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Almora Travel Guide 2025
Almora, a picturesque hill town in Uttarakhand, is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and serene ambiance. Nestled in the Kumaon region at an altitude of 1,638 meters, Almora offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush green valleys, and charming colonial-era architecture. The town is famous for its ancient temples like Nanda Devi and Kasar Devi, which attract spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
Almora is also renowned for its vibrant local markets, where one can shop for unique handicrafts, woolen products, and the famous Bal Mithai. Adventure lovers can explore scenic trekking trails, while nature enthusiasts can visit the nearby Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. The pleasant climate throughout the year makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you seek tranquility, spirituality, or adventure, Almora offers a perfect blend of all, making it a must-visit gem in Uttarakhand.
Kasar Devi
A peaceful spiritual retreat, this ancient temple is known for its strong magnetic field, attracting meditators and spiritual seekers.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
A paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Binsar offers breathtaking Himalayan views, rich flora and fauna, and scenic trekking trails.
Jageshwar Dham
A significant Hindu pilgrimage site, Jageshwar houses over 100 ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, surrounded by dense deodar forests.
Katarmal Sun Temple
A historic 9th-century temple dedicated to the Sun God, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic mountain views.
Chitai Golu Temple
Dedicated to Golu Devta, the deity of justice, this temple is known for thousands of petitions written on paper hung around its premises.
Ranikhet
A charming hill station offering lush green meadows, colonial-era charm, golf courses, and mesmerizing Himalayan views.
Dwarhat
Dwarahat, a serene town in Uttarakhand, is known for its ancient temples, scenic beauty, and spiritual significance, offering peaceful Himalayan vibes.
Dunagiri Temple
A lesser-known yet powerful Shakti Peeth, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and believed to be a place of immense spiritual energy.
Kausani
Often called the ‘Switzerland of India,’ Kausani offers 300-degree panoramic views of the Himalayas, tea gardens, and Mahatma Gandhi’s Anashakti Ashram.
Bal Mithai
A signature sweet of Almora, Bal Mithai is a rich, chocolate-colored fudge made from roasted khoya and coated with sugar balls.
Dubuk
A comforting dish made from ground lentils like bhatt or gahat (horse gram), slow-cooked into a thick, flavorful gravy.
Singhori
A traditional sweet made with khoya, wrapped in Malu leaves, offering a rich and unique flavor.
Bhatt ki Churdkani
A traditional dish made from black soybeans (bhatt) cooked with local spices, usually served with rice.
Products for Shopping in Almora
- Shawls & Blankets – Handwoven with intricate Kumaoni patterns.
- Angora & Pashmina Wool Products – Soft, warm, and locally crafted.
- Organic Honey & Jams – Pure, locally sourced, and rich in flavor.
- Herbal Teas & Spices – Includes rhododendron tea, turmeric, and mountain herbs.
- Handmade Copper & Brass Utensils – Traditional, durable, and beautifully crafted.
- Ringaal Handicrafts – Bamboo baskets, mats, and eco-friendly home décor.
- Local Pulses & Millets – Nutrient-rich jhangora, madua, and horse gram.
- Traditional Kumaoni Jewelry – Elegant silver ornaments with ethnic designs.
Markets for Shopping in Almora
- Lala Bazaar – The main market with woolen clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
- Mall Road – Bustling street for local snacks, traditional garments, and Bal Mithai.
- Kesar Devi Market – Known for Kumaoni handicrafts and organic products.
- Kumaon Shilp Gram – A government emporium for handwoven textiles and local crafts.
- Almora Haat – Traditional market for organic food, grains, and fresh produce.
- Chitai Market – Offers handmade silver jewelry, utensils, and spices.
By Air
The nearest airport to Almora is Pantnagar Airport (120 km), with connections from Delhi; Delhi Airport is also accessible.
By Train
The nearest major railway station to Almora is Kathgodam Railway Station (90 km), well-connected to Delhi and other cities.
By Bus
Almora is well-connected by buses from major cities like Delhi, Haldwani, and Nainital, with services available from private and government operators.
Local Transport
- Local Taxi & Private taxi only.
Nearby Places
Please see below locations which are nearby to Almora.
- Nainital (65 km) – Famous for Naini Lake, boat rides, and scenic views.
- Corbett National Park (150 km) – India’s first wildlife park, home to tigers and other species.
- Mukteshwar (45 km) – A tranquil hill station with stunning Himalayan views and an ancient temple.
- Bhimtal (30 km) – A peaceful lake town, perfect for boating and relaxing.
- Munsiyari (170 km) – A remote hill station offering panoramic views of the Panchachuli peaks.
- Bageshwar (90 km) – Known for the Bagnath Temple and the confluence of rivers.
Safety
Safety Tips for Almora
- Weather – Check forecasts; avoid monsoons (landslides) and winters (snowfall). Carry warm clothing.
- Roads – Drive cautiously; mountain roads are steep and landslide-prone. Hire experienced drivers.
- Trekking – Acclimatize before high-altitude treks. Carry first aid, water, and travel with a guide.
- Wildlife – Avoid dense forests; Chamoli has leopards and bears. Respect nature, avoid littering.
Language & Culture
Almora’s culture is deeply rooted in Kumaoni traditions, with local festivals, folk dances, and music. The primary language is Kumaoni, while Hindi and English are also commonly spoken.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Almora is from March to June for pleasant weather, and from September to November for clear skies and scenic views. Winter (December to February) is cold but beautiful.