Welcome to Binsar
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in Uttarakhand's Kumaon region, stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of oak forests. It's a destination that
captures the heart with its promise of over 200 bird species, unobstructed views of majestic Himalayan peaks, and serene trails winding through dense woodlands. With a history that stretches back to before India's independence, Binsar has always been a haven for those seeking tranquility and natural splendor. Currently, its temperatures hover around a pleasant 28°C, offering a much-needed respite from the intense heat experienced in the lower-lying areas. The sanctuary is ideally suited for leisurely walks, soaking in the panoramic vistas, and experiencing the rare and profound feeling of being completely disconnected from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
Journey to Paradise
Reaching the serene escape of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is quite straightforward. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, located approximately 125 kilometers away, and it boasts excellent connectivity with Delhi and other major Indian cities. For air travelers, Pantnagar Airport is the closest option. However, it's advisable to verify flight schedules in advance as services can be inconsistent. For those preferring a road trip, the sanctuary is about a nine-hour drive from Delhi, offering a scenic journey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Charming Stays
Binsar offers a curated selection of accommodations, each providing a unique experience. The Mary Budden Estate stands out as the most luxurious option within the sanctuary, ideal for travelers seeking refined interiors, cozy fireplaces, and exclusive privacy amidst the verdant forest. Its setting is truly spectacular, and the sense of seclusion is almost unparalleled, with doubles starting from Rs47,200 including all meals. Nine Furlongs, a historical property built in the 19th century as a summer retreat, comprises cottages spread across different peaks for ultimate privacy, offering uninterrupted views of Trisul, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Panchachuli peaks. These cottages feature traditional stone and slate exteriors, wood-paneled floors, fireplaces, and wraparound porches, running entirely on solar power, with doubles from Rs25,000 inclusive of meals and activities. For a taste of colonial heritage, the Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, formerly Sir Henry Ramsay's residence, offers vintage décor and breathtaking Himalayan vistas, plus the renowned Kumaoni thali; doubles begin at Rs.6,824. Binsar Forest Retreat, an eco-friendly property situated about 8km into the sanctuary, provides rooms, cottages, and tents named after local flora and fauna, all solar-powered, with options for a village stay experience, from Rs13,800. Imperial Heights Binsar, inspired by Kumaon's natural beauty, blends colonial and traditional architecture with rooms featuring natural stone and local wood art, with doubles from Rs6,700. Lastly, The Himalayan Woods offers a cozy wooden cabin experience on the Kasar Devi ridge, with rooms opening to mountain views and offering yoga, meditation, and live music, with doubles from Rs3,900.
Adventures Await
Binsar's true magic lies in its trails, inviting exploration on foot. A leisurely kilometre-long walk from the main temple grounds leads to the Forest Dak Bungalow, offering a beautiful sunset view. For a cultural immersion, pack a picnic and spend half a day visiting local villages like Dalar, Katdhara, or Gonap for a glimpse into rural Kumaoni life. For the most breathtaking vistas, embark on the two-kilometre semi-steep hike to Zero Point, the sanctuary's highest altitude at 8,000ft, which on a clear day presents a sweeping panorama of the Himalayas extending from Kumaon and Garhwal all the way to Nepal. History enthusiasts should visit the 11th-century Binsar Mahadev Temple and the adjacent Parvati Temple, located at the sanctuary's core. A quieter, more secluded path is the three-kilometre winding walk towards Jauljibi, where one might encounter wildlife like barking deer or spot rare birds such as the koklass pheasant. A short excursion, about 18km from the sanctuary, takes you to Kasar Devi, a spot once known as Crank's Ridge, where you can visit the Kasar Temple and Swami Vivekananda's Meditation Rock.
Local Flavors & Finds
Within the sanctuary, dining is best experienced at your accommodation. Simba Café, near the main temple, is a charming spot offering good snacks and drinks with lovely sunset views. During the summer and autumn seasons, keep an eye out for temporary roadside stalls selling popular Maggi noodles, tea, and refreshing rhododendron juice. For an authentic Kumaoni thali, pre-ordering at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor is highly recommended. In Kasar Devi, which is popular with backpackers, Rainbow serves delicious Tibetan momos, and Mohan's is known for its quality cappuccinos. When it comes to shopping, Binsar offers delightful local produce like organic jams, jellies, plum chutneys, apricot jam, and rhododendron squash – the state flower – available at the accommodations or roadside shops. The forest department's souvenir shop at the sanctuary gate is a good place to browse local artwork. In Kasar Devi, Mohan's café and the nearby Tara's shop stock beautifully packaged cosmetics from SOS Organics. Don't miss Kilmora, a women's collective store on the ridge, offering hand-knitted woolens and other handcrafted items.
