Almora

Overlooked by the snowy Himalayan ranges and surrounded by verdant hills, the ridge-top town of Almora is known for its bracing climate. Usually visited as part of a round trip from Nainital and along with Ranikhet and Kausani, Almora can also be nice break from crowded tourist places.

Scenic beauty is Almora's major attractions. Views of sunrise and sunset from the Bright End Corner, at one end of the Mall Road, are worth the walk. In the 16th century, the Chandra dynasty of Kumaon had their capital at Almora and hence there are some old temples dotting the town and its neighbourhood. Those interested in knowing more about local culture of Kumaon can visit the Museum near the bus-stand. Other notable attractions are the Ramkrishna Mission, Anandamayee Ashram, All India Cultural Centre, Kali Math, Deer Park etc.

Shitalekhet (45 km) and Jageshwar (35 km) are good excursion points.

How to go: Kathgodam is the nearest railway station. It takes around five hours of bus journey to cover the 90 km distance. There are also buses from Nainital (63 km) and Kausani (52 km). Buses are also available from Delhi, Lucknow, Haridwar etc.

Accomodation : Government run KMVN bungalow (Ph-30250).

Private hotels between Rs.250 and Rs.400-Trishul (Ph-30243), Ranjana (Ph-30301), Konark (Ph-39217), Ambassador (Ph-30118), Pawan (Ph-30252) etc.

Between Rs.300 and Rs.600- Himsagar (Ph-30711), Surmal (Ph-22860), Shikhar (Ph-30156), Shyam (Ph-32790), Alka (Ph-30163), Savoy (ph-30329) etc.

STD Code : 05962