Surrounded by thick forests of pine and fir trees Almora is known as the cultural capital of Kumaon. It is surrounded by the gentle, rolling hills of Kumaon on three sides, and its northern front affords a breath-taking view of the Trishul Peaks. The Koshi (Kaushiki) and Suyal (Shalmali) Rivers encircle the town. Almora was developed by the Chand dynasty who ruled the land of Kumaon for almost a millennium and later on by the British.
The hill town is famous for its magnificent beauty, panoramic view of the Himalayas, rich cultural heritage, unique handicrafts and delicious cuisine. Almora got its name from "Kilmora" a short plant found nearby region, which was used for washing the utensils of Katarmal Temple. The people bringing Kilmora were called Kilmori and later "Almori" and the place came to be known as "Almora".
In the Govind Ballabh Pant Museum you can enjoy Apen folk-paintings and other treasures of Kumaoni art, culture and history. The town is surrounded by the mighty Himalayan ranges, with holy shrines on the top of their peaks dedicated to Goddesses Banari Devi, Kasar Devi and Sayahi Devi. The 200-year-old Lala Bazaar of Almora is the main shopping centre where you can buy souvenir. A must buy are the local Kumaoni sweets called Baal Mithai and Singauri.
STATE : UTTARAKHAND
LOCATION : Almora is located on southern edge of the Kumaon Hills of the Himalaya range at an average elevation of 1,651 meters.
LANGUAGE : Hindi, English and Kumauni.
WHEN TO VISIT : Throughout the year destination. The best time to visit Almora is in the months of October to June.
CLOTHING : Cottons in summer and light Woolen in winter.
Hill Resort
Nature
Adventure
Weekend Getaway
Temple
Almora is connected by good motorable roads to all major places. There are excellent bus services provided by State Road Transport Corporation, connecting Almora to other nearby cities.
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Is 92 km away from Almora, which is connected directly with Agra, Delhi and Lucknow. Taxis and buses are easily available from Kathgodam to Almora.
The nearest airport Pantnagar is 119 km away from Almora. Delhi international airport is the second most convenient. Taxis are available from Pant Nagar Airport to reach Almora.
Best Season / Best Time to Visit ALMORA : Cultural Capital of Kumaon
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
CLIMATE
Summer (March-June): Maximum 34 C Minimum 17 C
Winter (November-February): Maximum 18 C Minimum 03 C