Sanctuary: Located in the serene Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature lover’s paradise. Spread over 45 square kilometers of protected forest area, it offers peace, biodiversity, and panoramic Himalayan views. Whether you’re staying at a luxury resort like Mary Budden Estate or a rustic homestay in Binsar Uttarakhand, your experience will be enriched by the sanctuary’s unique activities.
Here’s a complete guide to the top things to do in Binsar, especially inside the sanctuary.
- Trek to Zero Point – For Himalayan Views
One of the most iconic experiences in Binsar, the trek to Zero Point is a must. A gentle forest trail takes you deep into the sanctuary to a watchtower where you can see panoramic views of:
- Nanda Devi
- Kedarnath Peak
- Trishul and Panchachuli
Tip: Best done early morning for clear views, especially from October to March.
- Bird Watching – A Paradise for Ornithologists
Binsar is one of India’s top destinations for bird watchers, home to over 200 bird species.
Birds commonly spotted:
- Himalayan woodpecker
- Koklass pheasant
- Fork-tailed drongo
- Eurasian jay
- Monal (rare sightings)
Guests staying at Mary Budden Estate Binsar or Binsar Forest Retreat often enjoy private birding walks with trained naturalists.
- Forest Walks and Nature Trails
The sanctuary is known for its dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. Walking through the shaded trails gives you a chance to truly disconnect and embrace forest therapy.
Popular trails include:
- Mary Budden Estate to Kasar Devi
- Zero Point loop via Rhododendron Trail
- Khali Estate to Forest Rest House
Walking these paths is one of the best ways to enjoy the luxury of silence that Binsar offers.
- Stay at Mary Budden Estate – For Mindful Luxury
Located within the sanctuary, Mary Budden Estate is not just a place to stay but an experience in itself.
Why it’s worth it:
- Morning meditation and yoga sessions
- Curated nature treks and mindful living
- Organic, farm-to-table dining
- Forest bathing and guided mindfulness activities
For travelers seeking luxury boutique resorts in Binsar, this is the ultimate destination.
- Visit the Binsar Mahadev Temple
This 9th-century Shiva temple is surrounded by cedar forests and is a spiritual stop for visitors. Located about 20 km from the sanctuary, it offers peace and panoramic views.
You can plan a half-day trip here from any hotel in Binsar Uttarakhand or resort in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Explore Kasar Devi and Crank’s Ridge
Just 12 km from Binsar, Kasar Devi is a mystical village famous for its magnetic field and spiritual energy. It’s been visited by Bob Dylan, Swami Vivekananda, and several mystics.
- Ideal for yoga and meditation
- Great cafes and scenic sunsets
- Visit Crank’s Ridge for a short nature walk
This area is frequently explored by guests staying at luxury hotels in Almora and resorts in Binsar.
- Stargazing – A Clear Sky Experience
Due to its altitude and minimal light pollution, Binsar offers some of the clearest skies in Uttarakhand. Guests at homestays in Binsar or Mary Budden Estate often enjoy candle-lit dinners followed by stargazing under the Himalayan sky.
Best months for stargazing: October to February
- Photography & Wildlife Spotting
Apart from birds, Binsar is home to leopards, barking deer, foxes, wild boar, and even black bears (rare). Early morning safaris and silent treks offer the best chance of spotting wildlife.
Photography tip: Carry a zoom lens for birds and a wide-angle lens for forest shots.
- Local Village Tours and Homestay Experiences
Visiting villages like Dhaulchina, Ayarpani, and Shaukiyathal gives insight into Kumaoni culture. These can be arranged by most homestays in Binsar Uttarakhand.
Enjoy:
- Traditional Kumaoni meals
- Local handicrafts
- Agricultural and forest-based livelihood stories
- Detox, Write, Reflect
Sometimes the best thing to do in Binsar… is nothing at all. Use this retreat to:
- Write your journal or next book
- Reflect in silence
- Meditate at sunrise
- Disconnect from digital life and reconnect with nature
Whether you’re in a 5-star resort in Almora or a small wooden cottage in the forest, Binsar invites you to slow down.
Final Thoughts (Sanctuary)
Binsar isn’t about ticking off touristy attractions—it’s about deep connection, stillness, and rejuvenation. From forest trails to spiritual retreats, and from luxury boutique estates like Mary Budden to local homestays, the Binsar experience stays with you long after you leave.
If you’re seeking the best place to stay in Binsar, choose based on your vibe—luxury, mindfulness, or raw adventure. And don’t forget to pack a journal, a pair of binoculars, and your favorite book.