Spread over a horseshoe ridge at a height of 1,646 metres is Almora, once the centre of Kumaoni culture and the capital of the Chand dynasty. To the north of the ridge is a breathtaking view of the trident shaped Trishul peaks. On the edges of Almora the Koshi and Suyal rivers cut through the mountains, while the hillsides are lined with fir and pine forests.

Away from the main tourist humdrum of Nainital or Ranikhet, Almora has retained much of its traditional values and old-world charm. One of the few hill stations that predated the British, the town still has cobbled streets and fascinating stone houses with exquisite carved wooden facades. The presiding deity of Almora is Nanda Devi, with a temple dedicated to her in the centre of town. A major festival devoted to the goddess takes place in August when people from all over Kumaon converge to worship and participate in the festivities.