Karkotaka Temple

Karkotaka Temple, locally celebrated as Karkotak Nag Temple, crowns the highest peak of Karkotak Hill in Bhimtal. Perched at an elevation of nearly 1,600 meters, this sacred hilltop shrine is dedicated to the mythical serpent king Karkotaka.

According to ancient Puranic scripture, Karkotaka was one of the foremost serpents who protected sage Narada and helped King Nala. Local Kumaoni belief affirms that praying at this shrine protects devotees from venomous snakebites and cures planetary Naga Dosha.

Hilltop Trekking and Panoramic Valley Vistas

Reaching the temple requires a short 2.5 kilometer uphill hike starting from the base village near Bhimtal lake. The trail winds through dense forests of chir pine and oak, offering sweeping aerial views of Bhimtal and the surrounding Kumaon mountain folds.

The temple structure features a simple stone sanctum housing ancient black rock idols of serpent deities and Shiva lingams. Thousands of brass bells hung by grateful pilgrims chime softly in the cool mountain breeze.

Conveniently located just above the lake valley in Bhimtal, this spiritual hilltop lookout forms a memorable hiking detour across Uttarakhand.