli Baba:

Neem Karoli Baba was born in Akbarpur, a small town in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh in 1900. His birth name was Lakshmi Narayan Sharma, and he was born into a Brahmin family. At the age of 11, he left home and embarked on a journey of spiritual seeking.

Teachings of Neem Karoli Baba:

Neem Karoli Baba's teachings were simple and direct, and centered around the idea of love and service to others. He believed that all religions are different paths to the same goal, and encouraged his followers to follow the path that resonated with them.

One of his most famous teachings was "Sub Ek" which means "All is One". He emphasized that we are all interconnected and that our actions have a ripple effect on the world around us. He also taught that service to others was a form of worship, and encouraged his followers to serve others without any expectation of reward.

Neem Karoli Baba was known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and he often used humor and storytelling to convey his teachings. He believed that laughter was a powerful tool for healing, and his teachings reflected this belief.

Legacy of Neem Karoli Baba:

Neem Karoli Baba's teachings continue to inspire people all over the world, long after his death in 1973. His teachings have been shared through books and documentaries, and his ashram in Kainchi, Uttarakhand, has become a pilgrimage site for his followers.

Neem Karoli Baba's influence can be seen in the work of his famous disciples like Ram Dass, who dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of his guru. Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple, was also influenced by Neem Karoli Baba's teachings, and traveled to India in search of spiritual guidance.

The Kainchi Dham ashram where Neem Karoli Baba lived is located in Kainchi village, near Nainital in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. If you are planning to visit the ashram, here is a guide to help you reach there:

By Air: The nearest airport to Kainchi Dham is Pantnagar Airport, which is located approximately 67 km away from the ashram. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kainchi Dham.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Kainchi Dham is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is located approximately 38 km away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kainchi Dham.

By Road: Kainchi Dham is well-connected to major cities in Uttarakhand by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, or Haridwar to reach Kainchi Dham.

Once you reach Kainchi Dham, you can visit the ashram and pay your respects to Neem Karoli Baba. The ashram is open to visitors throughout the year, and you can stay at the ashram if you wish to. The ashram also provides facilities for food and accommodation. It is advisable to check the availability of accommodation before your visit, especially during peak season.

The best time to visit Kainchi Dham ashram, where Neem Karoli Baba lived, is from September to June. During these months, the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the area and spending time at the ashram.

The monsoon season from July to August should be avoided, as heavy rainfall can cause landslides and disrupt travel plans. The winter months from December to February can also be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing point.

If you are planning to attend any special events or festivals at the ashram, it is advisable to check the dates beforehand and plan your visit accordingly. Some of the important events at Kainchi Dham include the annual Bhandara (feast) held in June and the Guru Purnima celebrations held in July.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Kainchi Dham ashram is from September to June, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for travel. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season and the winter months, which can be challenging due to heavy rainfall and cold weather.