Level - 1- 49 Study Tour

BDO Khajan Joshi Sir
Mob.No. 9412166691

BDO Almora
Mob.No. 9412983261

Dr. Kishan Rana NGO Hiteshi India Kausani
Mob.No. 8859484792

Director

Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES)

Manora Peak

Nainital - 263001

Uttarakhand, India

 +91 - 5942 - 270721 (P.S. to Director)

 +91 - 5942 - 270700 (Reception)

 +91- 5942 - 233439
directoraries@aries.res.in

Director

Prof. Sunil Nautiyal

G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment

Kosi-Katarmal, Almora-263 643, Uttarakhand, India

(Code: +91-5962) 241015(O), 241034 (R), EPABX Nos.: (05962) 241041, 241154

Fax: (05962) 241014, 241150

psdir@gbpihed.nic.in

Binsar -
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: The star attraction. Home to over 200 species of birds, leopards, barking deer, Himalayan black bears, and more. It's a treat for bird watchers and wildlife lovers.
Zero Point: A scenic spot inside the sanctuary offering 360-degree views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Trishul, and Panchachuli.
Thick forests: Binsar is surrounded by oak, rhododendron, and pine forests – perfect for treks and nature walks.

🏛️ Institutes in and around Binsar

Binsar is a nature-rich, low-key area and not a hub for large educational or research institutions, but you’ll find a few relevant establishments connected with environmental studies, conservation, and Himalayan research:

1. GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (NIHE) – Almora

• Location: Kosi-Katarmal, near Almora (~30 km from Binsar)
  
  

• Focus: Research and development for sustainable development of the Indian Himalayan Region.
  
  

• Involvement in Binsar: Works on biodiversity conservation, eco-development, and climate change studies.
  
  

• Website
  
  

2. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Administration

• Not an academic institute per se, but functions with a Forest Department team focused on protection, eco-tourism, and nature education.
  
  

• May conduct eco-awareness programs with schools and locals.
  
  

🤝 NGOs Active in and around Binsar

Several NGOs work in this region, focused on rural development, environment conservation, women empowerment, and education.

1. Chirag (Central Himalayan Rural Action Group)

• Location: Sitla, near Mukteshwar (~60 km from Binsar)
  
  

• Focus: Livelihoods, health, education, natural resource management in the Kumaon region.
  
  

• Known for working with local communities and schools.
  
  

2. Aarohi

• Location: Satoli village, ~2 hours from Binsar.
  
  

• Focus: Healthcare, education, and sustainable rural development.
  
  

• Runs a hospital, a school, and livelihood initiatives.
  
  

3. Himalayan Ark

• Location: Munsiyari (a bit farther, but notable)
  
  

• Focus: Community-based tourism, conservation, and eco-awareness.
  
  

• Promotes homestays and local guides in Himalayan villages.
  
  

🌟 Famous Things About Binsar

🏞️ 1. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

• Famous for being one of the most serene and biodiverse spots in Uttarakhand.

• Great for spotting leopards, barking deer, wild boars, and over 200 bird species.
  
  

🔭 2. Zero Point View

• Offers iconic views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks.

• A short forest trek leads to the tower – the ultimate Instagram shot!
  
  

🌲 3. Thick Oak & Rhododendron Forests

• One of the few places where you can hike without crowds, with dense, mystical-looking forests.
  
  

🧘 4. Eco Retreats and Meditation Spots

• Ideal for those into silent retreats, yoga, or writing.

• Places like Binsar Forest Retreat are known for sustainability and solitude.

📸 5. Photography & Bird Watching

• A heaven for nature photographers.

• Species like the Himalayan monal, koklass pheasant, and nuthatches can be spotted.
  
  

🏰 6. Khali Estate

• A heritage property once used by freedom fighters and British officials.

• Now a boutique stay with rich history.
  
  
  🏛️ Institutes in and around Kausani

1. Lakshmi Ashram

• Founded by: Catherine Mary Heilman (Sarlaben), a disciple of Gandhi.
  
  

• Type: Girls’ residential school and Gandhian institute.
  
