Complete Guide to Places to Visit in Binsar
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary lies at 2,412 metres in Almora district, covering 47 sq km of oak, rhododendron and deodar forest. It is one of Kumaon's finest destinations for wildlife watching, bird photography, and peaceful forest walks far from tourist crowds.
| Place | Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Zero Point | Viewpoint | 2,412m; 300km Himalayan panorama: Kedarnath to Nepal |
| Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary | Forest / wildlife | Leopard, deer, red fox, 200+ bird species |
| Kasar Devi Temple | Ancient Devi temple | 2nd century temple on a magnetic hill; spiritual significance |
| Bineshwar Mahadev Temple | Shiva temple | Ancient 10th century temple; origin of Binsar name |
| Almora Town (33 km) | Cultural centre | Kumaoni architecture, local market, Chitai Temple |
| Golu Devta Temple, Chitai | Folk deity temple | 30 km; temple covered in petition letters — unique |
| Forest Walks | Nature / birding | Self-guided trails inside sanctuary; no vehicles |
Best Time to Visit Binsar
- March – April: Rhododendrons in bloom; bird nesting season; pleasant 8–18°C
- October – November: Post-monsoon; best Himalayan views from Zero Point; clear skies
- December – February: Cold (0–10°C); occasional snow; sanctuary very peaceful
- May – June: Pre-monsoon; warm; good wildlife sightings in early morning
How to Reach Binsar
- From Almora: 33 km by road (1.5 hrs); taxis available (₹800–₹1,200 one way)
- From Kathgodam: 96 km via Almora (3.5 hrs by taxi/bus)
- From Delhi: ~380 km via Haldwani → Kathgodam → Almora → Binsar (~11 hrs)
- By Bus: Delhi to Almora (overnight bus ₹400–₹600); taxi from Almora to Binsar
Budget and Hotels in Binsar
| Category | Options | Price/night |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | KMVN Tourist Rest House Binsar | ₹800–₹1,500 |
| Mid-range | Binsar Eco Camp, Trishul Retreat | ₹2,500–₹5,000 |
| Luxury | The Binsar Retreat, Hiranya Retreat | ₹6,000–₹15,000 |
2-night Binsar trip cost per person: ₹4,500–₹12,000 including travel from Kathgodam, accommodation and sanctuary entry.
Travel Tips and FAQs
- Sanctuary entry fee: ₹150 (Indian), ₹600 (foreign); vehicle entry ₹150
- No private vehicles beyond the sanctuary gate — walk (or pony) to Zero Point (3 km)
- Carry binoculars — Binsar is one of Kumaon's best birding sites (Himalayan monal, kalij pheasant)
- Kasar Devi hill has a unique electromagnetic anomaly similar to Machu Picchu — popular with meditators
- The sanctuary is open 6 AM – 6 PM; overnight camping inside requires prior permission
FAQ: Binsar sees leopards occasionally — sightings are more common in early morning forest walks.