Well, they do say if you want to find yourself, head into the mountains. What better way to do it, than to drive a car into Uttaranchal’s Kumaon. The Himalayas are India’s pride, and wildlife is the world’s way of telling us that nothing is impossible, and humans are not the most superior. After all, we do feel a little minor when we stand in front of a tiger or a lion, don’t we?
Discovering ourselves, or hunting for peace is always an immersive experience. The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is one such place; a beautiful mountain reserve clad in forests and serenity, overlooked by the mighty Himalayan Nanda Devi, Trisul and Panchachuli. If animals are your calling, you will find deer, boars, langurs, leopards and porcupines at your sights here. Not to forget a wide bird population for the ornithologists. There isn’t much to do, apart from spend your days tracing the footpaths of terraced fields, wooded hillsides and enjoying picnics into the sanctuary to discover a wealth of wildlife (and your true self too!).
For those that are culture-bound, the Dalar village close by is the perfect place to dive deep into history. All you need to do is switch off from your city-self and turn on your discover-the-world self. Local traditions, delicious pahari cuisine and warm welcomes await you in Dalar. Nearby temples like the Shiva Complex just outside of the sanctuary are also a haven for those that are less on the nature path.
I, for one, am always deciding between being a beach person and a mountain-lover. Sometimes, I realise that I am on both sides. There is no part of me that would prefer one over the other. But isn’t that how humans generally are? Wanting the best of everything. So, here I am, a lover of the mountains to find myself, and magnetically pulled towards beaches to lose myself in thoughts. I do like the idea of this. While Kumaon is a beautiful discovery, the bucket-list still has one to tick off from this part of the country too!
A cosy corner in Kumaon houses a serene five-acre estate perched at almost 8000 feet above sea level; the Mary Budden Estate. Escape the city life in this beautiful restored eco-friendly heritage haven that sits right in the middle of the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. This 19th century house is the perfect getaway for a group of 6 with just two private cottages and multiple sit-outs. Surrounded by valleys and mesmerizing views, the house still gives out the best old-world charm and it’s smart combination of indian and continental cuisine offerings are made with homegrown vegetables and herbs. So whether it’s a breakfast, dinner or a high-tea, you know you’re getting organic food too!
Scour the lands for a stay in this property with days filled with picnics, hikes and wildlife drives, and for the less adventurous there’s always village visits, cooking lessons and evening cultural performances to gaze at! I know I’m waiting for a chance to experience this secluded paradise!
Written by Mohit Gupta
Week 50, December ’20
