Binsar - a charming hill station in Uttarakhand

Overview

A small hilly town in Kumano hills of Uttarakhand, Binsar is renowned for its beautiful countryside and pristine natural environs. Located at a distance of 35 km away from Almora, Binsar is also popular for its forest reserve and bird sanctuary. Set at an elevation of 2,480 metres above sea level, amidst oak, pine, deodar and rhododendron forests, Binsar provides a welcome respite to people living in plains. Get the wonderful views of the noted Himalayan peaks from vantage points in Binsar. Besides its natural beauty, Binsar is also known for its historic connection. Binsar has served as the capital of Chanda Raj rules from between 7th century AD to 8th century AD. Plan a trip to Binsar to enjoy a relaxing vacation in the lap of nature. Also get a fine glimpse of the region’s rich past by visiting the historic spots including archeological sites.

Binsar Camping Site

Fast Facts

Main Languages: Garhwali as well as Hindi is widely spoken by the locals.

When to Go: Binsar enjoys a soothing climate almost all around the year. Summer season (April to June) is quite comfortable, while winter season (November to Februar) is chilly. Don’t forget to carry sufficient woolen clothes while visiting Binsar during winters. Light woolen is required during summers, especially in nights.

Local Transport: Thee town and nearby areas can be explored by car / taxi. You can also take leisurely strolls to cover major spots of Binsar.

Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) 1 USD is approximately 48 INR

Voltage: 230V / 50Hz

Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (UTC +5:30)

Location: Jhandi Dhar Hills in Uttarakhand

Altitude: 2,480 metres above sea level

Nearest Metropolis: New Delhi – 380 km away

Eating

North Indian cuisine is usually served by the eateries in and around Binsar. Don’t forget to savour the traditional Kumaoni cuisine, known for its unique aroma. You can find Kumaoni cuisine at small food stalls as well as restaurants in the guest houses and resorts.

Shopping

Shopping in Binsar revolves around locally manufactured handicrafts especially wooden items. Pick up the beautifully carved crafts to carry as a souvenir of Binsar trip. Don’t expect about fixed market or shops in Binsar. You will find vendors around Binsar, who sells a variety of items at impressive rates. Do little bargaining and get the items at cheap prices.

Sightseeing

When talked about sightseeing, every nook and corner of Binsar is an attraction in itself. Situated about 2,400 metres above sea level, Binsar provides a fine opportunity to closely observe the unspoiled nature that is more than sightseeing. However, if you are looking for some specific sightseeing hotspots, then Binsar will not disappoint you.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is the prime attraction of the town. Set up in 1988, the wildlife sanctuary spreads over an area of 45.59 sq. km and provides shelter to plenty of plant and animal species, and more than 200 bird species. Besides wildlife viewing, you can enjoy magnificent view of the Himalayan peaks from the wildlife sanctuary. Zero Point is the best place in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary to get the amazing views of noted Himalayan peaks, namely Nanda Devi, Kedarnath and Trishul. Binsar Museum is another highlight inside the sanctuary that exhibits flora and fauna of the region, and also provides handy information about the sanctuary.

After exploring the wildlife sanctuary, visit the temples and other attractions in and around Binsar. Just 4 km from Binsar is the temple of Golu Devta, which is famous all over Kumaon region. Also pay a visit to Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, about 8 km away from Binsar. Built in the 16th century, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at a distance of 9 km from Binsar, Kasar Devi Temple is a popular spot among visitors, especially foreigners. Kasar Devi Temple was the house for Dutch Monk (from 1970 – 80) and it is said that the hippie culture got popularity from this temple.

Khali Estate, once the residence of the commissioner of Kumaon (from 1856 to 1884) is now a resort and deserves a visit. The region around Binsar encompasses a rich history, even today you can get a glimpse of the bygone era by visiting the archaeological spots.

Activities

Usually visitors to Binsar spend hours in exploring the famous spots on foot and enjoy a splendid view of the natural surroundings. There are numerous nature trails around Binsar that are ideal for short to long treks. While walking along the trails, you can see colourful birds. Also enjoy breathtaking view of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain ranges from Binsar. The town is home to a well-managed forest reserve, where you can see a variety of floral and faunal species including avian species. Remember to carry a pair of binoculars to get a close view of the birds found in the area. You may also carry a good book for identification of birds.

Events

People in and around Binsar celebrate many festivals round the year. Besides regional and national festivals, people celebrate temple festivals on some specific days of the year. Try to participate in local festivals or events if they fall during your visit. You will get a better understanding of local culture and traditions by seeing the festivities.

Nightlife

Enjoy a bonfire or campfire in the premises of your hotel (guest house). You can also arrange a small party in the night. Apart from these, Binsar doesn’t have any specific nightlife option. It’s better to stay in the hotel (guest house) after the sunset.

Excursions

During Binsar trip, you can take visit nearby tourist attractions by undertaking short excursions. About 35 km away from Binsar is the beautiful town of Almora. One of the famous hilly towns of Uttarakhand, Almora is renowned for its unmatched natural beauty, exquisite handicrafts, rich cultural heritage and varied wildlife. Nanda Devi Temple is a major attraction of Almora that draws visitors in large numbers. You can also visit the hill stations of Nainital and Ranikhet. Kausani, Jageshwar or Chowkori, Bhimtal and Sattal are other popular destinations close to Binsar.

Getting There

Air: The nearest major airport is located in New Delhi, about 380 km away. IGI Airport in New Delhi is well-connected to many cities in India as well as abroad. From IGI Airport taxis / cars can be hired for Binsar. Pantnagar Airport (127 km) is another airport close to Binsar, which is served by limited flight.

Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station, approximately 100 km away from Binsar. Kathgodam Railway Station has trains from New Delhi and other cities of North India. From the railway station, you can hire a cab to reach Binsar.

Road: State Highway No 37 connects Binsar with popular destinations in Uttarakhand and North India. Buses of Uttarakhand Road Transport ply to Almore, from there you can hire a taxi or cab to reach Binsar.   

Driving directions: From Delhi – Start from Anand Vihar and take Ghazipur Road. Take a right on Grand Trunk Road (NH 24), followed by NH 58 and SH 39. Further you have to proceed onto NH 24 that connects further with NH 87. After crossing NH 87E take SH 37 to reach Binsar (380 km, 10 hours approx).

Recommended for:

Top 5 Must See

Zero Point: Situated inside Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point is the highest vantage point in Almora district. You can get the best view of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks and beautiful surroundings from this vantage point.

Pariyadeva-Pashan: A popular vantage point in Binsar, Pariyadeva-Pashan offers breathtaking view of the town and nearby areas. The point also houses a stone with cup marks that belongs to the megalithic age.