1. MunsiyariMunsiyari, or the "Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand," is an adorable hill station in the Pithoragarh district of Kumaon. At approximately 2,200 meters above sea level, it offers a spectacular view of the five towering Panchachuli peaks covered with snow. Covered with pine, deodar, and rhododendron forests, Munsiyari is a perfect place to relax for those who love trekking, nature, and adventure. It is the place where several high-altitude treks, such as those leading to Milam, Ralam and Namik glaciers, begin; hence, it is a haven for mountaineers and trekkers. Being a magnificent part of nature, Munsiyari is also a treasure of heritage and culture. It is the home of Johar Valley residents who were once traders who transported goods across the border to Tibet prior to the closure of the trade routes. Apart from the variety of flowers and animals, this area is also a considerable place for birdwatchers, as they easily spot rare Himalayan birds. And not only this, but skiing, river rafting, and trekking have been the most popular adventure sports that have been done in this areaHistory of MunsiyariFor many years, the story of Munsiyari has been connected with the customs of the Johari Shauka community, a group of people who were very strong and lived in the Johar Valley for hundreds of years. Munsiyari was once a major trading point between India and Tibet. In order to cross the Milam Glacier route to Tibet, the region’s traders were going with their wagons full of wool, salt, and other goods, and coming back with rice, tea, and other daily-use goods, besides exchanging culture. This trade across the border was doing very well until the war between India and China in 1962, when the borders were closed, and the time-old trade routes were sealed for good. This was a turning point in the local economy and lifestyle that made the Johar people alter their ways of living. The term “Munsiyari” literally means “Place with Snow,” and the meaning is very appropriate because it is in the midst of the snow-covered Himalayas. Munsiyari has been connected with the stories of travellers, religious people, and merchants who dared to pass through the area and reach the farthest lands. Munsiyari was also a prominent place in the creation of cultural ties between India and Tibet, as it was a region where Buddhism and Hinduism mixed. This is very evident in the presence of very old temples such as those of Nanda Devi and Maheshwari Kund, which are among the ancient ones. During the British Empire time, Munsiyari was on the list of places that people went to see the alpine beauty and trekking routes. But still, its off-the-beaten-path location meant that it had been spared for a long time from the effects of urbanisation. After the independence, the Indian Government recognised Munsiyari’s importance both strategically and culturally, and thus, it took the gradual steps to develop the place. Visitors were thus allowed into the town, and the process, with the roads and other infrastructures, began.Nearby Places around MunsiyariBirthi Falls: Birthi Falls is 126 meters high and mesmerising to the eyes, as it is wrapped in the thick forest and snow-covered peaks, and it takes approximately 35 km by car from Munsiyari. The place is a great breath of fresh air right in the amazing nature, hence a stop by is very frequent.Khaliya Top: Khaliya Top is an absolutely great trekking and camping spot, only 10 km from Munsiyari, that offers spectacular panoramic vistas of Panchachuli, Rajrambha, and Nanda Devi peaks. The hike has been graded as easy to moderate, making it accessible for beginners as well.Maheshwari Kund: Maheshwari Kund is a lovely little pond just 5 km away from the city and is full of local myths and providing a good, peaceful place. It is covered with smooth green grass and is the perfect place for picnics and little walks.Thamri Kund: Thamri Kund is a naturally occurring and small lake located around 10 kilometres from Munsiyari. It is surrounded by green mountain trees and is known for being mythologically significant and an excellent place for birdwatching as well.Madkot Hot Springs: Madkot is a natural hot water spring situated around 22 km from Munsiyari. It is believed that the water has the power to heal various diseases, and thus makes it the perfect place for a relaxing short trip and tour.Best time to visit MunsiyariSummer (March to June): During the whole year, Munsiyari summer is the most fitting time, when it is the most crowded. The atmosphere is great with the temperature not going out of the 15-25°C range. Furthermore, the clear blue sky is the best for observing the snow-covered Panchachuli peaks, which in turn makes this period the best for trekking, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities. The region is then covered with rhododendrons in bloom and has become a vibrant display of nature.Monsoon (July to August): The monsoon season in Munsiyari is accompanied by a very heavy downfall, which in turn causes landslides and congestion of roads. Even though the valley will be green, it will be quite difficult and unsafe to travel during that time.Autumn (September to October): The days to visit Munsiyari right after the rain are the best months. Cool weather, blue sky, stunning and majestic snow-clad Himalayan peaks and of course, their perfect timing for trekking and photography, as the place has been regreened with fresh grass. What is more, these are good times for trekking and photography.Winter (November to February): During winter, Munsiyari is a spectacular place covered completely with snow. There are instances when the temperature reaches very low points, and the region also receives a lot of snow. It is, therefore, a perfect time for those fond of snow, skiing fans, and those wanting to feel the magic of the Himalayan winter, but as the roads are always blocked and hence it is hard to reach there, so travellers have to be smart about their trip.How to Reach MunsiyariBy Airport: One way to arrive at Munsiyari very fast by a flight is to take a flight directly to Pantnagar Airport, which is around 250 km away from Munsiyari. By car or cab, you can do the rest of the trip.By Railway Station: The closest railway station to Munsiyari is Kathgodam (about 280 km). Several trains run between Khatgodam and Chandigarh, Dehradun, and other cities in a day. Thereafter, a taxi or a bus can give you a lift to Munsiyari.By Road: One can also drive to Munsiyari from the towns of Uttarakhand, namely Almora, Haldwani, and Pithoragarh. Though there are state buses and shared taxis operating on this route, the journey is usually slow.
