Temples in Almora
Chitai Golu Devta Temple
Chitai Golu Devta Temple, located near Almora, is dedicated to Golu Devta, a revered deity in the Kumaon region, known as the God of Justice. Devotees believe that writing a petition to Golu Devta fulfills their wishes, making the temple famous for its thousands of letter offerings tied to its premises.
Surrounded by dense pine forests, the temple offers a serene spiritual experience, attracting pilgrims, locals, and tourists alike. The sound of bells, hung by devotees in gratitude, fills the air, adding to the temple’s mystical charm.
Key highlights
🛕 Chitai Golu Devta Temple – The Divine Court of Justice
🌿 Sacred temple in Almora, Uttarakhand, dedicated to Golu Devta
📜 Famous for petitions & bells offered by devotees
✉️ Letters of Justice
- 📝 Devotees write petitions to seek justice & blessings
- 🔔 Thousands of bells hung in gratitude for fulfilled wishes
🎉 Annual Fair & Rituals
- 🎊 Grand festival dedicated to Golu Devta
- 🔥 Special pujas & yajnas performed
Jhula Devi Temple
Jhula Devi Temple, located near Ranikhet, is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is believed that the deity protects devotees from wild animals, and worshippers tie bells in the temple premises as a mark of gratitude for their fulfilled wishes.
The temple, dating back over 700 years, is known for its thousands of bells hanging across its premises. Devotees also offer prayers for courage, protection, and wish fulfillment. The idol of Goddess Durga is seated on a swing (Jhula), which gives the temple its name.
Key highlights
- Wish-fulfilling bells – Devotees tie bells upon their wishes being granted
- Swinging Goddess – The idol of Durga is placed on a sacred swing
- Ancient Temple – Built over 700 years ago.
Kalimath Temple
Kalimath Temple, nestled in the serene hills of Ranikhet, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. It is an ancient place of worship, attracting devotees and spiritual seekers who come to seek the blessings of the fierce yet benevolent Goddess Kali.
Surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests, the temple offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for meditation and spiritual reflection. The temple’s mythological significance and scenic beauty make it a must-visit destination for both pilgrims and nature lovers.
Key Highlights
- 🛕 Dedicated to Goddess Kali, symbolizing power & protection
- 🌲 Surrounded by lush greenery, offering a tranquil retreat
- 🧘 Ideal for meditation and spiritual seekers
- 🏔️ Breathtaking views of the Himalayas enhance the temple’s aura
Nanda Devi Temple
The Nanda Devi Temple, located in the heart of Almora, is a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, the patron deity of Kumaon. This ancient temple is an important spiritual and cultural landmark, attracting devotees and travelers alike.
Believed to be over 1000 years old, the temple is known for its intricate stone carvings and traditional Kumaoni architecture. It serves as a center for devotion, especially during the grand Nanda Devi Fair, which is held annually and celebrates the goddess with vibrant processions, music, and rituals.
Key Highlights
- 🛕 Dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, protector of Kumaon
- 🏛️ Over 1000 years old, showcasing intricate stone carvings
- 🎉 Hosts the famous Nanda Devi Fair, a grand annual celebration
- 🌄 Located in Almora town, offering a serene spiritual experience
Syahi Devi Temple
Located in the serene Shitlakhet, the Temple is a peaceful and lesser-known sacred site. Nestled amidst lush oak and rhododendron forests, this temple offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making it a perfect destination for both spiritual seekers and nature lovers.
Shitlakhet is known for its peaceful environment. The region is also a great spot for trekking and nature walks, with picturesque trails leading to this divine shrine.
Key Highlights
- 🛕 A serene temple amidst dense forests
- 🌄 Offers stunning views of the Himalayas
- 🧘 Perfect for meditation & peaceful retreats
- 🚶 Popular for trekking & nature walks
Almora fort
Almora Fort, also known as Rajbari, is a historical landmark located at the center of Almora. Built by the Chand dynasty in the 16th century, the fort served as their royal residence and administrative center. Later, it was taken over by the Gorkhas and later the British, who used it as a military outpost. Perched on a hilltop, the fort offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the town below. Today, though much of its former grandeur has faded, Almora Fort remains a symbol of Kumaon’s royal heritage and attracts history lovers, photographers, and travelers.
Key Highlights
- Built by the Chand dynasty as their royal seat
- Occupied by the Gorkhas & British during colonial times
- Offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Almora town
- Nearby attractions: Lala Bazaar, Bright End Corner, and Simtola Eco Park
Jageshwar temple complex
The Jageshwar Temple Complex, located in Almora, Uttarakhand, is one of the most sacred sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. It consists of over 100 ancient stone temples, dating between the 7th and 12th centuries. Jageshwar is believed to be the eighth Jyotirlinga and an important stop on the Shiva pilgrimage circuit.
Nestled in the dense deodar forests along the Jataganga River, the complex offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The temples, built in the Nagara-style architecture, house intricately carved Shivlingas, deities, and inscriptions.
Key Attractions
- Mahamrityunjaya Temple – Oldest temple in the complex, dedicated to Shiva as the conqueror of death
- Jageshwar Mahadev Temple – Main temple with a swayambhu (self-manifested) Shivlinga
- Dandeshwar Temple – The tallest temple in the complex
- Chand Kings’ Legacy – Historically patronized by the rulers of Kumaon
Pangot View Point
Pangot View Point is located near Pangot, a small village about 15 km from Nainital. It offers stunning views of the Nainital Valley and the surrounding Kumaon hills. Known for its natural beauty and tranquility, this viewpoint is ideal for nature lovers, bird watchers, and those looking for a peaceful retreat. Pangot View Point is perfect for those who want to experience nature’s beauty in a peaceful setting.
🏔️ Breathtaking Views: From the viewpoint, you can see a clear view of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and dense forests.
🦜Bird Watching: Pangot is a renowned spot for bird watching, with over 200 species of birds, including the Himalayan Monal and Kali.
🚶 Trekking Trails: There are various trekking routes leading to the viewpoint, passing through dense forests, adding an adventure element to the experience.
🍃 Quiet and Serene: The viewpoint is far from the crowd, offering a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and enjoying nature.
☀️ Summer (March–June): Clear skies and pleasant weather make it ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
❄️ Winter (October–February): A great time for bird watching, with migrating species visible during the colder months.