Are you planning to journey from the holy city of Haridwar to the serene hill station of Almora? This guide will make it easy for you to understand all the ways to travel, ensuring a smooth and pleasant trip. Almora, nestled in the Kumaon region, is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and peaceful environment. Let’s find out how you can reach this beautiful destination.
Haridwar to Almora Distance
The road distance between Haridwar and Almora is approximately 295 to 315 kilometers. The travel time typically ranges from 7 to 9 hours, depending on your mode of transport, road conditions, and how many breaks you take along the way.
How to Reach Almora from Haridwar
You have several choices for getting from Haridwar to Almora. Each option has its own benefits, whether you prioritize comfort, cost, or speed.
1. By Road: Car or Taxi
Travelling by road is a popular choice for this route, offering a chance to enjoy the scenic landscapes as you transition from the plains to the hills.
- Haridwar to Almora by Car:
- Distance: Roughly 295-315 km.
- Travel Time: The drive usually takes about 7 to 9 hours. This can vary based on traffic and the number of stops you make.
- Route: The most common route will take you through towns like Najibabad, Kashipur, and then towards Kathgodam/Haldwani, and finally up to Almora. The initial part of the journey is on relatively flat highways, but as you approach the Kumaon region, the roads become winding and offer breathtaking views of the mountains.
- Pros: You have the freedom to stop whenever you want, take photos, and explore small towns. It’s an excellent option for families or groups who prefer a private and flexible journey.
- Cons: It’s a long drive, which can be tiring for the person driving, especially on the winding mountain roads. You’ll also need to consider fuel costs, tolls, and parking.
- Tips: It’s a good idea to start early in the morning from Haridwar to avoid city traffic and enjoy the pleasant weather in the hills. Make sure your car is in good condition, especially the brakes and tires, for mountain driving.
- Haridwar to Almora by Taxi/Cab:
- Distance: Similar to driving your own car, around 295-315 km.
- Travel Time: Around 7 to 9 hours, depending on the service and stops.
- Booking: Taxis are readily available in Haridwar. You can book them through local taxi stands, online taxi services, or through your hotel. Many services offer one-way or round-trip options to Almora. You can expect taxi fares for a sedan to start around ₹6500 for a one-way trip.
- Pros: Very convenient as you don’t have to worry about driving. You can simply relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It offers comfortable door-to-door service.
- Cons: Generally more expensive than public transport options, especially for solo travelers.
- Tips: Always confirm the fare, including any extra charges like tolls or night driving fees, before starting your journey. Book from a trusted service provider.
2. By Bus
Taking a bus is an economical and practical way to travel from Haridwar to Almora, especially for budget-conscious travellers.
- Haridwar to Almora by Bus:
- Distance: Approximately 295-315 km by road.
- Travel Time: Bus journeys typically take around 8 to 10 hours.
- Starting Point: Buses usually depart from the main Haridwar Bus Stand (Roadways Bus Stand).
- Bus Types: You’ll find both government-run buses (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation – UTC) and some private buses. These range from ordinary (non-AC) to semi-deluxe or AC buses.
- Pros: It’s generally the most affordable way to travel. Buses offer direct connectivity to Almora or require a simple change at a major hub like Haldwani or Kathgodam.
- Cons: The journey can be long and sometimes less comfortable, particularly on ordinary buses. Schedules can occasionally be delayed.
- Tips: Book your tickets in advance, especially during festive seasons or holidays. For a more comfortable journey, inquire about AC or semi-sleeper buses. Carry enough water and snacks for the trip.
3. By Train
While Almora doesn’t have a railway station, you can take a train from Haridwar to the nearest railhead and then continue your journey by road.
- Haridwar to Kathgodam by Train:
- Nearest Railway Station to Almora: Kathgodam (KGM), located about 90-95 km from Almora. Haldwani is another nearby station.
- Travel Time (Haridwar to Kathgodam): Train journeys from Haridwar to Kathgodam typically take around 5 to 7 hours.
- Key Trains: The Dehradun Kathgodam Express (14120) runs daily and is a convenient option. There might be other connecting trains or trains from nearby stations like Laksar Junction.
- Pros: Train travel is often more comfortable and relaxing than a long bus journey, allowing you to move around. It’s generally a safe and reliable option.
- Cons: You will need to arrange for onward travel from Kathgodam to Almora, adding an extra step to your journey.
- Tips: Book your train tickets well in advance, especially if you’re travelling during peak times, as seats can fill up quickly. Once you reach Kathgodam, you’ll easily find shared taxis, private cabs, and local buses that will take you the remaining 2.5 to 3 hours to Almora.
4. By Air (Flight + Road)
This is generally not a practical or recommended option for traveling from Haridwar to Almora due to the lack of direct flights and the significant road journey still involved.
- Haridwar (Jolly Grant Airport – DED) to Pantnagar Airport (PGH):
- There are no direct flights from Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, which serves Haridwar) to Pantnagar Airport. You would need to fly from Dehradun to Delhi and then take a connecting flight to Pantnagar. This makes the air travel segment much longer and more complicated than other options.
- Nearest Airport to Almora: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 125 km from Almora.
- Pros: While flying usually offers speed for long distances, the multiple connections make it less efficient for this specific route.
- Cons: This is the most expensive and time-consuming option due to the indirect flight path. Even after landing at Pantnagar, you still have a 3-4 hour road journey to Almora.
- Tips: For this route, considering the overall time and cost, it’s almost always better to choose road or train travel directly from Haridwar to Kathgodam, followed by a taxi or bus to Almora.
Choosing Your Best Way to Travel
Your ideal way to reach Almora from Haridwar depends on what matters most to you:
- For budget travellers: The bus is usually the most economical choice.
- For comfort and a balanced journey: A combination of train to Kathgodam and then a taxi or bus is a good option.
- For maximum flexibility and a direct route: Hiring a private taxi or driving your own car gives you the most control.
No matter which way you choose, the journey from Haridwar to Almora will lead you to a charming destination known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking natural beauty. Enjoy your travels to the serene hills of Almora!
