Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Binsar Estate, Ayarpani District Almora, Binsar 263601 India
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Avg. ₹8,313 /night, 3/25 - 3/26
₹10,627
per night
₹8,956
per night
₹7,285
per night
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About
#3 of 5 hotels in Binsar
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor is nestled a top the Kumaon hills (Uttarakhand), the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, 25 kilometres from Almora. It was in 1856 when the then British Commissioner of Kumaon, General Sir Henry Ramsay, cousin to Lord Dalhousie, the Viceroy of India, acquired this piece of land and built his private home. In 1931, the property was purchased by Rai Bahadur Harkishan Lal Sah Gangola and has stayed in the family since. Today, we have reopened the doors of this exclusive hotel in Binsar for guests to offer them a taste of the old world charm and our hospitality. Supporting the quaintness and beauty of the old world, the 11 hideaway rooms of 350 sq. ft. each, are lined along high ceilinged corridors. The teak wood furniture, bright bedspreads and rugs, and cozy fireside armchairs – are all reminiscent of genteel age.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Wifi
Restaurant
Hiking
Board games / puzzles
Car hire
Newspaper
Outdoor furniture
Valet parking
Taxi service
First aid kit
Express check-in / check-out
Ironing service
Room features
Desk
Private balcony
Room service
Bottled water
Iron
Electric kettle
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Private bathrooms
Room types
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Classic
Historic Hotel
Languages Spoken
English, Hindi
Location
Binsar Estate, Ayarpani District Almora, Binsar 263601 India
Getting there
Pantnagar Airport
78.5 km•
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Car Hire
18 Restaurants
within 10 kilometers
Reviews
Traveller rating
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Detailed Reviews
The place is awesome and very cozy to spend with family.. only the heaters were a problem as they worked on gas cylinders and the smell of the gas was there in the rooms. The food was finger licking and the staff went out of their way to make us feel comfortable and catered to our needs. Location is away from the city but the view in the morning of the Sunrise is worth a million. You can trek upto Point Zero from where you can get an amazing view of the Himalayas.. Highly recommend this place
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Date of stay: December 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Priyanka Debnath Sarkar, Other at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Responded 2 May 2023
Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to review your stay at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar. I’m so glad to hear that our staff was able to make your experience with us a memorable one and that you enjoyed all of the amenities we offer. I will pass on your compliments about the food served – our Executive Chef is quite passionate about his work! We hope that in future visits you’ll have an opportunity to try more of what we have available in this culinary gem. We have well noted the feedback that you have shared with us, and will try our best to work upon it. Do visit us soon again. Warm regards, Priyanka Debnath Sarkar On behalf of Akhil Anand - Director
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I stayed at the Grand Oak Manor for 4 nights in the first week of October 2020. It was one of the most rejuvenating and peaceful holidays I’ve ever had. This is definitely the place to be for nature lovers, and for those who want a comfortable, quiet, remote retreat. I would’ve loved to stay there longer, and would happily come there again. There are only 5 resorts within the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and I believe this is the best one to stay at.
What you’ll love: The rooms are clean, comfortable and have beautiful views. There are no kettles but you can request hot water or tea to be brought to you. The views of the Himalayas and the valley from the property are breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset. The manor is full of places (indoor and outdoor) to relax, read, and enjoy the fresh air and sun. The staff are incredibly hospitable, kind and helpful. The food is delicious and they prepare a variety of cuisines to enjoy. The hikes from the manor are beautiful, scenic and can be customised based on your preferences. A naturalist is available on site to plan and guide you through the hikes.
What to prepare for: It was a 12-13 hour drive from Delhi (including 1 hour total of rest stops) mainly due to traffic, tolls, and poor roads at certain places. I highly recommend traveling in an SUV to handle the mountain roads. The WiFi and signal within the manor is strongest in the dining room only. It can get cold in the rooms, but they have heaters in each room that you can use to warm up. The place runs on solar power to help preserve the sanctuary, so hot water is usually available at certain times of the day. However, if you just let the staff know, they can turn on the generator so you can access hot water whenever you need.
Overall, this is an extraordinary place to experience and stay at. Thanks to the Grand Oak Manor team for taking such good care of us during our stay.
What you’ll love: The rooms are clean, comfortable and have beautiful views. There are no kettles but you can request hot water or tea to be brought to you. The views of the Himalayas and the valley from the property are breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset. The manor is full of places (indoor and outdoor) to relax, read, and enjoy the fresh air and sun. The staff are incredibly hospitable, kind and helpful. The food is delicious and they prepare a variety of cuisines to enjoy. The hikes from the manor are beautiful, scenic and can be customised based on your preferences. A naturalist is available on site to plan and guide you through the hikes.
