Munsiyari History

Munsiyari which is also known as The Little Kashmir, Munsiyari also plunges on the salt route from Tibet and it is at the entrance of Johar Valley which expands along the way of Goriganga River to its origin at the Milam Glacier. People of the Munsiyari worship Goddess Nanda Devi. Munsiyari is mostly inhabited by Shaukas (Shaukas is also referred as Bhotiya). According to tradition, the main five peaks of Munsiyari represent the five cooking hearths of the five Pandava brothers. The Johar Valley was inhabited by expansive serpents known as ‘Nagas’. The five most populated villages in Munsiyari Tehsil are Ghorpatta Malla, Bunga, Madkot, Hokara and Nachani. The five least populated villages in Munsiyari Tehsil are Tarakot, Khaliya R.F, Akhoriya, Chhija, and Nainital. There is also a Ghost village in Munsiyari. The total population of Munsiyari is 46,253. 

Munsiyari Geography

Munsiyari is situated in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand and has a height of 7,590 feet and 2300 meters. Munsiyari is a heaven for nature lovers. The most attractive thing about Munsiyari is the colorful mountain flora & fauna. The dense forest is an accommodation for various birds and animals like whistling thrush, wagtail, falcon, and leopard. The Longitude and Latitude of Munsiyari are 80.23 and 30.07 respectively. Munsiyari is a perfect weekend getaway destination for North Indian people. The pin code of Munsiyari is 262554. 

• Some of the sightseeing and popular places to visit in Munsiyari are Birthi Falls, Maheshwari Kund, Panchachuli Peak, Thamari Kund, Kalamuni Top, Khaliya Top, Betulidhar, Nanda Devi Temple, and Darkot.
• Some of the major activities performed in Munsiyari: Bird Watching in Munsiyari, Trekking in Munsiyari, Nanda Devi Trek, Skiing in Munsiyari, Camping, Shopping in Munsiyari, and River Rafting in Gori Ganga River.
• The best time to visit Munsiyari is the months of March, April, May, October, and November.
• Nearby places of Munsiyari are Nainital, Kausani, Ranikhet and Almora. 

Plan My Package Recommends: Places To Visit In Munsiyari

Birthi Falls

The Birthi Falls is located in heavy and dense forests and it gives a very majestic view from the Himalayas. The natural beauty of this waterfall attracts both Domestic and International Tourists. Birthi Fall is a huge waterfall and it is on the way to Munsiyari. The greatest time to visit Birthi Falls is during the months of September to June.

• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Birthi Falls is approx 337 km.
• The distance from Ramnagar Railway Station to Birthi Falls is approx 268 km.
• The distance from the Munsiyari to Birthi Falls is approx 33 km. 

Maheshwari Kund

The local people usually named Maheshwari Kund “ Mehasr Kund and Meshar Kund”. This natural lake is surrounded by crimson rhododendrons, oak trees, and Himalayan florige. From the Maheshwari Kund you can have a clear and fascinating view of the Panchachuli Peak. Maheshwari Kund is located on Munsiyari- Madkot road.

• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Maheshwari Kund is approx 374 km.
•  The distance from Ramnagar Railway Station to Maheshwari Kund is approx 298 km.
•  The distance from Munsiyari to Maheshwari Kund is approx 3.5 km.
• The best time to visit Maheshwari Kund is in the months of March, April, May, June, September, and October. 

Panchachuli Peaks

The five peaks on the Panchachuli Himalayas from Northwest to Southwest. The highest peak of Panchachuli is Panchachuli 2. There is a mythological assumption that the legendary Pandavas from Mahabharat have cooked their meal for the last meal before proceeding to the heavenly home. Chuli means cooking hearths, that’s why the group of 5 peaks is known as Panchachuli. The names of the five peaks of Panchachuli are : Panchachuli 1 is of 6355 metres, Panchachuli is of 6904 metres, Panchachuli 3 is of 6312 metres, Panchachuli 4 is of 6334 metres, Panchachuli 5 is of 6437 metres.

• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Panchachuli Peaks is approx 161 km.
• The distance from Ramnagar Railway Station to Maheshwari Kund is approx 156 km.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Maheshwari Kund is approx 24.2 km.
• The most ideal time to travel to Panchachuli Peaks is in the months of May, June, September, and October. 

Nanda Devi Temple

Nanda Devi temple belongs to Goddess Parvati and it is a Hindu Holy site. It is 7500 meters above the Munsiyari. This temple has the foremost religious importance in the people’s lives.

• The distance from the Pantnagar Airport to Nanda Devi Temple is approx 116.8 km.
• The distance from the Ramnagar Railway Station to Nanda Devi Temple is approx 218.6 km.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Nanda Devi Temple is approx 3 km.
• The most ideal time to travel to Nanda Devi Temple is between the months of June to September.

Tribal Heritage Museum 

Tribal Heritage Museum was established in 2000, It is a small aesthetic museum located in Munsiyari city of Uttarakhand. The museum flaunts the History, Culture, Traditions and Lifestyle of Bhotia tribe. The peoples of Bhotia Tribe reside in the upper Himalayan slade of the Kumaon and Garhwal Severance of Uttarakhand. The minimum time needed to explore the Tribal Heritage Museum is approx 1 hour.  The museum has various vestiges and comprises Household Items, Wooden Utensils, bags of the Yak skin , Brass hookah and it all offers you the showcase of the Bhotia culture. Some of the unique artifacts displayed in the Tribal Heritage Museum are Jewellery made from the nails of the bear’s and the handcrafted soaps and brushes. 

• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Tribal Heritage museum is approx 367.9 km.
• The distance from Ramnagar Railway Station to Tribal Heritage Museum is approx 303.6 km.
•  The distance from Munsiyari to Tribal Heritage Museum is approx 2.7 km.
• The best time to explore and travel to Tribal Heritage Museum are in the months of October, November, December, January, February, March, April and May.

Betuli Dhar

Betuli Dhar is located in Uttarakhand, India. The minimum and maximum temperature in Betuli Dhar range between -3 and 27-degree celsius respectively. Betuli Dhar is a huge garden filled with Rhododendrons. It is most perfect for skiing activities in the winter season. If you want to enjoy the sunrise and sunset point in Munsiyari then you must visit Betuli Dhar.

• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Betuli Dhar is approx 359.7 km.
• The distance from Ramnagar Railway Station to Betuli Dhar is approx 291.1 km and the distance from Munsiyari to Betuli Dhar is approx 10.8 km.
• The most approachable time to visit Betuli Dhar is in the months of March, April, May, June, September and October. 

Tulip Garden

Munsiyari Tulip Garden is also known as “ Munsiyari Nature education and Eco Park Center”. The Eco Park center has huts and tents which provide accommodation to the tourists. The Tulip Garden is located in the middle of the backdrop of the Panchachuli ranges. The minimum time to explore the Tulip Garden is 2 hours.

• The distance from the Pantnagar Airport to Tulip Garden is approx 243.6 km.
• The distance from Ramnagar Railway Station to Tulip Garden is approx 238.3 km.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Tulip Garden is approx 127 km.
• The most ideal time to visit Tulip Garden is in the months of April and May. 

Tourist Activities in Munsiyari

Nature Walks

Munsiyari is rich in miscellaneous flora and fauna. Munsiyari is home to plenty of  Rhododendrons, Pine and Deodar trees, Birds like Wagtail, Raven, Falcon, and Monal. The flora of the Munsiyari comprises different types of plants. You can take a peaceful and calm walk around the flora and fauna of Munsiyari.

• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Nature Walk Munsiyari is approx 91 km.
• The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Nature Walk Munsiyari is approx 278.4 km. 

Bird Watching

The Bird Watching activity is also known as Birding, this activity means going outside and enjoying by watching the birds. Munsiyari is the most approachable destination for bird lovers. A wide variety of species of birds were spotted in Munsiyari. The different types of bird species found in Munsiyari are Little pied flycatcher, Black Redstart, Streaked Laughing Thrush, Himalayan Woodpecker, Verditer flycatcher, Grey-winged Blackbird, Scaly Bellied Woodpecker, Black-lored Titare. You can carry your binoculars for a better view of birds.

