Binsar Sanctuary Trek

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Binsar Sanctuary Trek

Region
Uttarakhand
Distance
25 km
Max Altitude
2400m (Binsar TRH)
Max Group Size
12
Duration
5 days/ 4 nights, 5 days trekking
Best Time
All year except mid-June to mid-Sep
Cost Per Person
₹ Rs. 21900 (adults), Rs. 16500 (children below 10 yrs) + 5% GST
Overview Itinerary Inclusions Gallery FAQ Reviews

Description

Upcoming Fixed-Departure Treks: 9th to 13th Nov 2024

Nestled in the lower Himalayan region of Kumaon, this pristine forest sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers. The panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, the bio-diversity of the place, the local culture and history of the place are sure to enthrall you. What’s more – the place is easily accessible. Binsar is about 31 km away from the nearest town, Almora. The trek begins at Binsar TRH and we will wind our way through to Jageshwar, making stops at Gaunap, Dhaulchhina and Shaukyathal villages en route. You will stay in idyllic home-stays at Gaunap and Shaukyathal which gives you an opportunity to get a taste of the local culture and an opportunity to mingle with the Kumaoni village folk.

Itinerary

  • Day 1Kathgodam - Binsar, 5-hour drive

    After breakfast, drive to Binsar TRH. It should take about 5 hours to reach the destination.

  • Day 1Binsar (2400 m) - Gaunap village (1900 m), 3 km, 1-hour trek

    Gentle 3 Km downhill trek to Idyllic Haven, Gaunap. Tea and dinner. Evening – bonfire.

  • Day 2Gaunap

    Village tour, temple visit in the morning to catch the sunrise. Some birdwatching and other activities. In the afternoon, a nature walk and (if it’s the season) get your hands dirty helping the village folk in their organic farmlands. Evening – bonfire.

  • Day 3Gaunap (1900) - Dhaulchhina (1850 m), 8.5 km, 5-hour trek

    8.5 km trek to Dhaulchhina. Trail passes through beautiful patches of mixed forests and pine forests. Stay at a guesthouse with a beautiful view of the Siwalik ranges. Towards evening, trek to Anandmayee ashram, a serene place which is also a wonderful view point and a good place for birdwatching.

  • Day 4Dhaulchhina (1850 m) - Shaukyathal (2200 m), 9 km, 5-hour trek

    Easy 9 km trek on an almost-flat trail to Shaukyathal near Vriddh Jageshwar. The trail mostly passes through a pine forest, except the last half hour where it’s through a lovely broad-leaf forest. In the evening trek to Chandidhar view point from which one can see all the places covered in this trek.

  • Day 5Shaukyathal (2200 m) - Jageshwar (1900 m), 3 km, 2-hour trek

    After breakfast, a trek to Vridh Jageshwar temple, 1.5 km along a metal road. Then a gentle 3km downhill trek through a pine forest. Those interested can visit Jageshwar – an interesting cluster of temples of archaeological and religious significance.

  • Day 5Jageshwar - Kathgodam, 5-hour drive

    Long 5 hour drive to Kathgodam, from where it’s time to say goodbye and catch a train or bus back to Delhi and onward to your city.

Inclusions

  • 4 nights stay in comfortable villages homestays/guesthouses
  • All meals starting with dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 5
  • Ground transport – Kathgodam – Binsar and Jageshwar – Kathgodam
  • Porterage for personal luggage – one bag (weighing not more than 12 kg) per person
  • Guide charges

FAQ

What kind of accommodations are provided during the trek?

You will stay in homestays in Gaunap and Shaukyathal, giving you an opportunity to get a glimpse of local culture and experience Kumaoni hospitality. In Dhaualchhina, you will stay in a guesthouse with good views.

What will the weather be like?

Minimum temperatures are likely to drop to around 10 deg during summer and to 5 deg C during winter. So please come prepared with adequate warm clothing. Also, mountain weather is unpredictable and it can rain sometimes. So simple rain gear is also necessary

Will there be clean toilets and bathrooms in all places?

Yes, there will be clean, attached western toilets and bathrooms in all places on this trek.

Is it possible to stay in tents on some nights?

We can pitch tents in Gaunap village if you would like to experience camping.

My children are younger than 7. Will they be able to do this trek?

The recommended minimum age for doing this trek is 7. However you are the best judge. If your child is physically active and is used to walking long distances, he or she should be able to do it. Adequate preparation is necessary though.

What kind of preparation is recommended for participants?

Brisk walking – at least 5 km, at least 3 or 4 times a week, preferably on hilly terrain.

Stair-climbing – at least 15 minutes of climbing up and down stairs everyday.

Will hot water for bathing be available at all places?

Hot water will be available on request at Gaunap. Hot water geysers are available in all the other places.

Are laundry facilities available?

No, there are no laundry facilities available anywhere on this trek.

Do we have to carry our own luggage?

No, you will only need to carry a backpack in order to carry some water, short-eats, personal medicines etc. We will either use porters or a vehicle to move luggage between stops.

Can I use sports shoes or do I need to buy trekking shoes?

While this trek is doable using sports shoes, trekking shoes are highly recommended since they have a better grip and are usually waterproof. It is very important that you break-in new shoes before coming on the trek.

Do all the places where we will be staying have electricity?

All the villages are connected to the grid. However, please get torches or headlamps with extra batteries and power banks for mobile phones as electricity supply in these places can be unreliable.

Is water safe to drink in these places?

Water is safe to drink. However as a precaution, please carry personal water purifiers (Aquaguard and LifeStraw are two popular brands available online).

How is the mobile connectivity on this trek?

All the places have basic mobile connectivity. Expect poor internet speeds in Gaunap. BSNL and Airtel SIMs work best during the trek.

What are the things to pack for the trek?

We will send you a trek checklist when you register.

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