Searching for peace and solitude? Looking for invigorating air and glorious mountain views? Longing for lovely walks, for the feel of brown leaves crunching underfoot? Hoping to spot a leopard? Or a black bear or two?

Then come to Binsar, a tranquil forest resort tucked away in the Kumaon Hills far, far away from the madding crowd. Binsar is perched on top of the Jhandi Dhar hills and completely surrounded by dense forests. Oak, rhododendron, pine and deodar grow in amazing abundance. The mantle of green hangs all around - rocks covered with unusual moss and ferns, flowers and shrubs - foliage sprouting out of every conceivable nook and cranny of the hillside. The entire area is now a sanctuary.

Binsar was the ancient capital of the Chand Raj kings who ruled in the 7th and 8th centuries. Here, King Kalyan built the temple of Shiva, also known as Bineswar. The temple holds much significance for the devout. Outside Binsar, the temple complex of Jageshwar (34 km from Almora), nestles in a beautiful valley, crested by majestic deodars. This important pilgrimage is considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.

Panoramic vistas of the snow capped Himalayas are visible. You can see the peaks of Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Trishul, Panchchuli and Nanda Kot. The view is so beautiful that you almost feel it is a cliché, insignificant little you within touching distance of the awe inspiring mountains.

Time just stands still at Binsar. You will keep discovering new walking trails up the mountains and down the valleys, new lookout points for another spectacular sunset. This intimate little hill retreat makes you feel that nothing can ever come between you and nature.

Getting there: Binsar is 380 km from Delhi. The closest airport is at Pantnagar, 127 km and the nearest railhead is at Kathgodam, 85 km. From here you can take a tourist bus, taxi or drive up via Almora, 30 km from Binsar.

Best time: You can come to Binsar at any time of the year, but avoid the monsoons completely. Binsar is lovely around October-November. Travel with two layers of woollens, walking shoes and an umbrella, as hill weather is unpredictable. Carry a torch, candles and camera.

Accommodation in Binsar is restricted to a few luxury estates, small hotels and the KMVN tourist bungalow. Advance bookings are essential.

For more country information, see India.
For detailed state information, see Uttaranchal.