8 Best Places to Visit in Almora: Why Almora is Becoming India’s Wellness Destination
Side step a little from Mussoorie and Shimla in May and June, as you make way for one of the most underrated cool places to visit in summer in India – Almora, North India’s breakthrough summer holiday destination of 2025. This Himalayan powerhouse has transformed from an overlooked hill station in Uttarakhand into the country’s most compelling wellness hotspot.
While the rest of India swelters, Almora delivers exactly what your body and mind crave: crystalline mountain air, stunning Himalayan panoramas, and authentic spiritual practices that predate Instagram wellness trends by centuries. As temperatures climb across the subcontinent, savvy travellers are abandoning overcrowded hill stations in India for Almora’s genuine restorative power – making it this summer’s essential escape.
In this Blog
Why Almora is Different
Unlike the crowded streets of Nainital or the tourist-packed attractions of Mussoorie, Almora in summer offers something increasingly rare in India’s popular hill stations: genuine peace. At 1,638 meters above sea level, the town sits at the perfect altitude – high enough to escape the scorching summer heat of the plains, yet accessible enough for a comfortable journey.
The region’s traditional Kumaoni culture remains intact, untainted by excessive commercialization. Here, wellness isn’t a modern trend but a way of life that has existed for centuries.
Top Places to Visit in Almora for Wellness Seekers
1. Kasar Devi Temple
This ancient 2nd-century temple isn’t just a religious site – it sits on a geomagnetic field similar to Stonehenge, creating what locals call the “Kasar Devi Effect.” Many visitors report feeling an immediate sense of calm and mental clarity here. The spectacular views of the Himalayas from this ridge make it ideal for meditation and contemplation.
2. Bright End Corner
True to its name, this viewpoint captures the most magnificent sunrises and sunsets in Almora. The panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks transform with the changing light, creating the perfect setting for morning yoga or evening mindfulness sessions. Several wellness retreats have established themselves nearby precisely for this reason.
3. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Just 30 kilometers from Almora, Binsar offers the cleanest air in the region. Wander through ancient oak and rhododendron forests where the only sounds are birdsong and rustling leaves. The 300-year-old Bineshwar Temple within the sanctuary combines spiritual heritage with natural splendor, making it perfect for forest bathing – the Japanese practice of mindfully immersing yourself in nature.
4. Katarmal Sun Temple
Dating back to the 9th century, this temple dedicated to Surya (the sun god) is the second most important sun temple in India after Konark. Its isolated location and architectural magnificence create a powerful energy that many wellness practitioners incorporate into healing rituals and meditation practices.
5. Jageshwar Temple Complex
Set in a narrow valley surrounded by dense deodar forests, this complex of 124 small and large stone temples creates an atmosphere of profound peace. The ancient cedars are believed to release phytoncides – natural compounds that boost immunity and reduce stress hormones. Many Ayurvedic practitioners recommend spending time here for its healing environment.
The Rise of Wellness Retreats
Almora’s natural advantages have attracted a new wave of thoughtfully designed wellness destinations:
Himalayan Yoga Ashrams
Traditional yoga ashrams have found their perfect setting in Almora’s tranquil environment. These centers offer authentic yoga practices focused on holistic healing rather than just physical postures. Most importantly, these ashrams maintain the integrity of ancient practices while offering comfortable accommodations for modern travellers.
Ayurvedic Healing Centers
Leveraging the region’s abundance of medicinal herbs and plants, several Ayurvedic centers have established themselves in and around Almora. These centers offer personalized treatments using locally sourced ingredients, providing an authentic healing experience that urban wellness centers simply cannot match.
Meditation Retreats
Silent retreats ranging from 3 to 10 days have become increasingly popular in Almora’s outskirts. The natural silence of the mountains enhances the meditation experience, allowing for deeper introspection. Many retreats are situated to capture views of the majestic Nanda Devi peak, believed to amplify spiritual energy.
Local Wellness Traditions and Experiences
Kumaoni Cuisine as Medicine
The local diet naturally aligns with wellness principles. Traditional Kumaoni cuisine features nutrient-dense ingredients like mandua (finger millet), jhangora (barnyard millet), and locally foraged greens. Many retreats now offer cooking classes focused on these indigenous superfoods, helping visitors take wellness practices back home.
Herbal Walks and Plant Medicine
Guided walks with local herbalists to identify and harvest medicinal plants have become popular wellness activities. The region is rich in herbs like bhilmora (nettle), timur (Szechuan pepper), and kutki, which have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Mountain Water Therapy
The natural mineral-rich springs in the region are increasingly being incorporated into wellness routines. The pure mountain water is believed to have detoxifying properties, with several retreats offering specialized hydrotherapy treatments using local spring water.
Where to Stay for the Ultimate Wellness Experience
The accommodation options in Almora perfectly complement its wellness offerings. From heritage homestays to luxury retreats, there’s something for every wellness seeker:
- Heritage Havens: Restored Kumaoni houses offering authentic cultural immersion along with wellness amenities
- Eco Retreats: Sustainable properties built with local materials and minimal environmental impact
- Luxury Wellness Resorts: High-end accommodations combining traditional practices with modern comforts
StayVista offers a carefully curated selection of properties that enhance the wellness journey, from mountain-view villas with private yoga decks to restored heritage homes surrounded by organic gardens.
When to Visit Almora for Wellness
While Almora is becoming a popular summer destination to escape the heat, wellness seekers might consider these optimal times:
- March-April: Perfect for herb walks and foraging as spring brings new growth
- May-June: Ideal for those seeking relief from summer heat with clear mountain views
- September-October: Post-monsoon clarity with lush landscapes and fewer tourists
- November: Clear air and crisp weather, perfect for outdoor yoga and meditation
Getting to Almora
The journey to Almora is part of the wellness experience itself. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (90 km away), and the closest airport is Pantnagar (125 km). The drive from either point takes you through spectacular mountain scenery, gradually preparing you for the serenity that awaits.
The Road Ahead for Almora
As word spreads about Almora’s unique wellness offerings, the region is carefully balancing growth with preservation. Unlike over-commercialized destinations, Almora is focusing on sustainable wellness tourism that benefits local communities while maintaining the very tranquility that attracts visitors.
Almora isn’t just joining India’s wellness map – it’s redefining what a truly holistic wellness destination can be. By harmonizing ancient wisdom with natural beauty and authentic experiences, Almora offers something increasingly precious: a genuine opportunity to reconnect with yourself in an environment that inherently promotes wellbeing.
For those seeking more than just a vacation but a transformative experience, Almora’s healing embrace awaits.
