Binsar Trek

A walk through the woods is every trekker’s dream and Binsar Trek offers exactly that. Binsar offers a perfect Wildlife adventure trek and a true “Jungle “experience for the brave-hearted. Situated in the Kumaon region in the Himalayas, Binsar Sanctuary is located on the Jhandi Dhar hills at an altitude of approximately 2500 Mts.

The trek is rather easy as it passes through some lush green forests flanked with Ruby red rhodendrons that are in full blossom in the months of March and April. Oak-covered thick dense forest at Binsar is also home to over 200 species of Himalayan birds and mammals including leopard, Himalayan goral, chital, and musk deer amongst many others. The walk through the dense greenery, twittering birds, singing rivulets, and trees dancing to the tune of the Himalayan breeze is indeed a sight to behold.

The total trekking distance is about 22 km beginning at the Binsar Sanctuary and ending at Jageshwar Temple. At Dhaulchina camping site can also enjoy the Majestic Himalayan snowclad Peaks of Nanda Ghunti, Trisul, Nandadevi, Nandadevi East, Chhanguch, Nandakut, and Dangthal. Mrigathuni, Maiktoli.  Our trek proceeds towards Jageshwar Temple as the adventure through Deodar forest continues and the trail leads us to the main temple. The Temple belongs to the 9 – 3rd Century era and is a small Jewel among many other Heritage temples in Northern India juxtaposed around the Himalayas.

History of Binsar Trek

Binsar trek is known for its rich spiritual and ecological significance. The name Binsar is derived from Bineshwar Mahadev who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Locals believe that Lord Shiva in the form of Bineshwar meditated here in the dense forests of Binsar. 

During medieval times (7th to 18th century CE), Binsar used to be the summer capital of the Chand Dynasty who ruled Kumaon region. They built a temple named after Bineshwar Mahadev to offer their tribute to Lord Shiva. 

Since the Binsar region had a great strategic and ecological importance, the British also kept surveillance and documented the region. They reestablished Binsar as a summer retreat. Many colonial bungalows and rest houses were built here for them. 

Around 1988, the government identified Binsar as a biodiversity rich region and designated it as a protected wildlife sanctuary. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary includes rich flora like broadleaf oak and deodar forests and diverse Himalayan fauna. 

Jageshwar Temple: Binsar trek usually ends at Jageshwar Temple. Some believe that Jageshwar is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas. It was also considered the first place where Lord Shiva was worshipped as a lingam. Locals associate it with the concept of Sapt Rishis (7 sages) who were believed to perform yagnas here. 

Presently, Jageshwar is considered a major Shaivite pilgrimage centre as many pilgrims visit it across Himalayan belt. It is also a part of 'Manaskhand Mandir Mala' project promoting spiritual tourism in Uttarakhand.

Highlights of Binsar Trek

• Sunrise from Zero Point View:

In Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, you can spot an amazing 360-degree view of snow-clad Himalayas from Zero Point. During the sunrise, Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul glow with golden sunshine and create a dreamy scenery. Many nature lovers reach early to witness this surreal moment of light and joy.

• The Whispering Forests:

Binsar is known for its rich flora including deodar, oak and rhododendron trees. Locals call them 'whispering deodars' as the wind through their dense canopy creates a musical rustle. These trees have a great economical and medicinal value and they are protected under Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. 

• Rare Sightings of Elusive Himalayan Serow:

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a rich fauna. Few know that it's a protected home for the elusive Himalayan Serow. Serow is a goat-antelope with curved horns and thick fur. This solitary creature is shy and often spotted only at dawn or dusk. Spotting Himalayan Serow is considered lucky and a sacred encounter.

• Legacy of Colonial Dak Bungalow:

The forest rest house in Binsar once used to be a colonial dak bungalow where British officers documented Kumaon's biodiversity. Today, it's worth visiting for its wooden interiors and panoramic balconies and offers a rustic charm and glimpses into colonial history. 

• Stone Carvings at Jageshwar:

Binsar trek ends at Jageshwar Temple. Many temples at Jageshwar are the hidden gems of ancient stone sculptures and Sanskrit texts. These stone carvings tell the stories of Shaivism, tantric rituals and regional folklore. Some of them are still undeciphered and create curiosity for history lovers and spiritual seekers.

Difficulty Level of Binsar Trek

Binsar trek is considered an easy to moderate trek which is suitable for beginners, families and kids over 8 years. It is located near Almora in Kumaon region at an elevation of approx 2,420 m, (Zero Point at 2,420 m).

The trail takes through the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and British era rest houses. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and you get to see a variety of flora and fauna here. The trail is about 22 km long and takes 1 to 3 days to complete, depending on your chosen itinerary. You need to walk 4-6 hrs per day which covers around 10 km.

