Read all about Samyukta Ranganthan’s time on The Binsar Forest Trail, one of Knowhere Travel Co’s signature walking holidays through the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. The Binsar Forest Trail is a truly unique, mindfully designed 7-day itinerary with passionate guides & warm hosts, and a focus on slow & responsible tourism. With multiple dates running from December to June, this one is a must-do!

What drew you to this experience in the first place?

When Knowhere Travel Co announced their first journey - The Binsar Forest Trail - I  was drawn to it immediately. Whether myth or truth - I  had heard that the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary was the only sanctuary in India that allowed people to walk or hike within. The idea of a village to village walking holiday with Himalayan peaks as a casual backdrop seemed perfect. I'm not (yet) a camper, so staying in simple village homes suited me. The appeal of being the first ones to go on this trip with Knowhere and its founder Suman was too much to turn my back on (after all, what kind of travel founder would I be if I didn't try something unique when it was temptingly offered)? 

I remember reaching Khali Estate for our debrief and seeing our first glimpse of the mighty peaks - Nanda Devi and Trishul and a few others. The soundtrack to my view was a busy Himalayan woodpecker a few metres away - seemingly unperturbed by my presence. What a rush. 

What moment made you feel you’d really “arrived” in Binsar?

To get to Binsar we flew to Delhi from Bangalore and then took an overnight train to Kathgodam followed by a pleasant 4 hour drive to Khali Estate within Binsar - where we would then commence our walking journey to the first village. 

Our bags were carried by friendly porters and we meandered through Oak and Rhododendron forest - I remember the silence and the crisp air. It was also warmer than it should have been in early March. No cars (or motorable roads) between villages, very few people around, birds and trees for company - bliss. 

Describe a moment from the walk that stayed with you.

How funny that urban folk think we have it all figured out? To think that one could live amongst these views on a daily basis, truly one with nature. I was welcomed into homes with such genuine kindness - but no one was putting on a show - this was just their life and I happened to be there. I saw an Indian Paradise Flycatcher (or that’s what I was told) on my first walk. The birds did not disappoint on this trip. I also heard (and saw) barking deer from a  distance - what a ridiculous animal! How incredible was this all? 

Who did you meet that made an impression?

We spent Holi in Binsar. The celebration was simple and so beautiful. I remember the songs sung by the women of the village as the sun set over the mountains - red cheeked children sneaking shy stares at me. A far cry from the synthetic colours and commerciality of Holi in the cities. 

Describe the home you stayed in. What did it feel like?

On one particularly long walking day down a very steep hill, I reached the village home only to be greeted by piping hot chai, a bucket of warm water with salts to soothe my feet and only the best masala chai I’ve had. Add to that parakeet filled trees and golden hour splendour and you have the best evening of the trip. To be served a delicious, piping hot, home-cooked meal at the end of a long day of walking - we didn’t need much more. 

How did the experience change your idea of travel?

When I think about how our walks changed every day - some days down in a valley near the river, some high up looking over fields of crop, others deep in the forest surrounded by oak trees and revelling in the brilliance of Rhododendron in bloom, and the occasional gentle cliff walk with views of the Himalayas. It’s hard to explain what  a trip like this does. Maybe a rewiring of the brain? I feel like I’m drawn to walking holidays everywhere now - but I think before I do those I will go back with Knowhere on their excellent ‘human-powered’ journeys both on water and on land. Don’t wait much longer to book either the Binsar Forest trail or the Sweet Valley Crossing if you’re keen to try a walking holiday but intimidated or overwhelmed by the idea of a ‘trek’. Thank me later.

Explore The Binsar Forest Trail with Knowhere Travel Co for your next holiday.

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