Explore The Most Popular Places To Visit Near Almora For A Unique Experience

A beautiful evening over the Almora skyline, with vibrant orange hues lighting the sky.

In the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Almora is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and rich cultural heritage. The town is a gem, and the places to visit near Almora are equally captivating, offering scenic retreats, religious sites, and adventurous trails. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or an adventure lover, the places near Almora cater to diverse interests. From charming hill stations and sacred temples to tranquil lakes and wildlife sanctuaries, this guide covers ten unmissable places near Almora, making the region a top travel destination in North India.

Top 10 Places To Visit Near Almora

Here are the top 10 places to visit near Almora, each offering a unique blend of nature, serenity, and adventure.

1. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

A winding dirt trail through green forest with trees and hills in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: Rajborah123 / Wikimedia Commons

The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Uttarakhand’s prime destinations for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread across 45 square kilometres, Binsar is known for its rich flora and fauna, including oak and pine forests and diverse bird species. The Zero Point within the sanctuary provides an uninterrupted 360-degree view of Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi and Trishul. Binsar is also an excellent spot for trekking, with trails leading through thick forest cover. For a more immersive experience, visitors can stay at eco-cottages or forest rest houses available within the sanctuary area.

Tourist Attractions: Zero Point, diverse birdlife, eco-trails
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (130 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (105 km)

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Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days

2. Kasar Devi Temple

An image showing a view of the Kasar Devi Temple, a famous tourist attraction near Almora.

Photo: Alexkom000 / Wikimedia Commons

Kasar Devi Temple is a historic spiritual site known for its peaceful surroundings and wide, scenic views. This ancient temple, dedicated to Goddess Kasar Devi, is famed for its magnetic field, which scientists claim influences meditative states. Kasar Devi gained popularity during the 1960s and ’70s as a meditation spot for notable figures. Apart from its spiritual allure, the temple offers visitors views of the Almora Valley and the Kumaon Himalayas, making it an ideal place for meditation, photography, and scenic enjoyment.

Tourist Attractions: Meditation area, views of Almora Valley
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (126 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (100 km)
Ideal Duration: Half-day to 1 day

3. Jageshwar Temple

A beautiful view of Jageshwar Temple, a famous place to visit near Almora.

Photo: Dr. Gautam Paul / Wikimedia Commons

A sacred destination for Hindu pilgrims, Jageshwar is a complex of over 100 ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temples, built between the 7th and 12th centuries, showcase remarkable architecture with intricate stone carvings. Surrounded by thick deodar forests and set beside a flowing stream, this place is valued for its peaceful atmosphere and historical importance. The annual Jageshwar Monsoon Festival is another visitor draw, celebrating religious traditions with vibrant festivities.

Tourist Attractions: Historic temples, deodar forests, monsoon festival
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (150 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (125 km)

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Ideal Duration: 1 day

4. Katarmal Sun Temple

An image of Katarmal Sun Temple, a famous place to visit near Almora, Uttarakhand, India.

Photo: Daniel Romanson / Wikimedia Commons

Katarmal Sun Temple was constructed during the 9th century and is one of the few sun temples in India. This temple is dedicated to Surya (the Sun God), and the complex of the temple contains shrines with beautifully carved sculptures and pillars. It is located at a distance of 19 km from Almora and offers a scenic view of the surrounding hills. Due to its historical and architectural significance, Katarmal Sun Temple is an ideal spot for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Tourist Attractions: Ancient carvings, view of Almora hills
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (139 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (124 km)
Ideal Duration: Half-day

5. Ranikhet

A view of Ranikhet, a famous tourist destination near Almora, located in Uttarakhand.

Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons

Ranikhet, a charming hill station 50 km from Almora, is known for its colonial-era heritage, scenic landscapes, and adventure activities. Ranikhet is perfect for leisurely exploration with its lush green forests, orchards, and stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas. The town also has a military museum, a golf course, and hiking trails around the area. A stroll through the apple orchards and pine-lined paths is a rejuvenating experience for all visitors.

Tourist Attractions: Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Gardens, trekking trails
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (115 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (87 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days

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6. Kausani

A panoramic view of green hills and valleys under a clear blue sky in Kausani, India.

