The Vacation HolidaysThe Vacation HolidaysAbout Almora – The Vacation Holidays
Almora is a charming hill station offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquillity. Known for its panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Almora is a hidden gem for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike.
Almora is steeped in history, with its rich cultural heritage reflected in its temples, markets, and festivals. The town’s winding lanes are lined with old-world charm, offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. A visit to Almora offers the opportunity to experience the unique Kumaoni culture, with local handicrafts, traditional foods, and vibrant festivals adding to its appeal.
For those seeking spiritual solace, Almora is close to many sacred sites. It is a gateway to the revered Chardham Yatra, which includes famous pilgrimage destinations like Badrinath, Kedarnath, and more. The serene atmosphere of Almora makes it an ideal starting point for spiritual journeys, providing a peaceful space to connect with oneself and the divine.
Nature lovers can explore the surrounding forests, take scenic walks along the trails, or enjoy breathtaking views from various viewpoints like Bright End Corner and Zero Point. Almora is also home to diverse wildlife, including Himalayan species, making it a must-visit for eco-tourists.
With its serene environment, scenic beauty, and spiritual significance, Almora is the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway. Whether you’re seeking adventure, spirituality, or simply a place to unwind, Almora promises a fulfilling experience for every traveller.
History & Mythology
Almora, a charming hill station nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India, is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its rich history and mythology. Its origins trace back to ancient times, with the town being a prominent settlement for various rulers and dynasties throughout history.
The name “Almora” is believed to be derived from the word “Almora,” meaning “a place of Alm,” a type of local shrub found in the area. Historically, Almora was established by the Chand Dynasty in the 16th century, under the leadership of Kesar Singh. The region’s strategic location, surrounded by lush forests and set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, made it a favored area for kings and warriors.
In terms of mythology, Almora holds a significant place in Hindu traditions. According to one popular legend, the region is linked to the great epic of the Mahabharata. It is believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharata, spent some time in the region during their exile. There are also references to the god, Lord Shiva, who is said to have visited the area in ancient times, giving Almora an air of spirituality and reverence.
One of the key landmarks in Almora, the temple of Nanda Devi, is dedicated to the goddess Nanda, who is worshipped as a deity of strength and prosperity in the region. It is believed that the goddess’s presence brings harmony and protection to the land.
Over the centuries, Almora has been home to numerous cultural influences, from its time under the Chand dynasty to its more recent colonial history, when it became a popular hill station for the British. Today, Almora is a blend of ancient traditions, historical landmarks, and natural beauty, making it a unique and fascinating destination for history buffs and spiritual seekers alike.
Golu Devta: Myths and History
Golu Devta is a revered folk deity worshipped primarily in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. His legend is deeply rooted in local mythology and the beliefs of the people of the region. Golu Devta is known for his connection with justice, protection, and kindness, and his story is both inspiring and mysterious.
The tale of Golu Devta’s birth is tied to the worship of the powerful goddess Nanda Devi. According to legend, Golu Devta was born to King Suraj Singh of the Kumaon region and his queen, Naina Devi. However, the circumstances of his birth are unique. It is said that Golu Devta was not a normal child, but a divine incarnation of the god Gaur. As a young boy, he displayed supernatural abilities and was known for his fairness and strong sense of justice. People began to believe that he was sent by the gods to protect the people and resolve their problems.
The story of Golu Devta’s death is equally captivating. Despite being a god, he was a kind and humble ruler who loved his people dearly. One day, a crisis struck the kingdom, and Golu Devta had to leave for a distant land to find a solution. He told his followers that he would return to his kingdom after resolving the problem. However, Golu Devta did not return, leaving behind a deep sense of loss among the people. It is believed that his death was not a physical end but a transition into the spiritual realm, where he continues to watch over his devotees.
Devotees believe that Golu Devta’s spirit remains alive in the sacred temples dedicated to him. His presence is felt through his divine protection, and it is said that he helps those who call upon him with pure hearts. His temples are spread across Kumaon, where his followers pray for justice, protection, and blessings in their lives. The tale of Golu Devta is one of devotion, protection, and eternal love, continuing to inspire generations.
Weather and Climate of Almora:
Almora, nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a charming hill town known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, cultural heritage, and peaceful atmosphere. It is well-connected to major cities by road, while the nearest rail and air connectivity is a few hours away.