• The best time to go for Bird Watching activity is in the months of March, April, May, June, September, and October.
• The nearest Airport for the point of Bird Watching, Munsiyari is Pantnagar Airport.
• The nearest Railway Station for the point of Bird Watching, Munsiyari is Kathgodam Railway Station. 

Shopping in Darkot Village

The shopping spot of Munsiyari is located near the Darkot Village. It is approx 1.5 far from Munsiyari. You can easily go to Darkot Village by hiring a private taxi or cab. The nearby tourist spots from Darkot Village are Nanda Devi Temple, Balati Farm and Maheshwari Kund. Shopping in Darkot Village is a must-visit if you are traveling to Munsiyari. It’s assumed that the Darkot Village is 100 years old. The famous things in Darkot Village are Pashmina Shawls, wooden carvings, gates and windows, woolen caps and sweaters from sheep wool and many more things which you can buy from there.

• The distance from the Pantnagar Airport to Darkot Village is 364.1 km.
• The distance from the Kathgodam Railway Station to Darkot Village is approx 367.8 km. 

Milam Glacier

Milam Glacier is the origin of The Gori Ganga River which performs as an overriding tributary of Kali River. Milam Glacier is located at a bottom of 7065 meters. There is also a trekking activity named Milam Glacier Trek. The Milam Glacier Trek includes an average level of walks to cross the hills patrolling along with The Gori Ganga River and craggy terrain.

• The best time to visit Milam Glacier is in the months of April, May, June, September, and October.
• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Milam Glacier is approx 172 km.
• The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Milam Glacier is approx 145 km.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Milam Glacier is approx 47.6 km. 

Places Near Munsiyari

Kausani 

Kausani is also known as “The Switzerland of India”. It is the most perfect destination for backpackers. It has been surrounded by a covering of blossom sun and beautiful hills. Kausani is well known for its different types of fruit plantations

• Places to see in Kausani are Sumitranandan Pant Gallery, Anasakti Ashram, Rudradhari Falls, Kausani Tea Estate, Sarla Ashram and Baijnath.
• The most approachable time to visit Kausani is between the months of April to June.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Kausani is approx 164.4 km. 

Almora

Almora is also known as the cultural capital of Kumaon. Almora is well known for its cultural diversity. Almora is situated at an elevation of 1,638 metres and is covered by the pines and old oaks. Almora is famous for its mesmerizing beauty, beautiful view of the Himalayas, authentic cultural heritage and delicious cuisines. The two famous temples of Almora district are Chitai Golu Devta Temple and Nanda Devi Temple. Other temples of Almora are Katarmal, Jageshwar and Kasar Devi which were built on a mountain peak and it was near Kalimat.

• Popular places to see in Almora are Chitai Golu Devta, Bright End Corner, Martola, Kalimat, Deer Park, Govind Ballabh Pant Public Museum, Simtola, Katarmal Sun Temple.
• Activities which you all can do in Almora are Rock Climbing, Spider Web, Burma Bridge, Cycling, Shopping, Nature Walks.
• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Almora is approx 116 km.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Almora is approx 197.5 km. 

Ranikhet

Ranikhet is the most famous and most visited destination in Uttarakhand. It is blessed with the best natural beauty and scenic views. Tourists usually come here to cure their minds and relax. Ranikhet is home to some of the gardens grown with apple orchards, pine trees, and apricots.

• Places to see in Ranikhet are Chaubatia Gardens, Haidakhan Temple, Jhula Devi Temple, Upat Golf Course, Majkhali, Bhaludam, Mankameshwar Temple, Tarikhet Village, Dunagiri Temple, and many more such places.
• The distance from Pantnagar National Airport to Ranikhet is approx 109 km.
• The best time to visit Ranikhet is throughout the year but it will be more preferable in the months of March to June or either September to November.
• Places to stay in Ranikhet are Stonewood Villa, Parwati Retreat, Meraki and many more.
• Popular things to eat in Ranikhet are Gahat ke Paranthe, Aalu ka jhol, Bhang ki Chutney, Phaanu, Kumaoni Raita and many more.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Ranikhet is approx 205 kms.

