Are you planning a spiritual pilgrimage to Badrinath and then thinking of heading to the serene 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. Badrinath, a highly revered Hindu pilgrimage site, is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas and is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations.
Badrinath to Almora Distance
The road distance between Badrinath and Almora is quite significant, approximately 285 to 297 kilometers. This is a long journey through the challenging but incredibly scenic mountain roads of Uttarakhand. The travel time typically ranges from 5 hours 24 minutes to 9 hours 30 minutes by road, depending on your mode of transport, road conditions, and the number of stops you make. Due to the long travel time, it’s often recommended to start early in the day.
How to Reach Almora from Badrinath
Due to the distance and mountainous terrain, road travel is the primary option.
1. By Road: Car or Taxi (Most Recommended)
Travelling by road is the most common and efficient way to get from Badrinath to Almora. The drive is incredibly scenic, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the changing landscapes.
- Badrinath to Almora by Car:
- Distance: Roughly 285 to 297 km.
- Travel Time: The drive usually takes about 5 hours 24 minutes to 6 hours 50 minutes, though some estimates go up to 9 hours 30 minutes due to the challenging terrain and winding roads. This can vary significantly based on road conditions, traffic (especially during pilgrimage seasons), and your speed.
- Route: The route involves traversing significant parts of the Garhwal and Kumaon regions. You’ll likely pass through towns like Joshimath, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and then continue towards Almora via places like Gairsain or other internal Kumaon routes. The roads are mostly well-maintained, but be prepared for winding mountain roads.
- Pros: You have complete flexibility to stop for breaks, meals, and to enjoy the stunning landscapes at your leisure. It’s the most comfortable option for such a long mountain journey.
- Cons: Driving on winding mountain roads for an extended period requires an experienced driver and careful attention. Fuel costs will be a significant factor.
- Tips: It’s highly recommended to start your journey early in the morning to avoid potential traffic, reach Almora before dark, and make the most of the daylight hours for sightseeing. Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition.
- Badrinath to Almora by Taxi/Cab:
- Distance: Similar to driving your own car, around 285-297 km.
- Travel Time: Around 5 hours 24 minutes to 9 hours 30 minutes.
- Booking: Taxis are readily available in Badrinath, especially during the pilgrimage season. You can book them through local taxi stands or online services. One-way taxi fares can range from ₹2,894 to ₹5,500, depending on the car type (hatchback, sedan, SUV) and the service provider. For an SUV, fares can go higher.
- Pros: Very convenient as a professional driver handles the long and sometimes challenging mountain drive, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Offers comfortable door-to-door service.
- Cons: Generally more expensive than public bus options, especially for solo travellers, but often worth it for the comfort and safety on this route.
- Tips: Always confirm the fare, including any potential extra charges like tolls, driver allowance, and night charges, before starting your journey. Given the distance, discuss whether it will be a continuous journey or if any overnight stop is planned by the driver.
2. By Bus (Economical Option, but may involve transfers)
While there might not be direct, frequent buses from Badrinath all the way to Almora, you can piece together a bus journey.
- Badrinath to Almora by Bus:
- Distance: Approximately 285-297 km by road.
- Travel Time: Bus journeys will take significantly longer than a private vehicle, likely 8 to 12 hours, due to multiple stops and potential transfers.
- Starting Point: You would typically find buses from Badrinath to major hubs like Rishikesh or Haridwar. From there, you would need to take another bus towards Almora (often via Haldwani or Kathgodam).
- Bus Types: You’ll find local government-run buses (like Uttarakhand Transport Corporation, UTC) or private buses. These are generally non-AC.
- Pros: It’s the most affordable way to travel, with fares being considerably lower than taxis.
- Cons: It will be a much longer and less comfortable journey, likely requiring transfers. Space for luggage might be limited. Buses might not run on a very frequent schedule directly between Badrinath and Almora, making intermediate stops or transfers necessary.
- Tips: Inquire locally at the Badrinath bus stand or major towns like Joshimath about bus routes and timings towards major hubs that connect to Almora. Be prepared for a long day of travel.
3. By Train (Not Applicable)
Neither Badrinath nor Almora has its own railway station.
- Nearest Railway Station to Badrinath: Rishikesh (RKSH), which is approximately 295 km from Badrinath.
- Nearest Railway Station to Almora: Kathgodam (KGM), which is approximately 82-95 km from Almora.
Therefore, taking a train from Badrinath to Almora is not a direct or practical option. It would involve multiple long road journeys to and from the respective railway stations, making it an extremely time-consuming and inefficient way to travel.
4. By Air (Not Applicable for direct travel)
Neither Badrinath nor Almora has an airport.
- Nearest Airport to Badrinath: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) (DED), approximately 300 km from Badrinath.
- Nearest Airport to Almora: Pantnagar Airport (PGH), approximately 115-127 km from Almora.
Therefore, flying between Badrinath and Almora is not a practical direct option. It would involve taking a taxi/helicopter from Badrinath to Jolly Grant/Phata, then flying, and then another taxi to Almora, which would be very expensive and not necessarily faster than a direct taxi by road.
Choosing Your Best Way to Travel
Your ideal way to reach Almora from Badrinath depends on what matters most to you:
- For comfort, speed, and convenience: Hiring a private taxi is by far the best option, especially considering the challenging mountain roads and long distance.
- For budget travellers: The bus is the most economical choice, but be prepared for a longer journey with potential transfers.
No matter which way you choose, the journey from the spiritual heights of Badrinath to the cultural charm of Almora will be an unforgettable one through the majestic landscapes of Uttarakhand. Enjoy your travels:)