Almora, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning wildlife, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, boasts numerous attractions for visitors.
Nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand, Almora is a serene and picturesque town perfect for a tranquil hillside retreat. The sight of majestic Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul from Almora's vantage points is truly awe-inspiring. The town's ancient temples, exemplifying remarkable architecture spanning centuries, offer a glimpse into its storied past. Almora's refreshing mountain air and lush green surroundings provide a welcome escape from urban life.
# Zero PointZero Point in Almora, Uttarakhand, stands as a prominent destination not to be missed. Here, amidst the serene beauty of the hill station, you can intimately experience the proximity of snow-capped mountains. Kedarnath, Shivling, Nanda Devi, and other revered Himalayan peaks loom majestically, offering a perfect backdrop for capturing memorable photographs. Situated within the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, this renowned spot also provides a tranquil environment filled with the melodious chirping of birds, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
# Bright End Corner When was the last time you soaked in the mesmerizing views of sunrise and sunset? If it's been too long to remember, make your way to Bright End Corner, one of Almora's top tourist spots. From here, you can witness captivating vistas as the sun rises and sets. The sunlight casts a picturesque glow over the charming town of Almora, resembling a scene from a painting. Few things are as visually soothing as the warm tangerine hues of dusk and dawn. At evening, watch the sun dip behind the verdant mountains, only to rise again in the morning, renewing the spectacle of nature.
# Jageshwar TempleOne of Almora's standout tourist attractions, unlike any other, is its collection of 200 Hindu Temples dating back to the 7th century. These temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcase exquisite Nagara style craftsmanship. Among them is a significant temple housing one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, situated by the Jata Ganga rivulet and surrounded by dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. After a rain shower, this entire heritage site takes on a heavenly appearance. This historical marvel is a pivotal highlight of any Almora sightseeing itinerary.
# Kasar Devi TempleLocated near Almora, the historic and somewhat bohemian village of Kasar Devi is home to the ancient Kasar Devi temple, dating back to the 2nd century CE. Renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty, Kasar Devi Village has been a retreat for notable figures such as Bob Dylan, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Cat Stevens. While revered by pilgrims, the village's natural surroundings and peaceful ambiance also make it a favored destination for trekkers and tourists alike, ranking it among the top places to visit in Almora.
# Katarmal Sun TempleGet ready to explore a notable tourist destination near Almora that promises a unique experience. Katarmal, a secluded village enveloped by untouched Himalayan landscapes and lush greenery, harbors a rare gem: a Sun temple constructed in the 9th century by the Katyuri Kings. Surrounding this main temple are 44 smaller temples, enhancing the area's allure. The panoramic view from a distance reveals a charming scene that is truly worth a visit.
# Chitai Golu Devta TempleAmong Almora's most revered temples is the Chitai Golu Devta Temple, widely celebrated and significant to visit. Golu Devta, believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, holds immense importance for locals and pilgrims alike. What sets this temple apart is the tradition of offering animal sacrifices and bells to the deity in hopes of fulfilling wishes. As a result, the temple exterior is adorned with thousands of bells of various sizes. The temple compound also houses numerous ancient shrines, making it an ideal place to appreciate the architectural splendor of Almora.
# Deer ParkAlmora offers a wealth of attractions to explore, especially for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. One such gem is Deer Park, where you can delight in observing herds of deer playing amidst the verdant greenery. Alongside deer, the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife including leopards and Himalayan Black Bears. A visit to Deer Park is a must for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy leisure time in the midst of stunning natural surroundings in Almora.
# LakhudiyarSituated in Barechhina village along the banks of River Suyal, Lakhudiyar is a prehistoric site revealing intriguing insights into the Stone Age. Translating to one lakh caves, Lakhudiyar features ancient inscriptions and paintings in red, black, and white, depicting scenes of human civilization and wildlife from the Stone Age. For enthusiasts of archaeology and history, Lakhudiyar offers a fascinating destination for sightseeing in Almora.
# MartolaIf you're still yearning for more of Almora's charm (which is inevitable, given its picturesque allure), make sure to explore the quaint hamlet of Martola near the town. Martola's stunning natural beauty, with its meticulously maintained gardens and dense woodlands, will captivate any visitor unexpectedly. A true gem of Almora, Martola doubles as an ideal picnic spot and a serene destination to soak in the surrounding beauty and pleasant weather.
# Nanda Devi TempleAnother prominent attraction among Almora's tourist spots is the Nanda Devi Temple, highly revered by locals and pilgrims alike. Nanda Devi, revered as the 'Destroyer of Evil' and an incarnation of Goddess Durga, is housed in this magnificent temple adorned with special stones and enclosed by a wooden roof. Dating back a thousand years, this temple attracts thousands of devotees who come seeking blessings from Nanda Devi. It stands as a significant destination to visit in Almora.