If you are looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, then Binsar in Uttarakhand is the perfect destination for you. Nestled away in the Kumaon Himalayas, this untouched paradise is known for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife; it’s no wonder why travelers from around the world have made it their go-to spot for some much needed R&R.
Join us as we explore all that Binsar has to offer – from breathtaking views to serene forests to unique local culture – there’s something here for everyone!
What is Binsar?
Binsar is a small hill station located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. It was once the summer capital of the Chand Dynasty, who ruled this part of India for almost 1,000 years. Today, it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts because of its incredible natural beauty and abundance of hiking trails.
Where is Binsar Located?
Binsar is located at an altitude of 2,310 meters (7,579 feet) above sea level and surrounded by lush green forests. The nearest city to Binsar is Almora, which is around 40 kilometers away. Kathgodam railway station is situated at a distance of 120 kilometers from Binsar and serves as the nearest railhead. Pantnagar airport in Nainital district is located about 140 kilometers away from here.
What are the best things to do in Binsar?
From snow capped mountains and lush greenery to ancient temples and local delicacies, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful destination. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventurous escape, here are some must-do activities that will make your trip to Binsar unforgettable.
1. Explore the Wild
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to more than 200 species of birds, as well as several different species of mammals and reptiles that call this region their home. For a unique experience, take a guided tour through the sanctuary and explore its lush green forests and picturesque mountain views.
2. Visit Ancient Temples
Binsar has some of the oldest temples in India with rich cultural heritage. Visit the famous Temples like Jageshwar Temple Complex (Dedicated to Lord Shiva), Koteshwar Temple (Dedicated to Lord Vishnu) and Baijnath Temple (Dedicated to Lord Shiva). You can also visit numerous other ancient temples scattered throughout the region.
3. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Binsar has plenty of exciting activities such as trekking, mountain biking, paragliding, rappelling and rock climbing that will get your heart pounding! There are also several zip lines available for those who are brave enough to take on the challenge.
4. Sample Local Delicacies
Make sure you don’t miss out on trying some delicious local dishes like aloo ke gutke (potato curry) served with makki roti (cornbread) or kadhi chawal (rice cooked with yogurt). There are also plenty of street food vendors around town selling all sorts of snacks like samosas, pakoras and chaat that you should definitely try!
What are the best places to stay in Binsar?
With plenty of accommodation options available, it’s easy to find the perfect place to stay in this stunning location. Here are some of the best places to stay in Binsar.
The KMVN Tourist Rest House
If you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay, then look no further than the KMVN Tourist Rest House. Located near the center of town and close to all major attractions, this government-run facility offers spacious rooms with modern amenities at extremely reasonable prices. Plus, its restaurant serves delicious local cuisine that will make your visit even more enjoyable!
The Alpine Retreat
For those seeking something more luxurious, The Alpine Retreat offers private cottages set amidst beautiful gardens and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Each cottage is decorated with traditional Kumaoni decor and comes equipped with all modern amenities including a Jacuzzi tub and fireplace. Plus, they provide complimentary meals throughout your stay as well as other special services like yoga classes and guided hikes.
The Forest Lodge
This cozy family-run lodge provides a unique experience away from all the hustle-and-bustle of city life. Featuring rustic wooden cabins nestled amongst tall trees, The Forest Lodge offers total seclusion in the middle of nature but still provides all necessary creature comforts like air conditioning and Wi-Fi access. Additionally, their onsite restaurant serves some of the best food in town!
How to get to Binsar
Getting there is easy and can be fun too. You can opt for air travel, road transport, or train if that’s your thing. Let’s explore the different options and let you decide which one works best for you.
By Air
If you want to get there quickly and efficiently then flying is probably the best option. The closest airport to Binsar is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), which has direct flights from Delhi and other nearby cities. From Pantnagar Airport it takes about 4 hours by car to reach Binsar so make sure to book a cab beforehand. There are also some private airlines that offer flights directly into the town but these are usually more expensive than regular flights.
By Road
This might be the most economical option if you want to go by road. There are several buses that ply between Delhi and Binsar, but they take quite a long time (about 15 hours) so keep that in mind when booking your tickets. You can also hire a cab for yourself or rent a car if you prefer more privacy. The roads leading up to Binsar are treacherous so make sure that you have a reliable driver who knows his way around the region!
By Train
The nearest station from where trains run regularly is Kathgodam station in Nainital district of Uttarakhand state. From Kathgodam station it takes about 3-4 hours by road to reach Binsar depending on traffic and weather conditions. While this doesn’t sound like an ideal way of getting there, it can be fun if you’re looking for an adventure! Make sure to carry enough snacks and water with you as well since there aren’t any convenient food stops along the way!
What are the weather conditions like in Binsar?
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan range, it is a great destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. But what kind of weather can you expect in Binsar? Let’s take a closer look.
A Pleasant Climate All Year Round
Binsar has a pleasant climate all year round and enjoys a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 12°C – 27°C during the summer months and 2°C – 20°C during winter. It rains heavily during the monsoon season (June through September) with most days being overcast or cloudy, so don’t forget your umbrella! The temperature tends to drop during this period as well, so be sure to pack some warmer clothes if you plan on visiting at this time.
Snowy Winters in Binsar
The winter months (November through February) tend to be cold but clear. Snowfall usually begins around December and continues until February, transforming the area into an idyllic winter wonderland. If you’re looking for an activity-filled holiday, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding available in nearby areas at this time.
An Ideal Spot for Trekking
If trekking is more your thing, then March through May is the ideal time to visit Binsar since this is when most of its trails open up. During these months you will also enjoy clear skies during the day and cooler temperatures at night—perfect weather for exploring!
Binsar is a beautiful place located in India. The best things to do there are hike, enjoy the views, and explore the temples. There are many great places to stay, but we recommend the Himalayan Village Resort. You can get to Binsar by taking a flight or train to Kathgodam station and then taking a taxi from there.
The weather conditions are usually cool and pleasant, but it can get cold at night so be sure to bring some warm clothes. Thanks for reading and we hope you have a great time in Binsar! And don’t forget to buy Incense Stick while you’re there!
