Almora: The Best Kept Secret of the Indian Himalayas

Almora is a small hill station located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 1,646 meters (5,400 feet) and is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayan peaks and the surrounding landscape.

Almora is situated on a ridge on the southern edge of the Kumaon Hills, which are a part of the Himalayan mountain range. The city is located near the Koshi and Suyal rivers and offers stunning views of snow-capped Himalayas. Almora was established in 1568 by King Kalyan Chand, but there is evidence of human settlements in the area dating back to the 8th and 9th century BCE, as described in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Almora served as the capital of the Chand kings who ruled over the Kumaon Kingdom and is considered to be the cultural center of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand.

Almora is located approximately 65 kilometers from the city of Nainital and is a popular destination for sightseeing and leisurely walks. The town is home to a number of tourist attractions, including the Chitai Temple and the Nanda Devi Temple.

The best time to visit Almora is from April to June and from September to November, when the weather is generally pleasant and the trails are clear. It is important to dress appropriately and follow the local customs and traditions while visiting the town. It is also recommended to hire a reputable guide or tour operator for the trip, as they will be able to provide valuable information about the local area and the attractions.

Places to visit in Almora

Here are a few popular tourist attractions in Almora:

1. Chitai Temple: Chitai Temple is a popular tourist spot located in the heart of Almora. It is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and is known for its beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere.
2. Nanda Devi Temple: Nanda Devi Temple is a popular tourist spot located in the heart of Almora. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Nanda Devi and is known for its beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere.
3. Katarmal Sun Temple: Katarmal Sun Temple is a popular tourist spot located in the outskirts of Almora. It is dedicated to the Hindu deity Surya and is known for its beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere.
4. Khali Estate: Khali Estate is a popular tourist spot located in the outskirts of Almora. It is known for its beautiful views and is a popular destination for sightseeing and leisurely walks.
5. Bright End Corner: Bright End Corner is a popular tourist spot located in the heart of Almora. It is known for its beautiful views and is a popular destination for sightseeing and leisurely walks.
6. Binsar Mahadev Temple: The Binsar Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple located on the outskirts of Almora. It is dedicated to the god Shiva, and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The temple is located in a forested area, and is a popular place for nature lovers.
7. Kasar Devi Temple: The Kasar Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located on the outskirts of Almora. It is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, and is a popular place for meditation and yoga. The temple is also associated with the famous American poet and philosopher Alan Watts, who lived in the area in the 1960s and 1970s. To read more click here
8. Deer Park: The Deer Park is a popular tourist spot in Almora, known for its beautiful gardens and wildlife. The park is home to a variety of animals such as deer, peacocks, and monkeys, and is a great place for nature lovers. The park is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
9. Jageshwar Temple: The Jageshwar Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Jageshwar Dham complex, about 35 kilometers from Almora. It is one of the oldest temples in the region, and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The temple is a popular place for pilgrimage and spiritual retreats.

The best time to visit these places is from April to June and from September to November, when the weather is generally pleasant and the trails are clear. It is important to dress appropriately and follow the local customs and traditions while visiting these places.

Some places to visit in almora in detail

Gairad Golu Dev Temple

Golu Devata, also known as Lord Golu, is a revered deity in the Kumaun region. The Dana Golu Devata Gairar temple, which is dedicated to him, is located about 2 km from the main gate of the Binsar wildlife sanctuary and about 15 km from Almora. According to legend, Golu Devata is believed to be an incarnation of Gaur Bhairav (Shiva) and is worshiped throughout the region as the dispenser of justice. It is said that a man named Shri Kalyan Singh Bisht, who was born in the village of Kotura and known as Kalbisht, overpowered and killed all the devils of the Kumaon region and always helped the poor and oppressed. However, he was suspiciously beheaded by a relative who was influenced by the local ruler. His body fell at Gairar, where the original and most ancient temple of Golu Devata is located, and his head fell at Kaparkhan, a few kilometers from Almora. Golu Devata is often depicted in the form of Lord Shiva and is also prayed to as the key deity in many villages of Kumaun. The Dana Golu Devata temple is particularly known for dispensing quick justice to devotees, who often offer bells to the temple after their wishes are fulfilled. Thousands of bells can be seen hanging in the temple’s premises, and many people submit written petitions daily. Other popular temples of Golu Devata in Kumaun are located in Gairad (Binsar), Chitai, Champawat and Ghorakhal.

