Munsiyari hill station lies in the scenic beauty of the Kumaon region in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is quite a hidden gem for travelers, trekkers, and nature lovers. There is yet another term that defines the beauty of this hill station- “Little Kashmir.” A mesmerizing view of the snow-covered Himalayas, serene forests, and pristine rivers surrounds this small yet awe-inspiring hill station. Beyond the beautiful backdrop, Munsiyari is a destination filled with adventure, culture, and experiences to remember. In this Munsiyari travel guide, we have listed everything you need to know about traveling to Munsiyari, which includes top experiences and adventures, what to pack, and travel tips to make your journey unforgettable.
Why Visit Munsiyari?
Munsiyari height from sea level is 2298mts. It is a remote destination yet to be discovered. The site gives some of the most wonderful views of the five-mountain cluster Panchachuli, which serves as Munsiyari’s most iconic landmark. Apart from this beautiful landscape, Munsiyari is known for its fauna and cultural abundance. With such floral and faunal diversity, Munsiyari boasts a varied ethnic culture that comes directly from its local Shauka tribe and their practices, crafts, and even food. The road journey to Munsiyari is almost as captivating as the destination itself, meandering mountain roads, scenic valleys, and many waterfalls along the way. This Munsiyari travel guide will provide you with all the essential information for your adventure.
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How to Reach Munsiyari
Now let’s move on to the next question- where is Munsiyari and how to reach there? Well, Munsiyari lies in the Kumaon district of Uttarakhand. It is somewhat remote but accessible from major cities in Uttarakhand. With this Munsiyari travel guide, you’ll be well-prepared for every aspect of your trip.
| By Road | From Delhi, Munsiyari hill station is nearly 560 km. The nearest railway station to Munsyari is Kathgodam at 275 km. You can either hire a taxi or take a bus from Delhi, Haldwani or even Kathgodam to reach Munsiyari. The view on this route is so beautiful that you will simply forget all of your worries. |
| By Train | The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station at around 275 km. One can book a taxi or shared cab from there to reach Munsiyari. |
| By Air | The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, at a distance of 369.3 km via NH9 from Munsiyari. Our advice is you get a taxi from the airport as it is going to be a 10-hour scenic drive. |
Best Time to Visit Munsiyari
Munsiyari is open for visits to visitors throughout the year, but every season has its own charm:
- Summer (April to June): That can best be described as a season for tourist visits, trekking, and sightseeing. Temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C.
- Monsoon (July to September): This season hosts lush greeneries but heavy rain can make traveling problematic with the chances of landslides around.
- Autumn (October to November): The photography will be excellent during the months of October and November when the sky will be clear and Panchachuli peaks will provide absolutely beautiful views.
- Winter time: December to February, Munsiyari temperature drops to freezing cold and Munsiyari turns into a snow wonderland. It is one of the best times for those who are trekking in search of snow or love adventure.
Top Experiences and Adventures in Munsiyari
If we talk about Munsiyari tourist places, then they are innumerable. However, we have listed down some experiences and adventures that you can have when you visit Munsiyari hill station. With this Munsiyari travel guide, you’ll discover hidden gems and must-see attractions in the region.
Trekking Adventures
Munsiyari is often regarded as a trekker’s paradise due to its proximity to the Himalayas and the availability of several challenging and scenic trekking trails. Use this Munsiyari travel guide to enhance your experience and make the most of your visit. Some of the top treks include:
- Khalia Top Trek: This is a relatively easy trek perfect for beginners. It offers panoramic views of the Panchachuli, Rajrambha, and Hardeol peaks. The best part? You can complete this trek in just a day.
- Milam Glacier Trek: This challenging trek in ‘Little Kashmir’ takes you deep into the mountains- offering views of the Milam Glacier, the source of the Gori Ganga River. It’s a multi-day trek and requires good physical fitness, but the rewards are unmatched.
- Nanda Devi Trek: Another breathtaking trek, this one leads you to the Nanda Devi base camp, offering surreal views of the second-highest mountain in India.
Panchachuli Peaks Viewpoint
Panchachuli, with five summits, is one of the main attractions of Munsiyari hill station. There are several viewpoints which provide a view of these mighty mountains. According to Hindu mythology, these five peaks have some important and reverential significance. Witnessing the dawn or dusk behind such great peaks is an experience you will always cherish. This Munsiyari travel guide is your ultimate resource for planning an unforgettable trip to the mountains.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting
Munsiyari hosts several rare species of flora and fauna that make it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and bird-watchers. Some of the rare species include Himalayan Monal, Cheer Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, and many more. The best places to spot wildlife in Munsiyari hill station are in the nearby forests and at the Kalamuni Top. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard or Himalayan bear.
Exploring Birthi Falls
Birthi Falls is a must-visit spot in Munsiyari. It is 30-35 km from the town. The water falls from a height of 125 meters, beautifully enhancing a panoramic view amidst lush greenery. Though the trek to the falls is moderately easy, the rewards are huge. Many tourists pack a picnic and spend hours gazing in wonder at the beauty of nature.
Visiting Nanda Devi Temple
This ancient temple of goddess Nanda Devi, built at the base of a short hike from Munsiyari town, is said to bring in all the prosperity that the region needs. The place offers serene space for reflection and offering prayers. As this temple is located amidst snow-covered peaks, it fulfills all senses – both spiritual and visual.
