Introduction
Nestled in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Nainital and Almora are more than just picturesque hill stations—they are living tales of mythology, colonial charm, and spiritual allure. Whether you’re boating on a sacred lake or meditating in ancient temples, this guide will help you discover the hidden magic of these Himalayan treasures.
Where Are Nainital and Almora Located
- Nainital is situated at 2,084 meters above sea level, built around the sparkling Naini Lake and surrounded by pine-covered slopes. Located about 300 km from Delhi, it serves as a gateway to the Kumaon region.
- Almora, located at 1,638 meters, is 65 Kms. east of Nainital on a horseshoe-shaped ridge. Known for its breathtaking Himalayan views and rich cultural heritage, Almora offers a more peaceful and reflective experience.
Nainital to Almora Distance: A Scenic Himalayan Drive
The distance between Nainital and Almora is approximately 65 Kms. by road. The trip takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and passes through pine forests, terraced valleys, and scenic hill villages. Whether you rent a taxi, drive yourself, or take a local bus, the route is just as rewarding as the destinations.
Nainital and Almora: A Glimpse into Their History
- Nainital: Known as one of the 64 Shakti Peeths, it is believed that Goddess Sati’s eye fell here, creating the sacred Naini Lake.
- Almora: Founded in 1568 by King Balo Kalyan Chand, Almora served as the capital of the Chand dynasty and was a bustling hub of art and trade.
Echoes from the Colonial Past
- In 1839, British trader P. Barron discovered Nainital and built the first European-style house, captivated by the lake’s beauty. It soon became the summer capital of the United Provinces, featuring Gothic churches, colonial schools, and the grand Raj Bhavan.
- Almora, though less commercialized, became a spiritual and intellectual center. Swami Vivekananda meditated there in 1890, and Rabindranath Tagore drew inspiration from its peaceful hills.
“The lake was like a gem set in emeralds.” — P. Barron. “In Almora, I found the peace I had long sought.” — Swami Vivekananda.
Nainital and Almora: When to Visit
- Both Nainital and Almora offer unique charms throughout the year. During summer (March to June), Nainital enjoys pleasant temperatures from 10°C to 25°C, while Almora stays warm at around 15°C to 29°C — making this the perfect time for sightseeing, boating, and temple visits.
- The monsoon months (July to September) bring moderate to heavy rainfall; while Almora experiences manageable showers, Nainital often faces heavy rains and occasional landslides, making travel more difficult.
- In winter (December to February), both hill stations get cold, with Nainital usually experiencing snowfall and Almora remaining chilly between 4°C and 15°C. Overall, March to June is ideal for travel and outdoor activities, while October to November offers clear skies, pleasant weather, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it perfect for spiritual retreats.
Getting There: Travel Routes & Tips
- By Air: Pantnagar Airport (70 km from Nainital, 115 km from Almora).
- By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station (35 km from Nainital, 90 km from Almora).
- By Road: Well-connected via NH109. Nainital to Almora is a scenic 2-hour drive.
Nainital & Almora: Places to Visit
Nainital’s Lakeside Charms
- Naini Lake: Boating on this crescent-shaped lake is a must.
- Snow View Point: Cable car ride to Himalayan vistas.
- Naina Devi Temple: Sacred site on the lake’s northern shore.
- The Mall Road: Bustling with shops, cafés, and colonial charm.
- Tiffin Top & Nainital Zoo: Ideal for families and nature lovers.
Nearby Gems Worth the Detour
- Kaichi Dham: A spiritual retreat founded by Neem Karoli Baba, visited by Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg.
- Golu Devta Temple, Ghorakhal: Known for thousands of bells and paper petitions seeking divine justice.
Almora’s Spiritual & Natural Wonders
- Bright End Corner: Stunning sunrise and sunset views.
- Jageshwar Temples: Over 100 ancient shrines in a pine forest.
- Kasar Devi Temple: A magnetic spiritual hub with cosmic energy.
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Trekking, birdwatching, and Himalayan views.
- Chitai Golu Devta Temple: Devotees offer bells and letters to the deity of justice.
Nearby Marvel
- Katarmal Sun Temple: 9th-century stone temple dedicated to Lord Vriddhaditya, second only to Konark in significance.
Trip Cost Breakdown: 3–4 Days in Kumaon
| Category | Budget (₹) | Mid-range (₹) | Luxury (₹) |
| Travel (Delhi–UK) | 1,500–2,500 | 3,000–5,000 | 6,000+ |
| Stay (per night) | 800–1,200 | 1,500–2,500 | 4,000+ |
| Food & Activities | 500–800 | 1,000–1,500 | 2,000+ |
| Total (3–4 days) | 8,000–10,000 | 12,000–15,000 | 20,000+ |
What to Buy: Souvenirs & Specialties
- Nainital: Handmade candles, woolens, and soaps.
- Almora: Copperware, Angora wool products, and bal mithai (a local sweet wrapped in leaf).
Conclusion
Nainital and Almora are more than just destinations—they’re immersive experiences. From colonial history to spiritual journeys, every part of Kumaon encourages you to slow down, reflect, and reconnect. Whether you’re traveling alone, seeking spiritual growth, or vacationing with family, this Himalayan getaway will leave you changed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is it safe to travel to Nainital and Almora for solo travelers or women?
Yes, both towns are safe. Stay in well-lit areas, avoid isolated spots at night, and select reputable accommodations.
Q2. Do I need a permit to visit nearby forest areas like Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee. If you stay inside the sanctuary, your hotel might include it.
Q3. Are there ATMs and mobile network coverage in these areas?
Nainital has widespread coverage and numerous ATMs. Almora is also well-connected, although remote areas like Kasar Devi might have patchy signals.
Q4. Can I visit both Nainital and Almora in a single trip?
Absolutely! A 3–4 day itinerary can easily include both towns.
Q5. What kind of food is available—especially for vegetarians or vegans?
Plenty! Nainital offers a variety of multi-cuisine cafés, while Almora is known for local Kumaoni dishes like bhatt ki churkani and singori.
Q6. Are there any local festivals worth experiencing?
Yes! Nainital’s Nanda Devi Fair (September) and Almora’s Dussehra celebrations are vibrant cultural experiences.
Q7. Is it advisable to drive myself or hire a local driver?
Hiring a local driver is safer, especially during monsoon or winter.
Q8. What are some offbeat experiences near these towns?
- Stargazing in Kasar Devi
- Writing petitions at Golu Devta Temple
- Exploring the ghost village of Lohaghat (near Almora)
Q9. Are there any trekking or adventure options?
Yes! Binsar offers forest trails; Nainital has hikes like Tiffin Top and Naina Peak. Paragliding is available in Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal.
Q10. What should I pack for a trip to Nainital and Almora?
- Warm layers (even in summer)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain gear (monsoon)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Personal medication and ID