Nanda Devi Mandir

The Nanda Devi Mandir is a Hindu temple located in the town of Almora, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to the goddess Nanda Devi, who is considered an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Parvati. The temple was built by the Chand Rajas, and is believed to be very ancient. The temple is much revered by the locals and every September, Almora comes alive as thousands flock to this temple for the Nanda Devi Mela, a five-day festival that includes a riot of pageantry. The mela is an integral part of this temple for more than 400 years. The temple is also known for its intricate architecture and beautiful surroundings, which attract many tourists and visitors.

Banri Devi Temple

The Banri Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated 26 km from the town of Almora, along the Almora-Lamgarha Road. However, reaching the temple is challenging as one has to trek almost 10 km to get there. The temple is octagonal in shape and houses an ancient idol of Vishnu in the Sheshnag pose, which depicts the four-armed Vishnu sleeping on the Sheshnag. The temple is believed to be very ancient and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Vishnu. It is also known for its picturesque surroundings, which attract many tourists and nature enthusiasts.

Katarmal Sun Temple

The Katarmal Sun Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Surya, the god of the sun, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated about 17 km from the town of Almora, at an elevation of 2,116 meters. To reach the temple, one has to trek almost 3 km, crossing Hawalbagh and Matela near Kosi River. The temple has the distinction of being the only Sun temple in Kumaon region and it is considered to be an architectural marvel. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, which are said to be the finest examples of the Kumaon style of temple architecture. It is also known for its beautiful surroundings, which attract many tourists and visitors. The temple is considered to be one of the most important heritage sites in the region and is visited by many devotees and tourists.

Gana Nath Temple

The Gana Nath Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated 47 km from the town of Almora. The temple is known for its caves and is dedicated to the god Shiva. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site and is particularly famous for the Kartik Purnima carnival which is held there. During this carnival, the temple is filled with the sounds of hymns and folk songs, which echo throughout the region. The temple is known for its religious significance, its ancient architecture and for being a place where locals and visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. It is visited by many devotees and tourists who come to the temple for spiritual fulfillment, peace and tranquility.

Binsar Mahadev Temple

The Binsar Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Ranikhet in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by thick deodar trees, and is known for its religious significance, spiritual ambiance, and natural beauty. According to historical records, the temple is believed to have been built in the 9th or 10th century and has been an important religious site in Uttarakhand for many years. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features idols of other deities like Ganesh, Har Gauri, and Maheshmardini. The temple is admired for its architectural finesse, and the idol of Maheshmardini is engraved with text in Nagarilipi, which dates back to the 9th century. It is believed that the temple was built by King Pithu in memory of his father Bindu and is also known as the Bindeshwar Temple. It is situated by a small stream and surrounded by a forest of deodar, pine and oak, making it a beautiful and peaceful place to visit in the state.

Jageshwar Dham Temples

Jageshwar Dham Temples are a group of 124 ancient Hindu temples located in the town of Jageshwar in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. The complex is considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient architecture in Uttarakhand, and features an array of stone lingams, sculptures, and intricate carvings on altars. The temples are set in a picturesque location, surrounded by rolling green mountains and a gurgling stream, making it a popular tourist destination for both its religious significance and natural beauty. According to the Archaeological Survey of India, the temple complex is believed to date back to the post-Gupta and pre-medieval era and is said to be 2500 years old. The location of the temple is also ideal for meditation and spiritual practice.

Jhoola Devi Temple

Jhoola Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located in Ranikhet, India. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga and is known for the number of bells hanging in its premises. According to locals, the temple is said to be 700 years old and the original deity was stolen in 1959. It is believed that the temple’s goddess, Jhoola Devi, fulfills the wishes of her devotees, and after the completion of their wishes, the devotees come here to offer a copper bell. The temple is a popular pilgrimage spot and can be reached by air, train or road from nearby cities such as Almora, Kathgodam and Delhi.

Chitai Golu Temple

Chitai Golu Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, near the city of Almora. The temple is dedicated to Golu Ji, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and is known for the large number of copper bells hanging in its premises. Golu Ji is considered the God of Justice and it is believed that by worshiping him at one of his temples in Uttarakhand, he will grant justice and fulfill the wishes of devotees. The temple is a popular pilgrimage spot and is easily recognizable by the number of copper bells in its premises.

Best places to stay in Almora

 Almora has a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Some popular places to stay include the Nature Zone Resort, Hotel Hilltop, and the Almora Binsar Inn.

