Almora - Things to do, Places to Visit, Complete Travel Guide

Almora is a scenic hill station in Uttarakhand, famous for its breathtaking views, rich culture, and serene environment. It comes under the Kumaon division and shares its borders with Nainital, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar districts. Surrounded by the Kumaon hills, it offers a blend of adventure, history, spirituality, and natural beauty. For those who love mountains, this place creates unforgettable memories.

Things to do in Almora, Almora, Places to Visit in Almora, Almora Tourist Places, Temples in Almora, Almora

History of Almora

Almora has a long history dating back to ancient times. Sacred texts like the Vishnu Purana and the Mahabharata mention early human settlements in this region. Different tribes, including the Sakas, Nagas, Kiratas, Khasas, and Hunas, lived here in the past.

During the medieval period, the Katyuri dynasty ruled Almora. King Baichaldeo, a ruler of this dynasty, is known for giving parts of Almora to Sri Chand Tiwari. Later, in 1568, Kalyan Chand of the Chand dynasty made Almora the capital of the Kumaon Kingdom. This period saw major cultural and architectural growth.

In 1791, the Gorkhas from Nepal took control of Almora and made it part of their expanding kingdom. Their rule ended after the Anglo-Gorkha War when the British defeated them near Almora in 1815. This led to the Treaty of Sugauli in 1816, after which Almora became part of British India.

Over the years, Almora has been home to many cultures and traditions. It started as an ancient tribal settlement, grew under the Chand rulers, and later saw changes during the Gorkha and British periods.

How to Reach Almora?

1. By Air

The closest airport to Almora is Pantnagar Airport, about 127 kilometers away. It is the main airport for the Kumaon region. Travelers can take a taxi or a bus at the airport to reach Almora. The journey usually takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions.

2. By Train

The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 90 kilometers away. It has good train connections to big cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun. Some important trains running on this route include:

Ranikhet Express: Connects Kathgodam with Delhi.
Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express: Links Kathgodam to Delhi.
Bagh Express: Runs between Kathgodam and Howrah.

From Kathgodam, taxis and buses are readily available to transport visitors to Almora, with the journey taking approximately 3 to 4 hours.

3. By Road

Almora has a strong road network, making it easy to reach different places in northern India. National Highway 109 (NH 109) passes through Almora, connecting Rudrapur and Karnaprayag. It also links important towns like Haldwani, Kathgodam, Nainital, and Ranikhet.

Delhi to Almora: The distance is about 380 kilometers. Travelers can take NH 9 and NH 87, passing through Hapur, Moradabad, Rampur, Rudrapur, and Haldwani. The journey takes around 8 to 10 hours, based on traffic and road conditions.
From Nainital: The distance between Nainital and Almora is about 62 kilometers by road. The journey offers scenic views and takes approximately 2 hours.

Buses run daily to Almora from Delhi, Dehradun, and Haldwani. Both government and private buses offer standard and deluxe options. Travelers can also book taxis for a more comfortable and private journey.

Top Places to Visit in Almora

1. Kasar Devi Temple

The Kasar Devi Temple stands on Kashyap Hill and dates back to the 2nd century CE. It became well-known when Swami Vivekananda meditated here in the 1890s and wrote about his deep experiences in his diaries. Over time, many famous people, such as poet Allen Ginsberg and psychologist Timothy Leary, visited this place.

A peaceful trail through deodar and pine forests takes visitors to the temple. The hilltop offers wide views of Almora, the Hawalbagh Valley, and the grand Himalayan peaks.

Every year, the temple hosts the Kasar Devi Fair during Kartik Poornima (November–December), bringing many devotees and tourists.

2. Chitai Golu Devta Temple

Around 10 km away, the Chitai Golu Devta Temple stands as a sacred place in Almora. It is devoted to Golu Devta, known as the god of justice in Kumaon. People believe he listens to prayers and provides justice quickly. Many visit this temple to seek his blessings and solve their problems.

The temple sits in a peaceful area surrounded by tall Chir pine trees. During special festivals lasting three or nine days, devotees perform rituals with great devotion. They bring offerings like ghee, milk, curd, halwa, poori, and pakauri to honor Golu Devta.

3. Katarmal Sun Temple

About 19 km away, the Katarmal Sun Temple is an ancient site near Almora, dedicated to the Sun God. Built in the 9th century by the Katyuri kings, it reflects the remarkable craftsmanship of that time. The temple complex has one main shrine and 45 smaller ones, all set in a beautiful natural setting.

4. Jageshwar Dham

Around 36 km away, Jageshwar Dham is a famous temple town near Almora. It has over 100 stone temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, built between the 7th and 12th centuries. These ancient temples stand among tall deodar trees, creating a peaceful and spiritual place. The temple complex is easy to reach by road, with clear paths passing through the forested area. The calm surroundings and sacred atmosphere make it a refreshing place for visitors.

