History of Almora
History of Almora can be traced back to ancient times of Mahabharata. However, the earliest historical account of the place is provided by a Chinese pilgrim of seventh century. The pilgrim wrote in great detail about a kingdom called ‘Brahmaputra’.
A kingdom was first established in this area by the Katyuri dynasty. The Katyuri dynasty reigned from Dwarahat in katurya Valley. During those times, there was a small settlement in this are, not much of any political significance.
King Baichaldeo of the Katyuri dynasty, who reined in the region where present day Almora is located, donated major part of this land to a Gujarati Brahmin by name Sri Chand Tiwari.
In later times, during rule of Chand dynasty, Almora was founded around 1560 by Kalyanchand at this place which he called ‘Alam Nagar’. It was also called ‘Rajpur’.
Interestingly, the mountain on which Almora is located is described in a famous Hindu epic - Manaskhand. It reads thus:
"Kaushiki Shalmali Madhyey Punyah Kashaya Parwatah Tasy Paschim Bhagam Kshetra Vishnyo Pratishthtam"
The name 'Rajpur' finds mention on numerous copper plates found in this area. An important reason for the Chand rulers to establish a settlement here was a number of natural spring water sources that this place harbors. Later, they even transferred there capital here.
In 1744 during the raid by Ali Muhammad Khan Rohilla, Almora was taken over from Chand dynasty. However, unable to bear the hardships of living in the hills, the Rohillas chiefs, placed by Ali Mohammad Khan Rohilla, returned Almora for a heavy bribe of three lakh rupees.
Ali Mohammad, dissatisfied with the conduct of his commanders, attacked Almora again in 1745. However, this time the Rohillas were defeated. They never came back again.
In 1790, Almora was conquered by the Gurkhas who ruled it for the next 24 years until it was taken over by the British in 1815. Today, Almora is a primary center for trade and other activities – social, cultural, political- and is a district place of Uttarakhand State in India.
A kingdom was first established in this area by the Katyuri dynasty. The Katyuri dynasty reigned from Dwarahat in katurya Valley. During those times, there was a small settlement in this are, not much of any political significance.
King Baichaldeo of the Katyuri dynasty, who reined in the region where present day Almora is located, donated major part of this land to a Gujarati Brahmin by name Sri Chand Tiwari.
In later times, during rule of Chand dynasty, Almora was founded around 1560 by Kalyanchand at this place which he called ‘Alam Nagar’. It was also called ‘Rajpur’.
Interestingly, the mountain on which Almora is located is described in a famous Hindu epic - Manaskhand. It reads thus:
"Kaushiki Shalmali Madhyey Punyah Kashaya Parwatah Tasy Paschim Bhagam Kshetra Vishnyo Pratishthtam"
The name 'Rajpur' finds mention on numerous copper plates found in this area. An important reason for the Chand rulers to establish a settlement here was a number of natural spring water sources that this place harbors. Later, they even transferred there capital here.
In 1744 during the raid by Ali Muhammad Khan Rohilla, Almora was taken over from Chand dynasty. However, unable to bear the hardships of living in the hills, the Rohillas chiefs, placed by Ali Mohammad Khan Rohilla, returned Almora for a heavy bribe of three lakh rupees.
Ali Mohammad, dissatisfied with the conduct of his commanders, attacked Almora again in 1745. However, this time the Rohillas were defeated. They never came back again.
In 1790, Almora was conquered by the Gurkhas who ruled it for the next 24 years until it was taken over by the British in 1815. Today, Almora is a primary center for trade and other activities – social, cultural, political- and is a district place of Uttarakhand State in India.
Almora District
Almora district is endowed with exceptional natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, exquisite handicrafts, delectable cuisine and exotic wildlife.
This charming hill resort was the flourishing capital of the Chand dynasty. The region was earlier under the reigns of the Katyuri king Baichaldeo, who donated this area to a Gujarati Brahmin Sri Chand Tiwari. In 1560 the capital of Chand Dynasty was shifted to Almora (from Champawat) by Kalyan Chand. The beautiful town is set on a 6 kms long horse saddle shaped ridge. It affords breathtaking views of the snowy summits of Himalayas and is an excellent place for a peaceful holiday.
Explore villages in Almora district
Almora District Stats
District Headquarters: AlmoraArea: 3090 sq km
Latitude: 29° 36' N
Longitude: 79° 30' E
Total Population: 630,567
Literacy Rate: 74.53%
Places to Visit in Almora
Chitai Temple : Eight kms from Almora is the Chitai Temple, dedicated to Golu Devta. An incarnation of Gaur Bhairav, he is reputed to make every wish come true, provided the worshipper ask for it with a clear conscience.
