Munsiyari is a beautiful hill station in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 2298 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, especially the Panchachuli group of five peaks. It is also known as the gateway to many treks in the Kumaon region, such as the Milam Glacier, Namik Glacier, and Ralam Glacier treks. If you are looking for a serene and scenic destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Munsiyari is the perfect place for you.
But how do you plan a trip to Munsiyari? What are the best things to do and see there? How do you reach Munsiyari and where do you stay? In this blog post, we will answer all these questions and give you some tips on how to make your Munsiyari trip memorable and enjoyable.
The best time to visit Munsiyari
Munsiyari is a year-round destination that offers different charms and challenges in different seasons. You can choose the best time to visit Munsiyari depending on what you want to see and do there. Here are some highlights of each season:
- Summer (April to June): The best time to enjoy the greenery and flowers of Munsiyari and indulge in some adventure activities like paragliding, mountain biking, and river rafting. The weather is pleasant and clear, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
- Winter (December to February): The best time to witness the snow-clad beauty of Munsiyari and try some winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The weather is cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below zero and frequent snowfall.
- Monsoon (July to September): The best time to avoid the crowds and get some discounts on travel and accommodation in Munsiyari. The weather is moderate and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C and moderate to heavy rainfall. The valley becomes more vibrant and lush after the rains.
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How to reach Munsiyari
Munsiyari is not easily accessible by train or flight, but that’s what makes it more special and rewarding. You can reach Munsiyari by road from various cities like Delhi, Nainital, Almora, Haldwani, and Pithoragarh. The road journey is long and scenic, passing through mountains, forests, rivers, and villages. You can either drive your own car or hire a taxi or a self-drive car. You can also take a bus from some of the cities to Munsiyari or nearby towns and then change to another bus or taxi. The distance and time vary depending on your starting point and route. Here are some approximate values for your reference:
- Delhi to Munsiyari: 600 km, 15 hours
- Nainital to Munsiyari: 300 km, 9 hours
- Almora to Munsiyari: 200 km, 6 hours
- Haldwani to Munsiyari: 300 km, 10 hours
- Pithoragarh to Munsiyari: 130 km, 3 hours
Where to stay in Munsiyari
Munsiyari has a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hotels and homestays to luxury resorts and campsites. You can choose the one that suits your budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Munsiyari:
- Milam Inn: This is a 3-star hotel located near the main market of Munsiyari. It offers spacious rooms with modern amenities and panoramic views of the mountains. It also has a restaurant, a garden, and a terrace. The tariff ranges from Rs. 2500 to Rs. 4000 per night.
- Zara Resort: This is a 4-star resort located on the outskirts of Munsiyari. It offers luxurious cottages and suites with wooden interiors and balconies. It also has a restaurant, a spa, a gym, and a playground. The tariff ranges from Rs. 4000 to Rs. 6000 per night.
- Wayfarer Himalaya Club: This is a heritage property located in the Sarmoli village of Munsiyari. It offers cosy rooms with traditional decor and fireplaces. It also has a library, a lounge, and a dining area. The tariff ranges from Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 per night.
- Himalayan Glamping: This is a camping site located in the Darkot village of Munsiyari. It offers comfortable tents with attached bathrooms and heaters. It also has a common area, a kitchen, and a bonfire. The tariff ranges from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3000 per night.
- Munsiyari Homestays: These are homestays run by local families in various villages of Munsiyari. They offer basic rooms with home-cooked food and warm hospitality. They also offer cultural and adventure activities like trekking, birdwatching, and farming. The tariff ranges from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 per night.
Things to do and see in Munsiyari
Munsiyari has a lot to offer to its visitors in terms of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure sports. Here are some of the best things to do and see in Munsiyari:
Admire the Panchachuli Peaks
The Panchachuli Peaks are the main attraction of Munsiyari as they offer a spectacular view of the sunrise and sunset. You can see them from almost anywhere in Munsiyari, but the best places are the Khaliya Top, the Nanda Devi Temple, and the Balanti Potato Farm.
Visit the Birthi Falls
The Birthi Falls is a scenic waterfall located about 35 km from Munsiyari on the way to Thal. You can enjoy the view of the cascading water from a distance or take a short trek to reach the base of the falls.
Explore the Madkot Village
The Madkot Village is a quaint village located about 22 km from Munsiyari on the way to Jauljibi. It is famous for its hot springs which are believed to have medicinal properties. You can take a dip in the springs or visit the nearby temples and orchards.
Shop at the Darkot Village
The Darkot Village is an ancient village located about 6 km from Munsiyari on the way to Bageshwar. It is known for its handicrafts like woollen shawls, carpets, and bags made by local women. You can buy some souvenirs or interact with the villagers.
Trek to the Khaliya Top
The Khaliya Top is a high-altitude meadow located about 10 km from Munsiyari at an elevation of 3500 meters. It offers a breathtaking view of the Panchachuli Peaks and other Himalayan ranges. You can trek to the Khaliya Top from Munsiyari or take a taxi to Balanti and then trek for about 6 km.
Visit the Nanda Devi Temple
The Nanda Devi Temple is a sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi, the patron deity of Uttarakhand. It is located in the main market of Munsiyari and attracts many devotees and tourists. You can offer your prayers or enjoy the view of the Panchachuli Peaks from here.
Enjoy paragliding, skiing, and rafting
If you are an adventure lover, you can try some thrilling activities like paragliding, skiing, and rafting in Munsiyari. You can paraglide from Khaliya Top or Betulidhar with professional instructors and enjoy the aerial view of Munsiyari. Enjoy skiing on the snow-covered slopes of Khaliya Top or Betulidhar during winters with proper equipment and guidance. You can raft on the Gori Ganga River that flows through Munsiyari with experienced rafters and enjoy the rapids and scenery.
Watch this amazing video of paragliding in Munsiyari, courtesy of Uttarakhand Tourism. Click Here!
Tips for planning your trip to Munsiyari
Here are some more tips for planning your trip to Munsiyari:
- Carry enough cash and essential items as there are no ATMs or supermarkets in Munsiyari. You can find some small shops and restaurants in the main market, but they may not accept cards or digital payments.
- Pack warm clothes and woollen accessories as the temperature can drop drastically at night and during winter. Also, carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself from the sun and the cold.
- Book your accommodation and transportation in advance as there are limited options available in Munsiyari. You can also contact local tour operators or guides who can arrange your stay and activities in Munsiyari.
- Respect the local culture and customs of the people of Munsiyari. They are very friendly and hospitable, but they may not appreciate loud or rude behaviour. Dress modestly and avoid littering or damaging the environment.
- Be prepared for altitude sickness and motion sickness as Munsiyari is located at a high altitude and the road journey is long and winding. Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and take rest if you feel unwell. You can also carry some medicines or consult a doctor before your trip.
- Enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of Munsiyari and make some unforgettable memories. Munsiyari is a place where you can reconnect with nature and yourself. Don’t forget to capture some amazing photos and videos of your trip.
Conclusion
Munsiyari is a wonderful destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. It offers a unique blend of beauty, thrill, and heritage that will leave you spellbound. Whether you want to relax in the lap of nature, explore the hidden gems of the Himalayas, or experience the rich and diverse culture of the Kumaon region, Munsiyari has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Munsiyari today and discover the crown of Kumaon.