Nestled in the scenic locales with the solitude and tranquility, Almora forms a very fascinating tourist spot. The city summons tourists from all over the globe to its mesmerizing grandeur of natural splendour. Almora allows a tourist to enjoy the beauty of the mighty Himalayas together with ridge and the terraced fields. A visit round this town radiates upon the mind a matchless blend of natural beauty and old world charm. Besides the gorgeous setting of the main city, Almora is also close to many places of interest to the tourist like Ranikhet, Dwarahat, Binsar, Kausani, Bageshwar, Lakhudiyar, Jageshwar, Shitlakhet, Jalana as well as Katarmal Sun Temple. Religious Places of Almora Pilgrimage tourism in Almora has gained popularity among all the communities. The city has rich religious significance. There are numerous temples such as Kal Bhairava, Nanda Devi, Khutkuniya Bhairava, Kot Kalika as well as Durga Ratneshwari. Churches also dot the place and tourists flock during several religious celebrations. Scenic Beauty of Almora Nature tours also form famous part of tourism in Almora. The deer park situated four kilometres from Almora city, is an ideal spot for picnics and excursions. Besides this, the Bright End Corner located at a distance of three kilometres from Almora city is famous for its view of the setting sun. The place reflects a serene atmosphere and ensures complete relaxation of the person visiting the spot. Jalana is also appreciated by the tourists. This place situated at a distance of thirty-five kilometres from Almora offers a wide wonderful view of the Himalayas. This place is famous for its apricot, peach, plum and apple orchards. Other places of tourist interest include around Ranikhet. Chaubatia is a famous spot for its orchards. Tarikhet is situated about eight kilometres away. Among the varied places of interest, Majkhali presents a fascinating view of snowy peaks and Upat possesses an exquisite golf course. One can visit Kausani which is about 32 miles from Almora and is situated at a height of 1,890 meters. Bageshwar and Sitalakhet are other places of interest. Bageshwar is one of the main camping sites for the journey to Pindari Glacier situated at a height of 3,820 meters. Kafni Glacier is also near by with 3,860 meters and Sitalakhet is the new tourist resort on the Syahi Devi hill. Art and Culture of Almora The age-old Indian tradition of the city is represented in its museum. This place in Almora is a storehouse of information about the cultural heritage of Kumaon. The art and culture of the Kumaon region can be discovered at the Govind Vallabh Pant Public Museum. The museum presents an authentic collection of 'Apen' folk-paintings, ancient coins and other treasures. Shopping at Almora Shopping is yet important leisure tourism in Almora. Shopping becomes pleasurable as there is a wide assortment of items to choose from which include intricately crafted copper articles, local made tweeds or shawls made from 'bicchu ghas.' A number of shops excel in beautiful garments and one can buy the local fabrics too. Among the famous shops Lala Bazar, Karkhana Bazar, Khajanchi Mohalla, Jauhari Mohalla, Malli Bazar and Thana Bazar are mostly visited by the tourists. The market presents a unique scene as it is 1.25 miles long and is covered with stone slabs. Connectivity of Almora Tourism in Almora becomes easy as the city is properly connected within and outside the state by means of air, rail and road. The nearest airport of Almora is Pantnagar in Nanital. Kathgodam which is situated 90 kilometres away serves as the nearest railhead with connection to Delhi, Howrah and Lucknow. Buses connect Almora with Kathgodam, Nainital, Ranikhet, Pithoragarh directly. From Kathgodam local transport, private taxies as well as buses run by private operators, and buses run by the state government corporation - UPSRTC are available at all hours. Almora is merely 380 kilometres away from Delhi and 466 kilometres from Lucknow. There is also direct connection to Nepal Border, Banbassa. There are buses at regular frequencies making travel comfortable. Private taxis and jeeps are also available. |