Binsar: Uttarakhand’s Hidden Gem You Must Visit

If you’re looking to explore some offbeat destinations in Uttarakhand, add Binsar to your bucket list. The town was the summer capital of the Chand Dynasty that ruled the Kumaon kingdom between the 11th and the 18th century AD.

Depending on your interest, there are many different things to do in Binsar. For instance, you can indulge in birdwatching, sightseeing, and many other things.

How to Reach Binsar, Uttarakhand?

The nearest Pantnagar airport is located 152 km away from Binsar. Alternatively, you can arrive at the Kathgodam railway station, situated 119 km away from Binsar. So, in either case, you will have to hit the road for the last leg of your journey.

Where to Stay in Binsar?

Stay at Club Mahindra Binsar Valley Resort. It is one of the best resorts in Uttarakhand to enjoy a blissful holiday with your family. Nestled amidst the hills, the resort is surrounded by lush green forests providing just the right kind of vacation vibe you need.

Popular Places to Visit Near Binsar 

• Chitai Golu Devta Temple

Chitai Golu Devta temple is among the most revered religious places to visit near Binsar. Dedicated to Golu Devta, an avatar of one of Lord Shiva's forms- Gaur Bhairav, it is believed that your wish will be fulfilled if you make a wish here with a clear conscience. The temple is 25 km away from Binsar and can be reached by car in an hour via NH 309A.

• Katarmal Sun Temple

Perched at an elevation of 2,116 meters, the 9th-century Katarmal Sun temple is a magnificent example of ancient Indian architecture. Climbing up the hilltop to reach the temple can be exhausting. But, the intricate designs on the temple walls and the panoramic view from the top make the climb worthwhile.

• Kasar Devi Temple

It takes about 45 minutes by car to reach Kasar Devi temple from Club Mahindra Binsar Valley. Believed to be built in the 2nd century AD, it is said that Swami Vivekananda visited this temple in 1890 and used to meditate there. There is also a mention of the temple in his diaries. From then onward, many mystic saints, artists, writers, and western philosophers have visited the place. 

The temple is believed to be positioned on Earth’s Van Allen Belt, and its surrounding region has a vast geomagnetic field. 

• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Binsar wildlife sanctuary at Jhandi Dhar hills is spread over 45,59 km2. The famous Zero Point is located within the sanctuary and is a popular trekking point. The place offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayan ranges of Kedarnath, Trishul, Shivling, and Nanda Devi. 

The sanctuary is home to 200 bird species, leopards, and exotic mammals like the Himalayan goral, musk deer, Sumatran serow,  chital, red giant flying squirrel, etc. The sanctuary also has 25 types of trees and 7 types of grasses. You'll find an abundance of rhododendron and oak trees as you go higher. 

As tourists flock the regular tourist destinations during the travel season, Binsar is one of those offbeat Places in Uttarakhand that can help rejuvenate your mind and soul in peaceful surroundings amidst the majestic mountains.