• Nature Zone Resort: Located in the heart of the Kumaon Hills, the Nature Zone Resort is a luxury resort that offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range. The resort has a range of amenities including a spa, a gym, and an outdoor pool, as well as a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.
• Hotel Hilltop: Hotel Hilltop is a popular budget hotel located in the heart of Almora. It offers basic amenities such as air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a 24-hour front desk. The hotel also has a rooftop restaurant that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Almora Binsar Inn: The Almora Binsar Inn is a budget guesthouse located in the heart of Almora. It offers basic amenities such as air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a 24-hour front desk. The guesthouse is located close to popular attractions such as the Kasar Devi Temple and the Bright End Corner viewpoint.

In addition to these, Almora has a number of other accommodation options such as guesthouses, homestays, and resorts.

Best places to eat in Almora

• Dragon Chinese Restaurant: As the name suggests, the Dragon Chinese Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Almora that serves Chinese cuisine. It is known for its delicious dishes such as noodles, dumplings, and stir-fries, as well as its friendly service.
• Chotiwala Restaurant: The Chotiwala Restaurant is a popular local restaurant that serves a variety of Indian and local dishes. It is known for its tasty and reasonably priced food, as well as its outdoor seating area with views of the Himalayas.
• Binsar Mahal: The Binsar Mahal is a popular restaurant located in a heritage building in Almora. It serves a range of local and international dishes, and is known for its beautiful setting and ambiance.

In addition to these, Almora has a number of other restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of cuisines.

A cultural history of Almora

 Almora has a long and fascinating history dating back to the 16th century when it was founded by the Chand dynasty. You could write about the cultural and artistic traditions of Almora, including its music, dance, and handicrafts.

• Founding of Almora: Almora was founded in 1560 by the Chand dynasty, who ruled over the Kumaon region for over 800 years. The town was named after the shape of a hill, which resembles a “mor” in Hindi. Almora served as the capital of the Chand dynasty, and became an important center for trade, culture, and learning.
• Cultural traditions: Almora has a rich cultural heritage, with a long tradition of music, dance, and handicrafts. The Kumaon region is known for its folk music, which is played on instruments such as the sarangi, the madal, and the dhol. The region is also home to a number of traditional dance forms, such as the chholiya, the langvir, and the chau. Almora is also known for its handicrafts, such as wood carving, weaving, and pottery, which are produced by local artisans.
• Modern history: In the 20th century, Almora became a popular tourist destination, and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world. The town has a number of cultural festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Nanda Devi Raj Jat, the Kumaon Festival, and the Binsar Mahotsav. These events showcase the local culture and traditions, and attract a large number of visitors.

A food and drink guide to Almora

• Local cuisine: Almora is known for its delicious local cuisine, which is influenced by the local culture and traditions of the Kumaon region. Some popular local dishes include bhaang ki chutney (a spicy chutney made with cannabis leaves), singodi (a type of sweet made with coconut and jaggery), and bal mithai (a type of fudge made with milk and khoya). Other popular dishes include baadi (a type of bread made with millet flour), aloo ke gutke (potatoes cooked with spices), and bhatt ki churkani (a spicy lentil dish).
• Drinks: Almora is also known for its delicious drinks, such as chai (tea) and lassi (a type of yogurt drink). You can also find a variety of local beers and spirits in Almora, such as the popular brand Old Monk rum.
• Restaurants: Almora has a number of restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of local and international cuisines. Some popular restaurants in Almora include the Dragon Chinese Restaurant, the Chotiwala Restaurant, and the Binsar Mahal.
• Recipes: You could also include recipes for some of the popular local dishes in your blog, such as bhaang ki chutney, singodi, or bal mithai.

Why is Almora famous?

Almora is a small hill station located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. It is known for its stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range, as well as its rich cultural and artistic heritage. Some of the things that Almora is famous for include:

• Natural beauty: Almora is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, rivers, and mountain ranges. The town is located at an altitude of 1,638 meters, and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range. Almora is a popular destination for nature lovers, and is known for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
• Cultural and artistic traditions: Almora has a rich cultural and artistic heritage, with a long tradition of music, dance, and handicrafts. The Kumaon region is known for its folk music, which is played on instruments such as the sarangi, the madal, and the dhol. The region is also home to a number of traditional dance forms, such as the chholiya, the langvir, and the chau. Almora is also known for its handicrafts, such as wood carving, weaving, and pottery, which are produced by local artisans.
• Delicious local cuisine: Almora is known for its delicious local cuisine, which is influenced by the local culture and traditions of the Kumaon region. Some popular local dishes include bhaang ki chutney (a spicy chutney made with cannabis leaves), singodi (a type of sweet made with coconut and jaggery), and bal mithai (a type of fudge made with milk and khoya).
• Cultural festivals and events: Almora has a number of cultural festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Nanda Devi Raj Jat, the Kumaon Festival, and the Binsar Mahotsav. These events showcase the local culture and traditions, and attract a large number of visitors.

