Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a hub of rich flora and fauna, famous for its sunset and sunrise views. The reserve is located on the top of the Jhandi Dhar Hills, at a distance of 35 km from Almora in Kumaon Region of Uttarakhand. It was established in 1988 to protect the broad leaf oak. This popular wildlife sanctuary is spread over an area of around 45.59 sq. km at an elevation of 2,500 m. The views from this vast sanctuary are breath-taking and on a clear day, you can view many Himalayan peaks including Chaukhamba, Trishul, Panchchuli, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Kedarnath.
The major attraction of this wildlife reserve is a plethora of bird species that enhance the ambiance of this already gorgeous destination. The BirdLife International (nonprofit organization) has declared this reserve as an ‘Important Bird Area (IBA).’ Some extremely rare species of birds like Forktail, Blackbirds, Nuthatches, Kalij pheasant, Monal, Eagles, Laughing thrush, Magpies, Eurasian Jays, Koklas, and Woodpeckers are spotted here.
The reserve includes mammals like the leopard, chital, Sumatran Serow, Himalayan Goral, Musk Deer, Black Bear, Red Fox, Pine Marten, Indian Muntjac, Rhesus Macaque, Jungle Cat, Gray Langur, and Red Giant Flying Squirrel.
Binsar wildlife sanctuary includes 25 types of trees and 25 types of bushes along with seven varieties of grasses. Flowers like red rhododendrons are a major attraction in this sanctuary which bloom in March and April. It is also called the second valley of flowers during March as ruby red rhododendrons bloom abundantly during this time.
Since the place is wrapped up in thick foliage, it is undoubtedly the best place for experiencing adventurous hiking, camping, trekking, and nature walks. Trekking is allowed inside the reserve with a tour guide. Zero Point is a tower that has been erected right at the heart of the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. This spot is not accessible by vehicles and can only be reached by a 2-kilometer long trekking trail from the parking space. This is the most perfect place to start the day by viewing a magnificent sunrise as the sun spreads its rays throughout the surrounding area.
Inside the reserve, there is an attractive accommodation facility provided by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam Jungle Resort. The trekkers can reach this resort, which is perched at an altitude of 2,412 m above the sea level, by following a scenic trail. Exploring Binsar wildlife sanctuary safari by jeep will let you unveil the mysteries of this thick jungle and be one with nature. There is a museum inside the sanctuary that brilliantly showcases the culture of the place.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Timings: 6:00 A.M to 6:00 P.M
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Entry Fees: Indian Tourists: INR 150,
Indian Students (upon showing ID): INR 75,
Foreign Tourists: INR 650,
Small Vehicle: INR 250,
Medium Vehicle: INR 500,
Heavy Vehicle: INR 800
