31 Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand: A Land of Scenic Beauty and Spiritual Bliss

Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand amidst the majestic Himalayas, Almora city is a hill station in Uttarakhand that beckons travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual aura. Whether you’re seeking natural wonders, ancient temples, or a peaceful retreat, Almora city has something for everyone.

Historical Significance of Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand:

Almora, a destination of enchanting beauty and natural treasures, is often revered as the land of gods nestled in the Kurma Hills. According to the “Manas Khand” of the “Skand Purana,” these hills are situated between the Koshi (Kaushan) and Suyal (Salmale) rivers. It’s believed to be the heavenly abode of Lord Vishnu.

Located approximately 371 km from Delhi and 117 km from Pantnagar airport, Almora is easily accessible.

Spiritual Sites as Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand:

Jageshwar Dham

Renowned as an ASI-preserved site in the Almora district, Jageshwar Dham, also known as Jageshwar Temples, is a valley area with temples dating back from the 7th to the 12th century. The temple complex comprises approximately 125 small and large temples, including the Shri Jyotriylinga Jageshwar Temple, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Neelkanth Temple, and more. The architecture, believed to belong to the post-Gupta era or the Katyuri or Chand hill dynasties, has attracted researchers. Jageshwar is considered the 8th Jyotirlinga, and during Mahashivratri, a vibrant fair takes place. A must from Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand.
Location: 36 km from Almora; best traveled by cab or private vehicle.

Dandeshwar Mahadev Temple:

Home to a unique shivlinga with Maa Parvati, this temple is shrouded in fascinating legends with a Shivlinga and Maa Parvati in the form of natural uncut rock.
Location: 1.5 km from Jageshwar temple; accessible by walking.

Shri Briddha or Budh Jageshwar Temple

Considered the oldest among nearby temples, this temple’s narrow path leads to an uphill location. Inside, the Lord Shiva Shivling is placed, providing a breathtaking view of the Himalayan mountain ranges.
Location: 3 km from Jageshwar; travel by bike, car, or cab.

Nanda Devi Temple

Dedicated to the revered “Destroyer of Evil,” this 11th-century temple is a center of faith for the Kumaon people. A fair is organized every year during September.
Location: 500 meters from the bus stand in Almora; accessible by walking.

Patal Devi Temple

Structured during the Chand Vanshi King’s rule in the 17th century, this temple houses idols of Durga Mata and Shiva, and a hidden Gauri Kund beneath it.
Location: 5 km from Almora; accessible by walking, bike, car, or cab.

Someshwar Temple and Valley

Situated in the valley near Kosi and Sai, witness the grandeur of this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and attend the vibrant annual fair on Shivratri. Built by the Chand dynasty king Raja Som Chand, the temple is just 12 km from the famous hill station Kausani.
Location: 40 km from Almora; travel by car or cab.

Jhankar Saim Mahadev Temple

This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is adorned with a tree whose origin and details remain unknown. The site has a unique tree shaped like Shri Ganesha in the main area and a nearby Durga Mata temple.
Location: 6 km south of Jageshwar; accessible by bike, car, or cab.

Chitai Temple or Golu Devta Temple

Regarded as the temple of the god of law and justice, Golu Devta, worshipped as Goril Devta in eastern Garhwal, is believed to provide justice to those who seek it. Devotees tie bells or stamp their problems on paper for divine intervention. In Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand it is mandatory to visit this temple to get a glimpse of local faith and beliefs with mystery unfolding.
Location: 5 km from Almora; travel by bike, car, or cab.

Kasar Devi (A Hill with Magnetic Anomaly)

Known as the meditating point of Swami Vivekanand Ji, Kasar Devi offers a unique experience with a magnetic anomaly. Situated on the Kaashay hills of the Kumaon Himalayas, it provides a rare, beautiful scenic beauty with pine trees.
Location: 8.8 km from Almora; accessible by bike, car, or cab.

Katarmal Surya Temple

Witness the architectural marvel of this ancient temple dedicated to Surya, the sun god. From the Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand is a rare Surya temple believed to be constructed by Katyuri Kings in the 6th to 9th century, Katarmal Surya Temple has 45 small temples in its complex.
Location: 12 km from Almora and 1.5 km from Kosi; travel by bike, car, or cab.

Dunagiri Temple

Legend has it that Shri Hanumaji dropped a piece of the mountain while carrying it to rescue Shri Laxmanji, giving rise to the name “Doonagiri.” Located about 14 km from Dwarahat, the temple holds historical significance.
Location: 70 km from Almora; travel by car, bus, or cab.

Gairar Golu Devta Temple

This temple, situated 2 km from Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, is dedicated to Lord Golu Devta, the “God of Justice.” Devotees present white-colored clothes to the deity as offerings.
Location: 11 km from Almora; travel by bus, car, or cab.

Natural Delights of Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand:

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Hike through oak forests, spot diverse birdlife, and catch panoramic views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Kedarnath. Known as the summer capital for Chand kings, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is now established for the conservation of broadleaf oak forests, home to over 200 species of birds and rare animals.
Location: 24.5 km from Almora; travel by bike, car, or cab.

Deer Park

Relax amidst the soothing ambiance of this park, home to tigers, deer, and even a rare white monkey. Located on the way to Chitai temple, this park near Almora’s main market houses tigers, tigresses, deer, bears, leopards, and a special attraction – the white monkey.
Location: 3 km from Almora Market; reachable by walking, bike, car, or cab.

Kosi River

Embark on a scenic journey from the list of Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand along this river, originating from the Himalayan ranges and flowing towards Tibet and Nepal, the Kosi River is also known as Saptkoshi due to its 7 tributaries and mentioned in the Skanda Purana.
Location: 25 km from Almora; travel by bus, car, or cab.

