Are you planning a scenic journey from the administrative town of Pauri Garhwal to the serene hills of Almora? This guide will help you understand all the ways to travel by road, making your trip easy and enjoyable. Almora, nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is famous for its beautiful scenery, unique culture, and calm atmosphere. Let’s find out how you can reach this lovely destination.
Pauri Garhwal to Almora Distance
The road distance between Pauri Garhwal and Almora is approximately 265 kilometers. The travel time typically ranges from 8 hours 30 minutes to 9 hours by road, depending on your mode of transport, road conditions, and any stops you make. This is a considerable inter-district journey through the diverse landscapes of Uttarakhand.
How to Reach Almora from Pauri Garhwal
Due to the mountainous terrain and the connection between these two significant towns in Uttarakhand, road travel is the most direct, common, and convenient way to get from Pauri Garhwal to Almora.
1. By Road: Car or Taxi (Most Common and Convenient)
Travelling by road is the most popular choice for this route, offering stunning views as you traverse different valleys and mountain ranges.
- Pauri Garhwal to Almora by Car:
- Distance: Roughly 265 km.
- Travel Time: The drive usually takes about 8 hours 30 minutes to 9 hours. This can vary based on traffic, especially on narrow stretches, and winding road conditions.
- Route: The journey will take you through various parts of Uttarakhand, likely passing through towns like Srinagar Garhwal, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Gairsain, and Ranikhet or Chaukhutia, before reaching Almora. The roads are generally well-maintained but are winding, typical for mountain regions.
- Pros: You have the freedom to stop whenever you want, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views. It’s an excellent option for families or groups who prefer a private and flexible journey.
- Cons: It’s a relatively long drive that can be tiring. Driving on winding mountain roads requires careful attention.
- Tips: Plan for meal breaks and rest stops. Drive carefully, especially on curves. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for hill driving.
- Pauri Garhwal to Almora by Taxi/Cab:
- Distance: Similar to driving your own car, around 265 km.
- Travel Time: Around 8 hours 30 minutes to 9 hours.
- Booking: Taxis are readily available in Pauri Garhwal. You can book them through local taxi stands or various online cab services.
- Fares for a one-way trip can be substantial given the distance. While specific direct fares for this exact route might vary, using per-kilometer rates for taxis in Almora or Pauri, a sedan could cost around ₹12-₹17 per kilometer, leading to an estimated fare of ₹3,180 to ₹4,505, excluding tolls and other charges. SUV options would be more expensive.
- 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, and a professional driver handles the varied road conditions.
- Cons: Generally the most expensive option, especially for solo travellers.
- Tips: Always confirm the fare, including any extra charges like tolls and driver’s allowance, before starting your journey. Book from a trusted service provider.
2. By Bus (Economical Option)
Taking a bus is a common and economical way to travel from Pauri Garhwal to Almora, though it will be a long journey.
- Pauri Garhwal to Almora by Bus:
- Distance: Approximately 265 km by road.
- Travel Time: Bus journeys typically take around 9 to 12 hours, depending on the number of stops, route taken, and the specific service.
- Starting Point: Buses operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and Kumaon Motor Owners Union Limited (KMOU) are usually available from the Pauri bus stand. Direct buses might be limited, and you might need to take a bus to a major junction like Srinagar Garhwal, Rudraprayag, or even Kathgodam/Haldwani, and then transfer to another bus for Almora.
- Pros: It’s generally a very affordable way to travel.
- Cons: Buses can be less comfortable than private cars, especially on winding roads for long durations. They often make multiple stops, increasing travel time, and schedules might be less frequent for direct routes.
- Tips: Inquire about direct bus timings and availability at the Pauri bus stand. Be prepared for a long journey with multiple transfers if a direct bus is not available. Carry adequate snacks and water.
3. By Train (Not Practical)
Neither Pauri Garhwal nor Almora has its own railway station. The nearest railway station to Pauri is Kotdwar (KTW), approximately 101-108 km away, or Rishikesh. The nearest major railhead to Almora is Kathgodam (KGM), about 80-90 km away.
Therefore, taking a train from Pauri Garhwal to Almora is not a direct or practical option. You would need to take road transport from Pauri to a railway station (like Kotdwar or Rishikesh), then a train to Kathgodam (which would involve further connections), and then again road transport from Kathgodam to Almora. This multi-step process makes it less efficient than a direct road journey.
4. By Air (Not Practical)
Neither Pauri Garhwal nor Almora has an airport suitable for commercial flights for direct travel between them. The nearest major operational airport for Pauri is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, approximately 133-155 km away. The nearest major operational airport for Almora is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), about 115-127 km away. Flying for this route would involve multiple transfers and is not practical or economical.
- Nearest Airport to Pauri Garhwal: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun).
- Nearest Airport to Almora: Pantnagar Airport (PGH).
- Overall: Not a viable option for this inter-district travel.
Choosing Your Best Way to Travel
For travel between Pauri Garhwal and Almora:
- For convenience, comfort, and flexibility: A private car or taxi is the best option, allowing you to enjoy the scenic journey at your own pace.
- For budget travellers: The bus (potentially with one or more transfers) is a reliable and economical choice, though it will be a long trip.
Given the beautiful but lengthy route, traveling by road is the ideal way to experience the diverse landscapes as you move from Pauri Garhwal to the serene hills of Almora. Enjoy your journey:)
