Binsar's original Raj-era estate was built in 1856 as the home of British high-commissioner Sir Henry Ramsay. Today it's run by adventure-travel-writer Shikha Tripathi and her husband Sindhu Shah, and has been in the family for just 100 years. The heritage mansion has been lovingly maintained and exudes 19th-century colonial ambience throughout. It blends in beautifully among the forest.
Its restaurant (open to guests only) is another highlight serving set thali meals of Kumaoni speciality dishes – from slow-cooked lamb to deep-fried stinging nettle fritters! It also customises treks, from day walks to overnight stays in the homes of villagers. Call when you get to Simba Cafe, from where they'll collect you, as it's a steep 4WD track up from there.
