Malari Uttarakhand: The World Heritage Village Near Joshimath

Hidden deep in the high Himalayas, Malari Village is one of the most remote, pristine, and culturally rich villages of Uttarakhand. Located close to the Indo-Tibetan border, Malari is surrounded by lush green mountains, roaring waterfalls, alpine valleys, and silence that heals the soul—making it a dream destination for travelers who seek nature, solitude, and authenticity.

Despite its small size and isolation, Malari Uttarakhand holds global significance due to its location within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.

🌍 World Heritage Status: Malari Uttarakhand

Malari is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which has been recognized by UNESCO for its ecological importance and biodiversity.
The administrative headquarters of the reserve is located in Joshimath (also known as Jyotirmath).

This status makes Malari Village Uttarakhand one of the most environmentally significant villages in the Indian Himalayas.

📍 Location & Distance: Joshimath to Malari

• District: Chamoli, Uttarakhand

• Altitude: ~3,100 meters

• Joshimath to Malari Distance: ~61 km

The Joshimath–Malari road remains open mainly during summer and early autumn. In winter, heavy snowfall cuts off Malari completely, preserving its isolation and untouched charm.

❄️ Malari Uttarakhand Weather & Temperature

🌸 Summer (May–June)

• Temperature: 10°C to 20°C

• Best time to visit Malari

🍁 Autumn (Sept–Oct)

• Clear skies & sharp mountain views

• Temperature: 5°C to 15°C

❄️ Winter (Nov–March)

• Malari Uttarakhand snowfall: Heavy

• Temperature drops below −10°C

• Roads closed & village largely inaccessible

⚠️ Due to snowfall, medical facilities and transport are unavailable for months, and locals migrate temporarily to lower regions.

👥 Natives of Malari Uttarakhand – The Bhotia Tribe

The residents of Malari belong to the Bhotia Tribe, an Indo-Mongolian community known for their resilience and deep knowledge of the mountains.

Local Livelihood

• Cultivation of rare medicinal herbs

• Trade with pharmaceutical companies

• Seasonal migration based on weather

Despite living in a remote environment, the villagers are self-sufficient, knowledgeable, and culturally rich.

Suggested  Read – 5 Lesser-Known Village in Uttarakhand 

🥾 What to Do in Malari Uttarakhand?

Malari is a base point for some of the most legendary Himalayan treks:

• Nanda Devi Peak

  • Base camp near Lata Village (20 km from Malari)

• Dronagiri Mountain

  • Sacred in Hindu mythology (Sanjeevani Booti legend)

🌿 Nature & Wildlife

• Himalayan Thar

• Mountain goats

• Musk deer

• Rare sightings of snow leopards

🚗 How to Reach Malari Uttarakhand

✈️ By Air

• Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport

🚆 By Train

• Nearest railheads: Rishikesh / Dehradun

🚗 By Road

• Rishikesh/Dehradun → Joshimath → Malari

• Taxis available (may need to change vehicles at Joshimath)

📌 Always check road & weather conditions before planning.

🌄 Why Visit Malari Village Uttarakhand?

• UNESCO-protected biosphere location

• Authentic tribal culture

• Zero commercial tourism

• Gateway to high Himalayan treks

• One of the most untouched villages in India