Located on a ridge in the Great Himalayas, Almora is a beautiful Indian city that plays host to thousands of tourists every year. This city calls the Indian state of Uttarakhand home. Its scenic hill terraces, surrounding streams and lush forests covering the towering hills house some of the best Almora tourism places. If you are planning to visit a hill station on your next vacation, consider visiting Almora for a serene vacation in nature’s lap. The existence of Almora can be traced back to the days of the Hindu epic Mahabharata. The Mahabharata mentions that the Chand Kings of the Kumaon dynasty ruled over this city in the 8th and 9th centuries BC. Almora is named after a local plant called Bhilmora that was used to wash utensils and other metallic items in the Sun Temple. People called “Bhilmoris” brought the plant in the city. This name was tweaked through the centuries and finally changed to Almora. King Bhishma Chand named the town Alamnagar at the time of its establishment.
In 1568, King Kalyan Chand founded Almora. Before that, no boundaries specifically marked the region. The Kauravas and the Pandavas of Mahabharata ruled the region nominally. Other than that, the local tribes were mainly responsible for ruling the region. Tribes like Sakas, Tewaris, Nagas, Katyuris, and Khasas took care of Almora and its surrounding regions for centuries. The Garhwal clan later fought with the Chand dynasty rulers, destroying some of the most beautiful parts of the city in those wars. The city mostly remained under the Gorkhas’ rule when the British occupied India but served as a vacation spot for British officials and businessmen.Today, there are plenty of Almora tourism places that attract travelers from across the world to this hilly town. Its location on a horse-saddle shaped hill and dense forests are enough to lure those looking to spend a magical vacation exploring Northern India.
The most favored of Almora tourism places, the Kasar Devi is a small village in Almora known for its iconic Kasar Devi temple. Tourism at this spot gained momentum as it became a part of the hippie trail. The temple, devoted to goddess Kasar Devi, is located on the cliff of a ridge in the Kaashay Hills and dates back to the 2nd century CE. If you want a panoramic view of Almora or just want to immerse yourself in tranquility and divinity, this place is a must-visit. The temple is also historically important for those studying the Indian freedom movement. At one time, Swami Vivekananda meditated near the temple and realized its spiritual importance. Every year on Kartik Poornima, a local fair called the Kasar Devi fair is organized by the villagers. During this fair, you will be able to witness the temple decorated with fairy lights and the village drenched in colorful decorations. To enjoy this fair, plan your trip in October-November.
The Kasar Devi village is surrounded by pine and fir trees. Taking a walk through this village is a heavenly experience. While there, do not forget to visit the Crank’s ridge, an important spot in the hippie trail. The nearby geomagnetic field is a scientific wonder that will draw your attention. As you take a village walk, marvel at the five snow-covered peaks of Panchaluli glowing in the peripheral skies. Other than this, just lose yourself in the beauty of the scenic Himalayan ridges and peaks.
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, a visit to the magnificent Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary will be a treat for you. Situated atop the Jhandi Dhar Hills, this wildlife sanctuary lies about 33 km away from the Almora city center. This Almora tourism place was once the summer resort of the kings of the Chand dynasty. The flora and fauna of this region are securely housed within this wildlife sanctuary that was constructed in 1988. Here, you can spot animals like jungle cats, spotted leopard, barking deer, langurs, and woodpeckers. You can also trek around its hills to explore this place in the best possible way.
With 45 shrines and one chief temple, the Katarmal Sun Temple is an important Hindu pilgrimage site located in Almora. A popular Almora tourism place, the Katarmal Sun Temple is an architectural marvel. It is located on one of the most stunning hilly trails of Almora and dates back to the pre-historic ages. Constructed in sandstone and intricately designed with towering shikharas and firm pillars, this temple will spellbind you and entice you into spending the whole day here. The symmetrical design coupled with its perfect location amidst pine trees makes it a must-visit.
