Trek Overview
Looking for a weekend escape that mixes adventure with peace? The Binsar–Jageshwar Trek in the Kumaon Himalayas is just that. Starting from the beautiful Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (2,500 m), the trail winds through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests, accompanied by the sound of flowing streams and mountain breeze. Expect to spot deer, black bears, and rare birds as you camp under starry skies surrounded by towering deodars. The best time to visit is October to March, when the weather is clear and the snow-clad peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli shine bright on the horizon. The trek ends at the sacred Jageshwar Temple Complex, home to over 100 beautifully carved shrines dating back to the 9th century. Add to that Kumaon’s warm hospitality and ancient legends — and you’ve got the perfect weekend getaway.
Trek Highlights
- Binsar is a protected wildlife area comprising oak, rhododendron and pine forests on a mountain rising up to 8000 ft. It is situated 30 kilometres north east of Almora in the Kumaon region of the state of Uttarakhand in North India.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1: Kathgodam to Dhaulchina via Binsar Sanctuary Trek
- Drive Distance: 120 km (approx. 4-5 hrs)
- Trek Distance: 6 km (approx. 3-4 hrs)
- Highlights: Scenic drive, wildlife sightings in Binsar Sanctuary, stunning Himalayan views
- Stay: Guesthouse/Camping in Dhaulchina
Day 2: Dhaulchina to Jageshwar and Drive to Kathgodam
- Drive Distance: 100 km (approx. 4 hrs)
- Highlights: Visit to ancient Jageshwar temple complex, serene pine forests
- Return: Evening drop-off at Kathgodam
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Kathgodam to Dhaulchina via Binsar Sanctuary Trek
Arrive at Kathgodam and drive to Binsar National Park, a 4-hour scenic journey through the Kumaon hills. Begin the trek to Dhaulchina, passing through serene forests, picturesque hamlets, and ancient temples.
Visit the Sapteshwar Mahadev Temple and enjoy a tea break at a local teashop before continuing through pine and oak forests. Walk along irrigation channels and cross a pucca bridge over a stream before ascending gently towards Dhaulchina.
Enjoy breathtaking Himalayan views and spend the night at an eco-camp or guesthouse.
Drive Distance: 120 km (approx. 4 hrs) | Trek Distance: 8-10 km (approx. 5-6 hrs) | Stay: Eco Camp/Guesthouse
Day 02: Dhaulchina to Jageshwar and Drive to Kathgodam
Wake up early to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Central Himalayas, with views extending from Neelkanth in Garhwal to Nampa in Nepal. Optional: A short 30-minute climb to the hilltop offers a stunning 360-degree view.
Descend towards Jwalabanj and continue trekking towards Jageshwar, passing through dense temperate forests and charming Kumaoni villages. Stop at Vridh Jageshwar, an ancient temple complex surrounded by cedar forests.
After exploring Jageshwar, drive to Kathgodam via Nainital, enjoying the picturesque route. Board an overnight train or continue your journey back to Delhi.
Trek Distance: 6-8 km (approx. 4 hrs) | Drive Distance: 100 km (approx. 4 hrs) | Return: Train/Bus to Delhi
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions:
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping).
- Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
- Trek equipment (Sleeping bag, mattress, kitchen & dining tent, crampon, utensils, tent).
- All necessary permits and entry fees.
- First aid medical kits, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder.
- Mountaineering qualified & professional trek leader, guide, and support staff.
Exclusions:
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Food during the transit.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Change/Cancellation of Booking by the Participant
Process
The cancellation process is completely automated. Please log in to your Mountain Hike account and follow the instructions on your dashboard. You can choose between Instant Refund or Cash Refund as per the policy below.
Replacement of Participants
Participants can be replaced through the Mountain Hike dashboard if the booking status is “Paid” and at least 5 days remain before departure. If you face issues, email themountainhike@gmail.com with a screenshot of the error. The new participant must submit a signed undertaking form.
Note: Any Volvo/Train transport booked for the original participant will be automatically canceled and is non-transferable.
Cash Refund Policy
Cash refunds apply only for bookings made without promotional codes or vouchers. Refund amounts will be deducted as follows:
- 30+ days before departure: 5% deduction
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% deduction
- Less than 15 days before departure: No Refund
Refunds will be processed to the original payment method and are based on the Base Price of the trek, excluding transport, insurance, and portage fees.
Voucher Refund Policy
Voucher refunds are available for all types of bookings, including promotional offers. Refund amounts will be:
- 5+ days before departure: No deduction
- Less than 5 days: No Refund
Vouchers are valid for 10 months from the date of issue. The refunded voucher amount does not include service tax paid during the original booking.
Cancellation or Change Initiated by Mountain Hike
We reserve the right to modify or cancel an event due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, natural disasters, low participation, or any force majeure events. If this occurs, you will be given the choice of:
- A replacement event of equivalent value
- A full refund (processed as a voucher valid for 6 months)
If cancellation is due to low participation, participants can choose between a cash refund or a voucher.
Changes/Cancellation After Departure
Due to Force Majeure
No refund will be provided for cancellations due to force majeure after departure.
Other Reasons
If cancellations occur for reasons other than force majeure, we will attempt to arrange alternative services or provide a refund in the form of a 6-month voucher (or cash, if preferred).
Participant Dropout During the Event
No refund will be provided if a participant voluntarily drops out of the trek. Any additional costs incurred for return arrangements will be borne by the participant.
Early Return from an Event
If a participant returns early due to force majeure or an event ending sooner than planned, additional expenses (extra nights, transport) must be covered by the participant.
Emergency Evacuation
In case of a medical emergency, we will arrange evacuation to the nearest hospital. Any costs for porters, vehicles, ambulance services, or hospitalization must be covered by the participant.