Almora. A letter addressed to the Chairman of the Sixth State Finance Commission has urged that Almora town be declared a “City of Temples” and a “Heritage Town” on the lines of Varanasi. The letter emphasizes that Almora, once the capital of the Chand rulers and with a cultural legacy of over 500 years, is world-famous for its unique traditions, temples, and heritage.
Focus on Disaster Management and Infrastructure
The letter highlights that due to the growing population and lack of proper drainage, Almora has become vulnerable to natural disasters. Drawing lessons from incidents like Joshimath, the town urgently needs to be equipped with sewer lines and a modern drainage system to safeguard lives and property in case of natural calamities.
Call to Recognize Almora as a “City of Temples”
The demand points out that Almora is not only a cultural hub but also a center of deep religious faith. Renowned temples like Jageshwar’s group of Shiva temples, Ashta Bhairav, Nava Durga, and the Kasar Devi Sun Temple are internationally significant. These heritage sites make Almora fully deserving of the title “City of Temples.”
Heritage Status to Boost Global Identity
The appeal further notes that Almora, with its rich history as the Chand capital and its cultural prominence, fully qualifies to be declared a “Heritage Town.” Such recognition, coupled with the development of world-class infrastructure, would allow domestic and international tourists to truly experience Almora as a living cultural treasure.
Urgent Need for a Special Package
The letter stresses that Almora requires a special package to both safeguard it from disasters and to transform it into a global heritage destination. Declaring Almora as a Heritage Town and City of Temples, it says, would not only bring pride to the local residents but also mark a historic milestone for future generations.
The people of Almora have appealed to the state government to announce this recognition from the sacred courtyard of Maa Nanda Devi, giving the town the rightful status it has long deserved.