Nainital

Nainital is lying in the Kumaun Range, Nainital is covered by the Almora district on the north side and the Udham Singh Nagar district on the south side. Pauri Garhwal and Champawat district surrounded it on the western and eastern sides sequentially. The highest peak in Nainital is Bandhan Thali which is at 2623 mts in the hilly region, and it is also known as Krol by geologists. The lower area is named Bhabhar which is obtained from the tall grasses of the region.

• The most ideal time to explore Nainital is between the months of March to June.
• Places for sightseeing in Nainital are Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Mall Road, Tiffin Top, Eco Cave Gardens, High Altitude Zoo, Naina Devi Temple, and many more.
• The famous lakes of Nainital are Bhimtal, Sattal, Khurpatal, Naukuchiatal, Malwatal, Harishtal and Lokhamtal.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Nainital is approx 260.7 km. 

Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh is also known as “ Little Kashmir”, Pithoragarh is famous for its natural scenic view. It borders Nepal and Tibet, The Pithoragarh is at the height of 1645 meters, Pithoragarh has rich Flora and Fauna. Pithoragarh is well known for its historical landmarks.These muscular snow-clad peaks are situated in the mountains and glaciers like Milam, Ralam, Namik and Sundardunga.

• The popular places to visit in Pithoragarh are Kapileshwar Mahadev, Dhwaj Temple, Askot, Munsiyari.
• The distance from the Munsiyari to Pithoragarh is approx 128.6 km.
• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Pithoragarh is approx 243 km.
• The distance from Ramnagar Railway Station to Pithoragarh is approx 237.4 km.
• The most approachable time to visit Pithoragarh is in the months of April, May, June, September, October, and November. 
• The distance from Munsiyari to Pithoragarh is approx 128.6 km. 

Kathgodam

Kathgodam which is also known as “ The Timber Depot of Kumaon”  and is scattered like a most precious gem of Uttrakhand. Kathgodam town is being sheltered on the banks of the Gaula River. Kathgodam is at the height of 554 meters and from sea level, it is 1817 feet above. Kathgodam has one of the biggest and important clusters of forest products which has been acquired from the Kumaon Himalayas.

• The most popular tourist spots in Kathgodam are Sheetla Devi Temple and Kalichaud Temple, Sat Tal, Hanuman Garhi, Ranikhet, and Naukuchiatal.
• The distance from Munsiyari to Kathgodam is approx 278 km.
• The distance from Ramnagar Railway Station to Kathgodam is approx 58.2 km.
• The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Kathgodam is approx 33.7 km.
• The most ideal time to visit Kathgodam is in the months of July, August, September, October, and November. 

How to Reach Munsiyari

Munsiyari By Air

There is no airport in Munsiyari but the nearest airport from Munsiyari is Pantnagar Airport, the distance from the Pantnagar Airport is approx 370 km. The Pantnagar Airport has regular flights from New Delhi, Indira Gandhi International Airport. You can book your flight from various airlines( Air India, Vistara, Indigo, Spice jet) The distance from Indira Gandhi International Airport to Munsiyari is approx 613.5 km. The distance from Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport to Munsiyari is approx 582.3 km. 

Munsiyari By Rail 

The nearest railway station to Munsiyari is Ramnagar Railway Station, the distance from the Ramnagar Railway Station to Munsiyari is approx 301.9 km. This Railway Station is linked to many cities of India. Trains going from New Delhi Railway Station to Munsiyari are Anand Vihar Terminal Kathgodam, Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express, Ranikhet Express. The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Munsiyari is 278.5 km. 

Munsiyari By Road

The Munsiyari is well connected to the roads from New Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Chandigarh. Most of the buses go from New Delhi because Munsiyari is considered the most perfect weekend getaway destination for many tourists and backpackers. The buses going from Delhi to Munsiyari are Volvo and many private buses from Anand Vihar ISBT to Champawat, Almora, Tanakpur and Haldwani and after reaching there you can continue your journey by taking a private taxi and car to Munsiyari. You can even hire a private taxi from Delhi to Munsiyari and the best and most fascinating way to reach Delhi to Munsiyari is by bike. There are 3 routes to reach Munsiyari from Delhi. 

