Munsiyari

Activities in Munsiyari

• Trekking: Munsiyari is base camp of various long and short treks into the inner regions of Kumaon Himalayas. Trek to Milam Glacier, Namik Glacier and Ralam Glacier commences at Munsiyari. Mountaineers, avid trekkers and nature lovers flock at Munsiyari during the trekking season. 
• Village Tourism: Known for its pristine natural beauty, Munsiyari is a mesmerizing destination which is surrounded by snow-covered Himalayan peaks. One can explore the beautiful village and learn about their customs and culture.
• Bird Watching: The dense forests of pine, deodar and rhodenderon that surrounds Munsiyari is home to many resident as well as migratory aviary species like wagtail, raven, Himalayan griffon, falcon and serpent eagle to name a few.       
• Shopping in Munsiyari: You can buy some fantastic hand-woven carpets or Himalayan tree saplings from the markets of Munsiyari.
• Exploring Local Culture: Munsiyari is home to the Bhotia community, and visitors can explore local villages to learn about their unique culture, customs, and traditional handicrafts.

Staying in Munsiyari

Munsiyari is a small hamlet situated in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Being a popular trekking base camp, there are quite a few accommodation options at Munsiyari. However, one has to realize that Munsiyari is not a tourist destination but a trekker’s delight. Hence, there are only budget guesthouses available with limited amenities. One can also camp at Munsiyari if traveling with camping equipment. 

Munsiyari Food Guide

Finding a proper restaurant that serves different cuisines and delicacies would not be possible at Munsiyari. At best, one can find roadside food stalls and local restaurants serving North Indian cuisine and popular Chinese items like noodles, momos. Some local dhabas may also serve authentic Kumaoni cuisines. 

History of Munsiyari

The toy town of Munsiyari falls on the ancient salt route from Tibet. Munsiyari is adorned at the entrance of the Johar Valley, extending along the path of Goriganga River to Milam Glacier, which is also its source. Earlier the region was inhabited by Shaukas or Bhotiyas, a semi-nomadic group who used to trade with Tibet. However, the business stopped in 1962, when the border with Tibet was sealed. As the region was not susceptible for agriculture, the natives were forced to migrate to other places.

Mythology about Munsiyari

As per the Hindu mythology, the Pandavas of the epic Mahabharata commenced their final journey to heaven from Munsiyari. It is said that the five enormous peaks of Panchachuli, represents the five 'chulhas' or stove where Draupadi cooked the last meal for her five husbands.