  

• Focus: Education and empowerment of rural girls through academics, self-reliance, and Gandhian values.
  
  

• Unique Angle: Girls here are trained in everything from sewing and farming to social service and hiking into remote villages.
  
  

• Located just a short walk from Kausani town center.
  
  

2. Gandhi Ashram (Anashakti Ashram)

• Historical importance: Mahatma Gandhi stayed here in 1929 and wrote his treatise Anashakti Yoga.
  
  

• Now serves as a museum, library, meditation site, and study center for Gandhian philosophy.
  
  

• Also offers budget lodging for spiritual seekers and visitors.
  
  

🤝 NGOs Active in and around Kausani

1. Lakshmi Ashram (also functions as an NGO)

• Mentioned above, it not only educates girls but also engages in community outreach, women’s empowerment, and rural development.
  
  

2. Urmul Trust (collaborative projects)

• While based in Rajasthan, they have partnered with local hill organizations around Kausani for development and health-based projects in the Kumaon hills.
  
  

3. Avani (near Berinag, ~2 hours from Kausani)

• Focuses on rural livelihoods, solar energy, textile development, and natural dyeing techniques.
  
  

• Famous for handmade, eco-friendly textiles and solar projects.
  
  

• Offers internships, volunteering, and is a case study in sustainable mountain development.
  
  

🌟 Famous Things About Kausani

🏔️ 1. Panoramic Himalayan Views

• Offers jaw-dropping views of Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli peaks.
  
  

• Many hotels and homestays are built along the ridge, facing the snow-capped giants.
  
  

📚 2. Gandhi Ashram (Anashakti Ashram)

• A peaceful spot to read, meditate, or just take in the view while walking through history.
  
  

• There’s a photo gallery and a library with rare Gandhian literature.
  
  

🍵 3. Kausani Tea Estate

• A major local industry, producing organic, high-altitude tea.
  
  

• You can take guided tours, taste different varieties, and even buy fresh tea.
  
  

• The Kausani Tea Factory is worth a stop for tea lovers.
  
  

🧘 4. Sumitranandan Pant Museum

• Dedicated to the celebrated Hindi poet born in Kausani.
  
  

• Includes handwritten manuscripts, personal letters, and rare photos.
  
  

🛍️ 5. Local Woollens and Handicrafts

• The town’s markets sell handwoven shawls, stoles, and woollen goods.
  
  

• Some are made by NGOs and women’s self-help groups trained in craft and weaving.
  
  

🚶 6. Trekking & Nature Trails

• Trails through pine forests, terraced fields, and quaint villages make Kausani ideal for slow travel.
  
  

• Short treks lead to Rudradhari Falls & Caves, Pinnath Temple, and beyond.
  
  

🚗 Getting There

• Nearest Railhead: Kathgodam (~130 km away)
  
  

• By Road: Well-connected via Almora, Bageshwar, and Ranikhet.
  
  

• Closest Airport: Pantnagar (~170 km away)

• 
  
  Nainital:

1. Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo: Established in 1984 and opened to the public in 1995, this zoo is situated on Sher Ka Danda hill at an elevation of 2,100 meters. It houses several endangered species native to the Himalayas, including the Royal Bengal tiger, Tibetan wolves, and Himalayan bears. ​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
   
   

2. Kainchi Dham (Neem Karoli Baba Ashram): Located approximately 17 km from Nainital on the Nainital-Almora road, this ashram is dedicated to the renowned saint Neem Karoli Baba. It has been visited by notable personalities like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. The ashram is set amidst tranquil surroundings, making it a place for spiritual rejuvenation. ​Travel + Leisure Asia
   
   

3. Naina Devi Temple: Situated at the northern end of Naini Lake, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. It is a significant pilgrimage site and offers insights into local religious practices. ​Aha Holidays+2Wikipedia+2Nainital Tourism+2
   
   

4. Governor's House (Raj Bhawan): Built in the Victorian Gothic style, this building serves as the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand. The architecture and well-maintained gardens are noteworthy. ​
   
   

Almora:

