According to mythological tales, the Katarmal Surya Temple was established by King Katarmal of the Katyuri dynasty. The construction of the temple is believed to have taken place between the 6th and 9th centuries. It is believed that once upon a time, malevolent people began to harass the sages meditating in the caves of the Dronagiri mountain. In response, all the sages gathered on the banks of the Kosi River and worshipped Lord Surya (the Sun God). Pleased with their prayers, Lord Surya placed his divine radiance in a Vatshila (sacrificial stone) and established it on the riverbank of Kosi. Following this, the sages sat down to meditate on the same Vatshila (sacrificial stone). Legend has it that on the same Vatshila, Katarmalla, the ruler of the Katyuri dynasty, built the Katarmal Surya Temple, as a pilgrimage site for the sun god Badaditya.The Katyuri dynasty claimed descent from the Shalivahana rulers of Ayodhya, who were known as Suryavanshi, or descendants of the sun god. It is believed that this is why Katarmalla decided to build a surya temple. The main building of the Katarmal temple is still in ruins, and it is said that the decision to build the temple was made overnight. By the time the sun rose the next morning, part of the spire of the main temple had already been completed. In the 10th century, an idol was stolen from the temple. After this, the ancient and important entrance gate of the sanctum sanctorum was removed and taken to the National Museum in Delhi. This wooden gate is a fine example of carving art.

The Katarmal Surya Temple is believed to be a sacred place where the gods and goddesses themselves worshipped Lord Surya Any wish made with faith and devotion at this temple is said to be granted. Pilgrims from all over the country come to this temple to pray for a bright future. The Katarmal Surya Temple is believed to be 200 years older than the Konark Sun Temple, another famous Hindu temple dedicated to the Lord Surya.

The Katarmal Surya Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. It is built on a rock slope overlooking the Kosi Valley, and offers stunning views of the surrounding natural scenery. The temple is dedicated to the sun god Surya Dev, but also has shrines to other deities such as Shiva, Ganesh, and Vishnu. There are also a group of 45 smaller temples surrounding the main temple. The main temple is built in the Nagara style of architecture, with a curved spire and a square sanctum. The pillars supporting the structure are beautifully carved, and the temple faces east so that the first rays of the sun fall on the main building each morning. The idol of Lord Aditya installed in the temple is made of wood from the banyan tree, and the temple is also known as Badaditya for this reason.

Devotees offer flowers to Lord Surya at the Katarmal Surya Temple. Any other kind of Prasad is not offered at this temple.