Best Time to Visit Munsiyari 

The best time to visit Munsiyari is in the summer season. The summer months of the Munsiyari are March, April, May, and June. The maximum temperature in the summer goes till 27 degrees celsius and the minimum temperature goes till 7 degrees celsius. You can enjoy the clear view of scenic mountains during the summer season in Munsiyari. Some of the major tourist spots to explore in Munsiyari are Birthi Falls, Glacier treks of Milam, Ramik and Manik, and Betulidhar. The weather is quite pleasant during the summer season. This is the peak season for Munsiyari. October and November are also considered the best times to visit Munsiyari, But snowfall in Munsiyari arrives in the month of December. 

Munsiyari in Summer 

The Summer of Munsiyari is measured between the months of March to June. This is most preferable when the number of tourists is at its peak. Tourists can have a clear view of high mountains and in this season all the trekking points are open for tourists. Munsiyari in summer remains enjoyable with the maximum temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature goes till 7 degrees celsius. Munsiyari greets you with the cold climate and leaves you away from the burning heat. Besides trekking, in summer you can also enjoy and take part in the overwhelming white river rafting, and camp underneath the starry sky at night.

Some of the major tourist spots to explore in Munsiyari are Birthi Falls, Glacier treks of Milam, Ramik and Manik, and Betulidhar. 

Munsiyari in Monsoon 

The monsoon of Munsiyari is measured between the months of July to September. Munsiyari gets embellished with the beautiful shade of green in the monsoon months of June to September, it is not the preferable time to visit Munsiyari, owing to the frequent and unpredictable landslides that may bring misfortune to anyone. Most of the roads are not in good condition at this time and the roads are not accessible, slippery, and dangerous. The average temperature remains between 20 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius, Munsiayri experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during these months.

Munsiyari in Winter

The winter of Munsiyari is measured between the months of October to February. The maximum temperature during the winter season is 20 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature during the winter season is -12 degrees celsius. The most popular tourist spots explored by tourists are Thamari Kund, Maheshwari Kund, Nanda Devi Temple, and Darkot. It is the most preferable season to travel to Munsiyari for the Honeymooners and for the families also. You can also experience snowfall in the last week of December. The Winter season is also considered the time when different types of species of migratory birds land for some time. If you are interested to see those migratory birds then one can visit Munsiyari with their binoculars. Know More

Popular Tourists Spots in Munsiyari 

Balanti Potato Farm 

Balanti Potato Farm is a prominent farm located in Munsiyari of the Pithoragarh region. The farm is established at an elevation of about 9,000 feet upwards from sea level. The Balanti Potato Farm is famous for Potato Cultivation, which produces potatoes in abundant form. The farm also provides you with a breathtaking view of the snowy mountains of Panchachuli. The distance from Munsiyari to Balanti Potato Farm is approx 2 km. You can take a small trek from Munsiyari and you can reach there. The potatoes from Balanti Potato Farm are also being exported to various parts of Uttarakhand and in many states of India. You can also take a nice walk on the farm and visitors can also buy potatoes from the farm. The Balanti Potato Farm is now officially known as “Balati Potato Farm”. The best time to visit the farm is throughout the year, but the most approachable months in which you can visit the farm are March, April, May, September, October, and November. The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Balanti Potato Farm is approx 313 km. The distance from Tanakpur Railway Station to Balanti Potato Farm is approx 274 km. 

Madkot Village 

Madkot Village is an attractive village, which is wretched with the most perfect scenic view, and the village is wealthy in Flora and Fauna. This small village is situated in the Pithoragarh community of Uttarakhand. There is a Hot Water Spring based on the perimeter of Gori Ganga River on the way to Jauljibi- Dharchula. Madkot is mainly known for its housing thermal springs and it has some healing powers which can cure any disease, mainly joint pain, muscle pain, and Rheumatoid arthritis. The distance from Munsiyari to Madkot Village is approx 4 km, The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Madkot Village is approx 349.9 km and the distance from the Tanakpur Railway station to Madkot Village is approx 253.5 km.