Kosi Temple (10 kms): The temple was built in the 12th century by the Katyuri dynasty. One of the earliest Sun temples in India.
Gananath (47 kms): Gananath is famous for an old Shiva Temple and many interesting natural caves in a charming landscape. It is located 47 kms north of Almora.
Someshwar : About 35 kms north from Almora, Someshwar has an ancient Shiva temple considered to be constructed by the founder of the Chand Dynasty, Raja Som Chand.
Kausani : This charming hill resort set amidst several snow- capped peaks is endowed with exceptional natural beauty. Mahatma Gandhi came here in 1929, and was fascinated by the scenic grandeur of Kausani.
Jageshwar : The pilgrim site located in a verdant valley is 38 kms from Almora and is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlinga's in the country. The Swayambhu Linga named Nagesh is enshrined here.
How to reach Almora
By Air: The nearest airport for Almora is Pantnagar (127 kms)
By Rail: Nearest railway station is Kathgodam (90kms), which is connected with Lucknow, Delhi and Kolkata (Howrah).
By Road: Almora is well connected by road. Main road distance from Almora are - Lucknow (466 kms), Dehradun (412 kms), Nanital(71 kms), Delhi (382 kms), Bareilly (205 kms), Kathgodam (90 kms),Pithoragarh (122 kms), Haridwar (357 kms), Haldwani (96 kms).
Temples
The town of Almora has forever been associated with mythology, legends and religion, all in one breath. Almora is full of beautiful and ancient temples with many accompanying myths. There are eight Bhairava temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, each one near the entry gates of the city. Nine temples are dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Some of the major temples in Almora are listed below.Jageshwar Temple
Jageshwar Temple is complex of a main temple (resident deity) with many small temples of deities of lesser hierarchy. This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with his Svayambhu or naturally carved idol. Since it is also a Jyotirlinga, its importance becomes multiplies ten times.
Gana Nath Temple
Gana Nath Temple, 47 kms from Almora, is famous for its caves and a Shiva temple. During the special Kartik Purnima carnival held at the temple, the entire region echoes with the sounds of rhythmic hymns and captivating folk songs.
Chaiti Temple
This temple is dedicated to the Gollu Devta, a local Kumauni god, located six kms from Almora. The people of Kumaon have immense faith in Gollu Devta and ritually sacrifice goats for offering the temple. Earlier the temple complex also served as a place for solving any problems of the people.
Katarmal Temple
Katarmal Temple is a magnificent Surya temple also known as Bara Aditya temple. Katarmal is located about 17 kms from Almora and is positioned at an elevation of 2,116 m. One has to trek almost three kms crossing Hawalbagh and Matela near Kosi River. The Katarmal Temple has the distinction of being the only Sun temple in Kumaon.
Banri Devi Temple
Banri Devi Temple is situated 26 kms from Almora on the Almora-Lamgarha Road. However, out of the 26 kms, one has to trek almost ten kms and hence reaching this temple is extremely arduous. The octagonal temple has an ancient idol of Vishnu with the Sheshnag pose, i.e. the four armed Vishnu sleeping on the Sheshnag.
Weather
The hill station of Almora is located over a horse-saddle fashioned crest of a Himalayan mountain. Positioned at an elevation of 1,646 m (5,400 ft), Almora has an enjoyable but sometimes cold climate all the way through the year. Almora has an average annual maximum temperature of around 23o C and average minimum temperature of approximately 10oC. The annual average rainfall hovers more or less around the figure of 1,152 mm.Summer months are from April to July, which sees a moderate climate with the mercury remaining mostly below 30o C. Almora, at this point of time, is really ideal for visiting all tourist attractions here. Monsoons rush in the months of August to October. Almora is usually linked with reasonable rainfall compared to rest of the mountains. However, these rains make Almora more striking and eye-catching with fresh and lush green foliage. December to February sees the winters with lots of ice-cold winds, sporadic snowing and mist laden mountains.
The winter months are usually freezing and the temperature may go below 0o C. The best time to visit Almora is during the months of March to November. Though the months of March to June also favor picnics and outings. One will be very comfortable in Cottons and light woolen clothing during summers but winter will demand heavy woolens apparels.
