Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary near Almora offers one of the widest Himalayan panoramas accessible by road — 300 km of peaks visible from Zero Point on a clear day. Here is your complete guide.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, 33 km from Almora, protects 47 sq km of oak and rhododendron forest at 1,700–2,400 metres. Its claim to fame is Zero Point — a viewpoint where on clear days you can see Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, and over 300 peaks stretching across the horizon.
Getting There
Bareilly to Binsar: 208 km, approximately 5 hours. Nainital to Binsar: 95 km, 2.5 hours. The road enters the sanctuary after Almora — a beautiful forest drive with excellent chances of spotting wildlife.
Wildlife & Birds
Binsar is primarily a birding destination. Over 200 species have been recorded including Himalayan woodpeckers, minivets, pheasants, and raptors. Mammals include leopard, barking deer, and Himalayan black bear.
Zero Point & Khali Estate
Zero Point (2,420m) is the sanctuary's highest accessible point. The KMVN tourist lodge at Zero Point has a spectacular lawn facing the Himalayan panorama. The British-era Khali Estate (now a heritage hotel) is also within the sanctuary.
Tips
Visit on a clear October–November day for the best peak views. The sanctuary has a ₹50 entry fee for Indians. No safari vehicles — all exploration is on foot or by personal cab within the sanctuary boundaries.