Are you planning a journey from Lalkuan to the beautiful hill station of Almora? This guide will help you understand all the easy ways to travel, making your trip simple and enjoyable. Almora, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is famous for its beautiful scenery, unique culture, and calm atmosphere.
Lalkuan to Almora Distance
The road distance between Lalkuan and Almora is approximately 108 to 113 kilometers. This makes it a moderately short and convenient trip. The travel time typically ranges from 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours by road, depending on your mode of transport, road conditions, and any stops you make.
How to Reach Almora from Lalkuan
Lalkuan is a significant railway junction and a good starting point for your journey into the Kumaon hills. You have several convenient options for getting to Almora.
1. By Road: Car or Taxi (Most Recommended)
Travelling by road is a popular and efficient way to get from Lalkuan to Almora. The drive is scenic as you ascend into the mountains.
- Lalkuan to Almora by Car:
- Distance: Roughly 108 to 113 km.
- Travel Time: The drive usually takes about 3 hours 25 minutes to 3 hours 32 minutes, or sometimes up to 4 hours. This can vary based on traffic in Lalkuan and the winding mountain roads.
- Route: You’ll typically head north from Lalkuan, often joining the route that passes through Haldwani and then ascends towards Almora via scenic mountain roads.
- Pros: You have the freedom to stop whenever you want, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery at your own pace. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer a private and flexible journey.
- Cons: You’ll need to consider fuel costs and potential tolls. Driving on winding mountain roads requires careful attention.
- Tips: Start your journey during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and for safer driving on mountain roads.
- Lalkuan to Almora by Taxi/Cab:
- Distance: Similar to driving your own car, around 108-113 km.
- Travel Time: Around 3 hours 25 minutes to 4 hours.
- Booking: Taxis are readily available in Lalkuan, especially near the railway station. You can book them through local taxi stands or online taxi services like MakeMyTrip or Gozocabs. One-way taxi fares can start from ₹2,199 to ₹3,464 for a sedan, and up to ₹5,202 for an SUV, depending on the car type and service provider.
- Pros: Very convenient as a professional driver handles the driving, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Offers comfortable door-to-door service.
- Cons: Generally more expensive than public bus or shared taxi options, especially for solo travellers.
- Tips: Always confirm the fare, including any potential extra charges like tolls, before starting your journey. Shared taxis are often available for a more budget-friendly option.
2. By Bus (Most Economical)
Taking a bus is an economical and practical way to travel from Lalkuan to Almora.
- Lalkuan to Almora by Bus:
- Distance: Approximately 108-113 km by road.
- Travel Time: Bus journeys typically take around 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Starting Point: Buses generally depart from Lalkuan, often connecting via Haldwani. Haldwani is a major bus hub (about 22 km from Lalkuan), and you’ll find frequent buses from Haldwani to Almora.
- Bus Types: You’ll find both non-AC and AC buses, often operated by the Kumaon Motor Owners Union Limited (KMOU) or Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC). Fares for non-AC buses from Haldwani to Almora start from around ₹230.
- Pros: It’s generally the most affordable way to travel.
- Cons: Can be less comfortable than a private taxi, and space for luggage might be limited.
- Tips: You might take a short local taxi/auto or train from Lalkuan to Haldwani bus stand for more frequent direct buses to Almora, or inquire directly at Lalkuan bus stand for Almora-bound buses.
3. By Train (Not Directly Possible, but Lalkuan is a Key Railhead)
Almora does not have its own railway station. While Lalkuan (LKU) is a major railway junction, you cannot reach Almora directly by train. However, Lalkuan is one of the closest and best-connected railway stations to Almora.
- Nearest Railway Station to Almora: Kathgodam (KGM), which is approximately 82-95 km from Almora. Lalkuan (LKU) is also a very close and important railhead, often serving as an alternative or supplementary station for trains heading to or from Kathgodam.
- Travel from Lalkuan to Almora (after arrival by train): If you arrive at Lalkuan by train from another city, you’ll need to continue your journey by road. Shared taxis, private cabs, and local buses are readily available from Lalkuan (or a short ride away at Kathgodam) to Almora.
- Train Fares (Lalkuan to Kathgodam, if needed): Many trains from various parts of India pass through Lalkuan and terminate at Kathgodam. The train journey from Lalkuan to Kathgodam is very short, often less than an hour. For example, some trains take around 55 minutes.
- Pros: If you’re coming from a distant city, reaching Lalkuan by train can be comfortable.
- Cons: You will always need to transfer to a road vehicle for the final leg to Almora.
4. By Air (Not Applicable for direct travel)
Almora does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 115-127 km from Almora. While Lalkuan is relatively close to Pantnagar Airport (around 30-40 km), flying directly from Lalkuan to Almora is not an option.
- Travel from Pantnagar Airport to Almora: If you fly into Pantnagar, you would then take a taxi to Almora. The taxi ride from Pantnagar to Almora takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
Choosing Your Best Way to Travel
Your ideal way to reach Almora from Lalkuan depends on what matters most to you:
- For quickness and comfort: Hiring a private taxi or driving your own car is the best option.
- For budget travellers: The local bus is the most economical and direct choice.
- If arriving by train from a distant city: Lalkuan is an excellent disembarking point, and then a taxi or bus for the onward journey to Almora.
No matter which way you choose, the journey from Lalkuan to Almora will be a pleasant one through the scenic Kumaon foothills, leading you to a charming destination known for its cultural richness and natural beauty. Enjoy your travels to the serene hills of Almora:)
