Nature's Munificence

Of the three districts of Kumaon, Almora occupies a central location. Being further away from the plains than Nainital, this district provides tranquil spots where one can enjoy the mountain air without jostling against milling holiday-makers.

The town of Almora (1646 m), lies along a saddle-ridge amidst a lush amphitheatre of terraced slopes. Overlooking the arterial Mall, where the bus terminus, shops selling bal mithai (a famous milk confection of Kumaon), and private lodges and restaurants are located, is flattish bowl-the virtual picture of fertility with its canals, hamlets and the foaming Kosi river. Beyond and behind the ridge lie tiers of hills and dales, edged ultimately by a Himalayan panorama.

Unlike Shimla, Nainital and Ranikhet - north Indian hill stations discovered and patronized by the British. Almora is truly Indian hill resort. It was founded by Raja Kalyan Chand in 1560 (he shifted his capital here from Champawati).

There is Mohan Joshi Park, a favorite picnic ground close to the Mall. Bright End Corner, 2 km away, commands a grand view of the Himalayas - particularly spectacular at dawn and dusk. Deer Park and Simtola (both 3km away) offer lush environs. Kalimath (5km) is famed for its scenic grandeur and a panoramic view of Almora town. A kilometre from here is Kasar Devi temple, worth a visit for its superb surroundings.

Excursions

Bageshwar
77 km This pilgrim town, once a trade terminus, lies at the sangam or confluence of Gomti and Saryu rivers. This is also the base for treks to Pindari, Kafni and Sunderdhunga glaciers (all in Almora district).

Baijnath
71 km (19 km fro Kausani) Lying on the bank of Gomti river in a flat valley, the temple complex of Baijnath or Vaidyanath was constructed by the Katuri kings.

Binsar
30 km Chosen summer retreat of the Chand rulers, it derives its name from the temple to Bineshwar (an aspect of Shiva) built by Raja Kalyan Chand. The main attraction is the stunning and uncluttered panoramic stretch of the Greater Himalayan range.

Chitai
8 km The Gaur Bhairav temple here enshrines Gollu Devta, the much loved deity of the Kumaonis. He was a valourous general of the Chand rulers and embodies the martial tradition of the hillmen. The hundreds of brass bells strung on chains in the temple compund are donations from devotees whose wishes were fulfilled.

Gananath
47 km . It boasts of Shiva temple, caves and marvellous scenery

Gwalkot
26 km A bend in the Kosi river mid-way between Kausani and Almora has so fashioned a land mass that it ears an uncanny resemblance to peninsular India.

Jageshwar
34 km A complex of over 150 shrines set gem-like in a narrow riverine valley enclosed by towery, ancient deodars. Counted amoung the 12 Jyotirlingas, it is an important Shaivite pilgrim centre. The shrine to Vriddh Jageshwar, 8 km (motor road; 3 km trek) from here, offers a scenic view of the Himalayas.