Perched at a height of about 8,000 feet, the sleepy hill town of Binsar is one of the most scenic spots in the Kumaon Himalayas, with jaw-dropping views of the majestic peaks of Chaukhamba, Trishul, Nanda Devi and Panchchuli, amongst others. The misty mountain trails winding through thick forests of oak, pine, deodar and rhododendron offer magical settings for hiking, nature walks and photography. Being encircled by the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary means that a wide variety of flora and fauna greet you at every turn. Mountain temples, manors, and estates from British days make for other delightful discoveries, while a number of new luxury openings offer blissful rejuvenating stays.

Distance from Delhi: 384 kilometres

Duration: Approximately nine-and-a-half hours

Where to take a pitstop?: Uttaranchal Green Family & Tourist Dhaba, Moradabad; Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop, Nainital

What to do?: Visit Jageshwar Dham, a cluster of over 100 temples dating between the 7th and 12th centuries, located about a two-hour drive from Binsar.

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