Almora/Binsar
Almora, perched on a horse-shoe-shaped ridge, is famous for its sweeping Himalayan views and rich Kumaoni culture. Furthermore, its narrow lanes, ancient temples like Nanda Devi, and vibrant local bazaars additionally enhance its timeless charm, making it one of the best-places-to-visit-in-almora for culture lovers. Meanwhile, just 30 km away, Binsar stands out for the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Here, serene forest walks and 360° Himalayan views from Zero Point therefore create an unforgettable experience. Together, Almora and Binsar offer a peaceful ambience, natural beauty, and a perfect blend of culture and wilderness. Ultimately, they are ideal choices for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Places to Visit in Almora
Nanda Devi Temple
Located in the heart of Almora, the Nanda Devi Temple is a sacred shrine dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, the patron goddess of the region. Its intricate stone carvings and traditional Kumaoni architecture make it a cultural landmark. During the Nanda Devi festival, the temple comes alive with vibrant local traditions and rituals.
About Place :
Ancient temple with historical significance
Beautiful Kumaoni architecture
Centre of Almora’s spiritual life
Hosts the famous Nanda Devi Festival
Bright End Corner
Bright End Corner is one of Almora’s most peaceful spots, offering panoramic sunrise and sunset views over the majestic Himalayan range. The site is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, who meditated here during his stay. It’s the perfect place to experience tranquility amidst natural beauty.
About Place :
Breathtaking sunrise and sunset point
Dedicated to Swami Vivekananda
Offers stunning Himalayan views
Ideal for photography and meditation
Kasar Devi Temple
Perched on a scenic hilltop, Kasar Devi Temple is known for its spiritual energy and cosmic vibe. It’s said to lie on the Van Allen Belt, giving it a unique magnetic field that attracts seekers and meditators from around the world. The temple also offers sweeping views of the Almora valley.
About Place :
Renowned spiritual and meditation spot
Unique magnetic energy field
Visited by Swami Vivekananda and artists
Stunning panoramic views
Lala Bazaar
Lala Bazaar is the cultural heart of Almora, bustling with traditional Kumaoni life. Established over 200 years ago, it’s known for copperware, woollens, and handwoven shawls. The old wooden buildings and narrow lanes reflect the charm of Almora’s past.
About Place :
200-year-old heritage market
Famous for copperware and woollens
Reflects Kumaoni lifestyle and culture
Great for shopping and local exploration
Deer Park (Simtola)
Situated on the outskirts of Almora, Deer Park is a serene green space surrounded by dense pine and oak forests. It’s a peaceful picnic spot where visitors can enjoy scenic walks and may even spot deer and other wildlife.
About Place :
Lush green forest area
Ideal for nature walks and picnics
Home to deer and small wildlife
Offers scenic views of Almora valley
Places to Visit in Binsar
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary is the crown jewel of Binsar, covering over 45 sq km of dense forest. It’s home to leopards, barking deer, and more than 200 bird species. The peaceful forest trails make it a paradise for trekkers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
About Place :
Rich biodiversity and birdlife
Ideal for trekking and birdwatching
Peaceful and scenic forest environment
Spot wildlife like deer and leopards
Zero Point
Located at the highest spot in Binsar Sanctuary, Zero Point offers a mesmerizing 360° view of the snow-capped Himalayas. From here, you can see peaks like Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, and Trishul shining in the distance. It’s a must-visit for sunrise and sunset lovers.
About Place :
Highest viewpoint in Binsar
360° panoramic Himalayan view
Best spot for sunrise and sunset
Great for trekking and photography
Bineshwar Mahadev Temple
Built by the Chand dynasty in the 16th century, this ancient Shiva temple is a beautiful example of traditional Kumaoni stone architecture. It’s a calm and spiritual retreat surrounded by thick forest, making it a peaceful stop for devotees and explorers alike.
About Place :
16th-century Shiva temple
Built by the Chand rulers
Traditional Kumaoni stone design
Peaceful and spiritual location