Binsar – a sleepy hamlet

Binsar, the most scenic spot is situated in the Kumaon Himalayas. This picturesque, sleepy hamlet is perched at an altitude of 2,420 m above sea level. Binsar is 35 km away from Almora, in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand in India. Binsar was the ancient capital for the Chand Raj rulers in seventh and eighth centuries. Bineswar, the temple of Lord Shiva was built by the king Kalyan.

This well acclaimed hill resort is an idyllic hamlet whose major attraction is the picturesque view of snow-capped Himalayas. This 300 km stretch of the Himalayas includes famous peaks like Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and Panchchuli. Binsar, also named as Jhandi Dhar, offers an excellent view of the Almora valley. Travelers who are interested in trekking can take a walk through the forest, which is densely wooded with oak and rhododendron. This forest path will lead the travelers to a summit point from where they can enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayan range and the surrounding valley. This place is surrounded by alpine flora, ferns, hanging moss and species of rare wildflowers.

These sleepy hamlets amidst orchards, silver streams and green meadows have much more to offer. Tourists can have a glimpse of Kedarnath, Badrinath and Gangotri from Binsar on sunny days. This fascinating spot is encircled by a vast wildlife sanctuary. The tiled roof buildings and paved streets reflect the traditional character of hill villages. The important spots to be seen are Nanda Devi temple, Chitai temple, Kasar Devi, Deer Park, and Bright-end-corner and Ram Krishna Mission.

Spiritual travelers must visit Kutumbari Devi and Banari Devi temples located at Jhalna at an altitude of 5,500 feet. These temples were constructed in the ninth century. Jhalna, 59 km away from Binsar, has a number of orchards which produce fruits like apricots, peaches, pears, plums and apples. Also, history lovers must visit Katarmal which is 51 km away from this hill resort. Katarmal has a famous Sun temple built 800 to 900 years ago by Katyuri Rajas atop a steep hill. Spiritual tourists should never miss out Jageshwar, a temple complex located 34 km away from Almora. This grand temple complex, which has 124 temples within it, is nestled in a beautiful valley crested by thick deodar. This temple complex houses one of the 12 Jyothirlingas.

Binsar sanctuary is located 23 km away. This place is a paradise for bird watchers. The densely wooded forest of oak and rhododendron is also blessed with medicinal plants and herbs. Located at an altitude of 7,913 ft one can enjoy the picturesque view of sunrise, sunset and do bird watching too.

The nearest airport to this hill resort is at Pant Nagar (157 km). The nearest railhead is Kathgodam (120 km). Binsar is well connected to major cities like, Nainital (120 km), Almora (34 km) and Delhi, the capital city of India (383 km).