Almora is a captivating hill station in the Northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. Located at an altitude of 1638 m above sea level, it is surrounded by lush green hills, forests and snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. This beautiful hill station offers a host of attractions for tourists, including stunning views of nature, numerous ancient temples and monasteries, vibrant local markets, and a variety of adventure activities.
The town of Almora is steeped in history and is believed to have been founded by the Chand dynasty in 1560, which ruled the area until British colonization in 1815. The old town has retained much of its traditional architecture and is a great place to explore. Visitors can wander the narrow lanes lined with traditional buildings and explore the various temples and monuments, including the ancient Sun Temple, the Temples of Asthbhuja Devi and Banari Devi, and the historical Jageshwar Temple complex.
Almora is also renowned for its vibrant local culture and handicrafts, which can be seen in the numerous bazaars and markets. Shopping here is a great way to experience the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.
The surrounding hills of Almora are a popular destination for outdoor activities such as trekking, bird watching, and even paragliding. The hills are covered in dense forests, providing a great opportunity to explore nature and observe the local wildlife.
Almora is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a relaxing and scenic getaway in the Himalayas. With its stunning views, vibrant culture, and adventure activities, it is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Mall Road: Located in the heart of the city, Mall Road is the main market area in Almora. It is home to some of the best shops, eateries, hotels, and other attractions.
2. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is situated on the top of the Jhandi Dhar hill and is a great spot for wildlife viewing and bird watching. It is also home to several Himalayan flora and fauna.
3. Bright End Corner: Situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters, this viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Himalayan range.
4. Nanda Devi Temple: This temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples in the area and is dedicated to Goddess Nanda. It also has beautiful stone carvings and architecture.
5. Katarmal Sun Temple: This temple is also dedicated to the Sun God and is known for its intricate architecture. It is also one of the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Almora.
1. Nanda Devi Temple: Located at the heart of Almora, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Nanda and is considered to be one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand.
2. Bright End Corner: Situated at the highest point of Almora, this lookout point offers a spectacular view of the Himalayan range and the town of Almora.
3. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary houses a variety of rare wildlife species like leopards, tigers, and wild boar, and offers an opportunity to explore the wild side of the region.
4. Kasar Devi Temple: This temple is situated on a hill and is known for its spiritual and mythological significance.
5. Katarmal Sun Temple: This temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is considered to be one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the region.
1. Bhatt ki Churkani: This traditional dish from Almora is made with black lentils and spices and is served with rice. It is a popular dish amongst locals and tourists alike.
2. Bal Mithai: This is a type of sweet made from thickened and condensed milk, sugar, and roasted, ground khoya (dried, evaporated milk solids). This is usually served as a dessert.
3. Aloo ka Bharta: This is a potato-based dish that is cooked with spices and served with rice or chapatis. It is a popular dish in the region and is a popular comfort food.
4. Kumaoni Raita: This is a yogurt-based dish which is made with fresh vegetables and spices. It is a cooling accompaniment to spicy dishes.
5. Kaapa: This is a local dish made with wheat flour and is served with a variety of vegetables and spices. It is a popular dish that is often served as an accompaniment to other dishes.