Shopping
Almora has a quite a few shopping centers and a large stretch of covered bazaars. Famous amongst these is an almost 200 year old Lal Bazaar where shopping around is an absolute delight. Then there's old Amora down the cantonment area which was the capital of Kumaoni Chand Rajas. Traffic is prohibited here so you won't be disturbed by any sort of hassling congestion.Entering into the lanes of Thana, Johri and Lala Bazaars will give you a glimpse of what the craftsmen here are upto with their traditional skills. If you have a buck to spare, you must not give away this opportunity to shop for Kumaoni-style Jewels at the silversmith and copperware from the coppersmith.
Also you will find here, beautifully woven Pashmina Shawls and sheep wool bankets that speak volumes about the traditional design and weaving skills of this region. Other interesting things you can shop for include Angora cloth which is made from the fur of Angora rabbits. On your way back home, you must pick up some boxes lip smacking singora and bal mithai which are amongst the specialties of this region.
Things to Do In Almora
Almora is a quaint, historic town that has preserved its heritage in its temples, museums and hospitable natives. If you want to what all is there to see and do in Almora, you must not expect something hip-hop from this place; it is just about natural beauty and long-established heritage. Almora is just about filling yourself with fresh air and savor the spectacular views of mountains and farms. Read this article to know about things / fun activities to do in Almora.Visit Temples & Churches!
Chitai Temple is a famous temple, about 8kms from Almora, dedicated to Gollu Deva - the revered Kumaon Deity. Then there is one Katarmal Sun Temple, which was built over 800 years ago by the Katyuri rulers. This temple complex has nearly 50 stone temples. If you're visiting Almora in spring, then invest some time in Mahashivratri Mela which is worth experiencing. About 6 kms from Almora is Kasar Devi Temple which is just about serenity and peace. Methodist Church is a stone-built church that was built in 1897, and is worth exploring.
Discover the Heritage!
Gobind Vallabh Pant Public Museum, near the Bus Stand, is a treat for art lovers as here you can cherish a rare collection of art and crafts, ‘Apen’ folk-paintings, etc. This museum also has letters from Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel to GB Pant and pamphlets used for protest marches during the struggle for independence.
Laze Around!
Bright End Corner is the famous place where you can enjoy the lovely views of the sunrise and sunset. It is a great place to sit back and take in the views of neighboring mountains. You can take a stroll on the Mall, or walk around just to relax your feet and soul. If you wish to, then spend some bucks to get the souvenirs for friends and relatives at home.
Indulge in Trekking!
Trekking could be the best activity if you have to do nothing else. You can take the steep 3kms trek up from Ranikhet Road. Here you will discover the Govind Ballabh Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development. From here, Katarmal is another 1-km trek. Across the valley, you can observe the 900-year-old Bara Aditya Temple, which is the only Surya Temple in Kumaon. The serious trekkers can try Almora - Jageshwar trek. This low-altitude trek takes you through beautiful terraced fields and forests into charming Kumaoni villages. The trek is 41 km long and can be covered in fours days.
Hotels in Almora
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 1000 per day per Couple
Hotel Ayush Guest House, AlmoraAyush guest house is a charming self catering guest house with cottages located in the beautiful valley of Paparsali. Only four kilometers from Almora on the Binsar Road, Ayush Guest House is tucked in a valley filled w...
Bhagwati Palace 
star / Budget
star / Budget
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 1000 per day per Couple
Hotel Bhagwati Palace, Almora Bhagwati Palace is a budget hotel in Almora, opened to guests in year 2004. Situated in the lap of the Himalayas at Almora, Bhagwati Palace is a budget hotel equipped with modern facilities. The hotel is surrounded ...
The name of the Tourist Rest House in Chiliyanaula is Himadri. Chiliyanaula is an ideal place to stay for nature lovers as it is situated away from the hustle bustle of the city in a quaint little hamlet. There is very limited numbers of accommo...
Danya Tourist Rest House is a multi-story hotel which offers very limited accommodation. It is situated on Almora-Pithoragarh Highway. The hotel does not provide parking space and is best suited for budget travelers looking for nominal place to stay...
Deenapani Tourist Rest House is situated in the small town of Deenapani in Almora district of Uttarakhand state. The Tourist Rest House offers stupendous views of the snow clad peaks of Himalayan range. The rooms and cottages are affordably priced f...
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 2000 per day per Couple
Hotel Elphinstone Himalayan Resort, Jalna AlmoraElphinstone Himalayan Resort is a newly built hotel in Jalna village near Almora. The resort offers splendid view of snow capped Himalayas and is surrounded by the apple, plum orchards. Elphinstone Hote...
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 5000 per day per Couple
Hotel Imperial Heights, BinsarImperial heights is situated amidst misty mountains outside the dense Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Imperial Heights is a luxury hotel which provides comfort with solitude and exquisiteness. This heritage looking hotel i...
