Top Places to See in Munsiyari, Uttarakhand (Complete Travel Guide)

Nestled in the eastern Kumaon Himalayas, Munsiyari is a breathtaking mountain town located at an elevation of 7,217 feet. Often described as a hidden gem of Uttarakhand, Munsiyari is loved by trekkers, photographers, birdwatchers, and travelers seeking peace away from crowded hill stations.

Surrounded by dense forests and dominated by the majestic Panchachuli peaks, Munsiyari offers some of the most scenic and unique places to visit in Uttarakhand.

Where Is Munsiyari Located?

Munsiyari is located in the Pithoragarh district, close to the Indo–Nepal border. It serves as the base for several high-altitude Himalayan treks and is often called the “Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand.”

Munsiyari Attractions & Sightseeing Highlights

Here is a detailed guide to the top places to visit in Munsiyari, perfect for nature lovers and slow travelers.

1. Khaliya Top – Best Trekking Spot in Munsiyari

• Altitude: 11,482 feet

• Trek Distance: 6–7 km

Khaliya Top is one of the most popular Munsiyari attractions. The trek passes through oak and rhododendron forests, opening up to panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Panchachuli peaks.

✔️ Ideal for beginners
✔️ Stunning sunrise & sunset views
✔️ Snow trek in winter

2. Birthi Falls – Famous Waterfall Near Munsiyari

• Distance from Munsiyari: ~35 km

• Height: ~400 feet

Birthi Falls is among the most beautiful waterfalls in Kumaon. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s perfect for picnics, photography, and short walks.

✔️ Best during monsoon & post-monsoon
✔️ Easy access from the road

Suggested Read:  Munsiyari From Delhi: Distance, Route and Travel Time

3. Nanda Devi Temple – Spiritual Place in Munsiyari

• Altitude: ~7,500 feet

• Trek Distance: ~3 km

This ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi offers divine peace along with spectacular mountain views. A must-visit during festivals and sunrise hours.

4. Darkot Village – Cultural Heart of Munsiyari

Darkot Village showcases the authentic life of the Kumaon region. It is famous for:

• Traditional stone houses

• Handwoven woolen shawls & carpets

• Stunning Himalayan backdrops

✔️ Best place to experience local culture
✔️ Ideal for slow travel & photography

5. Tribal Heritage Museum – Local History & Culture

Founded by Sher Singh Pangtey, this museum preserves the heritage of the Bhotia tribe. It’s a great place to understand Munsiyari’s cultural roots.

6. Thamri Kund – Hidden Lake Near Munsiyari

• Location: ~10 km before Munsiyari

• Trek: ~3 km (2 hours)

Thamri Kund is a serene alpine lake hidden inside dense forests, offering reflections of Panchachuli peaks.

✔️ One of the most unique places to visit in Munsiyari
✔️ Ideal for photographers

7. Betulidhar – Sunrise & Rhododendron Views

Known for vibrant rhododendron blooms, Betulidhar offers mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.

8. Birdwatching in Munsiyari

Munsiyari is a paradise for bird lovers, home to:

• Himalayan Woodpecker

• Little Pied Flycatcher

• Monals & pheasants

Places to Stay in Munsiyari

• Homestays with mountain views

• Budget guesthouses

• Eco-lodges & camps

✔️ Homestays offer local food & culture
✔️ Best views are from ridge-facing properties

Munsiyari Best Time to Visit

• Best months: March–June & September–October

• Winter: Snowfall (Dec–Feb), limited access

• Monsoon: Lush greenery but landslides possible

Frequently Asked Questions – Munsiyari Sightseeing

Where is Munsiyari located?

Munsiyari is located in Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand, near the Indo–Nepal border.

How many days are enough for Munsiyari?

3–4 days are ideal to explore major Munsiyari sightseeing spots.

5 best places to visit in Munsiyari?

• Khaliya Top

• Darkot Village

• Birthi Falls

• Nanda Devi Temple

• Betulidhar

Munsiyari to Chaukori distance?

Approx. 97 km (3–4 hours by road).

Munsiyari from Dehradun?

• Road: ~445 km (13+ hours)

• Air (nearest): ~214 km

Note on “Top Places to Visit in Munnar”

👉 Munnar is in Kerala, not Uttarakhand. Though both are hill destinations, Munsiyari is known for Himalayan trekking and culture, while Munnar is famous for tea gardens.

Conclusion

From snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes to traditional villages and forest trails, the top places to visit in Munsiyari offer an experience that is raw, peaceful, and unforgettable. If you’re looking for offbeat Himalayan destinations, Munsiyari should be at the top of your list.

Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari Places to See in Munsiyari