Possessing a population of 35, 513, and located at an altitude of 5,387 feet above sea level is a scenic town in Uttarakhand called Almora. The name of this picturesque town is derived from a plant called “Kilmora” found in this region. Apart from its natural beauty, this town is also considered to be the “cultural center” of the Kumaon region located in the state. Historically speaking this town was first established in 1568 by King Kalyan Chand during the Chand Dynasty. So if you intend to relax and enjoy the true beauty of nature or deeply interested in history and culture then Almora is a destination that must be visited.
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How to reach Almora?
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Almora Map
By train:
The closest railway station located to Almora is in Kathgodam. Now the Kathgodam Railway Station receives about 46 express trains per week, and includes the Bagh Express (daily service), SamparkKranti Express (daily service), Ranikhet Express (daily service), and the Dehradun Kathgodam Express (Wednesday and Sunday service). Additionally, taxi and bus services are available from outside this station to Almora.
By road:
There are frequent bus services provided by Uttarakhand Roadways that travel to New Delhi. Additionally, if you intend to drive to Almora and back one common route that can be used is NH-24 which connects Delhi to Rampur via Hapur. At Rampur you will need to head north towards NH-87 which in turn will lead you to Almora.
By air:
The nearest airport to Almora is located in Pantnagar about four hours away. The Pantnagar Airport is connected to New Delhi via Jagson Airlines that possesses only six scheduled flights per week. This airport is considered to be among the least busy airports in the country.
Climate and the best time to visit Almora
“Moderately hot” is the best way to describe the summer months in Almora that begin in April and end in July with the temperature ranging from a minimum of 12 degree Celsius to a maximum of 28 degree Celsius. The rainfall received during the monsoons which begin in August and end in October is usually “moderate”. The winter months lasting from November right up to February are extremely cold with the mercury dropping to as low as -3 degree Celsius. So the best time to visit this scenic town is from April to November.
Places To Visit Around Almora
Since Almora is extremely scenic there are many places in this town worth visiting. A few are as follows
Bhaludam:
Bhaludam is a beautiful small artificial lake located in Almora. This lake which was built in 1903 by the British Government is renowned for its exquisite lush green surroundings and a cool ambiance thereby, making it an ideal picnic spot that must be visited.
Chitai Temple:
The Chitai Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is extremely popular in this region. It is essentially renowned for possessing a large number of bells. Apparently, these bells have been hung by ardent devotees in the hope that their wish is fulfilled.
Bright End Corner:
The Bright End Corner is a popular spot that provides for the magnificent views of the rising and setting sun. Apparently, this is spot is also dedicated to Swami Vivekanand who is said to have spent a major share of his time over here. It is therefore essentially the overall natural beauty and tranquillity that makes this spot a must visit for tourists.
Govind Vallabh Pant Museum:
Located right at the centre of Mall Road in Almora is a museum dedicated in honour of a popular freedom fighter known as “GovindVallabh Pant”. This museum is supposed to comprise of a large collection of antique items belonging to the Katyuri and Chand dynasty. So apart from providing valuable information about the rich history of Uttarakhand there is also no entry fee for tourists thereby, making it an ideal must visit especially for those interested in history.
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