Munsiyari is a comely hamlet situated in the Pithoragrh district of Uttarakhand state, previously known as Uttaranchal. Munsiyari is nestled in the snow capped peaks of the Himalayas affording splendid vistas of natural beauteousness. Munsiyari is perched at an altitude of 2,298mts above sea level.

Munsyari is famous for its picturesque beauty and trekking excursions. Munsiyari is popular with high altitude trekkers and adventure enthusiasts as this place is the base of Milam, Ralam and Namik Glaciers.

Munsiyari is mainly inhabited by Bhotias also known as Shaukas. Munsiyari was a previously a restricted area as it is wedged in between the borders of India, Tibet and Nepal. But Munsiyari is now emerging as a popular trekking destination and the government of Uttarakhand is also promoting this paradise of Kumaon.

Munsiyari is rich in diverse flora and fauna. Munshyari is home to Rhododendrons, Pine and Deodar trees. Birds like wagtail, raven, falcon, monal, Himalayan griffon and serpent eagle can be sotted in Munsiyari region. Leopard, Himalayan bear, fox and musk deer have made their home in the altitude jungles of Munsiyari. The view of the Panchachuli peaks from Munsiyari is enchanting.

Place to Visit

Birthi Falls
It is a picturesque cascading waterfall surrounded with verdant colors. Birthi Falls is falling down from 126mts of height. It is an ideal spot for tea and lunch breaks. It is located 35kms before Munsiyari.

Majestic Peak of Panchchuli
Visible though from all vantage points in Pithoragarh district, an intimate view of this most prominent cluster of five peaks may be had from Munsiyari in the Johar valley. The imperious beauty of this traditional home of Shauka tribe combining with the hospitality of the KMVN has earned for it the status of one of the most inviting tourist destination in the recent years.

Betulidhar
Betulidhar is a large garden full of Rhododendrons. It is an ideal skiing slope in winters. The sunrise and sunsets of Betulidhar showcases beautiful hues of nature.

Maheshwari Kund
It is also known as Mehsar Kund by the locales. According to myths and legends a Yaksha used to like in this small lake. The Yaksha fell in love with the Sarpancha’s daughter. Angry sarpanch and other peoples of the village dried the lake to avenge upon him. Yaksha cursed the village after this incident and Munsiyari suffered with drought for a long time until they came to to him and apologized. This ritual practice is even continued today. Maheshwari Kund is just a few kilometers walk from Munsiyari. This spot is now a pond offering panoramic vistas of nature. Panchachuli peak can be seen from here.

Darkot
Darkot is a small picturesque hamlet situated 6kms from Munsiyari on Madkot road. If you are discerning shopper then do buy pashima, shawls and sheepwool blankets from here. The old artistic houses of Darkot represent the rich culture and creativity of the people of Kumaon.

How to Reach us

By Air
The nearest airport to Munsiyari is Pantnagar Airport. Pantnagar airport is situated 249kms from Munsiyari in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand state. Taxis are available from Pantnagar Airport to Pithoragarh, Almora, Bageshwar and Munsiyari. Pantnagar is connected to Delhi with daily flights. Pant Nagar Airport is well connected by metalled road with Munsiyari. It is a domestic airport and its nearest International airport is New Delhi. Naini Saini Airport is situated in Pithoragarh but flights to Naini Saini are not very frequent.

By Rail
The nearest railheads to Munsiyari are Kathgodam and Tanakpur. The distance from Tanakpur Railway station to Munsiyari is 218 kms, and Kathgodam Railway station is situated at a distance of 282 kms from Munsiyari. Taxis and buses are easily available from Tanakpur and Kathgodam to Almora, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar and Munsiyari. Tanakpur and Kathgodam are well connected by railway networks with major destinations of India.

By Road
Munsiyari is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand and northern India. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar are available to Champawat, Almora, Tanakpur, Haldwani and many other destinations from where you can easily hire a local cab to reach Munsiyari. Taxis and buses are easily available to Munsiyari from major destinations of Kumaon region.