Lakhudiyar Caves

Discover prehistoric cave paintings depicting scenes from early life and marvel at the artistic heritage of these caves. Despite the name “One lakh caves,” only a few prominent ones remain.
Location: 19 km from Almora; travel by bus, car, or bike.

Bright End Corner

Known for its picturesque sunrise and sunset views, Bright End Corner is a natural paradise dedicated to Swami Vivekanand, who meditated and spent time here is a must for scenic beauty from the list of Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand.
Location: 2 km from Almora; travel by car, cab, or bike.

Cultural Gems in Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand:

Lal Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the vibrant market culture, shop for traditional sweets and handicrafts, and admire the historical architecture. A market renowned for its indigenous sweet market, Lal Bazaar, features Bal Mithai (a 100-year-old delicacy) and other gold and brass shops, maintaining its cultural heritage.
Location: 0 km from Almora; accessible by walking.

Malla Mahal

Visit the former palace of the Chand kings, now transformed into the district court, and admire the ancient Siya Ram temple within its complex dating back to the 10th century.
Location: 0 km from Almora; accessible by walking.

GB Pant Museum

Explore a vast collection of artifacts from the 7th century Katyuri and Chand dynasties, including Kumaoni paintings and Boshi Sena’s personal collection from the list of Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand. The collection includes old-style Kumauni paintings called Aipan, copper manuscripts, and crafts on textiles.
Location: Near Almora Busstand; accessible by walking.

Martola

Unwind in the scenic beauty of this picnic spot, once a summer resort for the Chand kings and a popular festival destination.
Location: 10 km from Almora; travel by car or cab.

Maa Anandimai Ashram

A renowned ashram attracting locals and Bengalis for years, Maa Anandimai Ashram is a place for spiritual knowledge. Folklore tells a story of a British officer who had jailed Maa Anandimai but was later forgiven after seeking mercy for his deeds.
Location: 4.5 km from Almora; accessible by walking, bike, car, or cab.

Simtola

A scenic beauty spot with pine trees and deodar trees, Simtola is a wonderful picnic spot. It was once known as a granite stone hill and a diamond mining center, as reflected in the nearby place called Hira Dungri.
Location: 3 km from Almora; travel by bike, cab, or car.

Post Office Almora (Used from 1905)

This historical post and telegraph office, in operation since before Independence (marked in the building logo as 1905), stands as a symbol of architectural designs of the pre-Independence era. It provides postal and passport services to the large population of Almora and nearby areas.
Location: In Almora near the main market; accessible by walking.

Uday Shankar International Art Centre, Ranidhara

Opened by Shri Uday Shankar in 1938, this dance academy contributed to the revival of classical dances. Now, a new center named “Uday Shankar Dance and Music Academy” is established in Falsima area.
Location: Ranidhara Almora is 3.3 km from Almora.

Almora District Jail

One of the oldest jails in India, the Almora District Jail is in the process of being converted into a historical monument. It housed great freedom fighters like Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, Govind Vallabh Pant, Acharya Narendra Dev, and others.
Location: 2 km from Almora busstand; travel by car or cab.

Methodist Burden Memorial Church (Built in 1897)

Built during British rule in 1897 with Roman English technique and local stones, this church is still used for prayers. Unique pattern designs can be observed on its walls.
Location: 1 km from the bus stand in Almora; accessible by walking or car or cab.

Beyond Almora Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand:

Kainchi Dham

Find spiritual solace at this ashram founded by Neem Karoli Baba, which has drawn the attention of notable figures such as Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. The ashram is home to the Lord Hanumanji temple and the abode of the saint Neem Karoli Baba. Kainchi Dham is nestled between two hills, creating a scissor-like shape thus named as kainchi dham. The most famous worldwide place from the list of Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand.
Location: On Nainital – Almora Road, 9 km from Bhowali, 42 km from Kathgodam (Railway station present here); travel by bus, car, or cab.

Kumaon Regiment Centre Museum

Honor the courage and sacrifice of the Kumaon Regiment at this museum showcasing their military history and war relics.
Location: 45 km from Almora; travel by bus, car, or cab.

Dol Ashram

Also known as Shri Kalyanika Himalay Devasthanam, Dol Ashram is a peaceful ashram in the village of Dol (Kanara). It attracts people for spiritual enlightenment, yoga learning, meditation, and features the world’s most massive Shri Yantra made of 8 metals. A must visit place from the list of Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand to relax and fell the spiritual charm.
Location: 40 km from Almora; travel by car or cab.

Additional Tips to travel Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand:

• The best time to visit Almora is between March and June, or September to November, for pleasant weather.
• Carry warm clothes throughout the year, especially during winter months.
• Public transportation is readily available, but hiring a cab or taxi offers more flexibility for exploring the region.
• Respect local customs and traditions while visiting religious sites and villages.

With its endless charm and diverse offerings, Almora is sure to leave you captivated. So, pack your bags, embrace the fresh mountain air, and embark on an unforgettable journey to this Himalayan gem!

Traveling during a pandemic requires careful thought and prioritizes safety.

Additional Information on the list of Places to Visit in Almora Uttarakhand:

• Safety in Almora? Generally safe, but exercise caution in isolated areas and be aware of your surroundings, as with any travel destination.
• Does it Snow in Almora? Almora experiences occasional snowfall during winter months, December to February.

Planning Your Trip:

• Travelogues and Guides: Search online for travel blogs, articles, or travel guides to Almora. These resources can provide valuable insights and recommendations for planning your itinerary.
• Festivals: Check for ongoing fest or festivals to experience a charming allure happening during your planned visit to Almora. This can enrich your cultural experience.
• Bonus: Distance of Ranikhet from Almora is only 45.9 Kms about one and half hours drive.