Munsyari Travel Guide — Everything You Need to Know
Munsyari is a high village at about 2,200 m in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, at the end of a long road through eastern Kumaon. It faces the five snow summits of the Panchachuli across the Gori Ganga valley, one of the finest mountain views in the state, and it is the starting point for treks towards the Milam and Ralam glaciers and up to the meadows of Khaliya Top. It is remote and simple, and that is the point. Pulp Hotels does not list a stay in Munsyari yet.
Things to do in Munsyari
- The Panchachuli view — the five peaks across the valley, at their best at sunrise and on clear autumn mornings.
- Khaliya Top — a high meadow above the village, a hard day's walk up and back, with a wide view of the peaks; snow-covered in winter.
- Milam and Ralam treks — longer treks up the Gori Ganga and its side valleys; routes near the border need permits, arranged through the local administration.
- Tribal heritage museum — a small private museum on the life and trade of the Johar valley's Bhotiya communities.
- Nanda Devi temple — a short walk from the village, with views across the valley.
- Birthi Falls — a tall waterfall beside the road on the way in.
Best time to visit Munsyari
October and November give the clearest views of the Panchachuli. March to June is pleasant and the main trekking season. December to February is cold, with snow at Khaliya Top and sometimes in the village. July to September is the monsoon, when cloud hides the peaks and landslides often close the long road in.
Getting to Munsyari
Munsyari is a long way from anywhere: the nearest major railway station is Kathgodam, a full and tiring day's drive away, and many travellers break the journey at Chaukori or in the Kumaon hills. Pithoragarh, the district town, is around five to six hours by road. Allow spare days, as the road is narrow and closes after heavy rain.
Where to stay around Munsyari
Stays are simple guesthouses, homestays and a few small hotels in and around the village; the one thing to ask is whether the room faces the Panchachuli. Heating and hot water matter in every season. For treks, many guesthouses help arrange guides and porters.
