Best time to visit : September to October and March to June
Fast changing landscapes and Himalayan peaks playing hide and seek behind the clouds constantly amuse the tourists heading towards Munsiyari. Gushing rivers, green meadows, cool weather and lack of urban settings add a captivating charm to this small hamlet located in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand. Located on the banks of River Goriganga, this North India town has built good reputation among adventure travellers (especially trekkers), nature lovers and wildlife tourists as well. Attractions of Munsiyari are no less than nature’s blessings to the mankind and consist of flower meadows, outstanding sightseeing venues, tempting waterfalls and more.
Facts
Munsiyari is close to the border that separates India from Tibet and Nepal. Not many people know that the place served as a destination on an ancient trade route to Tibet. The literal meaning of ‘Munsiyari’ is ‘the place of snow’. Its exotic natural beauty encourages the visitors to describe it as ‘Little Kashmir’. Located about 2,200 m. above the sea level, the town is best known for being the trekking base of glaciers like Milam, Pachu and Ralam and many majestic peaks (including Nanda Devi). Expert tourist guide can be hired to enjoy some short treks like the one to Khalia Top. Winters can be extremely cold at this place, though they don’t restrict the tourist activities.
Located in the Kumaon region, Munsiyari is bound to offer delicious local cuisines like Kulka (prepared from Himalayan herbs, potatoes and flour). One can enjoy these dishes at small stalls as well as at in-house restaurants of the top hotels. These restaurants are the best places to dine at as they offer comprehensive menus consisting of local, national and international dishes.
Shopping can be interesting at Munsiyari, with a lot of hand-woven stuff available in the form of carpets, woollens, shawls and blankets. High quality pashmina and sheep wool are among the materials used. Those interested can also purchase some useful Himalayan herbs and Himalayan tree saplings from the town’s nursery.
Nearby Places:
- Jauljibi (about 65 km.): Located close to the Indo-Nepal border, it rests at the confluence of Rivers Gori and Kali and is known for amazing scenic beauty and water rafting adventures.
- Didihat (about 90 km.): Popular for Lord Shiva Temple of Sirakot and unadulterated natural beauty.
- Dharchula (about 92 km.): Rich flora and fauna and closeness to the sacred Lake Manasarovar make it a popular tourist destination.
- Chaukori (about 94 km.): Visit this beautiful hill station to view snow-clad mountain peaks, Berinag hill station and numerous old temples (the most popular one being Gangolihat).
- Bageshwar (about 128 km.): The place is admired for its old temples like Baijnath and Bagnath and also for being an important trek base.
Other nearby destinations ideal for excursions from Munsiyari are Pithoragarh, Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple, Binsar and Kausani.