What to prepare for: It was a 12-13 hour drive from Delhi (including 1 hour total of rest stops) mainly due to traffic, tolls, and poor roads at certain places. I highly recommend traveling in an SUV to handle the mountain roads. The WiFi and signal within the manor is strongest in the dining room only. It can get cold in the rooms, but they have heaters in each room that you can use to warm up. The place runs on solar power to help preserve the sanctuary, so hot water is usually available at certain times of the day. However, if you just let the staff know, they can turn on the generator so you can access hot water whenever you need.
Overall, this is an extraordinary place to experience and stay at. Thanks to the Grand Oak Manor team for taking such good care of us during our stay.
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Date of stay: October 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is a must-visit! A beautiful property with forest all around and if the skies are clear, a super view of the Himalayas! Curl up with a book in the old English-style living room, or go for a nature trail walk, or just enjoy a quiet cup of tea on the lawn. The food is excellent and service very good. We really enjoyed our 3 nights there. Thank you to Rajan ji for managing every little detail for us so well, Amit who attended to all our requests so promptly and Jagdish ji who spun up fabulous meals, including a traditional one with local flavours. A special thanks to Hem Joshi, our guide who took us on the lovely walks, helping us identify the different trees, birds and flowers!
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Date of stay: September 2021
Value
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tree Of Life Grand Oak Manor, located in a unique forest reserve, offers a serene and peaceful escape. The food and hospitality were excellent. However, the owner and manager seemed very money-minded. As bikers with pillion riders, we faced challenging roads and requested a drop-off at the forest reserve entrance. They quickly demanded Rs 2500 plus taxes, knowing we had no other options. This felt exploitative, given the circumstances. The approach road is unsuitable for any vehicle, and the forest reserve road is equally bad. While the location is beautiful, the accessibility issues and the management's attitude were significant drawbacks.
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Date of stay: June 2024Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I wish I had read the review from July 2019 and not booked into this hotel. The point about arrogance of owners is absolutely spot on.
It was the worst experience I ever had on a vacation. I started calling them since morning to inform about our arrival but no one picked the number provided for booking. In fact couple of times they cut my phone but never called back. The hotel is in a jungle with a broken uphill pavement being called an approach road. It is impossible to drive up for even Innova crysta. In the rain it became even worse. Since there was not way to contact them, I started walking towards the hotel in pouring rain and biting cold even as my family waited down in the car. Eventually I reached after 30min, only to find the main gate closed and no staff to be seen! No one responded to my knocks on the gate, so I had to go around the hotel and knock on windows of various guest rooms until someone eventually saw my plight and came down to let us in. The rooms were very average, water scanty and food grossly overpriced.
For all the trouble we faced due to their negligence, I have not had a word of apology from either their staff or the owners. There are plenty of beautiful places in Uttarakhand with much cheaper hotels providing better service. Skip this one
It was the worst experience I ever had on a vacation. I started calling them since morning to inform about our arrival but no one picked the number provided for booking. In fact couple of times they cut my phone but never called back. The hotel is in a jungle with a broken uphill pavement being called an approach road. It is impossible to drive up for even Innova crysta. In the rain it became even worse. Since there was not way to contact them, I started walking towards the hotel in pouring rain and biting cold even as my family waited down in the car. Eventually I reached after 30min, only to find the main gate closed and no staff to be seen! No one responded to my knocks on the gate, so I had to go around the hotel and knock on windows of various guest rooms until someone eventually saw my plight and came down to let us in. The rooms were very average, water scanty and food grossly overpriced.
For all the trouble we faced due to their negligence, I have not had a word of apology from either their staff or the owners. There are plenty of beautiful places in Uttarakhand with much cheaper hotels providing better service. Skip this one
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Date of stay: June 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
First lets acknowledge that the team is maintaining the hotel at a difficult location where the power/water/access etc everything is a challenge. Located within the sanctuary - its surrounded by forests. It offers nice walks within the sanctuary. The people /staff are quite friendly.
But the Hotel, which is charging quite high, could do much better in my opinion. At a place where there is nothing to do, the hotels should think of creating some opportunities for the guests to experience/explore. Here there are none. I booked for 3 days but somehow felt like leaving after 2 days. We enjoyed 2 days thoroughly but the family-without anything else and rooms being too closed without much open spaces, felt suffocated to stay indoors. Food is of good quality, staff are nice.
