I recently had the pleasure of visiting Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and I must say, it was an absolute delight! Nestled amidst the serene and majestic Himalayan ranges, this sanctuary truly offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts like myself.
From the moment I entered the sanctuary, I was captivated by the sheer beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. The dense forests, pristine streams, and breathtaking vistas left me in awe. The sanctuary's untouched and unspoiled environment provides a haven for a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, making it a must-visit for wildlife lovers.
The biodiversity in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is truly remarkable. I had the privilege of spotting several rare and exotic species, including the elusive leopard and Himalayan black bear. The sanctuary's well-maintained trails and observation points allowed me to observe these incredible creatures from a safe distance while still feeling connected to nature.
The sanctuary also offers a multitude of hiking trails that cater to varying levels of fitness and interest. The mesmerizing views from Zero Point and the Binsar Peak are absolutely worth the trek. As I stood at these vantage points, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys, I felt a sense of peace and awe that will stay with me forever.
The staff at Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary deserves commendation for their dedication and knowledge. They were not only friendly and welcoming but also provided valuable insights about the sanctuary's rich ecosystem. Their commitment to preserving and protecting the sanctuary's natural wonders is truly admirable.
Additionally, the infrastructure within the sanctuary is excellent. The forest guesthouses and eco-resorts offer comfortable accommodation options, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the sanctuary's ambiance. The well-marked trails and informative signboards ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Overall, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a true gem, showcasing the incredible beauty and biodiversity of the Himalayan region. Whether you're an avid nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this sanctuary will undoubtedly exceed your expectations. I highly recommend visiting Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and experiencing the magic it has to offer.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone at Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary for providing an unforgettable experience. I cannot wait to return and explore more of this natural paradise in the future!
Note: This review is based on my personal experience and reflects my...
Read moreBinsar was the summer capital of the Chand Kings, who ruled over Kumaon from the 11th to 18th centuries AD. Binsar was established in 1988 for the conservation and protection of the shrinking broad leaf oak (Quercus) forests of the Central Himalayan region, and it has over 200 bird species. It sits on top of the Jhandi Dhar hills in the Himalayas, about 33 km north of Almora town in Uttarakhand. The sanctuary spreads over 45.59 km2. Its altitude varies from 900 to 2500 metres with an average height of 2412 metres. The temperature of this area is about 20 °C.
From a place called Zero Point the Himalayan peaks Kedarnath Peak, Shivling, Trisul and Nanda Devi are visible.
Binsar has a museum about the flora and fauna of the region. The sanctuary hosts 25 types of trees, 24 types of bushes and 7 varieties of grasses. The higher altitudes are covered with oak and rhododendron trees. In March and April, flowers, especially ruby red rhododendron, are in full bloom.
Mammals include leopard (Panthera pardus), Himalayan goral (Naemorhedus goral), chital (Axis axis), musk deer (Moschus spp.), Sumatran serow (Capricornis sumatraensis), jungle cat (Felis chaus), wild boar (Sus scrofa), pine marten (Martes martes), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), gray langur (Presbytis entellus), rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta), red giant flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista), and Indian muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak). In the past black bear (Ursus thibetanus) had been recorded.
Binsar hosts over 200 species of birds including tits, forktail, nuthatches, blackbirds, parakeets, laughingthrush, magpies, kalij pheasant (Lophura leucomelana), monal, koklass pheasant, eagles, woodpeckers, and Eurasian jays.
Binsar is home to many reptiles and butterflies. Grand Oak Manor
The Grand Oak Manor is the erstwhile home of Sir Henry Ramsay who used it as his summer home and administrative centre as Commissioner of Kumaon. The property later became a heritage hotel.
Khali estate
The Khali estate was once owned by Sir Henry Ramsay, who was the commissioner of Kumaun from 1856 to 1884 and called by British authors the King of Kumaun. He built a bungalow at Binsar. Vijay Laxmi Pandit, the sister of Jawahar Lal Nehru, also lived there. Other prominent people who have been guests/owners of this estate include Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Mahatma Gandhi.
Mary Budden estate
The Mary Budden estate located at 8000 feet is a restored colonial home and a temple to Shiva. An observation deck or zero point too 👍
A true walk through the Nature 🌿 #meditation #yoga #camping...
Read moreMy visit to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand was a truly unforgettable experience. Nestled at an elevation of around 2,420 meters, the sanctuary offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kedarnath. The journey to the sanctuary itself is an adventure, with winding roads and picturesque landscapes that set the tone for what lies ahead.
The sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers. The dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron create a serene and tranquil environment. Walking through the trails, I was captivated by the rich biodiversity. The variety of bird species is astounding—over 200 species, including the forktail, blackbird, and laughing thrush, can be spotted here. As an amateur birdwatcher, it was thrilling to see so many birds in their natural habitat.
One of the highlights of my trip was the trek to Zero Point. The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular, with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas stretching as far as the eye can see. The trek itself is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, and the fresh mountain air and stunning scenery make it a rewarding experience.
The sanctuary is also home to several mammals, including leopards, barking deer, and Himalayan bears. Although I wasn't fortunate enough to spot a leopard, the knowledge that these majestic creatures roam the area added an element of excitement to my visit.
Accommodation within the sanctuary is basic but comfortable. I stayed at an eco-resort that offered all the necessary amenities while maintaining an eco-friendly approach. The food was simple yet delicious, made with fresh local ingredients, which added to the overall charm of the place.
Overall, my visit to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and communion with nature. It's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the natural world. The sanctuary's pristine beauty and rich biodiversity make it a jewel in the crown of Uttarakhand.
For more information, you can check out the Uttarakhand Tourism website at...
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