Cultural Experiences with the Shauka Tribe
The Shauka tribe, which is otherwise referred to as Bhotiyas, are natives; they have a rich cultural heritage, and thus, they are known for their culture. Experiences spent with them help understand the distinct traditions of the people, the handicrafts, and the cuisine. You should seek permission to step inside their houses, taste local food, and watch some of their weaving and handicrafts as these activities play a significant role in the region’s economy as well as culture.
Thrilling Outdoor Adventures
Skiing and Snowboarding
Munsiyari hill station springs to life as a hotspot for snow enthusiasts in winter. Skiing and snowboarding attract a number of such thrill-seekers, especially the adventure enthusiasts who enjoy sliding down the slopes with heavy snowfalls. While Munsiyari can be weighed at par with Auli, the unexplored ski slopes make it an utterly unique experience.
Camping under the Stars
It’s perhaps one of the most peaceful camping experiences you would ever have. With bright blue clear skies and excellent views of mountains around, it’s camping at its best, and nobody can beat this feel. Several campsites around Munsiyari, including Khaliya Top and Balati Farm, invite both first-timers and experienced campers to pitch tents.
Local Cuisine to Try
Munsiyari hill station has a limited but luscious food life, which gives an insight into the traditional Kumaoni cuisine. Here are some of the delicacies you cannot afford to miss:
- Bhaang ki Chutney: Sour and spicy chutney prepared from hemp seeds, a must in the Kumaoni diet.
- Aloo ke Gutke: Fried potatoes with spices, simple yet beautifully prepared.
- Singori: A sweet item prepared out of khoya, a milk solid hardened through drying and coconut, covered with a leaf.
- Gahat Dal: It is a dal made from horse gram; it is regional and has its own special taste.
Definitely, you should eat at the local dhaba or homestay for an authentic experience.
Accommodation Options in Munsiyari
Homestays, budget hotels, and a few middle-range resorts are the accommodation options available in Munsiyari. Although there are plenty Munsiyari hotels, we recommend you stay in a homestay. Staying in a homestay can get you into something truly intimate living experience, in touch with locals, and with home-cooked Kumaoni meals. Some popular options include Milam Inn and Wayfarer Resort. Advanced booking, especially during peak season, is recommended to ensure a comfortable stay. This Munsiyari travel guide will answer all your questions about traveling in the region.
Travel Tips for Munsiyari
Rely on this Munsiyari travel guide to navigate your journey through stunning landscapes and local culture.
- Altitude Precautions: Munsiyari is a high-altitude place, so one may suffer from slight altitude sickness. It is advisable to hydrate yourself and take it relatively easy during the first day to let the body get accustomed.
- Cash and Connectivity: Prepare with proper cash as ATMs may be few and not work always. Network connectivity is also not that smooth; therefore it’s always better to let the near ones know about your itinerary.
- Pack Wisely: Clothes must be packed to keep warm, especially if winter seasons are to be visited. The temperature drops to really low levels at night even during hot summer nights.
- Respect Local Culture: The Shauka local is amicable. They respect one’s overtures if their traditions and way of life are considered earnestly.
- Eco-friendly Tourism: Munsiyari hill station is yet unexplored, which is why it is pretty clean. The practices of responsible tourism are followed here, such as not littering, using less plastic material, and respect towards wildlife. Hence, we all, as woke tourists, should collectively preserve this stunning destination.
Packing Essentials for Munsiyari
Pack according to the Munsiyari weather, and your Munsiyari trip will surely go smoothly and make your journey enjoyable.
- Warm Clothes: Since the Munsiyari altitude in feet is 7200ft, it gets pretty cold, especially during the night. Therefore, at Munsiyari during winter, you will need to layer up into warm clothes, a good jacket, gloves, and warm socks.
- Trekking Gear: If trekking falls on your schedule, do not forget to pack those trekking shoes that you can use, a backpack, and a walking stick. Other must-haves are a headlamp, a power bank for the additional power boost your gadgets need, and first-aid supplies for a ‘just in case’ situation.
- Camera and Binoculars: The landscapes and wildlife of Munsiyari are superb. A good zoom lens camera and pair of binoculars for bird-watching are highly recommended.
- Reusable water bottle: Several shops and stations offer refillable drinking water, so carry a reusable water bottle throughout your day.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Munsiyari
Altitude Sickness
Munsiyari’s altitude in feet is 7200ft. This means that visitors may suffer from mild cases of altitude sickness. It’s a good idea to gradually acclimatize; drink more water; and avoid heavy exertion during the first day.
Weather Readiness
There may be sudden rain or snowfall in Munsiyari. Just like every other hill station, the weather in Munsiyari is unpredictable. So, make sure to check the weather forecast in advance, particularly if you are planning a trek; and always be prepared with your raincoats. Furthermore, Munsiyari temperature drops to real low during the night time, therefore, be ready with good winter clothing as well.
After reading all that is mentioned above, we are pretty sure that you are already on your way to booking your tour to Munsiyari hill station. This beautiful place not only attracts but tempts people from all around the globe. However, it is only with proper precaution and understanding that you will be able to enjoy it here.
If you are still wondering how to visit and what to do in Munsiyari, then need not worry. Just opt for our Munsiyari Tour package, and explore this amazing place worry-free.
