These mountains are associated with the best memories of our race: Here, therefore, must be one of centres, not merely of activity, but more of calmness of meditation, and of peace and I hope some one to realize it.- Swami Vivekananda
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. Almora got its name from “Kilmora” a short plant found nearby region., which was used for washing the utensils of Katarmal Temple. The people bringing Kilmora were called Kilmori and later “Almori”and the place came to be known as “Almora”.
It considered the cultural heart of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.