Almora

All You Need To Know About Almora

Almora is a popular hill station. It is believed to have got its name from Kilmora. Kilmora is nothing but a kind of sorrel, which is a short plant commonly found in this region. This plant is said to be used to wash utensils of the sun temple at Katarmal. Located on a 5 km long ridge at the southern edge of the Kashyap Hills. The unique thing about this place is that it is in the shape of a horse saddle.

Almora is an attractive town set in the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas. Almora is popular for its delicious cuisines, unique handicrafts and rich cultural heritage.

Almora – An Introduction

Almora is a serene place. It is located in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand. It is popular for its Shiva Temple, cultural heritage and cuisines. When you view from a distant spot, you will see Almora hill station looking like a horse saddle.

Almora is surrounded by oak and pine forests. It is the cultural capital of the Kumaon Region. You can get panoramic views of the Himalayas from this hill station. It is popular for its stunning sunrise views. It has attracted many celebrities for its great climate and relaxing landscapes. The ancestral village of former Indian Cricket Captain MS Dhoni is near this hill station. The town stands as the starting point for many treks like Ranikhet, Binsar, Mukteshwar, Mornaula, Pindari and Jageshwar.

How to Reach Almora?

You can choose among the different modes of transportation to reach Almora. Here are some details to know in this regard:

By Bus

Thankfully, Almora is connected well by road with major cities in Uttarakhand State and Northern India. You can find regular state-run and private buses from Haldirani, Dehradun and Delhi to take you to Almora. If you are travelling from Delhi, the distance is about 370 km. You can opt for an overnight bus trip that will take around 8-10 hours.

By Train

The nearest railway station to Almora is Kathgodam. It is around 90 km away from the hill station. This railway station is connected to different cities like Dehradun, Kolkata, Lucknow and Delhi by train. Once you are at Kathgodam Railway Station, you can rely on a taxi or bus service to take you to Almora.

By Flight

Panthnagar Airport is the nearest airport to Almora. This airport is located around 115 km from the hill station. You can find taxis at this airport to take you to Almora. Otherwise, you can also choose to travel by bus to Almora from the airport.

By Car

Thankfully, Almora is connected well by motorable roads from different North Indian cities. Particularly, the NH 87 and NH87E roads connect Almora to other cities. From your hometown, you can use Google Maps to take you to Almora.

Key Attractions & Things to Do

Almora is visited by tourists not only for its cool climatic conditions. But also for other reasons. Here are some attractions and things to do when you are at this hill station on a vacation:

Visit Chitai Golu Temple

One of the most respected temples in the State of Uttarakhand, Chilai Golu Temple is Golu JI considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva has taken the form of Gaur Bhairav in this temple. It is believed that your wishes will be fulfilled when you buy a bell near this temple and hang it on the temple premises. The deity here is considered a god of justice.

Visit Bright End Corner

Recently renamed Vivekananda Corner, you can see this corner at a hairpin bend on the road that leads to Almora. You can find tourists standing at this corner to get spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset. However, you will have to trek for around 2 km to reach this spot. You can get the best views of the lush vegetation around and the Himalayas from this corner.

Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum

This museum was established by the Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment. The purpose is to preserve their rich legacy. You can see war artefacts like weapons, flags, uniforms and medals received by soldiers in the armed forces. You can learn a lot about the Garhwal and Gurkhas regiments from this museum. Remember that photography is not permitted in this museum.

Govind Vallabh Pant Museum

Are you a history buff? If so, you should not forget a visit to this museum in Almora. You can see the display of the things used by the rulers of the Chand and Katyuri Dynasty here. You can also see the antique collection of Kumaoni-style paintings in this museum.

Nanda Devi Temple Visit

Yet another essential thing to do when you are at Almora is to visit Nanda Devi Temple. This 1000-year-old temple is dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi. The temple was constructed by the King of Chand Dynasty. You can find a huge stone idol inside the temple premises. It is encircled with a wooden roof. The Nanda Devi fair conducted in September attracts a lot of crowds. Also, the Lala Bazaar is a popular shopping spree here. The temple surroundings will enthrall you with the great work done by skillful artists. The temple wall is filled with lifelike figures and carvings done by artists. It should be stated that the temple preserves the essence of Kumaoni Architecture.

Visit the Deer Park

Within a 3 km distance from Almora, you can take your kids to Deer Park. Yes, you can find a lot of spotted and other types of deer at this park. The park region is filled with oak and pine trees. You can enjoy long walks inside this park.

Visit the Katarmal Sun Temple

When you travel for around 17 km from Almora, you can reach the Katarmal Sun temple. This temple holds the pride of being the second most important temple dedicated to the Sun God in India. As you know, the first position is held by the Konark Sun Temple. A small trek is required to reach the temple. At this temple, you will be excited by the doors, pillars, sculptures and attractively carved idols. The temple displays the ancient architecture and it is surrounded by 45 other shrines.

