Munsiyari

Place of glaciers

Munsiyari a small Himalayan township about 127 kms north of Pithoragarh and 66 kms from Jauljibi. Munsiyari is situated at a distance of about 62 kms from Jauljibi via Madkot 120 kms from Pithoragarh via Thal-Tejam Kalamuni and 207 kms from Almora via TakuIa-Bageshwar and Thal along the same routes. On both the routes the traveller can see many water falls coming down to Gori and Ramganga.

It nestles at an elevation of 2135 metres. and the entire region is known as Johar valley. Munshyari is a base for treks to Milam and Namik glaciers. The trek from Munsiyari to Milam Glacier, the source for Goriganga river is fascinating. Around Munsiyari are alpine lakes of Maheshwari Kund and Thamri Kund. Munsiyari Bugyal, an alpine meadow full of wild flowers is enchanting. Khalia Top and Betulidhar are suited for skiing.

Besides housing the tehsil headquarters, Munsiyari is the centre as well as the gate way of the Johar region.The whole Johari Population of Munsiyari would migrate to their summer settlements to engage in trade with the advent of spring. Although, Johars still deal in woollens and herbs, there are a number of Johars who have turned to agriculture and horticulture. Nonetheless they all are confined to Munsiyari alone.

Season: Round the year.

Altitude: 2135 mts.

Places worth watching:

Khaliya Top & Betuli Dhar: High altitude gentle slope meadows located at a distance of 7 kms, from Munsyari. Ideal site for skiing and adventure sports. Betuli Dhar is about 5 kms, from Munsyari.

Madkot:

Birthi Fall:

Glacier nearby Munsiyari

Munsiyari-LiIarn, 12 kms;

Lilam - Bagudiar, 19 kms;

Bagudiar-Rilkote, 15 kms;

Rilkote - Milam, 14 kms;

Milam-Milam Glacier, 5 kms

Munsyari - Lilam-Patan Gaon, 15 kms;

Patan gaon-Saba udiar. 15 kms;

Saba udiar,- Ralam, 15 kms

Munsyari-Jimighat, 10kms;

Jimighat - Jimian, 8 kms;

Jimian-Namik.25 kms.

Flora and Fauna (Munsiyari)

The lower ranges come alive during spring with birds and blossoms. At lower altitudes we see Jays, the whistleing thrush, finches, wagtails, the hawk Cuckoo, colourful Cuckoo, the Lammergier, wild Hens ,Teetar Pheasants, at higher levels the magnificent surpant eagle, the Falcon, the exquisite Monal. Leopards, Panthers. Mountain Bears and the elusive Musk Deer found only in Munsiyari region make spottingwild life. The forest are luxuriant mix of Pine, Deodar, Oaks, Spruce, Cypress and the flowering Rhododendrons, lots of rare herbs and also the Morcilla.

Where to stay in Munsiyari:

Pandey Lodge , Wayfarer Mountain Resort , Kmvn Tourist Rest House,