A Complete Travel Guide To Almora and Ranikhet, Uttarakhand

Tucked away in the heart of Kumaon’s rolling hills, Almora and Ranikhet stand as twin jewels of Uttarakhand. Celebrated among the crème de la crème of northern India’s retreats, they share more than just the crisp mountain air. These siblings of serenity offer a path less trodden for those looking to slip away from the buzz. Unmarred by the heavy footfalls that grace the likes of Dehradun, Mussoorie, or Nainital, these quaint havens are the go-to spots for wanderers craving a quiet dalliance with nature.

So, as the summer sun beckons and you itch to craft that perfect long-weekend itinerary, let’s dive into what makes Almora and Ranikhet your idyllic summer sanctuaries.

As for Ranikhet, it shares the travel tune with Almora. Kathgodam station plays the prelude to your Ranikhet rendezvous, with a chorus of buses crooning from Delhi to this tranquil town. Though their paths diverge, taxis from Kathgodam are ever at the ready, ensuring your journey to either destination is just as delightful as the stay.

Places To Visit In Almora

Almora, a sanctuary of the divine, is a treasure trove of temples nestled in Uttarakhand’s serene landscape. As you meander through its sacred spaces and savor the local Kumaoni flavors, here’s a casual guide to Almora’s must-visit spots:

1. Kasar Devi Temple:

A beacon for free spirits, this ancient temple has long been a magnet for the bohemian souls. Merely 7km from Almora’s heart, it’s a spiritual haven that’s just a stone’s throw away.

2. Chitai (Golu Devta) Temple:

Whisper your heart’s desires here, and legend has it, they’ll soar to the heavens. Situated 9km from downtown, the temple’s symphony of bells is as enchanting as its lore.

3. Nanda Devi Temple:

In the bustling Paltan Bazar, this temple stands as a revered site, celebrating Nanda Devi’s embodiment of the mighty Durga. It’s a pilgrimage hotspot, radiating devotion and peace.

4. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary:

Venture 25km from Almora to discover Binsar’s wild heart and the mesmerizing Zero Point. For a modest 150 INR per person (and 250 INR for your ride), you’re promised a rendezvous with the Himalayas, unveiled in all their majestic glory.

Places To Visit In Ranikhet

Ranikhet, a paradise for the nature aficionado, is dotted with spots that are a feast for the soul and a treat for the eyes. Here’s a list of the places you can’t miss in this lush wonderland:

1. Cantonment Aashiyana Park:

Aashiyana Park is a playground for all ages, where nature’s artistry meets human wonder. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it’s a canvas of green that invites you to paint your memories.

2. Jhula Devi Temple:

Steeped in history since the 8th century, this temple is not just a site; it’s an experience. Nestled in the Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the “Jhula Devi Temple” is a name that resonates with peace and antiquity.

3. Bhalu Dam:

A stone’s throw away from Chaubatia Gardens, Bhalu Dam is a historic reservoir that has quenched the land for two centuries. It’s a global crossroads where tourists from every corner converge to witness the tranquility of its artificial lake.

4. Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum:

The KRC Museum is a tribute to valor, preserving the illustrious saga of the Kumaon Regiment. Since the 1970s, it has stood as a custodian of the region’s rich legacy, with walls that speak of bravery through countless photographs.

Best Time To Visit Almora & Ranikhet

The perfect moment to wander into Almora’s embrace? Right now! As the summer sun plays peek-a-boo from April through June, Almora blooms under a canopy of balmy days and crystal-clear skies. And if autumn whispers your name, from September to November, you’ll find Almora wrapped in a cozy pre-winter charm, just right for exploring.

Ranikhet echoes this seasonal symphony, with early winter painting the town in hues of perfect holiday weather. But take note, as winter deepens, Ranikhet dons a chilly cloak, and the summer midday sun turns the town into a sizzling stage, perhaps too warm for leisurely strolls under its spotlight. So, pack your bags for the cusp of seasons when Ranikhet is just right!

Best Places To Stay In Almora & Ranikhet

1. Woodsvilla Resort

Tucked away in the charming town of Ranikhet, Woodsvilla stands as a luxurious haven amidst the breathtaking splendor of the Himalayas. Picture this: towering peaks draped in a blanket of pristine snow, vast stretches of evergreens, and meadows that roll out like a carpet of vibrant green. It’s a place where every glance is a postcard moment, and every second spent is a memory to hold onto forever.

To book a stay at this property click here.

Average Nightly Tariff Starts From: INR 2,250 /-

2. Xomotel Ranikhet Heights

Nestled in the serene Chilliyanaula, Xomotel Ranikhet Heights is a gem among Ranikhet’s stays, boasting easy access to local hotspots and a wealth of amenities right at your fingertips. Wander along its nature trail and you’ll find yourself in peaceful meadows, hugged by pine and oak woods, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Kumaon Himalayas. And for a touch of the mystical, there’s the sacred Haidakhan Wale Baba’s temple, inviting you on a spiritual detour.

To book a stay at this property click here.

Average Nightly Tariff Starts From: INR 3,900 /-

3. Tag Resorts Queens Meadows Ranikhet

Perched on a sprawling 10-acre estate, Tag Resort Queens Meadow is a haven of hearty welcomes and charming service, deeply rooted in the spirit of community and harmony with nature. Crafted from the reclaimed stone and timber of an old colonial edifice, this resort stands as a testament to sustainable living, merging effortlessly with the surroundings to safeguard the delicate ecological tapestry.

To book a stay at this property click here.

Average Nightly Tariff Starts From: INR 8,000 /-

4. Imperial Heights Binsar

Hidden in the cozy nook of Kasar Devi, a mere nine kilometers from Almora, Imperial Heights Binsar, is a love letter to the untouched beauty of the Kumaon Himalayas. Its design is a harmonious blend of old-world colonial charm and the rich heritage of Kumaoni culture, crafting an ambiance that’s a true reflection of the hill’s soul right inside its walls.

To book a stay at this property click here.

Average Nightly Tariff Starts From: INR 6,700 /-

5. Binsar Forest Retreat

For those yearning to meld with the great outdoors, this eco-conscious homestay in Kumaon’s embrace is your gateway. Once the domain of Major Edin in the days of the British Raj, the place fondly called Edinpur nestles about 8 km deep in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, you can pick from a cozy array of rooms, cottages, and tents, each bearing the name of the local peaks and flora, all while basking in the glow of solar-powered living.

To book a stay at this property click here.

Average Nightly Tariff Starts From: INR 13,800 /-

So, what are you waiting for? It's your sign to pack your bags and get ready for a serene vacation you've been anticipating for so long. And if you think we've missed out on anything, or you'd like to share your experiences from your trip to Almora & Ranikhet - you can drop your comments below.

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