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Hill Stations - Uttar Pradesh - Almora

Almora was the capital of the Chand Rajas of Kumaon and is one of the few hill stations not developed by the British. It is larger than Ranikhet and Kausani and provides some good views of the mountains and excellent walks. The Kasar Devi Temple where Swami Vivekananda came to meditate is a recommended walk.

Location - 67 kms north-east of Nainital at an altitude of 1650m
Distance - 365 kms from Delhi
Weather - Summer: 11*C - 26* C, Winter: 2*C - 14*C

GETTING THERE:
By Road: Almora – Delhi takes about 12 hours and can be done by an overnight bus.

By Rail: Nearest rail station is Kathgodam (35 km south). The Ranikhet Express departs from Delhi at 11 pm and arrives in Kathgodam at 6.10 am. It departs from Kathgodam at 10.45 pm and arrives in Delhi at 4.45 am.

PLACES TO SEE:
Kasar Devi Temple: 8 kms from Almora, this is where Swami Vivekananda came to meditate and the area has a reputation of being a spiritual power centre.

Pandit G.B Pant Museum: displays local archaeology and ethnography.
Bright End Corner: good views of the Himalayas specially at sunset.

Papparsalli: 4 kms from Almora, it has pristine pine forests which offer ample walks for the nature lover.

NEARBY PLACES:

Katarmal and Jageshwar: At Katarmal is the 800-year old Surya Temple. At Jageshwar in an attractive valley of deodars are a larger group of temples dating back to 7th century AD.

Nainital: The most pleasant hill station to visit in this area with interesting walks through the forests to points with superb views of the Himalayas.

Binsar: 34 kms from Almora, Binsar has a beautiful bird sanctuary. It also provides spectacular views of Nanda Devi and other Himalayan peaks.

Ranikhet:This peaceful hillstation offers excellent views of the Himalayas with several good walks.

Kasauni: 51 kms north of Almora, one can get fantastic views of Trishul and Nanda Devi.

Mukteshwar: has magnificent views of the snow-capped Himalayas and still retains the aura of the colonial period. The Indian Veterinary Institute is located here.

HANDY TIPS:

It could be snowing in December-January, so carry heavy woolens in winter and light woolens in summer.
Carry mineral water or water purification tablets.
Don’t litter the mountainside and do not leave fires unattended.
Carry a torch.
During winters there is fog and mist on hill roads. It is advisable to drive during the day.
During monsoons check the condition of the hill roads before you set out.