How to Reach Delhi to Almora

How to Reach Delhi to Almora

Are you planning a trip from the bustling city of Delhi to the peaceful hills of Almora? This guide will help you understand all the ways to get there, making your journey smooth and enjoyable. Almora, nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is known for its beautiful views, rich culture, and calm atmosphere. Let’s explore how you can reach this lovely destination.

 

Delhi to Almora Distance

 

The distance between Delhi and Almora varies slightly depending on the route you take. By road, Almora is about 350 to 380 kilometers away from Delhi. This distance translates to a journey of roughly 8 to 10 hours, depending on the type of transport, traffic conditions, and how many stops you make along the way.

 

How to Reach Almora from Delhi

 

You have several choices for travelling from Delhi to Almora, each with its own advantages. Whether you prefer a quick flight, a comfortable train ride, a flexible road trip, or an affordable bus journey, there’s an option for you.

 

1. By Road: Car or Taxi

 

Driving to Almora offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the changing scenery, from the flat plains to the winding mountain roads. It’s often considered one of the best ways to reach Almora if you enjoy road trips.

  • Delhi to Almora by Car:
    • Distance: Approximately 350-380 km.
    • Travel Time: Usually takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and how fast you drive.
    • Route: The most common route is via Moradabad, Rampur, Rudrapur, Haldwani, and then up to Almora. The roads are generally in good condition, especially the highways. As you get closer to the hills, the roads become winding, offering beautiful views.
    • Pros: You get the most flexibility to stop whenever you like, take photos, and explore small towns along the way. It’s great for groups or families.
    • Cons: It can be tiring for the driver, especially on mountain roads. You’ll also need to consider fuel costs, tolls, and parking.
    • Tips: Start early in the morning to avoid city traffic in Delhi and enjoy the cooler hours. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and if you’re not used to hill driving, be extra careful on the winding roads.
  • Delhi to Almora by Taxi/Cab:
    • Distance: Similar to driving your own car, around 350-380 km.
    • Travel Time: Around 8 to 11 hours, depending on the service and stops.
    • Booking: You can easily book a taxi or cab service from Delhi. Many online platforms and local taxi stands offer one-way or round-trip services to Almora. Services like Uber Intercity are also available.
    • Pros: It’s very convenient as you don’t have to worry about driving. You can relax and enjoy the journey. Door-to-door service is a big plus.
    • Cons: Can be more expensive than other options, especially for solo travellers.
    • Tips: Book your taxi from a reliable service. Confirm the fare and any extra charges (like tolls) before starting your journey.

 

2. By Bus

Taking a bus is a popular and budget-friendly option for many travellers heading to Almora.

  • Delhi to Almora by Bus:
    • Distance: Approximately 350-380 km by road.
    • Travel Time: Typically takes around 9 to 12 hours.
    • Starting Point: Buses usually depart from major bus terminals in Delhi, such as Anand Vihar ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal) or ISBT Kashmiri Gate.
    • Bus Types: You can find various types of buses, from standard government-run buses (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation – UTC) to private luxury or semi-sleeper buses.
    • Pros: It’s generally the most affordable way to travel. Buses offer direct connectivity to Almora.
    • Cons: The journey can be long and sometimes less comfortable than a train or car, especially on regular buses. Schedules can sometimes be delayed. Direct luxury buses are less common, and you might need to take a general bus.
    • Tips: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or festivals like Shivratri when Bagnath Temple becomes very busy. If you prefer a more comfortable ride, look for AC or semi-sleeper buses. Carry some snacks and water for the journey.

 

3. By Train

While Almora itself doesn’t have a railway station, you can take a train to the nearest railhead and then continue your journey by road.

  • Delhi to Kathgodam by Train:
    • Nearest Railway Station to Almora: Kathgodam (KGM), which is about 90-95 km from Almora. Haldwani is another nearby station.
    • Travel Time (Delhi to Kathgodam): Train journeys from Delhi to Kathgodam typically take around 5 to 7 hours.
    • Key Trains:
      • Ranikhet Express (15013): Departs from Old Delhi Railway Station in the evening and reaches Kathgodam in the early morning.
      • Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express (15035): Connects Delhi and Kathgodam daily.
      • Kathgodam New Delhi Shatabdi Express (12039/12040): A faster option, running daily except Thursdays, connecting New Delhi Railway Station and Kathgodam.
    • Pros: Train travel is often more comfortable and relaxing, especially for longer journeys. It’s generally a safe and reliable option.
    • Cons: You’ll need to arrange for onward travel from Kathgodam to Almora.
    • Tips: Book your train tickets well in advance, as popular trains and routes get booked up quickly. Once you reach Kathgodam, you can easily find shared taxis, private cabs, or local buses to Almora. The drive from Kathgodam to Almora is scenic and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

 

4. By Air (Flight + Road)

For those who prefer the fastest way to cover long distances, flying is an option, though it still involves a road journey to Almora.

  • Delhi to Pantnagar by Flight:
    • Nearest Airport to Almora: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), which is approximately 125 km from Almora.
    • Travel Time (Delhi to Pantnagar): Flights from Delhi to Pantnagar usually take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
    • Airlines: Limited airlines operate on this route, so it’s advisable to check for availability and book in advance.
    • Pros: This is the quickest way to cover the major part of the distance.
    • Cons: It’s generally the most expensive option. Also, Pantnagar Airport is still quite a distance from Almora, so you’ll need to arrange another mode of transport for the remaining journey.
    • Tips: From Pantnagar Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Almora. The road journey from Pantnagar to Almora takes about 3 to 4 hours, passing through scenic landscapes. Given HillZet Taxi’s guarantee of on-time airport pickups and drop-offs, they could be a reliable choice for this leg of your journey if you’re looking for a taxi service.

 

Choosing Your Best Way to Travel

The “best” way to reach Almora from Delhi really depends on your preferences:

  • For budget travellers: The bus is usually the most economical choice.
  • For comfort and a relaxed journey: A combination of train to Kathgodam and then a taxi is often recommended.
  • For flexibility and scenic drives: Driving your own car or hiring a private taxi is ideal.
  • For the fastest overall travel time: A flight to Pantnagar followed by a taxi is the quickest, though it involves two modes of transport and can be more expensive.

No matter which way you choose to travel, the journey to Almora promises beautiful sights and the chance to experience the serene beauty of the Kumaon Himalayas. Remember to plan your trip according to the season you are visiting, as weather conditions can affect travel times, especially in the hills. Enjoy your trip to Almora.

Read More Travel Guides:

Book Your Tour Now

Blank Form (#3)