Things To Do
in Almora
Almora is a picturesque town nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. It is known for its stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Trishul. The town is dotted with charming colonial-era buildings and ancient temples, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.
Almora's serene ambiance, pleasant climate, and lush green surroundings make it a popular destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at Almora's scenic viewpoints. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and beautiful sunrise views.
Visit the ancient Nanda Devi Temple, an area rich in culture and spirituality. Take time to immerse yourself in the local traditions.
Stroll through Almora's vibrant local market. Shop for handmade crafts and enjoy a delicious local dinner.
Head to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary for a guided nature trek. Observe the diverse flora and fauna in the lush surroundings.
Capture stunning views of the Himalayas from Zero Point. Have a packed lunch while enjoying the panoramic landscape.
Return to Almora and relax at a cozy café. Enjoy the local cuisine over a warm cup of chai.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and picturesque landscapes.
- Cool and pleasant climate, especially in summer.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with various temples and festivals.
- Ideal location for trekking and outdoor activities.
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in India.
- Limited infrastructure and development compared to urban areas.
- Accessibility can be an issue; roads may be in poor condition.
- Limited availability of modern amenities and services.
- Economic opportunities can be scarce, leading to outmigration.
- Health care facilities may not be as advanced as in larger cities.
Best Activities in Almora
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and trekking routes around Almora, such as the famous Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary trek.
Almora and its surrounding areas are home to a variety of bird species, making it an ideal location for bird watching enthusiasts.
Enjoy camping amidst the serene and picturesque landscapes in and around Almora.
Take leisurely nature walks to soak in the natural beauty and tranquility of the region.
Discover the scenic countryside and villages on a cycling adventure around Almora.
Tours
Uncover the best of Almora with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Almora
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and beautiful sunsets.
Famous for its scenic views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys.
Popular spot for capturing stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and lush greenery.
Food in Almora
Almora Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular sweet made with condensed milk, coated with sugar balls, and often flavored with cardamom. It can be found at local sweet shops like Khim Singh and Sons.
Must-Try!
A flavorful potato dish cooked with local spices and herbs, commonly served with traditional Kumaoni bread (bhaat). Recommended at local eateries such as Shyama Sweets and Rasoi Restaurant.
A traditional Rajma (kidney beans) dish cooked in a spicy gravy, often accompanied by rice or roti. Visit Madhur Milan and Bansal Restaurant for authentic preparations.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Almora better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Chowk Bazaar is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of local delights such as Kachori, Pakoras, and Jalebis.
This market is known for its street food vendors offering traditional snacks like Singori (sweet prepared with khoya and coconut) and Sisunak Saag (nettle leaf preparation).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Almora, it is important to greet people with a 'namaste' and a slight bow. This traditional form of greeting is a sign of respect.
It is important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting temples or other religious sites. Wearing conservative clothing is generally expected.
Respect for elders is significant in Almora. It is customary to address older people with reverence and deference, such as using appropriate honorifics.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Almora with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Almora
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in Almora, India. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. However, if someone wishes to show appreciation for exceptional service, a small tip may be given.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Almora, India. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger shops, but it's always best to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Almora is during spring when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding landscapes are in full bloom. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer is another good time to visit Almora, although it can get a bit warmer with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The monsoon season brings lush greenery and is perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Almora when the weather is mild and the surrounding hills offer stunning views with colorful foliage. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.
Winter is ideal for those who enjoy snowfall and colder weather. The temperature can drop to as low as 0°C, and the surrounding areas transform into a winter wonderland, making it perfect for winter sports and holiday celebrations.
Almora at Night
Hiking in Almora
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning trek offering breathtaking views of the Kafni Glacier and the surrounding peaks. The trek requires moderate fitness.
A picturesque trek through meadows and forests, featuring panoramic views of the Panchachuli peaks. Ideal for nature lovers.
A more challenging trek leading to the Milam Glacier, this route is rich in flora and fauna and provides a true adventure experience.
A popular trek that takes you close to the Pindari Glacier, offering stunning views of the Himalayas along with diverse landscapes.
A serene destination with various trails for hiking, offering views of the Nanda Devi range. Suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A beautiful trek that takes you through lush forests and charming villages, eventually leading you to the hilltop village of Mukteshwar.
Aiports
How to reach Almora by plane.
Located in Delhi, approximately 350 kilometers from Almora, this is the primary international airport serving the Indian capital.
Located in Varanasi, roughly 400 kilometers from Almora, this airport serves as a gateway for international flights in the region.
Also known as Jolly Grant Airport, located approximately 250 kilometers from Almora, it offers limited international flights.
Situated about 600 kilometers from Almora, this airport serves as an international hub for northeastern India and offers several connections.
Approximately 400 kilometers from Almora, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Kumaoni people are the primary ethnic group in Almora, characterized by their distinct culture, language, and traditions.
This group includes people of Nepali origin who have settled in Almora, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape of the region.
Brahmins represent a significant section of the population, historically associated with priestly and scholarly roles.
Rajputs in Almora are part of the local aristocracy, known for their rich history and warrior heritage.
Various Scheduled Tribes reside in and around Almora, showcasing the indigenous cultural diversity of the region.
Almora also hosts people from various other castes, contributing to the multicultural mosaic of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in Almora, played passionately by people of all ages, with local tournaments organized frequently.
Football enjoys popularity in Almora, with various clubs and schools participating in regional competitions.
Badminton is widely played in Almora, both recreationally and competitively, attracting players of different skill levels.
Hockey has a significant following in Almora, with local teams competing in state-level tournaments.
Athletics is promoted in Almora, with schools and community events encouraging participation in track and field events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Almora.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian cuisine is plentiful in Almora, with many local dishes naturally suited for vegetarians. Restaurants and cafes commonly offer a wide selection of vegetarian meals.
While vegan-specific dishes may not be as prevalent, many restaurants and eateries in Almora are accommodating and willing to customize meals to cater to vegan preferences. Communication with the staff regarding dietary restrictions is recommended.
To find gluten-free options, it is advisable to communicate dietary needs to the restaurant or cafe staff. Many establishments are able to adapt dishes to accommodate gluten-free requirements, especially when given advance notice.