Top Things to Do in Almora - A Unique Adventure through Mountains, Wildlife and Markets

Over the centuries, Almora has stood a testament to more than what meets the eye. A step out to the stunning snow views, idyllic villages, dense jungle, rare temples, and Himalayan views is insanely pretty. Almora which served as the capital for the Kumaon Kingdom has seen the rise of empires, leaving behind a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the centuries-old market, where artisans showcase traditional crafts including intricately designed shawls, pottery, and wooden artefacts. As the locals say, using the rhyme for Almora: ‘Baal and Pataal’. The explanation for the same goes for the famous two things, Baal for Baal Mithai and Pataal for stone tiles used for roofs. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a shopaholic, Almora has something for everyone. Let's go on a journey to the top places to visit in Almora, adventures to seek, and time to visit.

Discovering Almora

• Top Places to Visit in Almora
  • Bright End Corner
  • Zero Point
  • Kasar Devi Temple
  • Katarmal Sun Temple
• Exciting Things to Do in Almora
  • Explore Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Trek to Jageshwar
  • Shopping at Lala Bazaar
  • Enjoy a Picnic at Simtola
• Top 3 Adventure Sports in Almora
  • Paragliding
  • Trekking and Hiking
  • Mountain Biking
• Offbeat Things to Do in Almora
  • Visit the Deer Park
  • Explore the Local Cuisine
  • Go Shopping in Almora

Top Places to Visit in Almora

Bright End Corner

Just a 2 Km drive from Almora, the Bright End corner is a special point with incredible views of the Himalayas. Tourists flock to this place to witness the scenic sunrise and sunset. The spot is in such a place that you can view the peaks of the Himalayas. A meditation area for locals and tourists alike, the area is dedicated to Swami Vivekanand who is said to have meditated here. The important things to do in Almora, Uttarakhand are to visit the Swami Vivekananda Memorial and the Library close to the Bright End Corner. When you reach the location, get a glimpse of the Himalayan peaks such as the Trishul I, Trishul II, Trishul III, Nanda Devi, Nandakot, Panchachuli and many more.

Zero Point

The Zero Point is a tower built in the centre of the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. When you plan the best things to do at Almora then Zero Point should come at the top of the list.  At a height of 2400 metres, the site exhibits relaxing views of the snowy white Himalayan mountains. If you want to visit this place, then be prepared for a 2-kilometre hiking trail from the parking lot to Zero Point. Bring your own food and snacks, as the trail has no stalls or cafes selling food. When you reach the point, you’ll be welcomed by the mesmerising peaks of Nanda Devi, and Kedarnath from the Zero Point. A quick tip - If you are not physically active, start walking and jogging before a trip to the Zero Point.

Kasar Devi Temple

It is a delight to be away from the urban pollution and teary-eyed atmosphere of the cities. Breathe in the fresh air as you walk uphill to the Kasar Devi Temple. Offering a panoramic view of Almora and the Hawa Bagh valley, the temple was built in the 2nd century and dedicated to Kasar Devi after whom the temple is named. An ideal place for worshippers, the temple marks the place where Kaushiki Devi slayed the demons, Shumbh and Nishumbh. That’s not all! Locals share anecdotes of how NASA experts came to the village to understand the Geomagnetic field coming out of the land on which this temple is built. It is the same energy that brings artists, mystics, philosophers, and spiritual seekers like Swami Vivekananda, Bob Dylan, Rabindranath Tagore and DH Lawrence.

Katarmal Sun Temple

The Katarmal Sun Temple is bestowed in the lap of the Himalayas. With stone carvings and an intriguing combo of designs of Nagara and Dravidian architectures, the temple is preserved due to its remote location. The temple was built by Katyuri Kings and is dedicated to the avatar of the Sun God, known as Burhadita or Vraddhaditya. Visitors can relish the architectural structures designed with specific astronomical calculations that allow the sanctum situated inside to brighten at specific times of the year.Exciting Things to Do in Almora

Explore Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem offering the best things to do in Almora within nature. Birdwatchers are here for a delight, with a diverse range of birds to capture for photography. The lush greenery is a paradise for forest trekking, and jeep safaris reveal the mysteries of the thick jungle. Travellers are bestowed with unparalleled views of the Kumaon region, bordered by white peaks of nature. The sanctuary is an all-year thing for wildlife sightseeing due to its average temperature of 23°C making it a special place for all-year nature enthusiasts. It has now become a haven for more than 200 species of birds and almost half as many plants and animals. What’s cool! Those who want a staycation at the sanctuary can book a rest house or other private property to stay the night.

Trek to Jageshwar

Jageshwar Dham is one of the Jyotirlingas, a place dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a customary place for Devotees of Lord Shiva to make a stop here before heading their way through the Kailash Mansarovar route. Take a walk through the 125 big and small temples within its complex. The archaeological survey of India has set up a museum that holds the image of Uma-Maheshwar with flying celestials while also portraying the ornamented Surya God holding the lotus flower in both hands. Try to follow all the rituals of taking a Snana (bath) at the Brahma Kund and visiting all the temples in order, with Jyotirlingam coming first, Dakshin Mukhi Hanuman Neelkanth Temple as the second part, and so on.

