Travelling is not just being an explorer finding and discovering something unique each time. Travelling is a little escape from the hustle and bustle, the chaos and the haste. The city life makes our schedule hectic, a gateway amidst the hills, the green terrains and the lusty mountains revitalize our mind.
Almora, lying amidst the mountains of Kumaun in Uttarakhand, is a hill station that can be your next destination for a weekend tour. Although a small hamlet, the enchanting beauty of the hills, the gleaming snow and the solitary trail cannot be ignored.
Almora is located at a distance of 85 km from Haldwani. Being directly connected to the major city as Delhi, you can reach Haldwani via train or bus and then hire a taxi. Direct buses are also available from Delhi and Haldwani and even Almora. There are lot many options as Almora has a good network of roads to commute.
Then I reached the Nanda Devi Temple, located at the Laal Bazaar road. The most auspicious place in Almora, Nanda Devi Temple is known best for the grand fair in September or October that covers the three other cities, Nainital, Bhowali, and Ranikhet. The Goddess is believed to be the destroyer of evil. The place has a mythological connection that you must explore during your visit.
Early in the morning, I left for Chitai Golu Devta that is located at a distance of 8 km from Almora. This Temple is dedicated to Goljyu Devta, who is believed to be one of the avatars of Lord Shiva.
The temple is loaded with numerous bells and letters. Yes, letters! It is believed that if you write a letter with all your wishes and problem, the deity is surely going to fulfill all the hopes of the worshiper.
My next destination was Jageshwar temple, the beautifully designed temple that lies at a distance of a short drive. it was a 1-hour drive and I was there. The ambiance of the place is beyond description. The temple is believed to carry Jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a huddle of 124 large and small stones dating back to the 9th and 13th century.
• Simtola at a distance of 3 kms can be your ideal picnic spot for the day. The green terrains and the mountains covered with pine and deodar trees make the place magical.
• The Katarmal Sun Temple and Kasar Devi Temple must get some space in your Itinerary.
I am looking forward to another trip to Almora to dig out these amazing spots I missed during my weekend visit.
The trip cost given is an estimated cost, that completely depends on my expenditure.
Later in the evening, I headed my way towards the Budden Memorial Methodist Church that is situated on the top of a hill On LR Sah road near the Adams Girls Inter College. By then the church was closed, but still spending a few hours there was the best experience I had for the day.
The beautiful surroundings, the bliss vibes, everything about the place is wonderful. The architecture of the church makes it one of the oldest structure there.
On overnight or a 10 hours bus journey from Delhi to Almora, I reached the city by 10 am in morning. As my grandmother lives there, so there was no waiting for hotel check-in. Two hours rest and I was all ready to roam around the city.
I started with the Lala Bazaar. The marketplace of Almora where you will find everything from clothes, to jewelry, grocery, and everyday’s needed stuff. What makes the marketplace so famous is the stairs. The entire path is in the form of stairs that are followed by shops and stalls. Ok, you will find a lot many street dogs there, but they won’t bother you.
The district is large enough to be covered in a day or two. But surely the landscape itself is satisfying to make your leisure tour enthralling. If you are expecting some adventure and boosting vacation, better to extend the days. The hub is linked with many places that you can explore for some exciting journey.
Reaching the destination
Places of Interest
Almora has its own charm, the scenic beauty, the smooth sleek route, the consoling weather, the aromatic environment, and the silence of the hills. Nature has blessed the city with all its panoramic views. Be it the view of the Himalayas or the bright floral species, the lush green pavements, or the fresh stream, everything emerges in its best form. Simply spending a few days, breathing in the picturesque scenery and green meadows of Almora, is what else you need for escaping the metropolis.
How I spend my weekend?
You can view the entire market from the margin of the temple.
As I chose to trek all these places the day had become too tiring.
Outside the temple premises, there are many small dhabas and cafes for breakfast and tea. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the delicious cuisine and snacks they offer.
The day was about to end. Two temples, with charming vibes, splendid architecture, and spiritual beliefs were not less than a magical tour.
Not to miss
• A walk through the cantonment area during morning or evening will be refreshing.
• Cover up the nearby places like Bhimtal, Binsar for a long vacation
• The deer park at a distance of 3 km from Almora is the home to a number of endangered species such as deer, leopard, and Himalayan black bear.
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