Tucked away in the breathtaking Johar Valley of the Pithoragarh district, Munsiyari is a serene Himalayan town that serves as the gateway to the Milam, Ralam, and Namik glaciers. At an altitude of around 2,200 meters, Munsiyari is surrounded by snow-clad peaks, dense pine forests, and sprawling alpine meadows, offering a perfect retreat for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure seekers.
The name Munsiyari literally means “Place with Snow,” and true to its name, the town provides majestic views of the Panchachuli Peaks—five snow-capped summits that dominate its skyline. From mesmerizing sunrises that paint the peaks golden to starry nights untouched by city lights, Munsiyari feels like a piece of paradise.
Highlights & Experiences in Munsiyari
Panchachuli Viewpoint – Best spot to witness the grandeur of the five peaks.
Birthi Falls – A stunning 400-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Trekking Paradise – Popular trails lead to Milam Glacier, Khalia Top, and Ralam Glacier.
Local Culture – Interact with the Warm and hospitable Shauka tribe, known for their rich heritage.
Birdwatching & Wildlife – Spot rare Himalayan birds and wildlife like Himalayan monals, musk deer, and bharals.
Munsiyari, often called the “Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand,” is a remote yet accessible Himalayan destination in the Pithoragarh district. Reaching this high-altitude gem involves a combination of road, rail, or air travel, depending on where you start your journey.
By Road
From Delhi: Approx. 600 km via Haldwani, Almora, and Thal. The drive takes 16–18 hours, so most travelers break the journey with an overnight stop in Almora or Chaukori.
From Kathgodam: About 275 km (9–10 hours) through Almora, Bageshwar, and Thal.
From Pithoragarh: Around 127 km (4–5 hours) with scenic mountain roads.
Roads to Munsiyari are well-connected but have steep curves and occasional rough patches, especially in monsoon, so hiring an experienced driver is recommended.
By Rail
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam (275 km from Munsiyari).
Trains to Kathgodam are available from Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun.
From Kathgodam, hire a private taxi or board a shared jeep/bus to Munsiyari.
By Air
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (313 km from Munsiyari).
Flights from Delhi operate regularly.
From the airport, taxis can be booked directly to Munsiyari or to Kathgodam for a connecting road trip.
Travel Tips for Munsiyari
Start Early: Mountain travel takes longer than plain roads; morning starts ensure safer and smoother rides.
Best Vehicles: SUVs or jeeps are best suited for hilly terrain.
Avoid Monsoon: Landslides are common from July to August.
Fuel Up: Petrol pumps are limited after Thal, so top up your tank in advance.
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Evening Departure: Start from Dehradun by a private cab or tempo traveler.
Route: Dehradun → Rishikesh → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Bageshwar → Thal → Munsiyari.
Overnight: Overnight journey with halts for tea and dinner at local dhabas.
Travel Time: Approx. 18–20 hours (best done as an overnight trip to save a day).
Morning: Reach Munsiyari, check-in at your hotel/homestay.
Afternoon: Light exploration of Munsiyari Market and Panchachuli View Point.
Evening: Relax with tea while watching sunset over snow-capped Panchachuli peaks.
Overnight: Munsiyari.
Morning: Visit Khalia Top for breathtaking Himalayan views (short trek or jeep ride).
Afternoon: Head to Nanda Devi Temple and Balanti Potato Farm for photography.
Evening: Enjoy a peaceful riverside walk along the Gori Ganga River.
Overnight: Munsiyari.
Morning: Excursion to Birthi Falls (35 km from Munsiyari).
Afternoon: Explore Darkot Village to witness traditional Kumaoni architecture and weaving.
Evening: Optional visit to Thamri Kund (short trek).
Overnight: Munsiyari.
Morning: After breakfast, begin your return journey.
Route: Munsiyari → Thal → Bageshwar → Ranikhet → Ramnagar → Dehradun.
Evening: Reach Dehradun with memories of the serene Himalayas.