5. Lakhudiyar Caves

Located in Barechhina village, 19 km away, Lakhudiyar Caves have great archaeological value. The walls of these caves feature ancient rock paintings, likely created during the Mesolithic era. These artworks show human figures, animals, and geometric shapes, giving a glimpse into the lifestyle and beliefs of early settlers in this region.

6. Govind Ballabh Pant Museum

Located on Mall Road in Almora, this museum highlights the history and culture of the Kumaon region. It is named after Govind Ballabh Pant, a freedom fighter and the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. The museum displays artifacts, ancient manuscripts, paintings, and sculptures that showcase the rich heritage of Uttarakhand. Visitors can see exhibits on Kumaoni traditions, textiles, and the growth of Almora over time. It is a great place for history lovers and anyone interested in local art.

7. Deer Park

Deer Park is a quiet place near Almora, about 3 km away. Tall pine and oak trees surround the area, creating a peaceful setting. The park has different types of deer, including the beautiful spotted deer. It is a great spot for those who enjoy watching wildlife. Visitors can take relaxing walks and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The sight of deer in their natural home makes this a perfect place to unwind.

Best Time to Visit Almora

Spring to Early Summer (March to May): This is the ideal time to visit Almora. The weather stays pleasant, making it a great escape from the hot conditions in other parts of the country. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking and sightseeing during this season.
Autumn (September to November): The months after the monsoon bring clear skies and refreshed natural beauty. This is another good time for travelers who love peaceful landscapes and cool, comfortable weather.
Winter (December to February): Almora experiences very cold winters, with temperatures sometimes reaching freezing levels. The chilly air adds a special charm, but this season is best for those who enjoy cold conditions.

Languages of Almora

In Almora, the predominant language is Kumaoni, spoken by over 90% of the district’s population. Kumaoni is an Indo-Aryan language with several regional dialects, including Central Kumaoni, which is spoken in Almora. Additionally, Hindi serves as the official language and is widely understood, facilitating communication for visitors.

Things to Do in Almora

1. Explore Lala Bazaar

Walk around Lala Bazaar, a 200-year-old market known for its traditional Kumaoni products. You can buy Angora wool clothes, beautifully designed copperware, and handmade items that showcase local skills. The market has a classic feel, with wooden shops and narrow lanes, giving a glimpse into Almora’s rich past.

2. Enjoy Local Food

Taste the unique flavors of Almora by trying its traditional dishes. One must-try sweet is Baal Mithai, made with roasted khoya and covered in tiny sugar balls. Other delicious options include Aloo Ke Gutke, a spiced potato dish, and Singal, a sweet treat. Visit local eateries and sweet shops in the main market to enjoy these authentic flavors.

3. Experience Cultural Festivals

Plan your visit around local festivals to witness Almora’s rich traditions. The Nanda Devi Fair, held every year in September, is a grand celebration dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi. The event features traditional music, dance, and rituals, giving visitors a chance to explore the region’s vibrant culture.

4. Visit Art and Craft Centers

Almora has many places where you can see artisans creating beautiful handmade products. The Panchachuli Weavers cooperative is a great spot to explore handwoven textiles. You can buy woolen items like shawls and scarves directly from the makers. Supporting local artisans helps the community and gives you a better understanding of their skills.

5. Enjoy Nature Walks and Bird Watching

The forests and hills around Almora are perfect for peaceful walks. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, about 33 km away, is a great place to see birds and wildlife in lush oak and rhododendron forests. Early morning walks offer the best chance to spot different birds.

6. Practice Yoga and Meditation

Many centers in and around Almora offer yoga and meditation sessions in a calm setting. Practicing these activities with the Himalayan mountains in the background helps refresh both body and mind.

7. Explore Nearby Villages

Short trips to villages like Kasar Devi and Katarmal give a glimpse of rural Kumaoni life. These villages have traditional houses, unique customs, and stunning Himalayan views. Meeting locals and learning about their daily lives makes the journey more meaningful.

Tips for Traveling to Almora

Monsoon Awareness: Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (late July to September) due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
Safety Measures: Almora is generally safe for travelers, including solo visitors. Nevertheless, exercise standard precautions: avoid isolated areas at night and keep your belongings secure.
Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
Health Precautions: Carry necessary medications and a basic first-aid kit. The hilly terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.
Environmental Responsibility: Help preserve Almora’s natural beauty by disposing of waste properly and minimizing plastic usage.
Accommodation: Book your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure preferred lodging options.
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local delicacies like Aloo Ke Gutke, Bhatt Ki Churkani, and the sweet Bal Mithai.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of local emergency numbers, including medical facilities and police stations, for quick access if needed.