Kelani Village, Syaldey, Almora
Almora,
Uttarakhand
Hidden in the gentle hills of
Syaldey–
Bhikiyasain in
Almora district, Kelani Village (केलनि) is a small but vibrant Kumaoni settlement where life still moves with the rhythm of nature. With its terraced fields, peaceful forests, and close-knit community, Kelani feels like a slice of Uttarakhand that has preserved its simplicity beautifully.
Location & Landscape
Kelani sits on a Himalayan slope surrounded by green fields and forest patches. The landscape is a blend of cultivated terraces, narrow walking trails, and traditional stone houses, the kind that make hill villages feel timeless.
This region enjoys:
- Crisp, cool winters
- Pleasant summers
- A monsoon that paints every field bright green
It’s the kind of place where the scenery shifts with every season, and each shift brings its own charm.
Population & Community Life
Kelani is home to about 34 families. The total population is roughly 186, with women slightly outnumbering men, a rare but heartening trend in many hill regions. There are around 17 young children, showing that the village still carries a lively younger generation. Most families here know each other for generations, and community life is rooted in cooperation, festivals, and shared traditions.
Livelihood & Daily Work
Agriculture is at the core of Kelani’s economy. Out of the total population, about 145 people are involved in some form of work.
Main Highlights:
- A large majority are main workers, meaning they engage in work throughout the year.
- Nearly all main workers are cultivators, relying on their own fields.
- A small section works seasonally or part-time.
Farming here is traditional, not commercial. People grow crops for their household needs, relying on old knowledge passed down through the family. Every season brings its own routine: sowing, harvesting, preparing the fields, or collecting fodder from the forests.
Education & Literacy
Kelani has a commendable literacy rate of around 78%, which is impressive for a remote, small village. Families here value education, and children often walk to nearby schools for their primary and middle-level learning. Older students sometimes travel to larger towns for higher education, a journey that takes determination in these terrains.
Culture & Traditions
Like most Kumaoni villages, Kelani celebrates festivals with warmth and togetherness. Events like Harela, Holi, and local fairs bring the entire community together. Traditional songs, dances, and local rituals still hold a strong place in daily life. Elders often guide village customs, ensuring that the cultural roots remain alive for the coming generations.
Why Kelani Stands Out
Kelani may not be a "big name" on Uttarakhand’s map, but it embodies everything that makes the hills special:
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Strong community bonds
- Traditional agricultural lifestyle
- Scenic natural beauty
- A culture that has survived through generations
It’s the kind of village where visitors feel welcomed, and locals carry a quiet pride in their heritage.
Conclusion
Kelani Village is a reminder that beauty doesn’t always shout. Sometimes, it lives in small places, in terraced fields, shared laughter, narrow pathways, and the everyday rhythms of people who love their land. If you’re exploring the villages of Almora or documenting rural
Uttarakhand, Kelani deserves a place on your list.
