Gaunap – Satri, Binsar Walking Holiday – 2N/3D

Gaunap – Satri, Binsar Walking Holiday – 2N/3D

Region
Uttarakhand
Distance
19 km
Max Altitude
2400m (Binsar TRH)
Max Group Size
6
Duration
3 days/ 2 nights
Best Time
All year except mid-June to mid-October
Cost Per Person
₹ Adults - Rs. 10,500, Kids under 10 yrs - Rs. 6500+ 5% GST

Description

Nestled in the lower Himalayan region of Kumaon, Binsar wildlife 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. This exciting walking holiday takes you through the dense forests of Binsar, making stops at two tiny villages – Gaunap and Saatri. Accommodation will be in comfortable quaint homestays.

Itinerary

  • Day 1Kathgodam - Binsar TRH [5-hour drive]

    Our driver will pick you up at 6 am at Kathgodam and drive you to Binsar TRH. You should be able to arrive at the destination by around 11 am.

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

    It’s a gentle 3 Km downhill trek from Binsar TRH to Gaunap village. Check into Idyllic Haven, a cozy village homestay. Post lunch go on a tour or this tiny village which is home to all of eight families!

  • Day 2Gaunap - Saatri [8 km, 4-hour hike]

    Visit the village temple in the morning to catch the sunrise. The temple happens to be an amazing view point from which you will get a panoramic view that Binsar is famous for. This will be followed by a short birdwatching session.

    After breakfast, embark on the 8 km hike to Saatri, another tiny village in Binsar. The trail is mostly downhill and passes by a couple of streams.

    At Saatri, check into Idyllic Haven, Saatri, a beautiful cottage with astounding views of the Kumaon Himalayas. Post lunch, simply relax and enjoy the views or go on a short tour of the village.

  • Day 3Saatri - Tana (1150 m) [2.4 km, 1-hour hike], Tana - Kathgodam [130 km, 5-hour drive]

    After an early breakfast, embark on the downhill hike to Tana village, the nearest road head to Saatri. Our driver will pick you up from there and drop you at Kathgodam at around 2 pm.

Inclusions

  • 2 nights stay in comfortable villages homestays/guesthouses
  • All meals starting with lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 3
  • Ground transport – Kathgodam – Binsar TRH and Tana – 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 Saatri, giving you an opportunity to get a glimpse of local culture and experience Kumaoni hospitality.

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 both places on this walking holiday.

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 the bathrooms in Saatri.

Are laundry facilities available?

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

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 mules 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?

Both 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 Jio 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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