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 4850 per day per Couple
Hotel Kalmatia Sangam Resort, Almora Kalmatia Sangam Himalaya Resort is a Boutique resort nestled in the amidst sylvan surroundings offering invigorating views of the imposing Himalayan range in Almora. All cottages in Kalmatia Resort have unique ...
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 3500 per day per Couple
Hotel Kasaar Jungle Resort, AlmoraKasaar Jungle Resort is a unique property developed in the scenic town of Almora and spread over 6 acres of land next to Kasaar Devi temple. The resort is surrounded by a verdant jungle of deodar, pine, oak and rhodo...
The Tourist Rest house in Almora is strategically located on the mall road. It is a mid-range hotel best suited for budget travelers. The service of the tourist rest house is good and the rooms are provided with basic amenities. Kumaon Mandal Vi...
Monal Tourist Rest House from KMVN is situated near mall road above Ranikhet town in Almora district. It is a very small resort from KMVN offering basic facilities at budget price. It is strategically located away from the hustle bustle of the Ranik...
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 2800 per day per Couple
Hotel Mount Heaven, AlmoraMount Heaven is a deluxe hotels which provide good accommodation facility to the guests. Mount Heaven hotel in Almora offers breathtaking sunset views and snow capped peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Kot. The hotel s...
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 2000 per day per Couple
Pugs Paw eco retreat is a visual treat that lies plum in the heart of the Kumauni Himalayas 5,200 feet above sea level. Once in Pugs Paw, one can endlessly keep exploring the various options - long treks as there are panoramic mountain trails over fl...
Shelesh star / Budget
star / Budget
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 480 per day per Couple
Hotel Shelesh is newly built budget hotel located near the Mall Road in the heart of Almora city. This budget hotel provides comfortable accommodation with basic amenities at affordable price. Magnificent views of the Himalayan range and sub Him...
5% off
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 500 per day per Couple
Hotel Shikar, Almora Hotel Shikhar in Almora is a beautiful and spacious hotel in the front of the Himalayas and situated in midst of the almora town . The hotel is centrally located with excellent scenic beauty of the Himalayan Peaks & sun set ...
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 2500 per day per Couple
Hotel Shivalik, AlmoraThe main concept behind Hotel Shivalik is to provide the modern amenities of International Tourism Standard at very affordable pricing in Almora. Hotel Shivalik provides a mastic view of Himalaya and also the beautiful Almora Va...
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 1500 per day per Couple
Hotel Shivalik Kosi, AlmoraThe Hotel Shivalik is situated near the ancient temple of Lord Shiva, in the bank of river Kosi, on the name of river the place is also called KOSI, about 12 kms form Almora towards Kausani, Kosi is a beautiful destination ...
Shyam star / Budget
star / Budget
Lowest Daily Rate: Rs. 600 per day per Couple
Hotel Shyam is situated in the heart of Almora, facing the splendid snow capped Himalayan range. The hotel Shyam commits to provide quality hospitality services to the tourist at affordable low cost price. It is a budget hotel in Almora serving wi...
Khazanchand Mansion is a property of WelcomHeritage, located on the famous Mall Road of Almora. It is a double storied heritage stone structure offering traditional hospitality to all the business and leisure travellers. Khazanchand mansion is s...
Almora Distance Chart
Rating for Almora : 3.6/5 based on 93 ratings!
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Delhi to Almora - 407kms
Pithoragarh to Almora -115kms
Jageshwar to Almora - 35kms
Binsar to Almora -31kms
Kausani to Almora - 47kms
Ranikhet to Almora - 46kms
Nainital to Almora - 68kms
Bageshwar to Almora - 80kms
Kathgodam to Almora - 90kms
Jim Corbett National Park to Almora - 134kms
Mukteshwar to Almora - 76kms
Lucknow to Almora - 444kms
Bareilly to Almora - 194kms
Haridwar to Almora - 318kms
Lansdowne to Almora - 239kms
Karnaprayag to Almora - 159kms
Udham Singh Nagar to Almora - 145kms
Moradabad to Almora - 214kms
Chaukori to Almora - 125kms
Munsiyari to Almora - 192kms
Thanks for sharing such information about Almora town. Almora is a quaint hill station and is blessed with lush greenery, exquisite landscapes and beautiful temples. One should visit place to experience peace and serenity of nature. Always plan your stay at best hotels in Almora to have a memorable experience.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing content and such nice information for me. I hope you will share some more content about history of almora. Please keep sharing!
ReplyDeleteJim Corbett National Park