1. Kasar Devi Temple: This ancient temple, located near Almora, is known for its spiritual significance and serene environment. It has attracted several notable visitors over the years. ​TravelTriangle.com+1Travel + Leisure Asia+1
   
   

2. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated about 30 km from Almora, this sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna. Within the sanctuary, Zero Point offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. ​Myholidays.com+2Aha Holidays+2TravelTriangle.com+2
   
   

3. Katarmal Sun Temple: Located approximately 12 km from Almora, this 9th-century temple is dedicated to the Sun God. It stands as an architectural marvel from the Katyuri dynasty. ​TravelTriangle.com
   
   

4. Gobind Vallabh Pant Museum: Situated in Almora, this museum showcases the cultural heritage of the region, including artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. ​
   
   

5. Lakhudiyar Caves: Located in Barechhina village on the banks of the Suyal River, these caves feature prehistoric paintings depicting animals and humans, offering insights into early human life in the region. ​

1. Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee):

• Location: Roorkee, Uttarakhand​Top Colleges and Universities in India
  
  

• Overview: Established in 1847, IIT Roorkee is one of the oldest engineering institutions in India, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various engineering and technological disciplines. ​College Pravesh
  
  

2. Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology:

• Location: Pantnagar, Uttarakhand​Rishikesh Day Tour+3Wikipedia+3The Times of India+3
  
  

• Overview: Founded in 1960, this is the first agricultural university in India, offering programs in agriculture, engineering, and technology.​
  
  

3. Kumaun University:

• Location: Nainital and Almora, Uttarakhand​
  
  

• Overview: Established in 1973, Kumaun University has campuses in Nainital and Almora, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts, science, commerce, and law.

🏛️ Major Institutions on the Route from Delhi to Almora

1. Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee)

• Location: Roorkee, Uttarakhand
  
  

• Distance from Delhi: ~180 km
  
  

• Specialty: One of India’s premier engineering institutes, established in 1847.
  
  

• Can be visited for: Engineering research labs, historical significance, and academic collaboration.
  
  

2. Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology

• Location: Pantnagar, near Rudrapur
  
  

• Distance from Almora: ~100 km
  
  

• Specialty: India’s first agricultural university, a hub for agri-tech research.
  
  

• Can be visited for: Rural innovation, agricultural science, and university campus interaction.
  
  

3. Kumaun University

• Location: Nainital & Almora
  
  

• Distance from Delhi: ~300–360 km
  
  

• Specialty: Regional multidisciplinary university offering arts, sciences, and law.
  
  

• Can be visited for: Cultural academic exchange and local research activities.
  
  

4. Forest Research Institute (FRI)

• Location: Dehradun (a slight detour if you take the western route)
  
  

• Distance from Delhi: ~250 km
  
  

• Specialty: One of the oldest and most prestigious institutions for forestry research in Asia.
  
  

• Can be visited for: Museum, colonial architecture, biodiversity knowledge.
  
  

5. Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI)

• Location: Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (on the way via Rampur–Haldwani)
  
  

• Distance from Delhi: ~270 km
  
  

• Specialty: Premier institute for veterinary and animal sciences research.
  
  

1. Tehri Dam

• Location: Tehri, Uttarakhand​chardhamtours.in+3The Times of India+3Pinterest+3
  
  

• Distance from Almora: Approximately 160 km​
  
  

• Overview: Tehri Dam is the tallest dam in India and one of the tallest in the world, standing at a height of 260.5 meters. Constructed on the Bhagirathi River, it serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and municipal water supply. The dam has a reservoir capacity of 4.0 cubic kilometers. ​
  
  

2. Ramganga Dam (Kalagarh Dam)

• Location: Pauri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand​
  
  

• Distance from Almora: Approximately 120 km​
  
  

• Overview: Situated within the Jim Corbett National Park, the Ramganga Dam is an embankment dam on the Ramganga River. It primarily aids in irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. The dam creates the Kalagarh Reservoir, which is a habitat for various wildlife species. ​
  
  

3. Haripura Dam

• Location: Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand​indianetzone.com
  
  