Visit the Jageshwar Temple

Jataganga Valley is the place, where you can find the Jageshwar Mahadev Temple. You will be stunned by the architectural work inside the temple complex. You can expect complete tranquillity at this spot surrounded by Jata Ganga and Deodar Trees. From July to August every year, the annual Jageshwar Monsoon Festival is held in this temple.

Head to Chaukori

Chaukori can provide you with attractive views of nature. This classic hamlet will let you see the snow-capped mountains. You can find scintillating orchards, rhododendrons, oak and pine forests here. You can visit this town for scintillating views from dusk to dawn.

Best Time & Season to Visit

Almora experiences pleasant weather throughout the year. Nevertheless, you can prefer any season based on the information given below:

Peak Season

April to June is the peak season in Almora. During this season, you can expect a clear sky along with a cool breeze and pleasant weather. So, this season is ideal for outdoor activities, exploring places and hiking.

Moderate Season

During this moderate season, you can expect a bit of humidity. However, you should also expect heavy rainfall then and there. The weather will be pleasant still. This season is ideal for your visit, if you would like to participate in festival celebrations in Almora. Also, this season is ideal for exploring local food joints.

Off-Season

The off-season in Almora is between November and March. This season will have bright sunny days. However, the nights will be cold. Even, you can expect snowfall on nights during this season. Things you will love in this season are adventure activities with snow and festive celebrations in the hill station.

Duration To See

You can comfortably plan a trip to Almora between two and four days. If you have two days, they are ideal for covering major attractions in Almora like Bright End Corner, Kasar Devi and Nanda Devi Temple.

If you have three to four days, you can explore nearby spots. Examples include Jageshwar Dham and Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Also, you can enjoy some leisure moments at Almora when you have three to four days.

Best Restaurants & Cafes Around

Himalayan Hobbit House
ALhito Cafe & Resort
Kasar Rainbow Restaurant
Oak Barrel family Restaurant & bar
Dolma Restaurant
The Kasar Kitchen
Silver Oak by Club Mahindra Binsar, Uttarakhand
The Northern Hill

Where to Stay? Best Resorts

Vatsyayana Resorts
Imperial Heights Binsar
Essence of Nature
Kasaar Jungle Resort
The Himalayan Woods
Elphinstone Himalayan Resort
Quality Inn The Den Resort
Sunita Elite
Hotel Shikhar

Entry Fee & Ticket Prices

Most attractions in Almora permit free entry to visitors. Some places like the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary might charge you a nominal entry fee.

FAQ

1. Can I Visit Almora During Monsoon?

Yes, you can visit the hill station during monsoon. However, during this season, you should be prepared for occasional landslides. Also, due to rain, the roads will be slippery. Besides these things, you can enjoy lush greenery during this season.

2. Is Almora Too Far from Nainital?

The distance between Almora and Nainital is around 63 km. A drive will take around 2-3 hours between these two hill stations.

3. What Can I Buy In Almora?

You can buy copperware, woollen shawls, handicrafts and local sweets like Singori and Bal Mithal.

Checkout my other blog posts on Uttarakhand here:

River Rafting in Rishikesh – A Tryst with Ganges
7 Reasons why Rishikesh might be perfect for a backpacker
Things to do in Rishikesh
Kanatal, Uttarakhand – A lesser known slice of paradise!
Evening Ganga Arti in Rishikesh – A Spiritual Experience
Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh – A Thrill beyond your imagination!

January 4, 2025 0 comment

Almora

10 Mesmerizing Places to Visit Near Almora – A Journey into the Heart of Kumaon

written by Umang Trivedi

If you are wondering how to spend two weeks in Uttarakand, you can include Almora in your list of places to visit. Nestled in the lap of the majestic Kumaon Himalayas, Almora is a picturesque hill station in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and wide variety of flora and fauna, Almora serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. From ancient temples to charming villages, the area around Almora is brimming with stunning locations that are sure to leave you spellbound. Here, we will explore some of the most mesmerizing places to visit near Almora, taking you on a journey through the heart of Kumaon.

1. Jageshwar Dham

Located around 36 km from Almora, Jageshwar Dham is an ancient temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The complex boasts more than 100 small and large temples, dating back to the 9th to 13th century AD. Surrounded by dense deodar forests and offering splendid views of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks, Jageshwar Dham is an important pilgrimage site as well as a popular tourist attraction.

The Jageshwar Monsoon Festival, held annually during August, is a must-visit event that attracts both pilgrims and tourists. This is one of the wonderful places to visit near Almora.

2. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated at a distance of approximately 30 km from Almora, the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Spread over an area of 45.59 sq. km, the sanctuary is home to several species of animals, including leopards, barking deer, wild boar, and a variety of birds like the monal, woodpeckers, and eagles. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary also offers splendid panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas, including the peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli. For the best experience, take a guided trek or nature walk through the sanctuary. If you love exploring wildlife, this is one of the interesting places to visit near Almora.

3. Kasar Devi Temple

Perched on a hilltop about 8 km from Almora, Kasar Devi Temple is a popular spot frequented by both tourists and locals. Devoted to Goddess Kasar Devi, this holy spot is believed to have been built during the 2nd century AD. The temple gained prominence during the 1960s and 1970s when it became a popular destination for spiritual seekers and hippies, including notable figures like Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens. The area surrounding the temple offers panoramic views of the valley and is an ideal spot for meditation and relaxation. If you would like to meditate in silence, you can choose this temple as one of the fitting places to visit near Almora.

4. Katarmal Sun Temple

Located around 17 km from Almora, the Katarmal Sun Temple is a hidden gem that dates back to the 9th century. Dedicated to the Sun God, this temple is an architectural marvel and is considered one of the most significant sun temples in India. The main temple is adorned with intricately carved stone panels and sculptures, while the surrounding smaller shrines boast unique architectural styles.

The temple complex offers a tranquil atmosphere and captivating views of the surrounding valleys, making it a must-visit site. If you would like to get a panoramic viewing experience, you should choose this as one of the ideal places to visit near Almora.

5. Chitai Golu Devta Temple

Chitai Golu Devta Temple is a unique shrine situated approximately 10 km from Almora. Dedicated to Golu Devta, the god of justice and a local deity, the temple is known for the thousands of bells hanging from its walls and ceiling. It is believed that if devotees tie a bell and make a wish, Golu Devta will fulfil their desires. The temple also receives thousands of letters and petitions from devotees seeking justice or help in resolving their issues. Surrounded by lush green forests, the temple offers a serene environment for introspection and prayer. So, include this temple as one of the never-to-miss places to visit near Almora.

6. Kausani

Perched at an elevation of 1,890 meters, Kausani is a picturesque hill station located about 60 km from Almora. Often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of India,’ Kausani offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli. The hill station is also famous for its lush green valleys, tea gardens, and dense pine forests. While in Kausani, do not miss visiting the Anasakti Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi once stayed and wrote his treatise on Anasakti Yoga. Do not miss out on including this as one of the best places to visit near Almora.

7. Ranikhet

Another popular hill station near Almora is Ranikhet, located approximately 45 km away. Known for its pleasant climate, lush greenery, and magnificent views of the Himalayas, Ranikhet is an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. Key attractions include the Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Gardens, and the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum.

Do not forget to indulge in walks through winding roads lined with pine, oak, and deodar trees. This will turn out to be one of the interesting things to do near Almora. Here my post on All You Need to Know About Ranikhet might help you.

8. Bageshwar

Situated at the confluence of the rivers Saryu and Gomti, Bageshwar is a picturesque town located about 90 km from Almora. Steeped in history and religious significance, Bageshwar is home to the ancient Bagnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple, built in the Nagara style of architecture, is believed to have been constructed in the 7th century. Bageshwar is also a base for several treks into the Kumaon Himalayas, including the Pindari Glacier, Sunderdhunga, and Kafni Glacier treks. Do you love trekking? If so, this is one of the best places to visit near Almora.

9. Mukteshwar

Perched at an elevation of 2,285 meters, Mukteshwar is a serene hill station located about 51 km from Almora. Named after the ancient Mukteshwar Dham temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the town offers spectacular views of the Himalayan range. Mukteshwar is also known for its dense forests, fruit orchards, and colonial-era bungalows. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and trekking in the surrounding areas. If you wish to hike your adrenalin rush, this is one of the ideal places to visit near Almora.

10. Patal Bhuvaneshwar

A cave temple carved out of limestone located about 125 km from Almora, Patal Bhuvaneshwar is an enchanting destination steeped in mythology and spirituality. The cave, which is trusted to be very old, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations.

The cave’s complex structure and mesmerizing beauty make it a must-visit attraction for both pilgrims and tourists. So, do visit this as one of the best places to visit near Almora in your itinerary.

Conclusion

The region surrounding Almora is abundant in natural beauty, historical sites, and spiritual significance, offering a plethora of options for travellers looking to explore the heart of Kumaon. From ancient temples and serene hill stations to enchanting cave temples and wildlife sanctuaries, there is something for everyone in the vicinity of Almora. So, pack your bags and set out on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of Kumaon. You can include a visit to Almora as one of the best places to visit near Delhi.

December 21, 2024 2 comments