Dunagiri is a historic area in Almora district in the state of Uttarakhand in India. It is known as the birthplace of modern-day Kriya Yoga due to the fact that Lahiri Mahasaya was initiated into Kriya Yoga by Mahavatar Babaji at this site. It is also famous for its temple of Shakti, known as Dunagiri Devi, which is one of the most ancient and powerful Shaktipeeths in Kumaon. Dunagiri is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, including Dunagiri mountain, which is one of the high peaks of the Chamoli district. Dunagiri is a peaceful haven of beauty and spirituality for travelers who seek solitude and serenity.
History of Dunagiri
Dunagiri has a rich and ancient history that dates back to the times of the Mahabharata. According to the local tradition, the town has been regularly visited by sages (Rishi-Munis) of India who established their ashrams here in the midst of nature. Some of the famous sages who meditated here are Garga Muni, Shukdev Muni, Ved Vyasa, and Dronacharya. Dunagiri is also said to be the place where Hanuman Ji dropped a piece of the mountain with ‘Sanjiwani buti’ for Laxman, and hence it is called ‘Doonagiri’ (‘giri’ meaning fell). The Pandavas of Mahabharata also took shelter at Dunagiri during their exile and stayed at a place now known as Pandukholi.
Dunagiri is mentioned in Manas Khand of Skanda Purana as a divine mountain and a place where goddess Durga is pleased. The temple of Dunagiri Devi is believed to be very old and has been influenced by Shiva, Vaishnav, and Shakti practices over time. The temple is popularly known as Mangalikhan among locals and attracts a large number of pilgrims during the Chaitra and Ashwin months of Navratras.
Mahavatar Babaji Cave
One of the most significant attractions of Dunagiri is the cave where Mahavatar Babaji, a legendary immortal yogi, initiated Lahiri Mahasaya into Kriya Yoga in 1861. This event marked the revival of Kriya Yoga in modern times and inspired many spiritual masters and seekers to follow this path. The cave is located near Kukuchina village, about 14 km from Dwarahat. It is accessible by a trek of about 3 km from the road. The cave is a sacred place for Kriya Yogis who follow different gurus and visit it every day to meditate and pay homage to Babaji and Lahiri Mahasaya.
How to Reach Dunagiri
Dunagiri is located at a distance of 400 km from Delhi and 100 km from Nainital. The nearest railhead is Kathgodam, which is 140 km from here. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, which is 178 km from here. There is a direct flight from Delhi to Pantnagar with a flying time of just one hour. From Pantnagar or Kathgodam, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Dwarahat, which is 47 km from Ranikhet. From Dwarahat, one can take another taxi or bus to reach Dunagiri, which is 14 km away. Alternatively, one can also drive directly from Delhi to Dunagiri via Moradabad, Rampur, Rudrapur, Haldwani, Kathgodam, Bhimtal, Bhowali, Khairna, Ranikhet, and Dwarahat.
Dunagiri is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the history, culture, and spirituality of Uttarakhand. It offers a tranquil and scenic environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. It also provides an opportunity to explore nearby attractions such as Pandukholi, Yogoda Satsanga Sakha Ashram, Badrinath Temple Dham, and Mahavatar Babaji Cave.