Almora (Population: 30,613) is located on a ridge at the southern edge of the Kumaon Hills of the Himalayan range, with an average elevation of 1,651 M (5,417 feet). It is in the shape of a horse saddle shaped hillock and surrounded by thick forests of pine and fir trees. The rivers of Koshi and Suyal (Salmale) flow alongside the town. The snow capped Himalayas can be seen in the background.

Katyur dynasty ruled in Almora in the 9th century A.D., however by 16th century the rulers were Chandravanshis and then Almora passed to Nepali Gurkhas and finally to Britishers. The ruins of old forts, palaces and monuments built by Chandravanshis and Katyur dynasty provide evidences of its richness.

Tourists’ interest:

Govind Vallabh Pant Public Museum has rich collection of items relating to the history, archeology and cultural significance and takes the visitors on a journey through different phases of history of Almora. 'Apen' is a folk style of painting found in this region and can be seen in this museum.

Bright & Corner is a place of silent retreat in the mountains with a magnificent view of sunrise and sunset. Nearby is Vivekananda Library in Ramakrishna Kutir. Swami Vivekananda had stayed here during the time he spent in Himalayas.

Simtola is a beautiful place 5 KM 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 means treasurer's area. One 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 is in the old city in earlier times belonged to the copper-smiths. 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. The tourists can get a view of the Almora and the nearby mountain ranges.

Martola is a beautiful place just 10 KM from Almora. Complete with gardens and forests, the place has good scenic beauty.

Nanda Devi Temple: The year of construction of this old temple is not known. Naina Devi was the patron goddess of Chandravanshi kings and most famous place in Almora. The temple stands in the ante-chamber of Shiva temple. Walls of the temple have been intricately carved. Nanda Devi Fair held here in the month of September draws large crowds.

Chetai Temple: This is the sacred temple of Golu Devta; 6 KM from Almora perched on a hilltop. Golu Devta was deified general of Chand dynasty that once ruled Almora. The temple has his shrine. Devotees offer bells here as thanksgiving which are decorated on the canopy of these bells.

Kalimath is the ideal place for viewing Almora town, 4.5 KM away. There is also a temple of Kasar Devi dates back to second century A.D.

Katarmal is famous for the Sun Temple similar to the Konark temple of Orissa. It is 17 KM away from Almora. Though the place is in ruins but the interesting architecture and intricate images carved out on walls attract visitors.

Handicrafts of Almora:
Pashmina shawls, woolen products like shawls, chutka, carpets and thulma are very popular handicrafts. Apart from that in local art, you will get Kumaon Folk art, decorative candles, drift wood products like Ikebana, statues etc. Copper ware is also very famous here, the city's connection with coppersmiths dates centuries back.

How to reach:
By Air
The closest airport is Pantnagar, 127 KM from Almora. Flights are available during summers.
By Rail
The closest railhead is Kathgodam (90 KM) which is well connected by trains to Delhi, Lucknow, Dehradun, Agra, Bareilly and Kolkata.
By Road
Buses ply between Almora and Delhi (380 KM), Lucknow (466 KM), Dehradun (415 KM) and other important places. One can also travel up to Nainital by bus as it is better connected and take buses from there for Almora.

Accommodation facilities:

The advance booking can be made directly or through www.arraytours.com. Please call +91 9433001192, (Phone) +91 33 24427635. The above data are indicative as provided by the respective hotel or collected from various sources. The author is not responsible for any difference with the actual.

Last Updated on Sunday, 21 March 2010 17:58