Binsar Weekend Trek
Overview
- Starts from Kathgodam and passes through the scenic Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Trails wind through oak, pine, cedar, and rhododendron forests.
- Features beautiful Himalayan views from Zero Point.
- Includes visits to Dhaulchina, Vriddha Jageshwar, and Jageshwar Dham.
- Offers opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and experiencing Kumaoni culture.
- Winter brings snow-covered forests and ridges, while spring offers rhododendron blooms.
- A peaceful, easy and beginner-friendly weekend trek.
- Suitable for families, first-time trekkers, and nature lovers.
- Can be undertaken throughout the year, with March–April and September–December offering especially pleasant conditions.
About Trek
The Binsar Weekend Trek is a short and beginner-friendly Himalayan trek located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The trek passes through the famous Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and nearby forest trails, villages, temples, and ridgelines.
This trek is especially popular among:
- Beginners
- Weekend travelers
- Nature lovers
- Birdwatchers
- Wildlife enthusiasts
- People looking for a short Himalayan escape
The route combines:
- Forest walks
- Himalayan viewpoints
- Traditional Kumaoni culture
- Wildlife sanctuary trails
- Ancient temple visits
The trek is considered ideal for people seeking a peaceful and accessible mountain experience without extreme altitude or technical trekking.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Kathgodam to Dhaulchina via Binsar Sanctuary
Pickup from Kathgodam Railway Station followed by a drive and forest trek through Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary to Dhaulchina.
130 km drive | 7 km trek
Day 2 — Dhaulchina to Jageshwar, Drive to Kathgodam
Trek towards Vriddha Jageshwar Temple, followed by a descent to Jageshwar Dham and a drive back to Kathgodam.
12–13 km trek
Eligibility
Participants should:
- Be able to walk for 4–6 hours comfortably
- Have basic stamina
- Prepare with light walking or jogging exercises before the trek
TTH also recommends:
- Healthy BMI range
- Normal blood pressure
- Healthy pulse rate
- No severe respiratory or cardiac issues
How to Reach
Nearest Railway Station
Kathgodam Railway Station
Nearest Airport
Pantnagar Airport
Most trekkers:
- Take overnight trains from Delhi
- Travel via Haldwani
- Reach Kathgodam before morning pickup timings
Trek Essentials
Clothing
-
1 full-sleeve & 1 half-sleeve quick-dry T-shirt
-
1 fleece T-shirt
-
1 windproof jacket
-
1 down feather / hollow jacket
-
1 thermal innerwear set (upper & lower)
-
1 quick-dry trekking pant
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1 fleece / woollen gloves
-
1 poncho / waterproof jacket and pant
Head Gear
-
1 head torch
-
1 sun cap
-
1 woollen cap
-
1 buff / neck gaiter
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Sunglasses with UV protection
Footwear
-
1 pair water-resistant, high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip
-
1 pair floaters / flip-flops
-
2 pairs cotton socks
-
1 pair woollen socks
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1 pair gaiters, if required
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1 pair micro spikes, if required
Backpack
-
40–50 L backpack with rain cover
-
20–30 L daypack with rain cover, if offloading is opted
-
Walking stick
Personal Essentials
-
2 × 1 L water bottles / hydration pack + 1 × 1 L bottle
-
1 thermos flask
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1 small tiffin / lunch box
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Personal medical kit / medicines
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Sunscreen
-
Moisturiser
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Chapstick / lip balm
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Toothbrush & toothpaste
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Toilet paper & wipes
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Soap / hand sanitizer
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Antibacterial powder
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Quick-dry towel
Food / Snacks
-
Energy bars
-
Dry fruits
-
Chocolates
-
ORS / electrolytes
Tip: Don't overpack. For a weekend trek, focus on good trekking shoes, comfortable layers, rain protection, hydration, and essential personal items.
Cancellation Policy
Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:
- Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
- Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.
FAQs
Is Binsar Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly Himalayan weekend treks.
What is the highest altitude?
Around 7,400–8,100 ft depending on the route and viewpoint.
Is the trek suitable during winter?
Yes, winter trekking is popular because of snowfall and scenic forest landscapes.
What wildlife can be seen?
Barking deer, Himalayan birds, goral, and occasionally leopards inside the sanctuary.
What are the major attractions?
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point, Himalayan views, and Jageshwar temples.