Almora Travel Guide: Top Places to Visit in Kumaon Hills
Overview of Almora
Almora is a calm town in the Kumaon Himalayas. It sits on a ridge shaped like a horseshoe. The town offers great views of snowy peaks.
This guide will help you explore the best of Almora. You will find old temples and nice viewpoints. It is a place with a rich past and culture. It is a good spot for a quiet trip.
Entry Details and Timing for Almora
Most shops in Almora open around 10 AM. They close by 8 PM in the evening. The main market is busy during these hours.
There is no entry fee to visit the town itself. But some spots may have a small fee. A good trip to see everything takes about three to four days. This gives you enough time to explore without a rush.
What To Expect at Almora
You will find lovely winding streets in Almora. The roads are lined with old stone houses. The air is fresh and clean. The pace of life here is slow and calm.
The local people are friendly and welcoming. You can try tasty local food like Bal Mithai. This is a famous sweet of the region. Exploring the markets is a great way to experience the local Kumaon culture.
Walking through the old bazaars is fun. You can see skilled artists at work. They make unique crafts from wood and wool. The sounds of temple bells can be heard in the morning.
History of Almora
The history of Almora is very old and rich. It was founded in the year 1568. King Kalyan Chand made it the capital of the Chand kingdom.
The town has seen many rulers over the years. It has kept its old world charm. Today, it is an important cultural hub. Its long history makes it a special place to visit.
Why Almora is Known For
- Almora is known for its stunning Himalayan views.
- It is famous for unique handicrafts and local sweets.
- The town has many ancient and holy temples.
- You can see amazing views of the Uttarakhand hills.
More About Almora Scenery
The scenery around Almora is truly beautiful. You can wake up to the sight of the sun rising over the Himalayas. The peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul look golden. The view is clear and vast.
Sunsets are also very special here. The sky fills with shades of orange and pink. At night, the town is quiet and peaceful. You can see many stars in the clear mountain sky. Near the town, you can also learn about the local Binsar wildlife.
Architecture and Style of Almora
The buildings in Almora show a mix of old and new styles. The old part of town has houses with carved wooden fronts. The roofs are made of slate to handle the snow.
The streets are narrow and paved with stone. This is a common style in hill towns. Many old temples are made from large stones. They have detailed carvings that tell old stories. The style is simple but strong.
Best Time to Visit Almora
The best time to visit Almora is from March to June. The weather is pleasant and warm during these months. It is perfect for walking around and seeing the sights.
Another good time is from September to November. The air is crisp and the views are very clear after the rains. The winter months from December to February are very cold. You might even see some snow. It is best to avoid the monsoon season in July and August due to heavy rain.
How to Reach Almora
You can reach Almora by road, train, or air. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport. It is about 115 kilometers away. You can hire a taxi from the airport.
The closest railway station is Kathgodam. It is around 91 kilometers from the town. Taxis and buses are easy to find at the station. Good road links help boost Almora tourism and make it easy to reach from big cities.
Travel Tips for Visiting Almora
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on hills.
- Carry water bottles to stay hydrated.
- Follow the local rules and traditions.
- Stay safe at the spot, especially near cliffs.
- Respect the Almora culture and its people.
- Bring good clothes for cool evenings.
- Do not bring banned items like plastic bags.
Top Attractions In or Near Almora
- Nanda Devi Temple: This spot is in Almora and has a beautiful old temple dedicated to the goddess Nanda Devi.
- Bright End Corner: This spot is near Almora and has amazing sunrise and sunset views over the valley.
- Kasar Devi: This spot is near Almora and has a famous temple known for its quiet and spiritual vibe.
- Zero Point: This spot is near Almora and has 360-degree views of the great Himalayan peaks.
- Jageshwar Dham: This spot is near Almora and has a large group of over 100 ancient Hindu temples.
- Deer Park: This spot is in Almora and has a nice park where you can see deer and other animals in a natural setting.
