Katarmal Surya Mandir is an ancient temple situated on a hill which can be easily reached by stone stairs. Raja Katarmalla who was the king of the Katyuri dynasty, was a Suryavanshi king who followed Brahmin customs and rituals. He built this temple complex in the 9th century. This temple is mainly dedicated to Surya and other temples are dedicated to other deities.
The carved doors of this temple were sent to the Delhi Museum because an idol was stolen from here, after which this temple complex remained almost deserted.
It is a Protected Monument of National Importance. The architectural style of this temple is somewhat Nagara style in which the sanctum sanctorum is below the peak.
Main temple is larger than the other shrines. All these temples are built of stones and lime mortar. It can be accessed by road only. It is located in Kumaon, Uttarakhand. It is located at a distance of about 70 km from Nainital, about 30 km from Ranikhet, 12 km from Almora and about 1.5 km from Kosi village.
From this temple complex situated on the hill, the views of the surrounding green valleys, hills, sunset etc are extremely captivating, picturesque, thrilling and unforgettable.
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