• Distance from Almora: Approximately 90 km​
  
  

• Overview: Constructed on the Bhakra River, the Haripura Dam was completed in 1975. It has a height of about 10.98 meters and a length of approximately 7,980 meters. The dam primarily facilitates irrigation in the region. ​indianetzone.com
  
  

4. Ichari Dam

• Location: Dehradun district, Uttarakhand​FamousFix.com+1indianetzone.com+1
  
  

• Distance from Almora: Approximately 280 km​
  
  

• Overview: Built on the Tons River, the Ichari Dam is a concrete gravity dam completed in 1972. It stands at a height of 59.25 meters and extends 155 meters in length. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation. ​FamousFix.com+2indianetzone.com+2Unacademy+2
  
  

5. Rihand Dam (Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar)

• Location: Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh​Walkthrough India+2Testbook+2YouTube+2
  
  

• Distance from Almora: Approximately 350 km​WIRED+3Testbook+3AP News+3
  
  

• Overview: Rihand Dam is a concrete gravity dam on the Rihand River, a tributary of the Son River. It is the largest dam by volume in India, with a height of 91 meters and a length of 934 meters. The dam creates the Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar reservoir, which is used for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation. ​Xypex India+2Walkthrough India+2Pinterest+2
  
  

These dams not only serve critical functions like hydroelectric power generation and irrigation but also offer scenic beauty and opportunities for tourism. Before planning a visit, it's advisable to check for any required permissions or visiting hours.​

Sources

4o

You said:

ngo in ranikhet

ChatGPT said:

Certainly! Here are some notable non-governmental organizations (NGOs) based in Ranikhet, Uttarakhand:

1. Sanjeevani Vikas Evam Jan Kalyan Samiti

• Overview: Established in 2000, this organization focuses on rural development, health education, women's empowerment, organic farming, and environmental conservation. They have been involved in various projects, including sanitation campaigns and health initiatives. ​NGOFeed+2Indian Rural NGO+2Indian Rural NGO+2
  
  

• Address: Trishul Enterprises Building, Near Roadways Bus Station, Ranikhet, District - Almora, Uttarakhand - 263645 ​ngosindia.org+11Indian Rural NGO+11indiangoslist.com+11
  
  

• Contact: Phone: +91-8650354264; 05966-220121​NGO Details+4Indian Rural NGO+4Indian Rural NGO+4
  
  

• Website: sanjeevaningo.org
  
  

2. UMANG

• Overview: UMANG promotes sustainable livelihoods for small producers through the establishment of micro-enterprises. They focus on empowering local communities by providing skill development and market linkages. ​Give
  
  

• Location: Ranikhet, Uttarakhand​Yappe
  
  

3. Hariyali Vikas Samiti

• Overview: Founded in 2000, this organization works in areas such as education, water management, agriculture, governance, food and nutrition, energy and environment, and animal welfare. ​Indian Rural NGO+2Give+2NGOFeed+2
  
  

• Location: Ranikhet, Uttarakhand​Wikipedia+1NGO Details+1
  
  

4. Himalayan Organisation For Protecting Environment

• Overview: Established in 1992, this NGO focuses on education, health, employment, water, technology, food and nutrition, and livelihoods, aiming to protect the Himalayan environment and support local communities. ​Give
  
  

• Location: Ranikhet, Uttarakhand​Yappe
  
  

5. Canossa School Samiti

• Overview: Founded in 1995, this organization is involved in educational initiatives and has been recognized under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). ​Give
  
  

• Location: Ranikhet, Uttarakhand​NGO Foundation+3Give+3Wikipedia+3
  
  

6. DORE - Devoted Organization for Reforming Environment

• Overview: DORE focuses on environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods. Their mission includes overall development of the rural community, promotion of sustainable livelihoods, technology development and demonstration, and science popularization. ​ngosindia.org
  
  

• Address: 196-B, Ranikhet 263645, Uttarakhand​NGO Details+11ngosindia.org+11Indian Rural NGO+11
  
  

• Contact: Phone: 91-5966-222138​ngosindia.org