Khaliya Top

Khaliya Top is a snow-covered high grassland at a height of 3500 meters of the Kumaon Himalayas. The Khaliya Top is located near the Munsiyari in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Khaliya Top is also known as Khuliya Top and it is a hidden masterpiece at the peak of the Kumaon range of the Himalayas. Though it is not a popular trek in Uttarakhand, it has mesmerizing views of mountain peaks, sharp climbing through the condensed forest, exotic flora, and fauna. The trek from Munsiyari to Khaliya top is a four-day trek. The trek begins from the location Balati Bend. The five famous mountain tops visible from the Khaliya Top are Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, Hardeol, Nandakot, and Rajrambha. You can go skiing in winter and paragliding in the summer at Khaliya Top. 

Places to Stay in Munsiyari

Milam Inn

Milam Inn is the best leisure hotel in Munsiyari, a home apart from the home. From the hotel, you can have a scenic and clear view of Panchachuli peaks. The hotel is located in the foothills of the eminent Himalayas. Milam Inn was built in 2011. The hotel provided different types of packages which are Normal, Summer, Winter, Adventurous, Family, and Honeymooners. They also offer customized packages as per the customer's demands. The amenities provided by the hotel are an Attached bathroom with hot and cold water 24 hours, LCD TV, Internet Facility, Free Parking, Doctor on call. The activities provided by the Milam Inn are Bonfire, Campfire, Snow Skiing, and Trekking ( trekking guides are also available). The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Milam Inn is approx 373.3 km, the distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Milam Inn is approx 275.4 km, and the distance from Munsiyari to Milam Inn is approx 3.1 km. 

Zara Resort

Zara Resort is one of the best and budget resorts in Munsiyari, Zara Resort is also known as Zuha Resort. The check-in and check-out time of the Zara Resort is 12:00 pm and 10:00 am respectively. The room types of Zara resort are Deluxe and Suites. The amenities provided by the Zara Resort are attached bathroom, TV, carpet in a room, Multi-Cuisine Restaurant which serves both North Indian and South Indian food, free parking, Bonfire activity, and doctor on call. The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Zara Resort is approx 373.3 km, The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Zara Resort is approx 300 km and the distance from Munsiyari to Zara Resort is approx 2.8 km. 

Bilju Inn

Bilju Inn is your perfect hotel in Munsiyari offering the best facilities and all modern comforts to make your stay in Munsiyari most unforgettable. Beautiful mountains, abundant green plantations, scenic landscapes, lightning streams, unfamiliar flora and fauna, all perfect elements of an appropriate tourist destination,  Munsiyari comprised it all together. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand's ideal tourist spot, has one place of safe haven for stay and accommodation. The perfect getaway destination in the attractive Munsiyari is the Hotel Bilju Inn. The amenities provided by the hotel are Free Parking, Free Wi-Fi, Room Service, Power Backup, Intercom, Housekeeping, Laundry Service, Attached Bathroom, and restaurant. Room types in Bilju Inn are Executive, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, and Family rooms. The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Bilju Inn is approx 372.6 km, The distance from Kathgodam Railway Station to Bilju Inn is approx 276.6 km and the distance from Munsiyari to Bilju Inn is approx 1.9 km. The check-in and check time of the hotel is 12:00 am and 12:00 pm respectively. 

Do’s and Don’ts in Munsiyari

Do’s in Munsiyari

• Do carry essential things during travel. 
• Do carry a medical kit as per your health condition.
• Do carry some woolen clothes if you are traveling during monsoon or winters.
• Do carry the government's ID proof during traveling. 
• Do wear a good pair of shoes during trekking.
• Do wear a mask and carry sanitizer during the trip.

Don’ts in Munsiyari

• Don’t throw plastic waste in public areas.
• Do not consume alcohol near any holy site.
• Do not disrespect the local community and its norms.