Trip to Almora

It took a whole day to reach Almora. We took an overnight train to Haldwani, and then a 3 hour taxi to Almora. We arrived at Haldwani at Sunrise and Donnaven had his first peak at village life. Safety standards being more lax in India, (especially in 2nd class) we had the priviledge of being able to sit down at the open door of our coach.
We came here to beat the New Delhi summer heat and to try to get a peak of the Himalayas.
The city had an authentic old town. In other places we visited, the old towns had been turned into tourist traps with souvenir shops and touts. In Almora, the old town had local shops and locals residents. It was a refreshing change for us.
We came to Almora in search of the heavenly Himalayas. Unfortunately, it was hazy and or foggy for most of the day. We were only 50-100 kilometers from the Himalayas, but could not see them.
Finally, if by divine intervention, it rained on our last day. Ironically, this served to rid the atmosphere of the haze, so by the end of the afternoon, it was clear and we could finally see the Himalayas! The pictures do them no justice.

While coming back me with my friends went to my village which is located in Pithoragarh. I was visiting that place after a long time. After reaching to my village we took one day rest. Then we all went for fishing and swimming to the near by river. The water was very cold , almost freezing in the morning but later at noon it was quite ok. After fishing and swimming we all lied down on the big rocks taking sun bath. we stayed in my village for one week. That one week was amazing and full of adventures. I'll go back to my village soon and no one in this world can stop me explore my own world.

Trip's date: September 10, (2005)
Submitted date: December 6, (2008)