Shopping at Lala Bazaar

Lal Bazaar is the hub of Almora, with its vibrant stores selling bronze and brass items, excellent rabbit wool clothing, and delectable sweets. When you look for the top things to do in Almora, this 200-year-old market offers traditional Kumaoni items, handcrafted goods, and local delicacies. Lala Bazaar is a pedestrian-friendly area with a pathway made of corbelled stone. It's an ideal place to pick up souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local culture. During Holi, come to Lala Bazaar to enjoy the Baithaki Holi. Then spend time with the founder of Baal Mithai & Singodi Sweets who serves the best Baal Mithai famous among the locals.

Enjoy a Picnic at Simtola

Just 8 kilometres from Almora, this popular picnic spot showcases the beautiful granite hill and diamond mining. Counting the top things to do at Almora, Simtola is where the heart skips a beat. Hear the winds rustling through the Pine and Deodar trees while basking in the soft glaring sun. Visit the mesmerising Simtola Eco Park built over 64 acres of reserved forest land. You will be Awestruck by the gliding sea of marigold flowers shining in the crimson blues. Interestingly, you’ll be welcomed by the dysfunctional well-guarded, rusted iron grills, which showcase the old school galore and architecture of the place. Moreover, it's a popular spot for camping and picnicking. Lastly, pick through the narrow pugdandis (mountain pathways) surrounded on either side by acacia trees that present a brilliant golden spectacle of blooms every spring.

Top 3 Adventure Sports in Almora

Paragliding

For those seeking extreme thrills by engaging in adventure sports in Almora, then take a drive to Mukteshwar which is a 2-hour drive from Kasar Devi. The incredible paragliding activities with adrenaline rush create a euphoria of flying high in the sky and gliding among the clouds. When you soar through the sky at 1500 feet then, you feel like a bird among the lush green valley down below. These high-on-spirit 360-degree view activities to do in Almora will be the adventure of a lifetime.

Trekking and Hiking

Trekking could be the best adventure sport in the land of Almora. Take a steep 3 Km trek up the Ranikhet road to Govind Ballabh Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development. From here, Katarmal is just a 1 Km trek. From here, look upon the 900-year-old Bara Aditya Temple, the only Surya Mandir in the Kumaon district. If you want serious trekking, then visit the Almora - Jageshwar trek. This low trek is best for families who don’t want a steep hike.

Mountain Biking

Topping the list of the best things to do in Almora is mountain biking. Every morning, before dawn, a few bicycles rush to Kasar Devi, Army Cantt, or downhill towards the Kosi River. Wearing helmets and jerseys, these cyclists on high-end bikes cover steep mountain roads, much to the amazement of morning walkers who seek adventure sports in Almora.

Top 3 Offbeat Things to Do in Almora

Visit the Deer Park

A lesser-known spot is Deer Park where you fall in love with the natural environment and its creatures. If you are a couple, then seeing a herd of deer converting and grazing around the land can be a mesmerising site. In addition to deer, you can come across some leopards and the Himalayan black bear.

Explore the Local Cuisine

When visiting Almora, guests are strongly advised to eat the local cuisine. This is especially true for the wonderful sweets and desserts unique to the region. Bal Mithai, a popular milk-based dessert, chocolate fudge, ginger tea, and Singauri are just a few examples. Babas Cakes, Bansal Café, and Glory Restaurant are a few popular places to try a range of tasty cuisines. For foodies, Almora's streets are crowded with vendors and restaurants catering to various cuisines and price ranges.

Go Shopping in Almora

The shopping scene in Almora is one feature that distinguishes it from the rest of the other towns and villages in the area. There are several roadside markets selling exquisite and detailed native handicrafts. The Thana Bazaar is famous for its offbeat things to do in Almora, including visits to coppersmiths and weavers who sell wonderful indigenous Kumaoni items. These handiworks have been honed over centuries and are a popular attraction for travellers all year. In fact, Almora is a major economic and trade hub in Uttarakhand.

Getting There

Almora is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 115 km away. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 90 km from Almora. Regular bus and taxi services are available from these points to Almora.

Best Time to Visit Almora

• Summer Season (March to June): Almora experiences a pleasant and cool climate during the summer months. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Monsoon Season (July to September): Almora receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which can lead to landslides and road closures. However, if you visit in early July before the monsoon fully sets in or in September after the rains have subsided, you can enjoy the lush, rain-washed scenery and discover the offbeat things to do in Almora.
• Winter Season (October to February): Winter in Almora is cold but can be quite charming, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 15°C. If you enjoy chilly weather and perhaps even some snowfall, this is the time to experience the best things to do in Almora. For instance, walking on snowy landscapes and participating in winter sports.

Almora is a hidden gem in Uttarakhand that promises a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure, a peaceful retreat, or an exploration of historical sites, Almora has it all. So pack your bags, book the Uttarakhand tour packages, set your itinerary, reserve the best adventure sports in Almora, and prepare to create unforgettable memories in this Himalayan paradise.