Munsiyari is a charming hill station surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It's at an elevation of 7380 feet (2250 metres) above sea level. The journey to Munsiyari will take you through breathtaking natural landscapes, sparkling mountain peaks, tumbling waterfalls, and a vibrant tapestry of flora and fauna. It is a great location for rest, re-energize, and rejuvenation; its tranquil surroundings will instill a sense of tranquility and peace in you. Munsiyari is a rapidly developing resort with a lot to offer.

Munsiyari, located on the boundary of India, Tibet, and Nepal, is the home of three glaciers: the Namik, Milam, and Ralam Glaciers. The picturesque settlement is often seen romancing with the gorgeous setting of Panchachuli (the five peaks), Nanda Devi, and Nanda Kot across the year. Munsiyari, also regarded as the 'Gateway to Johar Valley,' marks the start of the Johar Valley, which was previously the old trade route between Tibet and India.

History of Munsiyari 

According to mythology, Munsiyari had a role in the Mahabharata's Pandava brothers' life. The Pandavas are said to have ascended to heaven from this location. Munsiyari was previously a stop on the historic Tibetan salt road. Although having to cross the treacherous Himalayan pass, the residents of this region lived semi-nomadic lives and interacted with Tibet on a regular basis.

Culture of Munsiyari

Munsiyari's people practice Shauka rituals and traditions that have been passed down through centuries. Their culture is simple and traditional. Their culture revolves around traditional folk dancing forms. Jhora, Cholia, and Chhapelli are three of the most popular folk dances. Because religion is so important to these people, many of their fairs and festivals are dedicated to their local gods.

Things to do at Munsiyari

• Trekking: Munsiyari, known as a "Trekker's Paradise," offers a wide range of hikes for guests to choose from, depending on their experience and physical abilities. Munsiyari also serves as the starting point for a number of other excursions to nearby glaciers and mountain peaks. Due to the wonderful bordering stunning features, balanced weather, and unique topography, trekking here is one of the finest and most enjoyable activities to do.
• Nature Walk: Another favourite activity in Munsiyari is going for a nature walk. The forestland that surrounds this hamlet is mostly made up of pine, fir, and deodar trees, creating a magnificent scene. Nature treks might last anywhere from 30 minutes to many hours. When visiting this charming village, you can see a variety of unique flora and fauna.
• Observe the plants and wildlife: Munsiyari is a wildlife lover's and nature enthusiast's dream come true. There is a fascinating range of plants and fauna to discover here. Snow leopards, Himalayan bears, and even musk deer, among the world's rarest creatures, can be found here. Fir, pine, deodar, spruce, cypress, and even rhododendrons can be found here in regards to flora.
• Skiing: Skiing is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Munsiyari, and hundreds of visitors come here to appreciate this adventurous sport throughout the winter months. The snowy hills are ideal for winter holidays and lend Munsiyari its own distinct beauty. During this activity, families and adventurers alike meet to soak in the magnificent natural beauty that surrounds them.
• Birdwatching: Munsiyari is known for its peculiar and diversified migratory and native bird population. Naturalists and conservationists from all over the world flock to this location. During the summer, visitors gather here to see the birds and experience the great surroundings. The Wagtail, Himalayan Falcon, Raven, and Serpent Eagle are among the species available.
• Trek to Adi Kailas and Milam Glacier: Two of the most famous natural marvels in and surrounding Munsiyari are Adi Kailas and Milam Glacier. Adi Kailas' peak is 6191 metres above sea level. The ride there is thrilling, with magnificent, scenic beauty galore. The Milam Glacier is an ancient glacier in the Kumaon Himalayas' foothills. The trek is moderately demanding and should not be overlooked by visitors who are physically capable and skilled.

Places to visit 

• Madkot Hot Spring: The Madkot hot springs are well worth visiting. It's on the banks of the Gori Ganga River, halfway between Jaulijibi and Dharchula. Madkot hot water spring is said to cure disorders like joint discomfort, muscular pain, skin eruptions, fibrous tissues, and most notably Rheumatoid Arthritis, as well as having therapeutic capabilities.
• Darkot: Darkot is a little scenic village on the Madkot route, 6 kilometres from Munsiyari. If you're a sophisticated shopper, this is the place to go for pashima, shawls, and sheep wool comforters. Darkot's antique artistic houses are a reflection of Kumaon's rich culture and ingenuity.
• Panchachuli Peak: Panchachuli peak, a high mountain viewable from all major sites in Pithoragarh district, appears majestic from Munsiyari. The splendour of the five peaks in the Johar Valley is enthralling, and it contributes to the allure of this already lovely location.
• Kalamuni Top: Kalamuni Top is 9500 feet tall and is situated 15 kilometres from Munsiyari on the road to Birthi. The Kali Temple, devoted to the Naga God, is well-known in the area. A must-see is the amazing vista of Panchachuli peak from there, which is flanked by a huge pine forest.
• Nanda Devi Temple: The Nanda Devi temple is a well-known example of Kumaoni design. It dates back 1000 years and is in excellent condition. The Nanda Devi Fair, which dates back to the 16th century, is still held here every August, much to the pleasure of those who enjoy lesser-known myths.
• Shopping in Munsiyari: Munsiyari has some of the best pashmina shawls and sheepskin rugs in the world. Organic potatoes are farmed and are well-known in this area. Shopping, on the other hand, is limited to the Main Market.

What is the best way to get here?

• By Air: Pantnagar Airport, in Uttarakhand's Nainital area, is the closest airport to Munsiyari. The distance between Pantnagar and Munsiyari is roughly 315 kilometres. From Pantnagar, you can take a taxi straight to Munsiyari. If you want to save money, you can hire a cab to Almora and then take a Munsiyari bus or a shared taxi from there.
• By Train: Munsiyari is 278 kilometres from Kathgodam, the nearest train station. Two trains run everyday from Delhi to Kathgodam, which serves as a gateway to the Kumaon region. Since the train fills up quickly, it is suggested to book your train seats early.
• By Car: The distance between Dehradun and Munsiyari is approximately 448 kilometres, while the distance between Delhi and Munsiyari is approximately 547 kilometres.
• By Bus: Government buses run straight from Dehradun to Munsiyari and Delhi to Munsiyari from corresponding bus stations, and the roads are also well connected.