A major district in Uttaranchal, the identity of Almora is much more then just another tourist attraction. The place apart from its interesting geography also has a rich history and cultural heritage to boast of. A major district in the state of Uttaranchal, it is a busy township.

At a height of 1638 metres, Almora rests among a picturesque setting. On a horse saddle shaped hillock, surrounded by thick forests of pine and fur trees, flowing alongside the city are rivers of Koshi and Suyal and to top it all are the snow capped Himalayas in the background. Adding to the colours of nature is the colourful culture of Almora, people with rosy cheeks dressed in colourful attires, all this adds to the charm of the town.

The town unlike more developed Nainital and Mussoorie is quite virgin a land. The place is untouched by urbanisation and the people here have preserved their culture and tradition well. The roads and pavements are rather unplanned here but the beauty of the terraced fields and barrack like houses here and there can not be missed.

Back in 9th century, Katyur dynasty ruled in Almora, however by 16th century the rulers were Chandravanshis and then Almora passed to Nepali Gurkhas and finally to Britishers. Evidence of its rich past is available in the ruins of old forts, palaces and monuments built by Chandravanshis and Katyur dynasty.

Attractions :

Govind Vallabh Pant Public Museum : Govind Vallabh Pant Public Museum near Almora bus stand is worth paying a visit owing to its rich collection of items relating to the history, archeology and cultural significance. The rich collection of this museum takes you on a journey of different phases of history of Almora. 'Apen' is a folk style of painting found in this region and can be seen here in this museum in its various aspects.

Bright Corner : This place could be your silent retreat to find yourself in the mountains. The place is famous for its view at sunrise and sunset. The place is unusually calm. It is said that the peacefulness of this place can not be matched with any other hill station. One can visit the circuit house nearby which also has a serene setting. For those in love with philosophy and spirituality, there is no better place. Nearby is Vivekananda Library in Ramakrishna Kutir. Swami Vivekananda had stayed here during the time he spent in Himalayas.

Simtola : It is a beautiful place 5 kms from Almora. The place enchants with its picture postcard view, miles of terrain with beautiful hills lined with pine and fur trees. Lying on the opposite side of the horseshoe ridge, Simtola is a quite picnic spot. While visiting Simtola, you can also pay a visit to the nearby Hiradungi which used to be a diamond mine and the beautiful 'Granite Hill' close by.

Khajanchi Mohalla : Khajanchi Mohalla literally means treasurer's area. You can visit the area for glimpses of old style architecture. The area dates back to the times of kings in Almora, it then belonged to the state treasurers.

Tamta Mohalla : Tamta Mohalla in the old city in earlier times belonged to the coppersmiths. Coppperware is still one of the popular crafts of Almora and the place is still inhabited by large number of coppersmiths.

Collectorate : This is the old Almora fort located at the highest point of Almora bazaar. As you cross the Mall and the Almora bazaars, there is the Collectorate. Climb up here to get a view of the Almora and the nearby mountain ranges.

Martola : It is a beautiful place just 10 kms from Almora. Complete with gardens and forests, the place has good scenic beauty. Many foreigners who came here liked the place so much that they settled here. A good picnic trip can be made here.

Koshi : A place of unsurpassed beauty, Koshi lies 12 kms from Almora. A stay here can be arranged at the circuit house. Besides there is also Govind Vallabh Pant Research Institute here.

Pilgrimage

Nanda Devi Temple : The exact date when this temple was made is not known but it is believed to be hundreds of years old. People of this region and around have deep faith in this temple and it shows. Its the most famous temple around with thousands of pilgrims paying it a visit every year. Naina Devi was the patron goddess of Chandravanshi kings. This is the most famous place in Almora, it is as if old Almora lies preserved here. The temple stands in the antechamber of Shiva temple. Walls of the temple have been intricately carved attractively with true to life images. Nanda Devi Fair held here in the month of September draws large crowds.

Almora

Chetai Temple : This is the sacred temple of Golu Devta, 6 Kilometres from Almora perched on a hilltop. Golu Devta was deified general of Chand dynasty that once ruled Almora. The temple has his shrine. Devotees, as thanksgiving offer bells here which are decorated on the canopy of these bells. Surrounded by fur and pine tree forest, a visit to this temple will prove beneficial for nature lovers. The temple bears strong faith among the locals here and goats are sacrificed here in front of the deity.

Kalimath : To take a good view of Almora town, Kalimath is ideal, just 4.5 kilometres from Almora. There is also a temple of Kasar Devi here. Amazingly true, the temple dates back to second century.

Katarmal : Next to the Konark temple of Orissa, Katarmal's sun temple is the most significant sun temple. This 800 year old temple has not received the kind of attention it deserves. Katarmal is 17 kilometres from Almora and worth paying a visit. Though the place is in ruins due to neglect but you will see some interesting architecture and intricate images carved out on walls.

Access :

By Air : The closest airport is Pantnagar, 127 kilometres from Almora. Flights are available during summers .

By Rail : The closest railhead is Kathgodam (90 kms) which is well connected by trains to Delhi, Lucknow, Dehradun, Agra, Bareilly and Kolkatta.

By Road : Buses ply between Almora and Delhi (380 kms.), Lucknow (466 kms.), Dehradun (415 kms) and other important places. Otherwise one can also travel up to Nainital by bus as it is better connected and take buses from there for Almora.