Nanda Devi Raj Jat

Nanda Devi Raj Jat is a Hindu festival that takes place every 12 years in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. The festival is held in honor of the goddess Nanda Devi, and involves a procession of her idol from the Nanda Devi Temple in Almora to the Nanda Devi Temple in Nauti, a journey of about 200 kilometers. The procession is accompanied by a large number of devotees, who walk the entire distance, singing and dancing along the way.

The Kumaon Festival

The Kumaon Festival is a cultural festival that takes place in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. The festival is held to showcase the culture and traditions of the region, and includes a number of events such as music and dance performances, cultural programs, and handicraft exhibitions. The festival is held in various towns and cities in the region, including Almora. It is a popular event, and attracts a large number of visitors from all over the country.

Best time to visit in Almora

The best time to visit Almora depends on your preference and the activities you want to do. Here are a few things to consider:

• Climate: Almora has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The temperature ranges from around 15°C in the winter to 35°C in the summer. The monsoon season is from June to September, with heavy rainfall.
• Peak season: The peak tourist season in Almora is from April to June and from September to November. This is the best time to visit if you want to enjoy the pleasant weather and participate in outdoor activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and sightseeing. The town is usually crowded during this time, so it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.
• Off-season: The off-season in Almora is from December to March, when the weather is cold and the town is less crowded. This is a good time to visit if you want to enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the town, and participate in indoor activities such as cultural programs and handicraft workshops. The prices of accommodation and other services are usually lower during this time.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Almora depends on your preferences and the activities you want to do. You can choose to visit during the peak season if you want to enjoy the pleasant weather and participate in outdoor activities, or during the off-season if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.

Hotels in Almora

Almora has a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Here is a list of some popular hotels in Almora:

• Nature Zone Resort: The Nature Zone Resort is a popular luxury resort located in Almora. It is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, and offers a range of amenities such as a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa.
• Hotel Hilltop: The Hotel Hilltop is a popular hotel located in the heart of Almora. It offers a range of rooms and suites, and is known for its friendly service and comfortable accommodation.
• Almora Binsar Inn: The Almora Binsar Inn is a budget hotel located in Almora. It offers basic accommodation at an affordable price, and is a popular choice for travelers on a budget.
• Hotel KMVN Tourist Rest House: The Hotel KMVN Tourist Rest House is a budget hotel located in Almora. It is run by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Corporation, and offers basic accommodation at a reasonable price.

There are many other hotels and guesthouses in Almora, ranging from luxury resorts to budget accommodation.

How to reach Almora

• By air: The nearest airport to Almora is the Pantnagar Airport, which is located about 120 kilometers from the town. The airport is well connected to major cities such as Delhi and Kolkata, with regular flights operated by airlines such as Air India and SpiceJet. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Almora.
• By train: The nearest railway station to Almora is the Kathgodam Railway Station, which is located about 88 kilometers from the town. The station is well connected to major cities such as Delhi and Kolkata, with regular trains operated by the Indian Railways. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Almora.
• By road: Almora is well connected by road to major cities such as Delhi, Dehradun, and Nainital. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Almora from these cities. The journey by road is usually around 10-12 hours from Delhi, and the route passes through beautiful landscapes and mountain ranges.

Is Almora and Ranikhet same?

No, Almora and Ranikhet are two separate towns located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. Almora is a small hill station located at an altitude of 1,638 meters, and is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine. Ranikhet is a town located at an altitude of 1,869 meters, and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, British colonial history, and military heritage. Both towns are popular tourist destinations, and offer a range of activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and sightseeing. However, they are located about 50 kilometers apart, and have their own unique features and attractions.

Almora Weather

The town has a temperate climate, with cool summers and cold winters. The monsoon season is from June to September, with the heaviest rainfall in July and August. The temperature in Almora ranges from a minimum of 5 °C in the winter to a maximum of 25 °C in the summer. The town is known for its picturesque scenery and is a popular hill station for tourists. The best time to visit Almora is from April to June and from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the views are clear.