Discover Almora to Ranikhet road trip’s plan in Uttarakhand

Almora and Ranikhet are two lovely hill stations in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region. They’re famous for being some of the best spots to chill out in northern India. Unlike Dehradun, Mussoorie, or Nainital, they’re not overrun by tourists, which makes them extra special. We’ve loved these places since we were kids, and visiting them last week brought back so many memories.

Since it’s summer vacation time and many of you might be planning Almora to Ranikhet as  weekend getaways, here’s what you need to know before heading to Almora and Ranikhet this summer.

Almora to Ranikhet Distance

From  Almora to Ranikhet distance is approximately 60 kilometers, which typically takes around 2 hours to cover by road.

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Best Time to visit Almora

The ideal time to visit Almora to Ranikhet in Uttarakhand is now! From April to June, the weather is just perfect, ranging from pleasant to mildly warm, and the skies are usually clear. Another great time to visit is at the beginning of winter, from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for tourists.

How to reach Almora

Getting to Almora is pretty straightforward. You can opt for a flight, bus, or train from Delhi. Flights are mostly connected through Delhi. Trains might take a different route to avoid Delhi. From Delhi, you can catch day or night trains to Kathgodam.

Almora to Kathgodam distance which is about 82 kilometers away and takes around 3 hours to reach. There are plenty of Volvo, private, and state buses available from Delhi for direct connectivity to Almora as well.

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Best Time to visit Almora to Ranikhet

The best time to visit Ranikhet, much like Almora, is at the beginning of winter when the weather is most pleasant. Late winter can get pretty chilly, and peak summer afternoons can be quite hot, making it challenging to explore outdoors during the daytime.

How to reach Ranikhet

Getting to Ranikhet follows a similar route as Almora. The last railway station before Ranikhet is Kathgodam. You can find multiple bus options from Delhi to Ranikhet as well. Although Ranikhet and Almora are on different routes, taxis are readily available from Kathgodam for both these places.

Places to see in Almora

Almora is brimming with temples, making it a spiritual hub worth exploring in Uttarakhand. Besides savoring the local Kumaoni cuisine, here are some must-visit places from Almora to Ranikhet.

1. Kasar Devi Temple: Situated just 7 kilometers away from the main city, Kasar Devi Temple is one of the oldest temples in Almora. It’s particularly popular among hippies and offers serene surroundings for introspection and worship.
2. Chitai (Golu Devta) Temple: Known for its belief that wishes made here come true, Chitai Temple is dedicated to Golu Devta. Located 9 kilometers from the main city, the temple is adorned with numerous bells, creating a melodious atmosphere.
3. Nanda Devi Temple: Situated in the Paltan Bazar area, Nanda Devi Temple holds significant reverence among Hindu pilgrims. It’s believed that Nanda Devi, revered as a reincarnation of Goddess Durga, bestows blessings upon devotees here.
4. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: About 25 kilometers from Almora lies Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its biodiversity and captivating landscapes. The sanctuary is home to various flora and fauna, and a visit to Zero Point offers panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. Entry fees are 150 INR per person, with an additional 250 INR for vehicle entry.

Almora to Ranikhet offers a variety of attractions to explore:

1. Jhula Devi Temple: Dating back to the 8th century, Jhula Devi Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Ranikhet.
2. Golf Course: Ranikhet boasts the second-largest golf course in the country, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. This 9-hole golf course, located near the city center, offers various membership plans for avid players.
3. Mankameshwar Temple: Constructed by the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army, Mankameshwar Temple is believed to fulfill the wishes of its devotees, earning it its name.
4. Chaubatia Orchards: It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. The Chaubatia Orchards in Ranikhet is famous for its apple trees among other varieties. It’s a serene retreat for nature lovers.
5. Bhalu Dam: A popular picnic spot for families, Bhalu Dam lies near the city center. This man-made lake, nestled in the Himalayan valley.  However, be prepared for a 3-kilometer trek to reach the dam.