Binsar

The summer capital of the Chand Kings, who ruled over Kumaon from the 11th-18th century, this formerly little-known hill station has once again become a popular summer escape. Hike up to Zero Point for far-reaching views of Kedarnath Peak, Shivling, Trisul and Nanda Devi Himalayan peaks or to the holy temples of Binsar Mahadev, Kasar Devi. In its dense oak and pine forests you might just spot leopard, chital, wild boar, black bears, flying squirrels, and many species of bird, reptiles and a wide range of butterflies. Beautiful under a blanket of snow in the winter, for milder temperatures, visit between the months of March and May.