Almora: A Historical and Cultural Gem of Uttarakhand

By The Travel Dazzle

Almora, a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, is not just a tourist destination but also a place with rich history and culture. While many people visit Uttarakhand for its natural beauty, few know about the historical and unique places hidden in Almora. Did you know that Almora has a Sun Temple similar to the famous Konark Sun Temple? Or that it has a rare magnetic field, similar to Machu Picchu in Peru and Stonehenge in England?

Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, Almora has attracted famous personalities like Swami Vivekananda, Mahatma Gandhi, D.H. Lawrence, Bob Dylan, and Uma Thurman. Let’s explore the must-visit places in Almora and discover what makes this place so special.

Best Places to Visit in Almora, Uttarakhand

1. Patal Bazaar and Lala Bazaar

Almora is often called the “city built on a horse’s back” due to its unique geographical location. The eastern slope is known as “Telifat” and the western slope as “Selifat.” Right in the middle, you’ll find the famous Patal Bazaar and Lala Bazaar.

The markets have stone-paved streets and traditional wooden houses with intricate carvings. Recently, the government has restored these wooden buildings, making them even more beautiful. Walking through these lively markets is an experience in itself.

2. Nanda Devi Temple

Near the main market of Almora, the Nanda Devi Temple stands as a symbol of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Built over 1,000 years ago, this temple is known for its stunning wooden roof and ancient stone architecture.

Every September, during Ashtami, a grand fair is organized here. If you visit at this time, don’t miss the traditional procession of the Nanda Devi idol through the streets of Almora.

3. Kasar Devi Temple

Just 7 km from Almora, Kasar Devi is a peaceful hilltop destination famous for its spiritual energy. Scientists, including researchers from NASA, have studied this place due to its strong geomagnetic field. It is one of only three places in the world with such high cosmic energy, the other two being Machu Picchu and Stonehenge.

Built in the 2nd century, this temple is considered an ideal place for meditation. In the past, it was a hotspot for hippies, giving it the name “Hippie Hill.”

4. Katarmal Sun Temple

Located 18 km from Almora, Katarmal Sun Temple is one of the 12 rare Sun Temples in India. Built in the 9th century by King Katarmal of the Katyuri dynasty, this temple is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

The most fascinating fact about this temple is its precise architecture. Twice a year, the first rays of the sun directly enter the sanctum, illuminating the idol. Although a valuable 10th-century idol was stolen from the temple, its beautifully carved wooden door is now kept in the National Museum, Delhi.

5. Banadi Devi Temple

About 30 km from Almora, the Banadi Devi Temple is a hidden gem. To reach it, you need to trek for half an hour from a place called Padhar. The trail takes you through dense forests of deodar and pine trees, making the journey adventurous and refreshing.

After the steep climb, the breathtaking view from the temple top makes it all worth it.

6. Almora Zoo

If you are traveling with family, Almora Zoo is a great place to visit. The zoo is home to five leopards, along with deer and Himalayan black bears. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy nature and observe wildlife up close.

7. Chitai Golu Devta Temple

Just a short distance from Almora, the Chitai Golu Devta Temple is famous for granting justice. People believe that if they write their wishes or complaints on a stamp paper and tie it in the temple, Golu Devta will grant them justice.

As a result, thousands of letters can be seen tied to the temple walls. Surrounded by dense deodar forests, this temple is a must-visit spiritual site.

Best Time to Visit Almora

The ideal time to visit Almora is from August to November, when the weather is pleasant. If you prefer cooler temperatures, visit between February and May. Winters can be quite cold, so make sure to carry warm clothes.

How to Reach Almora

• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, about 3 hours away by taxi.
• By Air: The closest airport is Pantnagar, from where a taxi takes about 5 hours to reach Almora.
• By Road: Almora is well connected by road. Direct buses from Delhi and other major cities make traveling easy.

Almora is more than just a hill station; it’s a place filled with history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or peace, Almora has something special for everyone. Plan your trip and explore this hidden treasure in the Himalayas!

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