Are you looking for a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature? Do you want to witness some of the most spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and the lush green valleys? Do you want to explore the rich and diverse wildlife of one of the most pristine and protected areas in India? If your answer is yes, then you should definitely visit Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, a hidden gem in the Kumaon Himalayas.
What is Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, covering an area of 45.59 square kilometres. It was established in 1988 to conserve the biodiversity and the cultural heritage of the region. It is named after the ancient Bineshwar temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is located at the centre of the sanctuary.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at an altitude ranging from 900 to 2500 meters above sea level. It offers stunning views of some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas, such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, Panchachuli, Nanda Kot, and Kedarnath. It is also home to many flora and fauna, including leopards, deer, monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
Why visit Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and spiritual seekers alike. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit this Wildlife Sanctuary:
- You can witness some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks from Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, especially from Zero Point, which is the highest point in the sanctuary. You can also enjoy the sunrise and sunset from this point, which are truly magical.
- You can explore the rich and diverse wildlife of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and what are some of the rare and endangered species that you can spot there. You can go for nature walks, birdwatching, photography, or safari tours to observe the animals and plants in their natural habitat.
- You can experience the culture and history of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and what are some of the ancient temples and monuments that you can visit there. You can see the Bineshwar temple, which is believed to have been built by King Kalyan Chand in the 16th century. You can also visit the Khali Estate, which was once the residence of Sir Henry Ramsay, the British commissioner of Kumaon.
- You can plan your trip to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary in a budget-friendly and eco-friendly way, what are some of the best tips and tricks that you can follow? You can stay in one of the many homestays, guesthouses, or campsites that are available in and around. You can also opt for public transport or shared taxis to reach here from different cities. You can also follow some simple rules such as not littering, not feeding or disturbing the animals, not making noise or playing music, etc. to respect the environment and the wildlife.
How to plan your trip to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
If you are convinced that it is a place that you must visit, then here are some details on how to plan your trip:
How to reach
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 33 kilometres north of Almora town. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (120 kilometres), and the nearest airport is Pantnagar (152 kilometres). You can take a bus or a taxi from these places to reach Almora, and then another bus or taxi to reach the Sanctuary. Alternatively, you can also drive your own car or bike to reach here.
The best time to visit
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and clear. You can also visit from April to June when the flowers are in full bloom. However, avoid visiting during July to September, when it rains heavily and there are chances of landslides.
The accommodation options available
There are many options for accommodation in and around Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, ranging from budget to luxury. Some of them are:
- KMVN Tourist Rest House: This is a government-run guesthouse that offers basic but comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms and balconies. It also has a restaurant that serves delicious food. It is located inside the sanctuary, near the Zero Point.
- Binsar Forest Retreat: This is an eco-friendly resort that offers cottages and tents with attached bathrooms and solar-powered lights. It also has a dining hall that serves organic food. It is located inside the sanctuary, near the Bineshwar temple.
- Imperial Heights Resort: This is a luxury resort that offers spacious and elegant rooms with attached bathrooms and balconies. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, and a conference hall. It is located outside the sanctuary, about 10 kilometres from the entry gate.
The Wildlife of Uttarakhand: A Guide to Plan Your Safari Adventure
Conclusion
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem in the Kumaon Himalayas that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone who visits it. It is a place where you can witness the beauty and majesty of nature, explore the diversity and richness of wildlife, and discover the culture and history of the region. Here, you can find peace and tranquillity, adventure and excitement, and inspiration and enlightenment. It is a place that you should not miss.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary today and see for yourself why it is one of the best destinations in Uttarakhand.
I hope you liked this blog post. Please let me know if you have any feedback or suggestions. Thank you for reading. 😊