Does floating on clouds while watching a gorgeous sunset sound too good to be true? Well, it is true if you visit the Zero point! This point located on top of a peak offers unique views of sunrises and sunsets. The peaks all around the zero point are covered by cottony clouds and morning fog framed by colorful skies. One of the most popular Almora tourism places, Zero Point is a must-visit if you are looking to spend some time with nature. Here, you will also be treated to a picturesque view of the city and peaks like Kedarnath, Badrinath and Nanda Devi. Its mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks bordered by thick green forests are something you shouldn’t miss.
The Bright End Corner is another sunset and sunrise viewing point in Almora that will captivate you with its beauty. The famous mall road of Almora begins here, making it worth a visit for anyone wanting to explore the city well. The quiet surroundings and marvelous views of the hilltop houses, forests and endless skies will compel you to spend your evenings here. Historically, Swami Vivekananda spent numerous years meditating and exploring the Bright End Corner. For that reason, you will also see here a library and various ashrams dedicated to him.
Martola is a perfect spot for a family getaway amid the Himalayas. This place is located about 10 km away from the city center and is perched on top of a hill that offers amazing views of the city against a Himalayan backdrop. Even if you’re traveling solo, this spot will prove to be an excellent escape from the busy city streets and other tourist spots.
The Chitai temple is a place of religious importance for Hindus. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Gaur Bhairava and lies about 15 km from the city center. People believe any wishes made at this temple are fulfilled. It is perched on a scenic hilltop and is a perfect divine getaway.
The Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army was created sometime during the 18th Century and is one of the oldest regiments of the Indian Army. The Kumaon Regimental Center Museum is dedicated to the great wars fought by this regiment. It houses war memorabilia, weapons, artillery and other equipment used at times of conflict. You should visit this museum if you are traveling with kids. The great war stories and tales of heroic valor are sure to amaze your kids as they explore this gem of Almora.
If you are a history buff or want to give your kids an educational vacation, do not forget to visit the Gobind Vallabh Pant Museum. This museum houses various artifacts and royal items used by the kings of the Chand dynasty. This Almora tourism place is named after Gobind Vallabh Pant, a famous Indian freedom fighter. Here, you will see ancient Indian history and culture mirrored in the preserved articles, paintings, and artifacts. This museum will also enlighten you on Uttarakhand’s rich history, heritage and culture.
Almora’s cuisine is full of spicy dishes featuring plenty of locally grown vegetables and fruits. You can try mouth-watering sweets like Bal mithai, Choklate, and Singauri, a milk-based sweet prepared using different local ingredients like almonds and Malu leaves. Some of the best savory dishes include Bhaang ki Khatai, Sisunak Saag, Kappa, Mixed Dal Salad, Gutke, Aloo Dal Pakora and Rus. Do not forget to take a sip of ginger tea sitting on a cliff for a true Almori eating experience. If you are looking for continental dishes, you can explore the bakeries and cafes located in the city center.
Almora is famous for its collection of some of the best handicrafts and decorative items in India. You can shop for interesting items like bronzeware, brassware, rabbit wool clothes, sweets, Himalayan woolens, copperware, ethnic wear, metal utensils, oxidized jewelry, sweaters, scarves, and Angora cloth. Stick to street markets and small shops to take home authentic Almora products.
Almora celebrates plenty of regional and national festivals every year. The folk festivals are a reflection of enthusiasm and culture. Some of the best-celebrated festivals of the area include the Nanda Devi Festival, the Jageshwar Monsoon Festival, the Kasar Devi Festival, Dussehra, Diwali, Holi, Eid, Bikauhti Mela, Autumn Festival, Dwarahat, Somnath Mela, Masi, and Raksha Bandhan Mela. These festivals will mesmerize you with colors, vibrancy, dance, and music.
You can use cameras and mobile phones freely at most Almora tourism places. Some museums and heritage sites will charge you a fee for carrying them. Most religious places will completely restrict their usage. Almora is a traveler’s delight with its cultural sites and scenic landscapes. Regardless of the kind of vacation you prefer, Almora will leave you in awe of its heritage, culture, and vibrancy. A tourists’ paradise in the Himalayas, Almora never fails to impress.
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