Munsyari- An Unexplored Paradise on Earth

Munsiyari a picturesque hamlet located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand state, is a hidden gem nestled among the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. This scenic hill station is perched at an altitude of 2298m above sea level and is literally translated as "place with snow", also referred to as Little Kashmir.
The Milam valley, locally known as Johar, was once home to traders whose caravans crossed from India into Tibet by the high passes of Unta Dhura and Kungribhingri La. Once the trading season was over, the entire population of Milam and the surrounding areas would migrate to Munsyari or lower altitudes during the winter. However, trade stopped with the Indo-China conflict of 1962 and these once prosperous villages are now deserted. Despite this, the trail still exists, linking the villages and beckoning trekkers.

Munsyari serves as the starting point for several trekking areas, including the Milam Glacier, Ralam Glacier, Namik Glacier, Panchachuli Glacier, and Porting Glacier. Camping and trekking around Munsyari is an unforgettable experience. Note that for Milam Glacier trek, all trekkers must inform the local administration and ITBP.

Some popular places to visit in Munsyari include:

Khaliya TOP, a pleasant weekend trek that offers breathtaking views of the Panchachuli and Nanda Devi range. It is a day trek that starts from the Balati farm and takes around 3 hours to reach Khaliya top.

Birthi Falls, located near the Birthi Village on the main Thal-Munsiyari route, is a beautiful waterfall that serves as a popular picnic spot. The trek to the falls is around 15 minutes from the roadhead.

Tribal Heritage Museum, a private museum located in Nanasem village that displays interesting artifacts of the local Bhotiya people's life. It is set up by Dr. S.S. Pangti, a retired school teacher and author.

Thamri Kund, a pleasant hike from Betulidhar, which is an 8 km drive from Munsyari. Thamri Kund is one of the most beautiful fresh water lakes in the entire Kumaon Valley.

Meshar Kund, a very short trek from Munsyari that takes only 40 minutes to get to. It is an ancient lake with deep mythological value and is believed to have been dried by the villagers of Munsiyari in an act of vengeance.

Madkot, a hot spring water situated 22km from Munsiyari, believed to have healing properties for various ailments.

Munsiyari offers a plethora of natural beauty and adventure opportunities for nature lovers, trekkers, and history buffs alike. It is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.


Few of the long treks In Munsyari –

Milam Glacier Trek – 9 days
Ralam Glacier trek – 9 days
Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek – 8 days
Namik Glacier Trek – 10 days
Panchhachuli Glacier Trek – 10 days
Nagnidhura Trek – 8 days
Khaliya round trek – 03 days