Half Day Hike to Kasara Devi Temple
Early morning, hike up to the colorful Kasar Devi Temple that finds mention in ancient scriptures and is situated about five miles from Almora. Amid birdsong, make your way through pine, deodar, and rhododendron forests as you take in the beauty of the verdant hillside. Past a meandering stairway leading to the hilltop, visit the temple complex that features deities in small caves, tiny stone installations, and perpetual firepits. Surrounded by the magnetic fields of Van Allen Belt, soak in the peaceful surrounds of the wooded Crank’s Ridge that has attracted a bevy of famous personalities over the decades. Part of the Hippie Trail of the 1960s and 1970s, artists, travelers, scholars, and musicians such as Swami Vivekananda, Cat Stevens, Bob Dylan, and Timothy Leary, have visited the temple in search of spiritual enlightenment. Standing atop the rocky cliff face, enjoy scenic vistas of the Kumaon countryside, the Hawabagh valley and majestic snow-capped peaks beyond. (Half Day; Time: Morning; Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer: Fitness level: Moderate)
Blissful Morning at Binsar
Waking up early, set out for the lush rolling meadows inside Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary that covers the Jhandi Dhar hills. Greeting locals as you pass by Kumaoni villages, make your way through picturesque winding trails, along gentle streams, terraced fields, and shrines. Further, amid forests of oaks, pines, and rhododendrons, soak in the peaceful surrounds as delightful jungle thrum fills the crisp mountain air. Expect to encounter myriad flora and fauna including barking deer, red foxes, giant flying squirrels, monkeys and a kaleidoscope of butterflies, among others. A haven for birders, you can also spot a variety of exotic resident and migratory birds within the colorful canopy. Reaching the elevated watch tower at the famous Zero Point, enjoy views of the Binsar Valley below and panoramic vistas of majestic snow-capped Himalayan peaks beyond. Finally, a short walk later, embark a vehicle and drive back to your hotel in time for lunch. (Half Day; Time: Morning; Duration: 5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Moderate)