But the Hotel, which is charging quite high, could do much better in my opinion. At a place where there is nothing to do, the hotels should think of creating some opportunities for the guests to experience/explore. Here there are none. I booked for 3 days but somehow felt like leaving after 2 days. We enjoyed 2 days thoroughly but the family-without anything else and rooms being too closed without much open spaces, felt suffocated to stay indoors. Food is of good quality, staff are nice.
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Date of stay: May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Priyanka Debnath Sarkar, Other at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Responded 28 Jun 2022
Dear Vikranth Thank you so much for writing about your experience at the property. We are delighted to know that you enjoyed the stay, and liked the food and the ambiance. Since your feedback is of utmost importance to us, we'll surely consider it. We look forward to welcoming you again soon. Warm Regards Priyanka Debnath Sarkar On behalf of Akhil Anand - Director
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The positives of the property
• the absolute isolation (it is inside the sanctuary) and
• the very very friendly and courteous staff. They were quite helpful all through our stay. Food is decent.
However, the quality of linen in room, bathroom etc were quite average and not commensurate to the charge. Feel a tariff of 5k-6k is a better reflection of the property
• the absolute isolation (it is inside the sanctuary) and
• the very very friendly and courteous staff. They were quite helpful all through our stay. Food is decent.
However, the quality of linen in room, bathroom etc were quite average and not commensurate to the charge. Feel a tariff of 5k-6k is a better reflection of the property
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Date of stay: February 2021
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Shankar Vellat, Revenue Management at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Responded 20 Sept 2021
Dear Guest Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. My team and I are deeply concerned that your overall experience at the hotel was less than satisfactory – please accept my heartfelt apology. All of us at Tree of Life Resorts & Hotels endeavour to do all we can to ensure that every guest feels welcomed and receives service that is friendly, attentive, and timely. Your experience is certainly not representative of the care and service we strive to provide for our guests. Please do note that we are looking into each issue at great length with the respective teams to ensure that they are rectified and improved to the best of our abilities. Our relationship with our guests is of paramount importance to us and it is feedback such as yours that enables us to improve our services to better meet the discerning needs of our guests. I request you to kindly give us another opportunity to showcase the luxury experience to you. Please write me at gm@treeofliferesorts.com for your next booking. We hope you will allow us another chance to welcome you back to Tree of Life Resorts & Hotels. Warm Regards, Shankar Vellat General Manager Tree of Life Hotels & Resorts
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Going on a vacation everyone plans their trip carefully. With this property you will have to be extra
Perks of the property
1. The location of the property is good. From the property grounds you can view mountains in a panoramic 270 deg. At times when there are no clouds you can even see the snow peaks.
2. The property is inside the sanctuary so it’s serene and pleasant. It’s difficult to get from the main road as Google doesn’t show the right way on maps but you can call the staff and they will guide you. Remember you have to take the entry gate of the sanctuary so don’t miss it when Google tells you to go forward.
Pitfalls
1. Food is the biggest disappointment.
2. Rats at the property and there are these big garden lizards in the garden. These reptiles are stunning to look at but beware if you sit by the stone fence or stone chairs they may just creep out of the cracks in between the blocks.
3. The property is not well maintained as it could be with just some investment.
Other points to ponder
1. Carry your own water.
2. Take some games else you may get bored.
3. There is a trek to point zero but go there after checking the weather conditions. Snow peaks will only be visible when the sky is clear.
4. A 2 night trip is enough for Binsar.
Perks of the property
1. The location of the property is good. From the property grounds you can view mountains in a panoramic 270 deg. At times when there are no clouds you can even see the snow peaks.
2. The property is inside the sanctuary so it’s serene and pleasant. It’s difficult to get from the main road as Google doesn’t show the right way on maps but you can call the staff and they will guide you. Remember you have to take the entry gate of the sanctuary so don’t miss it when Google tells you to go forward.
Pitfalls
1. Food is the biggest disappointment.
2. Rats at the property and there are these big garden lizards in the garden. These reptiles are stunning to look at but beware if you sit by the stone fence or stone chairs they may just creep out of the cracks in between the blocks.
3. The property is not well maintained as it could be with just some investment.
Other points to ponder
1. Carry your own water.
2. Take some games else you may get bored.
3. There is a trek to point zero but go there after checking the weather conditions. Snow peaks will only be visible when the sky is clear.
