Planning a journey from Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, to the charming hill station of Almora? This guide will lay out all the ways you can travel, making your trip as straightforward and pleasant as possible. Almora, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning Himalayan views, and peaceful environment, is a wonderful escape. Let’s look at how to get there from Dehradun.
Dehradun to Almora Distance
The distance between Dehradun and Almora is quite substantial, as both cities are located in different parts of Uttarakhand. By road, the distance is approximately 345 to 350 kilometers. This journey typically takes around 8 to 9 hours, depending on the chosen mode of transport, road conditions, and how many stops you make.
How to Reach Almora from Dehradun
You have a few ways to travel from Dehradun to Almora. Each option has its own benefits, whether you’re looking for speed, comfort, flexibility, or affordability.
1. By Road: Car or Taxi
Driving is a popular choice for this route, offering the flexibility to enjoy the scenic journey through Uttarakhand’s diverse landscapes.
- Dehradun to Almora by Car:
- Distance: Around 345-350 km.
- Travel Time: The drive usually takes about 8 to 9 hours. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and how often you stop.
- Route: The most common route involves heading towards Haridwar, then Rishikesh, and continuing on towards Nainital/Kathgodam, and finally to Almora. The roads are generally well-maintained, especially the major highways. As you get deeper into the hills, expect winding roads which, while beautiful, require careful driving.
- Pros: You have complete control over your schedule, allowing for stops at interesting places along the way. It’s ideal for those who enjoy exploring at their own pace. Great for families or groups.
- Cons: It’s a long drive, which can be tiring for the driver. You’ll also need to consider fuel costs, potential tolls, and parking at your destination.
- Tips: Start your journey early in the morning from Dehradun to avoid heavy traffic and make the most of daylight hours for hill driving. Ensure your vehicle is serviced and in good condition before you start.
- Dehradun to Almora by Taxi/Cab:
- Distance: Similar to driving your own car, about 345-350 km.
- Travel Time: Roughly 8 to 10 hours, depending on the service and stops.
- Booking: Taxis can be easily booked from Dehradun. You can find local taxi services, use ride-hailing apps, or arrange through travel agents. Many services offer one-way or round-trip bookings to Almora.
- Pros: It’s a convenient and comfortable option as you don’t have to drive yourself. You can relax and enjoy the scenery. It provides door-to-door service.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than other public transport options, especially for solo travellers.
- Tips: Confirm the fare, including any extra charges like tolls, before starting your journey. Book from a reputable taxi service to ensure safety and reliability.
2. By Bus
Taking a bus is a cost-effective way to travel from Dehradun to Almora, popular among solo travellers and those on a budget.
- Dehradun to Almora by Bus:
- Distance: By road, approximately 345-350 km.
- Travel Time: Bus journeys typically take around 8.5 to 10 hours.
- Starting Point: Buses usually depart from the main ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal) in Dehradun.
- Bus Types: Both government-run buses (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation – UTC) and some private operators offer services. You might find various types, from ordinary to semi-deluxe or AC buses.
- Pros: It’s generally the most affordable mode of transport. Buses offer direct connectivity to Almora.
- Cons: The journey can be quite long, and comfort levels might vary depending on the bus type. Direct luxury buses on this specific route might be less frequent compared to general services.
- Tips: It’s wise to book your bus tickets in advance, especially if you’re travelling during peak seasons. Carry water and snacks, and be prepared for potential delays due to road conditions in the hills.
3. By Train
While Almora does not have its own railway station, you can take a train from Dehradun to a nearby railhead and then continue your journey by road.
- Dehradun to Kathgodam by Train:
- Nearest Railway Station to Almora: Kathgodam (KGM), which is about 90-95 km from Almora.
- Travel Time (Dehradun to Kathgodam): Train journeys from Dehradun to Kathgodam typically take around 7 to 8 hours.
- Key Train: The Kathgodam Dehradun Express (14120) runs daily, connecting Dehradun with Kathgodam.
- Pros: Train travel is often more comfortable and less tiring than a long bus journey. It’s a reliable option and often more scenic than driving through urban areas.
- Cons: You’ll need to arrange for onward travel from Kathgodam to Almora, which adds another leg to your journey.
- Tips: Book your train tickets well in advance, especially for popular routes. Once you arrive at Kathgodam, you’ll find plenty of shared taxis, private cabs, and local buses readily available to take you the remaining distance to Almora. The road journey from Kathgodam to Almora is quite pleasant, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours.
4. By Air (Flight + Road)
Although it’s not the most direct route, flying can be considered for those prioritizing speed for the initial long-distance leg.
- Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport – DED) to Pantnagar Airport (PGH) by Flight:
- Nearest Airport to Almora: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), located about 125 km from Almora.
- Travel Time (Dehradun to Pantnagar): There are no direct flights from Dehradun to Pantnagar. You would typically need to fly from Dehradun to Delhi (Jolly Grant Airport to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport) and then take a connecting flight from Delhi to Pantnagar. This makes the air travel option quite time-consuming and expensive for this specific route.
- Pros: Flying covers the long distance quickly if direct connectivity were available.
- Cons: The lack of direct flights makes this a less practical and more expensive option compared to road or rail. You’ll also still need to cover the significant road distance from Pantnagar to Almora.
- Tips: If you still consider this, check connecting flight schedules carefully, as layovers can add significant travel time. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Almora, which will take another 3 to 4 hours.
Choosing Your Best Way to Travel
When deciding how to get from Dehradun to Almora, consider these points:
- For affordability: The bus is likely your best bet.
- For a balance of comfort and cost: A train to Kathgodam followed by a taxi or bus is a good compromise.
- For maximum flexibility and a scenic journey: Driving your own car or hiring a private taxi offers the most freedom.
Regardless of your choice, the journey from Dehradun to Almora offers a chance to see more of Uttarakhand’s stunning landscapes. Almora awaits with its peaceful charm, and your travel experience will be part of the adventure. Enjoy your trip!