The trail is well-marked and involves mud paths, forest trails and normal uphill sections. You can encounter a few steep patches and rocky sections but they are not technically challenging. You can hire a guide but not mandatory – trails are well-marked and beginner-friendly.

Binsar trek is an all-season trek and weather is mostly pleasant year-round but still avoid monsoon and peak winter. Mornings and evenings are generally cooler, especially in winter. Summer is ideal for clear views and comfortable hiking.

Wear comfortable clothes (trekking pants) and good quality trekking shoes. Carry water and light snacks. The network is hampered in some areas so inform someone before you go. If you're a solo trekker and unfamiliar to routes, hiring a guide is recommended.

Best Time to Visit the Binsar Trek

For the best and comfortable trekking experience, plan your Binsar trek from March to June and September to November. These months offer pleasant weather, scenic trails, clear sky and good visibility of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul.

• March to June (Spring to Summer):

During these months, forests are lush green and vibrant. You will see blooming rhododendrons everywhere which make the journey pleasant and enjoyable. Trails remain mostly dry and safe. Sometimes there can be occasional rain but otherwise, weather remains clear. Daytime temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C. Nights can be chilly around 8°C to 12°C temperatures. Keep a light jacket and raincoat to avoid unpredictable weather conditions.

• September to November (Autumn):

After monsoon, air becomes crisp and sky turns clearer. Landscapes are even fresher after rain but by late October they turn golden due to autumn. Sunlight feels cozy and visibility to view Himalayan peaks are very high. This is a good time for birdwatchers and nature lovers in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Daytime temperature remains around 18°C to 25°C while at night time it dips to 10°C to 15°C. Winter clothes are must for this season.

• Avoid Monsoon and Harsh Winters:

July-August (monsoon) should be avoided. Due to heavy rainfall, trails become slippery and leech-infested. The risk of landslides is also high. Similarly, avoid December-February for harsh winters. The temperature is very cold this time and visibility is very poor.

How to Reach the Binsar Trek

Binsar is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. Almora is well connected by road from almost all parts of North India. From Delhi, the journey begins with a train or bus to Kathgodam, the nearest railway station, about 120 km from Binsar. 

From Kathgodam, you can take a taxi or private cab to reach Almora or directly to Binsar. The drive from Kathgodam to Binsar takes about 4 to 5 hrs and passes through scenic hills, pine forests and small villages. 

The final journey towards the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary may need special permission at the entry gate, especially if you're staying inside the forest area. Private vehicles are allowed and forest guest houses provide accommodation options.

The trek to Binsar begins near the sanctuary or from nearby villages like Dhaulchhina, depending on your route. It's advisable to take a local guide if you plan to explore deeper trails.

Things to Carry in the Binsar Trek

Clothing

• 3 quick-dry T-shirts (full sleeves preferred)
• 2 trek pants (water-resistant if possible)
• 1 fleece jacket or woollen sweater
• 1 down jacket or heavy padded jacket
• 1 thermal inner set (top + bottom)
• Waterproof & windproof jacket
• Poncho or raincoat
• Woolen cap + Sun cap
• Neck gaiter or scarf
• 2–3 pairs of synthetic/woolen socks + 1 pair of woolen gloves
• Innerwear (quick-dry), towel

Footwear

• Trekking shoes (ankle-high, good grip)
• Floaters/sandals (for campsites)
• Gaiters (recommended due to snow/rock)

Bags

• 50–60 litre backpack (with rain cover)
• Daypack (10–20 litre) for summit day or acclimatization walks
• Dry bags or ziplocks (to keep items dry)

Personal Gear

• Trekking pole(s)
• Sleeping bag liner (optional)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water bottles (2L total capacity) or hydration pack
• UV-protection sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm (SPF)

Toiletries & Hygiene

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap
• Wet wipes, hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper, sanitary pads/tampons (carry back used items)
• Small quick-dry towel

Personal Medical Kit

• Diamox (for altitude)
• Crocin/Dolo, Combiflam, Digene
• ORS sachets, antiseptic cream
• Band-aids, gauze, crepe bandage
• Personal meds (if any)
• Betadine/Savlon

Documents

• Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)
• Medical certificate (fitness)
• Disclaimer form (from your trek operator)

Others

• Power bank
• Extra camera batteries (cold drains battery fast)
• Energy bars, dry fruits, glucose
• Notebook + pen (optional for journaling)

Treks in Uttarakhand | Trekking companies in Dehradun | Har Ki  Dun trek | Bali Pass trek | Phulara Ridge Trek | Kedarkantha Trek | Dayara Bugyal trek | Gaumukh Tapovan  trek | Kashmir Great Lakes  trek | Valley of Flowers trek | Nag Tibba Trek | Kuari Pass trek | Chopta chandrashila trek