4. A 2 night trip is enough for Binsar.
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Keep your backup for food and water. Also keep a car with you.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tree of Life Resort And Hotel, Other at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Responded 28 May 2024
Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your feedback! We're glad to hear that you appreciated the excellent location and serene environment of our property. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the food quality and the presence of rodents and lizards. Rest assured, we take all guest concerns seriously and will work diligently to address them. Your suggestions regarding property maintenance and additional amenities have been duly noted, and we'll strive to make necessary improvements. We appreciate your valuable insights and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back for an improved experience in the future. Thank you for choosing our property for your vacation. Warm Regards, Team Tree of Life
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The property is absolutely charming. Situated atop a hill, surrounded by forests and divinely secluded. Great view of the Himalayan peaks from the rooms of one side, and from the verandah.
Very helpful staff. They cater to even the small comforts, like offering hot-water bottle at night to keep the bed warm (it was biting cold outside). Food is also great.
Overall, a great experience.
Very helpful staff. They cater to even the small comforts, like offering hot-water bottle at night to keep the bed warm (it was biting cold outside). Food is also great.
Overall, a great experience.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Take room on the first floor towards the snow-peaks side, for great views from the room.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Priyanka Debnath Sarkar, Other at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Responded 4 Jan 2024
Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience! It sounds like a truly charming and serene retreat situated atop a hill, surrounded by forests, and offering divine seclusion. The mention of a great view of the Himalayan peaks from the rooms and verandah adds to the allure. The appreciation for the very helpful staff, who attend to even small comforts like offering a hot-water bottle to keep the bed warm, is a testament to the thoughtful service. It's delightful to hear that the food was great, contributing to an overall great experience. If there's anything specific you loved or any suggestions you may have, feel free to share. We look forward to the opportunity to host you again for more memorable experiences in the future! Warm regards, Priyanka Debnath Sarkar - Marketing Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This property is inside the sanctuary. There are only 5 private properties and it is one of them. The location is nice. You can view sunset, sunrise, snow-capped mountains, and valley view as well. The place is very quiet. You can clearly hear the birds tweeting and chirping at sunset/sunrise.
There is a small entry fee to enter the sanctuary - 150/person and 250/vehicle.
There are many hiking trails near the property. you can go to 'zero-point' also where you can see various peaks like the Trishul, Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, and some of Nepal's peak also.
The rooms are very nice and I liked the bathroom very much.
Food was the best of our stay. Tea, Coffee, Pakoras, breakfast, dinner all are awesome. We requested them for Kumaon Thali for dinner and it was very delicious. They prepare fresh food just for you.
There is a small entry fee to enter the sanctuary - 150/person and 250/vehicle.
There are many hiking trails near the property. you can go to 'zero-point' also where you can see various peaks like the Trishul, Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, and some of Nepal's peak also.
The rooms are very nice and I liked the bathroom very much.
Food was the best of our stay. Tea, Coffee, Pakoras, breakfast, dinner all are awesome. We requested them for Kumaon Thali for dinner and it was very delicious. They prepare fresh food just for you.
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Date of stay: October 2020
Value
Rooms
Service
Room Tip: Best food and nice location
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It is very safe to leave from here but you will have to wake up the Forest Gate staff up at this wee hour.
I guess they will have availability of rooms but do contact the concerned people.
I suggest also try KNVM in Binsar its govt. owned property and the view from this property are amazing and its closer to zero point which is a nice tourist attraction.
Dear NNavneet, please be considerate towards other travellers. We run a property that has stood ground for almost a hundred and fifty years. As a proud tradition our estate has a history of hosting people since 1876. We sincerely request you to research well before passing such comments.
Best Regards
"Enter way before sunset. 6km road is horrible inside the sanctuary Another 600 m there is no road so do take 4x4 help from hotel staff. They r expert. Carry books and enjoy "Read full review
"Try to reach before 6pm as the last mile drive is slightly precarious especially as it’s inside the forest reserve."Read full review
"Be prepared with layers for unpredictable weather. Also the drive up to the property (about 600 meters) is very steep they provide a ride."Read full review
"Select Mountain View room for best view of the mountain ,or Writers room if available"Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
₹6,085 - ₹10,113 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Tree Leaf Grand Oak Manor
LOCATION
IndiaUttarakhandAlmora DistrictBinsar
NUMBER OF ROOMS
11
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Which popular attractions are close to Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Nearby attractions include Zero Point (3.6 km) and Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (1.3 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an on-site restaurant, free parking, and room service.
What food & drink options are available at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant during their stay.
Is parking available at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes, free parking and valet parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Conveniently located restaurants include Himalayan Hobbit House, The Kasar Kitchen, and Shri Hayat Hotel & Restaurant.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Hindi.
Are there any historical sites close to Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Pariyadeva Pashan (11.4 km).
Does Tree of Life Grand Oak Manor, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.