Nestled in the peaceful Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Binsar is a beautiful village that provides a calm getaway from the noise of city life. Once the summer capital of the Chand Dynasty, Binsar has a fascinating history. Today, it’s known for its wildlife sanctuary, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature. In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about Binsar: How to reach, Places to visit, Hotels, Activities, Temperature, and more.
How to reach Binsar
Reaching Binsar, a serene hill station in Uttarakhand, can be done by various modes of transport:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Binsar is Pantnagar Airport, located approximately 152 km away. There are daily flights connecting Pantnagar to Delhi. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi to reach Binsar.
- By Rail: Kathgodam Railway Station is the closest railhead to Binsar, situated about 119-120 km away. Kathgodam has good connectivity with major cities like Lucknow, Kolkata, and Delhi. There are two trains that run daily between Delhi and Kathgodam. Upon reaching Kathgodam, taxis and buses are readily available to take you to Binsar.
- By Road: Binsar is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations of the Kumaon region and cities of northern India. Buses to Haldwani, Nainital, and Almora can be found at ISBT Anand Vihar, Delhi. From these places, taxis to Binsar are easily accessible. The journey from Delhi to Binsar by road covers approximately 380 km.
Please note that if you’re driving to Binsar on your own, there is an entry fee of Rs. 50. The roads in Kumaon are smooth and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable drive.
Delhi to Binsar Google Map Route
Places to visit in Binsar
Here are some places you should consider visiting in Binsar:
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is the highlight of the region, encompassing a vast area of oak and rhododendron forests. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, and numerous bird species.
- Zero Point: Located within the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point offers panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. It’s a perfect spot for a serene picnic and to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets.
- Khali Estate: This estate is known for its sprawling gardens and colonial bungalows. It offers a glimpse into the colonial past of the region and provides a peaceful ambiance for leisurely walks.
- Mary Budden Estate: A heritage property nestled amidst oak and rhododendron forests, Mary Budden Estate offers luxurious accommodation and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and relaxation.
- Kasar Devi Temple: Situated near Binsar, Kasar Devi Temple is a sacred site known for its spiritual significance and stunning views of the Himalayas. It has attracted spiritual seekers and artists from around the world.
- Bineshwar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Bineshwar Temple is located in Binsar and is surrounded by serene surroundings. It’s a peaceful place for meditation and offers beautiful views of the valley below.
- Gairar Golu Temple: Another ancient temple in the region, Gairar Golu Temple is revered by locals and offers a tranquil setting amidst nature.
- Munsiyari: While not exactly in Binsar, Munsiyari is a picturesque hill station located nearby, known for its majestic views of the Panchachuli peaks and opportunities for trekking and adventure sports.
- Bageshwar: Another nearby town, Bageshwar is famous for its temples and scenic beauty. It serves as a gateway to many trekking trails and pilgrimage sites in the region.
- Almora: Just a short drive away from Binsar, Almora is a charming hill station known for its rich cultural heritage, temples, and vibrant markets. It’s a great place to explore the local culture and indulge in some shopping.
Binsar Hotels & Resorts
Binsar offers a range of accommodation options, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some hotels in Binsar:
1. Club Mahindra Binsar Valley Resort:
Located amidst oak and rhododendron forests, this resort offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the Himalayas. It also has a restaurant, indoor games, and outdoor activities.
2. Imperial Heights Binsar:
This boutique hotel offers cozy rooms with traditional décor and breathtaking views of the valley. It has a multi-cuisine restaurant, bonfire facilities, and guided nature walks.
3. Mary Budden Estate:
A heritage property offering luxurious accommodation in colonial-style cottages surrounded by pristine forests. Guests can enjoy personalized services, delicious meals, and serene surroundings.
4. Kasar Himalaya Holiday Home:
Situated near the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities. It provides a peaceful ambiance and easy access to nearby attractions.
5. The Kumaon:
Located in Kasar Devi, a short distance from Binsar, The Kumaon is a luxury boutique hotel offering contemporary design, panoramic views, and impeccable hospitality. It’s an ideal retreat for discerning travelers seeking tranquility and comfort.
6. Grand Oak Manor:
This colonial-style property offers elegant rooms with modern amenities and panoramic views of the Himalayas. It has a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine.
