The Panchachuli peaks seen from Munsiyari, Pithoragarh (photo: Amar Singh Rathore, Unsplash)

Things to Do in Munsiyari: Khaliya Top, Birthi Falls & Village Walks

Munsiyari is a quiet hill town at about 2,200 m in Pithoragarh district, facing the five Panchachuli peaks. It is the base for Khaliya Top, Birthi Falls and the old Johar valley trade route to Milam.

Top pickSunrise on Panchachuli
Best walkKhaliya Top
For cultureTribal Heritage Museum, Sarmoli

Adventure

Khaliya Top walk

Drive to the trail start near Balati, then walk about 7 km through oak and rhododendron forest to an open meadow facing the Panchachuli range. Start early, before clouds come in.

Mar - Jun, Sep - NovFull dayModerate

Thamri Kund

A small forest lake reached by a walk through the woods. Quiet and good for birds.

Apr - NovHalf dayEasy-moderate

Sightseeing

Sunrise on Panchachuli

Wake up before 6 am and find an open terrace. The five peaks catch the first light one after another.

Best Oct - Nov30 minEasy

Nanda Devi temple

An easy walk of about 3 km from the market to a hilltop temple. Lovely at sunset.

All year1-2 hrsEasy

Birthi Falls

A high waterfall on the Thal road, about 32 km before Munsiyari.

Best after rain30 minEasy

Maheshwari Kund

A small pond close to town with a local legend and open views.

All year1-2 hrsEasy

Culture

Tribal Heritage Museum

Learn how the Johari Shauka traders lived and traded with Tibet. Ask locally for opening hours.

All year1 hrEasy

Sarmoli village walk

Walk through the village, meet homestay families and eat home-cooked Kumaoni food.

All year2 hrsEasy

Buy local woollens

Shawls, pankhis and small rugs woven by local families.

All year1 hrEasy

Things to Do in Munsiyari: FAQs

How long is the Khaliya Top trek?

About 7 km one way from the road head near Balati. Most people do it as a full-day walk and come back the same day.

Is Birthi Falls on the way to Munsiyari?

Yes. It is beside the road from Thal, about 32 km before Munsiyari.

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