Home /Almora Tourism

Almora Tourism

Explore the Almora Hill Station: Land of Picturesque Himalayan Mountain Views, Ancient Temples, and Rich Cultural Heritage

Nestled amid the Himalayan hills, Almora is a top hill destination in Uttarakhand, radiating the serene essence of nature. It caters to a variety of adventure seekers while holding significant spiritual importance, attracting religious and cultural tourists. Notable attractions include the Kesar Devi Temple, renowned for its high magnetic field concentrations, and the Jageshwar Dham Temples, home to over a hundred ancient monolithic stone structures showcasing architectural brilliance. Almora offers a cool respite from the summer heat and a rich array of spiritual sites.

For nature and wildlife enthusiasts, Almora is a sanctuary. The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is teeming with diverse fauna and a rich bird population, making it a paradise for bird watchers with many rare and migratory species. With its myriad activities and attractions, Almora Hill Station is a hidden gem that resonates deeply with travelers in India.

Top Tourist Attractions in and around Almora

Kasar Devi Temple

Located 5 kilometers from the center of Almora, Kasar Devi Temple is renowned for its unique attributes and attracts visitors from around the world. Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, it is one of Almora’s major tourist attractions. The temple, dedicated to Kasar Devi—a form of Goddess Durga—dates back to the 2nd century CE and is known for its tranquil environment, making it a perfect escape for visitors seeking serenity. The temple has gained worldwide fame and has attracted notable personalities such as Bob Dylan, Allen Ginsberg, and Uma Thurman. Swami Vivekananda also visited this temple in the 1890s with a group of Western seekers.

The temple’s location is notable for its high concentration of a magnetic field, which contributes to the area’s mystical peace. The temple features an ever-burning holy monolithic flame named Akhand Jyoti, which warms the hearts of pilgrims throughout the day. The main temple is situated inside a cave, and every year, the Kasar Devi Temple celebrates the Kasar Devi Fair between November and December, creating a profoundly spiritual atmosphere.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

A hidden gem in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and photographers. Spanning approximately 45 square kilometers, the sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, with a significant emphasis on avifauna. It hosts a plethora of bird species, including the Himalayan Monal, Western Tragopan, and Koklass Pheasant, along with almost 200 other species of birds and animals such as leopards, chital, Sumatran serow, Himalayan goral, musk deer, black bear, red fox, pine marten, Indian muntjac, rhesus macaque, jungle cat, gray langur, and red giant flying squirrel.

Deer Park

Six kilometers from Almora town center, Mrig Vihar, also known as Deer Park, is a major attraction and a delightful destination for nature and wildlife lovers. The park is covered with pine, oak, and deodar trees and hosts a variety of deer, including musk deer and white deer. It also houses other animals like the Himalayan black bear, white monkey, and leopard. Visitors can witness these animals in their natural habitat from protected areas, making it an ideal place for leisurely walks and nature observation.

This classic shrine is considered sacred by locals and believers alike for its exquisite construction and is undoubtedly an important attraction. It was also thought that the Bhimeshwar Mahadev temple in Nainital district is considerably older than the town itself.

Jageshwar Dham

Situated 30 kilometers from Almora, Jageshwar Dham is a historic site renowned for its collection of over a hundred intricately carved ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. These temples, dating back to the 7th to 12th centuries AD, are a testament to Uttarakhand’s rich heritage. The serene ambiance is enhanced by the Jataganga River flowing beside the temple complex, creating a tranquil environment. Surrounded by lush greenery, Jageshwar Dham offers numerous trekking opportunities through deodar and pine forests, making it a haven for both spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Dwarahat

One of Almora’s most charming towns, Dwarahat offers breathtaking landscapes, a pleasant climate, and a range of experiences for visitors. Once the capital of the Katyuri dynasty, Dwarahat boasts numerous ancient temples and architectural marvels, particularly stone temples dedicated to various Hindu deities. The town is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and those seeking peace. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local Kumaoni culture through festivals, folk dances, authentic cuisines, and vibrant local fairs. At an altitude of 1,513 meters, Dwarahat offers awe-inspiring sunset views, making it a perfect destination for a holistic and enriching experience.

Katarmal Sun Temple

Built in the 9th century, the Katarmal Sun Temple is one of India’s few sun temples and is dedicated to Lord Burhaditya, an incarnation of the sun god. The temple’s architecture showcases intricate carvings and sculptures, making it a perfect destination for sightseeing in Almora. The complex includes a main shrine and several smaller shrines depicting various aspects of Hindu mythology. Surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills, the temple offers breathtaking views and a tranquil setting. Visitors can participate in daily rituals and aarti ceremonies, immersing themselves in the local culture and traditions.

Chitai Golu Devta Mandir

Located approximately 8 kilometers from Almora’s center, Chitai Golu Devta Temple is a sacred site dedicated to Golu Devta, an incarnation of Lord Shiva as Gaur Bhairav. The temple is a significant religious attraction and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan valleys and ranges, fostering a spiritual ambiance. The temple features intricate woodwork and thousands of bells, with devotees often tying letters and wishes to the bell strings. The Golu Devta Fair, held in March-April, attracts thousands of devotees and offers a culturally rich experience.

Best Time to Visit Almora

he best time to visit Almora hill station in Uttarakhand is between October and April, showcasing the region’s full charm. The peak months are May to July, offering a cozy escape from the summer heat.

  • Summer (March to June): Almora experiences pleasant and cool weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. It’s a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with lush green landscapes and blooming flowers.

  • Monsoon (July to September): Almora receives moderate to heavy rainfall, leading to landslides and road closures. Early July or September, after the rains have subsided, offers lush, rain-washed scenery.

  • Winter (October to February): Winter in Almora is cold, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 15°C. The enchanting snowy landscape and winter sports make it an ideal time for those who enjoy chilly weather and snowfall.