12 Underrated Hill Stations in India to Visit Before Instagram Finds Them

9. Binsar, Uttarakhand

Binsar is a small wildlife sanctuary and hill retreat offering forest walks and sweeping Himalayan views without big hotels. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy birding, short nature walks, and evenings by a wood fire. Access is via Almora or Kathgodam and a short drive up narrow, scenic roads. The sanctuary’s altitude keeps temperatures cool; best months are October through March for clear mountain panoramas and March through June for rhododendron blooms. Lodging is limited to cozy guesthouses, family-run inns, and a few heritage bungalows, many close to trails that lead into oak and pine forests. Pack binoculars if you like birdwatching, and bring warm pajamas for chilly nights. Binsar’s charm is its hush: mornings are for teas and porch conversations, and afternoons for short hikes that end at viewpoints facing the high Garhwal and Kumaon ranges.