If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the summer heat, Almora in Uttarakhand is the perfect destination! Nestled in the Kumaon Hills at an altitude of 1,642 meters, Almora is a serene hill station known for its cultural heritage, stunning Himalayan views, and tranquil ambiance. Often called the “Cultural Heart of Kumaon,” Almora offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a quiet getaway, Almora has something for everyone. Let’s dive into why Almora is a must-visit destination and explore the best Almora attractions to make your trip unforgettable!
Why Visit Almora?
Almora stands out as a gem in Uttarakhand, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. With summer temperatures ranging from 15-25°C on average, Almora is a cooler retreat situated in the heart of the Kumaon Hills. Almora is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, pristine Kumaoni cuisine, and sweeping Himalayan vistas, with mountaintops such as Nanda Devi and Trishul. Almora was once a summer capital of the Chand dynasty, and its lost charm still lingers in its cobblestone streets and ancient temples. This Almora travel guide will assist you in finding the best things to do in Almora and why it can be the ideal travel destination for your summer holidays.
Top Almora Places to Visit
Almora is replete with places that showcase its natural beauty, cultural importance, and historic past. Some of the best places to see in Almora are:
Kasar Devi Temple – A Spiritual Retreat
The Kasar Devi Temple is among the holiest Almora travel destinations, situated at the top of a hill with panoramic views of the Himalayas. The 2nd-century-old temple is owned by Goddess Kasar Devi and is renowned for its spiritual ambiance. Travel to Almora and unwind in the serene environment of the temple and the Crank’s Ridge neighborhood, which once served as a hippie paradise and the home of the spiritual zealots like Swami Vivekananda.
Bright End Corner – stunning sunsets
Bright End Corner is one of the most sought-after places in Almora, which is well known for its sunrise and sunset point. This place is 2 km from the town and is a viewing point that offers a panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas. The sunset at Bright End Corner is one of the most sought-after activities in Almora, ideal for couples and photographers to witness the spectacle of Almora’s landscape.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary – Nature’s Sanctuary
Only 30 km from Almora, the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the must-visit places for nature enthusiasts visiting Almora places. Spanning 47 square kilometers, the wildlife sanctuary has leopards, Himalayan black bears, and more than 200 species of birds. Trek to Zero Point at Binsar is a 360-degree panorama of the Himalayan peaks, which is one of the prime attractions in Almora. The sanctuary is a perfect place for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers.
Nanda Devi Temple – A Historic Treasure
The Nanda Devi Temple at Almora is an important religious and cultural place, being devoted to Goddess Nanda Devi, the deity of the Kumaon region. The temple was constructed in the 11th century and is adorned with beautiful stone carvings. The temple also hosts the Nanda Devi Fair every year. Among the top things to be done at Almora is a visit to this temple in an attempt to get to understand the spiritual heritage of the town.
Things to Do in Almora
Apart from sightseeing, Almora has a lot of things to do that will provide excitement to your holiday. Some of the best things to do in Almora on your summer vacation are:
- Trekking to Binsar: Trek the oak and rhododendron forests of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary for breathtaking Himalayan views.
- Shopping at Lala Bazaar: Visit Almora’s local bazaar, Lala Bazaar, to shop for Kumaoni handicrafts, woolen shawls, and copperware.
- Exploring Kumaoni Cuisine: Enjoying local dishes like aloo ke gutke, bhaang ki chutney, and bal mithai, Almora’s signature sweet, during your Almora tour.
- Katarmal Sun Temple: This 9th-century temple is 17 km from Almora and is amongst India’s biggest Sun temples. A historical treat for all, it’s unknown to the masses.
Almora is rich in Kumaoni culture, so it’s a distinctive town in Uttarakhand. Almora is famous for its folk music, dance styles such as Chholiya, and fairs such as the Nanda Devi Fair. The architecture of Almora, also with its wooden houses that are carved, tells us about the heritage of the area. Experiencing a bit of local fair-going or visiting Almora bazaars can provide you with an insight into Kumaoni traditions as well as the importance of the town in this regard.
Best Time to Visit Almora
Although Almora can be visited throughout the year, the best time to visit Almora is April to June when the climate is still pleasant enough for outdoor activities. Almora during this season provides a refreshing respite from heat with clear blue skies ideal to enjoy the Himalayas. Monsoon between July and September is when the region gets lush greenery all around, while winter from November to February turns Almora into a snow paradise, perfect for a hot holiday.
How to Reach Almora?
Almora is well linked and accessible. Nearest railhead is Kathgodam, 90 km, with frequent trains to Delhi, Dehradun, and Lucknow. Taxi or bus from Kathgodam can be hired to go to Almora. Nearest airport is Pantnagar, 125 km, with air links from major towns. Almora can be reached by road on good road from Nainital (65 km) or Delhi (380 km).
Tips for Travelling to Almora
To have the best of your Almora vacation, keep in mind:
- Pack light woolens for the evenings since it gets cold in Almora.
- Use trekking and Almora site seeing shoes.
- Show regard for local traditions, especially while visiting temples in Almora.
- Book hotels in advance as summer is a peak season for Almora.
Plan Your Almora Getaway
Almora with its delightful climate and cultural heritage is a place to visit. From the religious Kasar Devi Temple to the picturesque Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Almora has a fine mix of nature, history, and tradition. Whether trekking through its woods or enjoying Kumaoni cuisine, Almora guarantees a memorable summer break. Plan your visit to Almora and find out why it is the cultural center of Kumaon. Take this Almora travel guide, set off, and prepare for a memorable trip in the Kumaon
