Binsar – A Bird Watcher’s Paradise
The sleepy region of Binsar is one of the scenic places of Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Perched at an elevation of 2420 metres, Binsar is known for offering spell-binding views of the majestic Himalayan peaks such as Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Panchachuli, and Kedarnath. The main attraction of Binsar is the 300 kms of majestic and panoramic view of Himalayan peaks from Zero point.This compact hill town is encircled by the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary which serves as a habitat for the rare animals, birds and flower species. Since the place is wrapped up in thick foliage, it is undoubtedly the best place for experiencing adventurous hiking, camping and nature walks.Famous for its sunset and sunrise views, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is a hub of rich flora and fauna. The reserve is located on the top of the Jhandi Dhar Hills which is situated at a distance of 35 km from Almora in Kumaon Region of the state of Uttarakhand. This popular wildlife sanctuary in Uttarakhand covers the total area of around 45.59 sq km and is situated at an elevation of 2500 m and is an important landmark of the small town of Binsar.The sanctuary has a large number of wildlife species and also includes some rare varieties of species.However, the major attraction of this wildlife reserve is a plethora of bird species that can be seen enhancing the ambience of this already gorgeous destination in Uttarakhand. In fact, the BirdLife International has also declared this reserve as an ‘Important Bird Area (IBA).’ Some extremely rare species of birds like Forktail and Blackbird can also be spotted with great ease here. In this park, there is a good opportunity for walking to sight animals and birds on a condition that a guide is hired for the wildlife tour. FLORA IN BINSAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Binsar wildlife sanctuary includes 25 types of trees and 25 types of bushes along with seven varieties of grasses. Moreover, you will also get to see oak and rhododendron trees in the high altitudes. Along with that, flowers like red rhododendrons are also the major attractions in the sanctuary which blooms in the month of March and April. FAUNA IN BINSAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Similar to flora, the sanctuary also offers a great sight of fauna. The reserve includes mammals like a leopard, chital, Sumatran serow, Himalayan Ghoral, Musk Deer, Black Bear, Red Fox, Pine Marten, Indian Muntjac, Rhesus Macaque, Jungle Cat, Gray Langur, and Red Giant Flying Squirrel.Moreover, the wildlife sanctuary has around 200 species of birds which are considered as one of the main attractions in the reserve. Blackbirds, Nuthatches, Kalij pheasant, Forktail, Laughingthrush, Monal, Eagles, Magpies, Eurasian Jays, Koklas, and Woodpeckers are some of the species here. Not limited to this, it also serves as a home for numerous reptiles and butterflies. BEST TIME TO VISIT BINSAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
One can visit the attraction throughout the year. Indeed, April to June and September to November are preferable months for the tourists to visit the reserve.