7. Binsar Eco Camp:
For those seeking a unique experience, Binsar Eco Camp offers Swiss tents with basic amenities amidst nature. It’s an eco-friendly accommodation option with bonfire facilities and guided nature walks.
8. Suman Nature Resort:
Nestled amidst pine and oak forests, this resort offers comfortable rooms with beautiful views of the valley. It has a multi-cuisine restaurant, indoor games, and outdoor activities like trekking and birdwatching.
9. Xomotel Ranikhet Heights:
Located in Ranikhet, which is not far from Binsar, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a convenient base for exploring both Binsar and Ranikhet.
10. Binsar Eco Resort:
Situated near the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, this eco-friendly resort offers cottages and tents with basic amenities. It provides a peaceful retreat amidst nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
ALSO READ: Top 10 Adventure Sports in Uttarakhand for Thrill-Seekers
Binsar Temperature
Binsar experiences a temperate climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. However, the temperature can vary significantly between seasons.
- Summer (March to June): In summer, it’s warm but not too hot, with temperatures between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). It’s great for exploring nature, like hiking and seeing wildlife.
- Monsoon (July to September): During the monsoon, it rains a lot. Everything turns green and beautiful, but it might be hard to do outdoor activities because of the rain.
- Autumn (October to November): Autumn brings clear skies and cooler weather, with temperatures between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). It’s perfect for walks and enjoying the colorful trees.
- Winter (December to February): Winter gets cold, especially in higher areas where it might snow. Daytime temperatures are between 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F), and nights can be freezing. If you like snow activities, this is the time to visit.
Planning Your Visit: Binsar is beautiful all year round, so pick the season that suits you best. Just remember to pack according to the weather and the activities you want to do.
Activities to do in Binsar
- Nature Walks: Explore the lush forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine on guided nature walks. Experienced guides can lead you through the trails, pointing out local flora and fauna along the way.
- Wildlife Viewing: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species including leopards, deer, Himalayan black bears, and numerous bird species. Take a safari or go for wildlife spotting treks to catch a glimpse of these creatures in their natural habitat.
- Trekking: Binsar offers excellent trekking opportunities with trails leading to various viewpoints and peaks offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Pariyadeva Pashan, Zero Point, and Binsar Zero Point are popular trekking destinations.
- Birdwatching: With its diverse avian population, Binsar is a paradise for birdwatchers. Spend your mornings or evenings birdwatching in the forests and meadows, spotting Himalayan monal, koklass pheasant, and other beautiful bird species.
- Camping: Experience the thrill of camping amidst nature in Binsar. Several campsites offer tented accommodation with basic amenities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the wilderness.
- Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Binsar offers excellent conditions for stargazing. Spend your evenings under the clear night sky, marveling at the countless stars and constellations.
Foods need to taste in Binsar
| Food Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Bhatt ki Churkani | Black soybean curry cooked with local spices, typically served with rice or roti. |
| Aloo Ke Gutke | Spicy boiled potatoes sautéed with local herbs and spices, a popular side dish. |
| Jhangora Ki Kheer | A sweet pudding made from barnyard millet (jhangora), milk, sugar, and nuts. |
| Gahat Dal | Lentil curry made from horse gram, often served with rice or flatbread. |
| Bhatt Dal | Black soybean lentil curry, a nutritious and flavorful dish common in the region. |
| Siddu | Traditional steamed bread made from wheat flour, enjoyed as a snack or breakfast item. |
FAQs
Where is Binsar?
Binsar is located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, nestled amidst the Kumaon Himalayas. It is approximately 33 kilometers north of Almora town.
How to reach Binsar?
Binsar can be reached by road from major cities in Uttarakhand such as Almora, Nainital, and Kathgodam. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, and the nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport.
How to reach Binsar from Delhi?
From Delhi, one can reach Binsar by road which takes approximately 9-10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, one can take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam and then proceed to Binsar by road.
What is Binsar famous for?
Binsar is famous for its scenic beauty, dense forests, and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. It is also renowned for the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna.
How to reach Binsar from Mumbai by flight?
Travelers from Mumbai can fly to Pantnagar Airport, the nearest airport to Binsar. From there, it’s a 4-5 hour drive to reach Binsar. Alternatively, flights to Delhi or Dehradun are available, followed by a road or rail journey to Binsar.