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (PGH) – approximately 115 km from Almora.
Flights: Pantnagar Airport has limited flight connectivity, mostly from Delhi.
From Airport to Almora: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Pantnagar. The drive takes around 3.5 to 4 hours through scenic hilly roads.
Alternative Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL) – around 370 km away, with wider connectivity across India and abroad. From Delhi, you can reach Almora via train or road.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station – approximately 82 km from Almora.
Kathgodam is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Lucknow, and Kolkata.
Notable trains include:
Ranikhet Express (15013/14) – from Delhi
Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express (15035/36) – from Delhi
Bagh Express – from Howrah
From Kathgodam to Almora:
Taxis and shared cabs are readily available.
Regular buses (private and state-run) also operate. The drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Almora is well-connected by a network of motorable roads to all major cities in Uttarakhand and North India.
Route: Delhi – Hapur – Moradabad – Rampur – Rudrapur – Haldwani – Kathgodam – Almora
Travel Time: Around 9–10 hours by car.
Government Buses: Operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) from Anand Vihar ISBT (Delhi) to Almora.
Private Buses: Available in AC and non-AC categories from major nearby towns and cities.
Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available for local sightseeing.
Many tourist spots are walkable, but for longer distances, hiring a cab is convenient.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November.
In winter months (December to February), roads can be slippery due to frost or snow, so check weather conditions in advance.
Always carry light woolens in summer and heavy woolens in winter.
Almora, nestled in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand, is not only known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage but also offers a range of modern and traditional facilities catering to residents and tourists alike. Below is a categorized overview:
Hospitals and Clinics: Almora has a number of government and private hospitals providing general and specialized medical services.
Base Hospital Almora (Govt.): Major medical hub with emergency, maternity, surgical, and outpatient services.
Private Clinics: Multiple specialists in general medicine, dentistry, ophthalmology, and ayurveda.
Ayurvedic & Homeopathic Centers: Commonly found, offering alternative treatments.
Pharmacies: Well-distributed across the town, including 24/7 services near major hospitals.
Schools: Both government and private CBSE/ICSE-affiliated schools are available.
Notable ones: Army Public School, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Bright Career Academy.
Colleges & Higher Education:
S.S.J. Campus (Kumaun University): Offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs.
Other vocational institutes for teacher training, polytechnics, and computer education.
Road Transport: Almora is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi, Haldwani, and Nainital. Regular buses and shared taxis are available.
Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and mini-buses operate within the town.
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (approx. 90 km).
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (approx. 115 km).
Branches of major banks like SBI, PNB, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank are present.
Facilities include ATMs, net banking, locker services, and financial consultations.
Local Bazaars: Lala Bazar and Malli Bazar offer traditional items, woolens, and handicrafts.
Supermarkets & Retail Stores: Small malls and general stores cater to daily needs.
Handicrafts & Souvenirs: Angora wool products, copperware, and Kumaoni sweets like bal mithai.
Hotels & Guest Houses: Ranges from budget lodges to luxury resorts with Himalayan views.
Homestays: Popular among tourists seeking authentic local experiences.
Restaurants & Cafes: Serving Kumaoni, North Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisines.
Mobile Connectivity: Good coverage from all major providers (Jio, Airtel, BSNL).
Internet Services: Broadband and 4G services are widely available.
Post Offices: Well-distributed with parcel and speed post services.
Municipal Council: Responsible for sanitation, waste management, water supply, and infrastructure maintenance.
Police & Safety: Almora is generally safe, with local police stations maintaining law and order.
Fire Services & Disaster Management: Emergency services are present and active during natural calamities like landslides.
Tourist Information Centers: Help desks and brochures for tourists.
Recreational Facilities:
Public parks and gardens (Vivekananda Park, Children’s Park).
Viewpoints like Bright End Corner and Kasar Devi.
Cultural Centers & Libraries: Almora Public Library and cultural halls host literary and cultural events.
Temples: Home to ancient temples like Nanda Devi, Kasar Devi, and Jageshwar Dham (nearby).
Ashrams and Meditation Centers: Especially around Kasar Devi, attracting spiritual seekers and yoga practitioners.
8 must-visit attractions in and around Almora:
