Almora

Infobox Indian Jurisdiction
native_name = Almora
type = city
latd = 29.62 | longd = 79.67
state_name = Uttarakhand
district = Almora
leader_title =
leader_name =
altitude = 1651
population_as_of = 2001
population_total = 30,613
population_density = 155
area_magnitude= 5385 sq. km
area_total =
area_telephone = 91-5962
climate = Alpine (BSh) and Humid subtropical(Bsh)
precip =
temp_annual = 28 - -2
temp_winter = 15 - -2
temp_summer = 28 - 12
postal_code = 263601
vehicle_code_range =
sex_ratio = 862
unlocode =
vehicle_code_range = UA-01
website = almora.nic.in
footnotes =

Almora (Hindi: अल्मोड़ा) is a cantonment town in the Almora district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Almora was founded in 1568. [ [http://www.kmvn.org/aboutkumaontouristsspots.aspx#almora Almora history] ]

It is a town bustling with activity and a rich cultural heritage and history. It is considered the cultural heart of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.

Geography

Almora is located at coord|29.62|N|79.67|E|. [ [http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/39/Almora.html Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Almora] ] It has an average elevation of 1,651 metres (5,417 feet). It is located on a ridge at the southern edge of the Kumaon Hills of the Himalaya range. In the shape of a horse saddle shaped hillock, it is surrounded by thick forests of pine and fir trees, flowing alongside the city are rivers of Koshi(Kaushiki) and Suyal(salmale). The snow capped Himalayas can be seen in the background.

Demographics

According to the 2001 India census, [GR|India] Almora had a population of 30,613. Males number 16,443 and constitute roughly 53.7% of the population and females number 14,170 or roughly 46.3%. Almora has an average literacy rate of 84.09%, higher than the national average of 59.5%; with 86.39% of the males and 81.43% of females literate. Nearly 10% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Quotes

"These mountains are associated with the best memories of our race: Here, therefore, must be one of centers, not merely of activity, but more of calmness of meditation, and of peace and I hope some one to realize it."- Swami Vivekananda(replying to the address given to him by the people of Almora.)"In these hills, nature's hospitality eclipses all men can ever do. The enchanting beauties of the Himalayas, their bracing climate and the soothing green that envelopes you leaves nothing more to be desired. I wonder whether the scenery of these hills and the climate are to be surpassed, if equalled, by any of the beauty spots of the world. After having been nearly three weeks in Almora Hills, I am more than ever amazed why our people need go in Europe in search of health."- Mahatma Gandhi

Famous Personalities

American Actress Uma Thurman spent large parts of her childhood in Almora.

Temples

Almora has many famous temples. Kasar Devi, Banari Devi, Chitai, Jageshwar, Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple(near Sanara Ganiya), Binsar Mahadev, Garhnath and Baijnath are some of the few notable places.

Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated on the bank of the river Ram Ganga. A sun temple (only the second in the world) is located at Katarmal within a short distance from the town.

District Administration

Presently District administration is headed by District Magistrate who is also the head of the Civil Service in the entire district. However, the District Magistrate is subservient to the District Judge. The District Magistrate is empowered to decide on issues relating to public law and order and general administration. Under the District Magistrate are Additional District Magistrate and Sub-divisional Magistrates. The number of sub-divisional magistrates vary from district to district. Presently there are nine sub-divisions in Almora district.

References

External links

* [http://almora.nic.in Official Website of Almora district]
* [http://www.uttarakhand.com/tourism/travel/almora.html The unofficial guide to visiting Almora]