From Hidden Lakes To Fairy-Tale Villages: 10 Weekend Trips Near Almora You Can’t Skip
Almora is located in the beautiful Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and is a charming hill station with picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage and stunning views of the Himalayas. If you want to escape from the noise of big cities for a short period of time, Almora offers different adventurous weekends. For adventure lovers, nature lovers or those who want peace around them should not miss these wonderful places next to almora. The following are some enthralling weekend getaways near Almora.
1. Binsar
Binsar, only 33 kilometers away from Almora is a must visit place for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. It has Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary which comprises various species of flora and fauna. Besides there are several species of birds that can be watched by the birdwatchers in this sanctuary. In addition, it offers scenic views of Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Kedarnath among others is another reason why this small town is important to visitors who desire to hike through dense forests or just spend their time enjoying quite walks.
2. Ranikhet
Ranikhet meaning Queen’s Meadow is another beautiful hill station situated at about 50 kilometers distance from Almora. Its cool weather conditions provide an ideal platform for natural beauty as well as historical significance making it very popular with tourists visiting this place often.Known as home to the Kumaon Regiment Centre Museum where visitors can learn more about military history associated with this area.The Chaubatia Gardens which are famous for their apple orchards and botanical gardens are also worth mentioning when talking about Ranikhet in terms of leisurely strolls, picnics and nature walks.
3. Kausani
Switzerland like terrain of Kausani situated approximately 52 kilometers from Almora promises panoramic views of snow clad Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul and Panchachuli.Two groups of people are mostly seen around this town; nature lovers and those who want to be alone.Furthermore, there are tea gardens where tourists can visit and learn more about tea processing as well as have a chance to taste newly brewed tea.There is also the Anasakti Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi stayed and wrote his commentary on Bhagavad Gita for history buffs.
4. Mukteshwar
Located around 90 kilometers away from Almora, Mukteshwar a serene hill station that abounds with stunning vistas, lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. This town is known for its temple named Mukteshwar Temple which was constructed in ancient times for Lord Shiva worshipers. Rock climbing, rappelling or trekking adventures such as rock climbing are some activities that people can engage in when visiting Mukteshwar.Another activity that one could carry out at this place is going to Chauli Ki Jali which involves rock climbing thus leaving the visitors mesmerized by the whole experience.In addition it’s famous for its fruit orchards where delightful fresh fruits can be enjoyed.
5. Jageshwar
Jageshwar is an ideal weekend getaway for people interested in history and spirituality. Jageshwar being “36 km from Almora” itself possesses a cluster of over hundreds of ancient temples dating back to 9th century.Their intricate carvings and architectural beauty are things that make these temples special among other tourist attractions dedicated solely to Lord Shiva.Set amidst deodar forests, this town has a calm spiritual atmosphere.Jageshwar monsoon festival takes place between July-August every year attracts religious persons apart from tourists all over India who come here mainly for this.
6. Chaukori
Chaukori is a small hill station, which is about 112 kilometers from Almora, and it is famous for its tea gardens and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It lies at an elevation of 2,010 meters above sea level with cool and pleasant climate. This makes Chaukori less commercialized therefore good for those who love privacy and want to shy away from crowds. From this place one can catch stunning glimpses of morning sunrises and evening sunsets on the Nanda Devi and Panchachuli peaks. Guest are allowed to visit the local tea estates or go for some nature walk or just laze around at will relishing in the beauty of this place.
7. Patal Bhuvaneshwar
Almora is also famous because of Patal Bhuvaneshwar, a unique cave temple located around 90 kilometers away from it. The limestone cavern has been dedicated to Lord Shiva and serves as residence for thirty three billion Hindu gods. This cave goes deep inside the earth into which beautiful stalactites hang down while ground water trickles slowly over white mass which ultimately structures them into stalagmites Exploring this place would be a good starting point to understand the mythical aspects behind India’s religion. Therefore anyone interested in mythology or history should not miss out on this place due to its peaceful spiritual ambiance.
8. Bageshwar
It attracts many tourists each year because it is situated at confluence points where Saryu meets Gomti rivers; yet Bageshwar itself is a picturesque town located approximately seventy seven kilometers from Almora. The townhouses an ancient Bagnath Temple where you can find Lord Shiva being worshiped .The popular Pindari Glacier trek starts here whereas there are other treks as well that start from Bageshwar. The town with its religious importance, trekking opportunities and scenic beauty is an ideal destination for a weekend outing.
9. Munsiyari
Another place worth mentioning is Munsiyari which adventure enthusiasts may find appealing to their interests. It is located at an altitude of around 2,200 meters above sea level; thus situated almost 200 kilometers away from Almora. There are many high altitude treks that can be conducted from this point such as Milam Glacier Trek, Ralam Glacier Trek, Nanda Devi East Base Camp etc. While on the other hand Munsiyari faces the Panchachuli peaks and it is famous for its unspoiled beauty and exciting routes for trekking. Bird watching is another popular activity amongst tourists as they get to observe some rare species of birds found in the Himalayan region.
10. Chitai Temple
The Chitai Temple is about nine kilometers away from Almora and devoted to them local deity named Golu Devta .It has thousands of bells of various sizes that have been presented by worshippers to appreciate what god has done for them.Amidst beautiful pine trees stands Chitai temple creating a peaceful environment which evokes spirituality Chiatai Visit gives one an opportunity to understand the cultures and traditions of the people living in this area therefore it would be a very meaningful visit.
Conclusion
Almora and its surrounding areas boast numerous thrilling weekend getaways, each having its own charm and attractions. They offer serene hill stations, ancient temples, adventurous routes for hiking or trekking through dense green woods among others making anyone who visits one feel completely satisfied with what they have experienced there. These locales give people a chance to relax in a quiet environment with fresh air while exploring Kumaon’s rich cultural heritage . So whether you are looking forward for adventure ,calmness or a spiritual experience, you will find what you are looking for in these getaways near Almora that will leave your mind refreshed and invigorated.
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