Photo: David M. / Wikimedia Commons

Kausani is known as the “Switzerland of India,” and it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, particularly the Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks. This place is located around 50 km from Almora and is a quiet hill station perfect for relaxation, photography, and nature walks. Its tea gardens and the Anasakti Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed, add charm. Kausani’s serene environment and stunning views make it a popular place to visit near Almora for travellers seeking natural beauty and solitude.

Tourist Attractions: Tea gardens, Anasakti Ashram, mountain views
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (160 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (125 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days

7. Mukteshwar

A beautiful view of the Himalayas from the top of Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand.

Photo: Sanjoyg / Wikimedia Commons

Mukteshwar is located at a distance of 90 km from Almora and is known for its adventure sports and unobstructed views of the Himalayan peaks. The famous Mukteshwar Temple is situated on a cliff and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts many visitors. Many people come here for activities like rock climbing and rappelling, which makes Mukteshwar exciting for adventure lovers. There is an open landscape, fruit orchards and vibrant flora here that add to its appeal and make it a popular place for nature lovers.

Tourist Attractions: Mukteshwar Temple, Chauli ki Jali, adventure sports
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (110 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (73 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days

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8. Baijnath Temple Complex

A view of the ancient Baijnath temples in Uttarakhand, India, surrounded by mountains.

Photo: Yann / Wikimedia Commons

The Baijnath Temple Complex is an ancient temple site located on the banks of the Gomati River. This temple complex was built in the 12th century and is renowned for its detailed stone-carved architecture and peaceful riverside location. This place is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is ideal for those interested in history, spirituality, and architecture. The river surrounding the temple often has schools of fish which adds a unique charm for visitors. This spot is very peaceful which makes it a great place to relax.

Tourist Attractions: Ancient Shiva temples, riverside setting
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (160 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (125 km)
Ideal Duration: Half-day to 1 day

9. Bageshwar

A panoramic view of Bageshwar from Chandika Temple, showcasing mountains and a clear sky.

Photo: ArmouredCyborg / Wikimedia Commons

Bageshwar is a small town known for its temples and is the meeting point of the Saryu and Gomti rivers. The main temple of the town, Bagnath Temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts many pilgrims, especially during the annual Shivaratri festival every year. Bageshwar is also popular as the starting point for trekking in the Kumaon Himalayas. The peaceful riverside setting of Bageshwar makes it suitable for a spiritual and relaxing visit and a popular tourist attraction near Almora.

Tourist Attractions: Bagnath Temple, Saryu-Gomti Sangam
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (180 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (145 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 day

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10. Patal Bhuvaneshwar Caves

A view of Patal Bhuvaneshwar, showcasing green hills and a cloudy sky in the background.

Photo: ArmouredCyborg / Wikimedia Commons

Patal Bhuvaneshwar Caves is situated at a distance of 130 km from Almora and is a mystical network of underground caves that house rock formations symbolising Hindu deities. This fascinating site attracts many visitors with its spiritual allure and the natural beauty of limestone formations. The detailed natural carving of the cave has a mythological significance which makes it an intriguing site for religious and curious visitors. Entry to the caves requires navigating steep stairs, but the sight inside is well worth the effort.

Tourist Attractions: Limestone formations, mythological significance
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (180 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (145 km)
Ideal Duration: Half-day to 1 day

There are many amazing places to visit near Almora filled with cultural heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual significance. From wildlife sanctuaries to ancient temples, each place near Almora offers a unique experience. Whether you’re exploring the rich forests of Binsar, the spiritual energy of Jageshwar, or the panoramic views of Kausani, the region provides ample attractions for all. Book your trip with TripXL to plan your journey and make it an unforgettable experience.

Cover Photo: Travelling Slacker / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

October to March is ideal for pleasant weather and clear views.
Yes, Almora is generally safe for solo travellers.
Yes, a variety of budget stays are available.
Essential trekking gear is recommended for safety. Sturdy shoes, a comfortable backpack, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and a water bottle are some of the trekking essentials.
Yes, guides are available to assist you.

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