Nature · Binsar, Kumaon
Sunrise walk to Zero Point
Walk 2 km through dark oak forest to the watchtower at Zero Point, about 2,400 m, and watch the sun light the snow peaks from Chaukhamba to Panchachuli. It is the defining Binsar experience and best from October to February.
Photo: SudiptoDutta · CC BY-SA 3.0 · CommonsThe trail starts near the KMVN rest house and climbs gently through banj oak and rhododendron for about 2 km. Most people take 30–45 minutes. Leave at least 45 minutes before sunrise, carry a torch, and walk in a group if possible. In the half-light you may hear pheasants and see barking deer crossing the path.
At the top is a watchtower called Zero Point, or Jhandi Dhar, the highest point of the sanctuary. On a clear morning the view to the north takes in Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Shivling, Trishul, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and the Panchachuli group. The first light reaches the highest summits several minutes before the ridges around you.
October to February gives the clearest skies. From March, haze from the plains often softens the view, and in the monsoon clouds usually hide it entirely. Bring a warm jacket, gloves and a hot drink; it is near freezing on winter mornings. Return slowly and stop to look for birds as the forest wakes.
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Questions
Before you book
How long is the walk to Zero Point in Binsar?
About 2 km each way from the KMVN rest house, on a gentle forest trail. Allow 30–45 minutes up and a little less down. It suits most fit walkers, including children and active seniors.
Which peaks can I see from Zero Point?
On a clear day the view runs from Kedarnath, Chaukhamba and Shivling in the west through Trishul, Nanda Devi and Nanda Kot to the Panchachuli group in the east.
Do I need a guide for the Zero Point walk?
The trail is clear and many walk it alone, but in the dark a guide or staff member is reassuring, and a guide adds bird and plant knowledge. Never walk it alone after dark.