Almora and Ranikhet are just two well-known hill stations in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Popular among the best hill stations both of these destinations, in north-west India have a lot in common. Amidst the commonalities, both these areas are sometimes taken as off-beat locations to unwind. Not affected by the tourism industry at large, unlike Dehradun, Mussoorie or even Nainital, these gorgeous destinations in the lap of nature have always been one of our favorites since childhood. We had been excited to relive our memories past week when we visited these two destinations. Many of you plan your weekend plans and as it is the summer vacations, here are the things to know before you plan your visit and Ranikhet these summers.
Let us the adventure begin!
1. Best time to visit Almora: The best time to visit Almora, Uttarakhand is that! During the summer months between April to June, the weather is nice to somewhat sexy with clear skies. The beginning of the winters from September to November is also beneficial and very pleasant for tourists to go to Almora.
2. Best time to visit Ranikhet: Just like Almora the starting of these winters have become the most pleasant time to see Ranikhet. The summit summer afternoons are rather hot making it difficult to roam out during the day Even though the late winter in Ranikhet gets really cold.
The best way to achieve Almora: Almora can be easily achieved by flight, train or bus through Delhi. The trains might have a path that is different to bypass Delhi while the flights are connected through Delhi. You have choices of daytime and night trains from Delhi to Kathgodam which is at a space 82kms covered from Almora. There are private, Volvo and state bus options available from Delhi for direct connectivity to Almora.
How to reach Ranikhet: Ranikhet can also be attained in a similar fashion as Almora. The railroad channel before Ranikhet is Kathgodam. There are bus options available from Delhi to Ranikhet. The taxis are available from Kathgodam for these places, while Ranikhet and Almora are on the routes.
Local Transportation in Almora: There is limited public transport in Almora. Most of the tourists opt for cab services that are operated by the locals. You can easily avail taxi services from the resort as well as most of them have connections with the vendors.
The tourists prefer to take the cabs operated by the vendors.
Places to visit in Almora
There are a whole lot of temples around Almora that explored and could be seen while visiting Uttarakhand. Here is the list of areas to See in Almora besides trying the Kumaoni cuisine:
Kasar Devi Temple: One of the earliest forts on Almora, this temple has always been among the most sought-after places by the hippies. Located in a distance of just 7km from the primary city of Almora, this temple can be easily reached from the city.
Situated at a distance of 9km this temple has been marked with bells within the premises.
The temple is regarded as very sacred as Nanda Devi has been considered to be the reincarnation of Lord Durga.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Binsar is famous for its wildlife refuge and Zero Point. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 25kms and the Zero Point Binsar is situated almost 2kms in Binsar. The views in the Zero Point are breathtaking as you get to view the peaks of the Himalayan Ranges. The entry fees to the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is 150INR per individual and you need to pay 250INR for your vehicle entry.
Places to see Ranikhet: Just like Almora, here are what to do in Ranikhet:
Jhula Devi Temple: One of the earliest and most populous temples, the Jhula Devi Temple was constructed in the 8th century. The temple is located right in the town center and is surrounded by bells both inside and outside the temple.
Golf Course:
The second-largest golf course in the country, this 9 hole golf course is a must-visit for golf fans. This golf course is situated close to the city center and extends all of the game lover's various membership programs.
Meraki Homestay:
Meraki Homestay is the Best place to stay in Ranikhet because it is best for people who love to travel. Family, friends or even couples, all can come here and make the best of their vacations. You get to live and feel the lifestyle of a pahadi. The property has a beautiful view of the Himalaya’s snow-capped mountains.
Also, Read this story: http://www.tripp.in/2019/12/meraki-homestay-ranikhet/
Mankameshwar Temple: Built by the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army, this temple in Ranikhet is believed to fulfill the wishes of its worshipers, hence the name.
The orchards are famous for their citrus trees.
Bhalu Dam: Located near the city center, the Bhalu Dam is regarded as a good picnic area for families. This really is a lake surrounded by green trees and is in the Himalayan valley. Be prepared that you need to trek for almost 3kms until you reach the Bhalu Dam.
