Binsar - Jungle Retreat in Uttaranchal
Binsar is a historically well known place being the erstwhile kingdom of the Chand Raj Kings during the 7th and 8th century. Presently, the tranquility, dense forests and wildlife of Binsar are in the limelight. It is one of the prominent weekend getaways in Uttaranchal and 35 km from the town of Almora. Binsar is a forest reserve and home to the famous Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. The forest settlement, log huts and tourist cottages add to the charm of the place. On the backdrop is the snow capped peaks of the Himalayas and you can have clear views of the Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks. Binsar forest area lies at an altitude of 2400 meters and is an ideal destination for nature lovers, trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts. Binsar remains a popular summer retreat mainly for its pleasant weather conditions. Winters often receive snowfall and you need to take warm clothes with you. But winter is also the time when you enjoy excursions, picnics and safari in the sanctuary.
Kathgodam is the nearest railhead to Binsar and located approximately 100 km away.
Places to see in Binsar
The place is mainly replete with natural attractions:
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary – This wildlife park is located on the Jhandi Dhar Hills in the Kumaon range. It is around 33 km from the town of Almora and offers panoramic view of the Kedarnath Peak and Nanda Devi. This sanctuary was opened in 1988 and is a conservation center for rare broad leaf oak trees. The alpine flora found at this park is also of Himalayan origin. The park covers around 46 square kilometer and there are at least 200 different species of birds found here. The main wildlife species here are leopard, goral, musk deer, monkey, black bear and fox. There are also many trekking paths through this sanctuary of tourist interest.
Khali Estate – The former residence of Commissioner of Kumaon, Sir Henry Ramsay, Khali Estate is a tourist attraction presently. The simple bungalow has a beautiful setting and houses things used by a commissioner, Sir Henry , who was enthralled by the beauty of the place and had his home here.
Bineshwar Temple – This famous Hindu shrine here is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated amidst a beautiful landscape. Built in the 13th century by a Chand dynasty king and is visited by tourists on the way to the sanctuary.
Excursion from Binsar
Places around Binsar are:
Almora – Almora is a small but scenic hill town easily accessible from Binsar and is a day’s excursion from the place. The panoramic view of the surrounding hills from 1651 meters above sea level is an unforgettable sight. This town also borders Koshi River and offers angling opportunities to visitors.
Kasauni – Around 48km drive from Binsar, Kasauni is another beautiful place of visit in the Kumaon region.
