Zero Point

Zero Point, also known as Jhandi Dhaar, is the highest vantage point in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary at an elevation of approximately 2,412 meters. Located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, it offers panoramic 360-degree views of major Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Trisul, Shivling, and Kedarnath. Visitors reach this viewpoint via a 2-kilometer trek through the sanctuary's oak and rhododendron forests.

Visitors can expect a moderate 2-kilometer trek from the parking area or Tourist Rest House through dense forest trails. At Zero Point, there is a man-made watchtower structure providing unobstructed 360-degree views of the Greater Himalayas. The trail passes through oak and rhododendron forests with opportunities for birdwatching. The viewpoint offers clear vistas of snow-capped peaks on clear days, particularly during sunrise and sunset.

Binsar was the summer capital of the Chand Kings who ruled Kumaon from the 11th to 18th centuries. The British also used it as a summer capital and built several estates inside the forest. The sanctuary was established in 1988 for conservation of broad leaf oak forests.

The area has historical importance as a former summer capital and contains colonial-era estates. The name Jhandi Dhaar refers to the flag-bearing peak, holding local cultural significance.