Asia > India > Uttaranchal > Almora
Almora runs along a crescent-shaped ridge in the Kumaon hills, high enough for clear air and broad mountain views but busy enough to feel like a working hill town rather than a resort. It was the capital of the Chand rulers of Kumaon, and that local identity still shows in its temples, sweets, markets, and old stone lanes.
The town is best taken slowly. Start in the bazaar around Nanda Devi Temple, where shrine bells, shopfronts, and hill traffic all crowd together. Then climb or drive out to Kasar Devi, a ridge of pines, views, and spiritual oddballs that has drawn everyone from Swami Vivekananda to 1960s seekers.
Almora is also a useful base for smaller Kumaoni excursions. Chitai Golu Devta Temple is famous for its hanging bells and petitions for justice, while Bright End Corner gives the easy sunset view. The town's own pleasures are simpler: strong tea, bal mithai from an old sweet shop, and a morning when the snow peaks finally show themselves.