Munsiyari

Munsiyari is a town as well as tehsil located in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand. It lies at the base of the Himalayas at an elevation of 2,200 metres. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks, the name of this town literally means 'a place with snow'. Munsiyari serves as the base camp to glaciers like Ralam and Milam for trekkers.

Deodar and pine trees, rhododendron plants and numerous small waterfalls contribute to the scenic beauty of this town. The town is situated on the banks of River Goriganga on the ancient salt route that originates from Tibet. Placed at the entrance of Johar Valley, it is home to the Shauka people of Bhotiya tribe.

This town has been inhabited by the Shaukas since its colonisation. All able-bodied men of this town used to travel to Tibet to bring salt, as it was the sole source of salt for the entire Himalyan region of India before 1962.

Goddess Nanda Devi is the chief deity of this region and the Hindu tribals residing here pay homage to her. The Nanda Devi Temple, located only 3 km from this town, is of religious significance to the locals.

Munsiyari is a prominent site for adventure tourists, with trekking and mountaineering being the most popular activities. It is also home to many scenic locations, like Vrithi Falls or Birthi Falls, where tourists can relax after rafting in the Goriganga River or skiing at Khaliatop and Betulidhar. The forests located in the region are filled with wild animals and birds, such as whistling thrush, wagtail, falcon, serpent eagle, leopard, panthers, mountain bears and musk deer.

Dar Kot is a small village located 6 km away from Munsiyari that provides the opportunity to visit 100-year old wooden houses having intricately carved doors and windows. Masterji's Museum, Balati Farm, Munsiyari Bugyal and Mehsar Kund are also frequented by travellers. The town is also popular for handmade shawls and blankets made of sheep wool, Angora wool and pashmina.

Pantnagar Airport is the domestic airport located closest to Munsiyari, the Jolly Grant Airport serves international destinations. Kathgodam Railway Station, located 319 km from this town, is the closest railway junction and connects it with major cities of India, like Delhi, Howrah and Lucknow. Buses run from Pithoragarh, situated around 130 km from Munsiyari. The most suitable time to visit Munsiyari is from March to June and September to October.