How to Reach Munsiyari: Complete Travel Guide

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How to Reach Munsiyari
  • Jun 05, 2025
  • Uttarakhand Tours
  • @nagarjuna_travels

How to Reach Munsiyari: Complete Travel Guide

By @nagarjuna_travels

Tucked away in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, Munsiyari is a picturesque hill station and a base camp for many high-altitude treks including Milam Glacier, Ralam Glacier, and Nanda Devi East Base Camp. Known for its snow-clad peaks, scenic valleys, and vibrant local culture, Munsiyari is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Reaching Munsiyari requires planning due to its remote Himalayan location. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Munsiyari from Delhi, Dehradun, Kathgodam, and Tanakpur, along with important transport information.

How to Reach Munsiyari from Delhi

By Road

Munsiyari is about 600 km from Delhi and takes around 17–19 hours by road. You can drive via Haldwani, Almora, Bageshwar, and Chaukori. Roads are well-maintained but involve steep mountain routes after Almora. You can also take Volvo or state-run buses to Haldwani or Almora and then hire a taxi to reach Munsiyari.

By Train

Take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam (nearest railhead to Munsiyari). From Kathgodam, book a shared jeep or private cab to Munsiyari (about 270 km, 9–10 hours).

By Air

Fly from Delhi to Pantnagar Airport (the nearest airport to Munsiyari), then travel by road for approx 310 km to Munsiyari via Almora or Bageshwar.

How to Reach Munsiyari from Dehradun

By Road

Distance from Dehradun to Munsiyari is around 460 km, taking about 16–18 hours. The route passes through Nainital, Bageshwar, Chaukori, and Thal.

By Train

Dehradun doesn’t have a direct rail route to Kathgodam. However, you can travel to Haridwar or Rudrapur, then change trains to reach Kathgodam, followed by a taxi or jeep to Munsiyari.

By Air

From Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), fly to Pantnagar, then travel by road to Munsiyari (approx 310 km).

How to Reach Munsiyari from Kathgodam

Kathgodam serves as the most convenient railway station for travelers heading to Munsiyari. Located about 265–270 km away, it offers a scenic 9 to 10-hour road journey through the Kumaon hills. Regular taxis, shared jeeps, and buses are available from the station for onward travel.

By Road

Munsiyari is 265–270 km from Kathgodam and takes around 9 to 10 hours. The scenic drive goes through Almora, Bageshwar, and Chaukori. Taxis and shared cabs are available outside the station.

Transport Options

  • Private taxi: Ideal for comfort and scenic halts

  • Shared jeeps: Budget-friendly, available in early morning hours

  • Local buses: Limited availability; check timing in advance

How to Reach Munsiyari from Tanakpur

Tanakpur is a viable alternative for reaching Munsiyari, particularly for travelers coming from eastern Uttarakhand. Located around 270–280 km away, the road journey passes through Champawat, Lohaghat, and Didihat. Though the route is hilly, it offers scenic views and a less crowded travel experience.

By Road

Tanakpur to Munsiyari is around 270–280 km, taking about 9–10 hours via Champawat, Lohaghat, Didihat, and Thal. The route is scenic but hilly and narrow in places.

By Train

Tanakpur has a small railway station connected to major towns in UP and Uttarakhand. From here, you can take a taxi or jeep to reach Munsiyari.

Nearest Railway Station to Munsiyari

The nearest major railway station to Munsiyari is Kathgodam Railway Station (Station Code: KGM).

  • Distance: 265–270 km

  • Travel Time by Road: 9–10 hours

  • Connected to: Delhi, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Dehradun

Nearest Airport to Munsiyari

The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (PGH).

  • Distance: 310 km

  • Travel Time: 10–11 hours by road

  • Connected to: Delhi with regular flights: For travelers from other states, the best option is to take a connecting flight via Delhi.

Note: Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh is closer (~125 km), but commercial flights are currently irregular. Check current schedules before planning.

Munsiyari Helicopter Tours

Helicopter service to Munsiyari is limited but occasionally offered under Uttarakhand Government's UDAN Scheme.

  • Route: Haldwani / Pithoragarh to Munsiyari

  • Operator: Pawan Hans or Heritage Aviation (subject to availability)

  • Usage: Mostly for VIP movement, medical emergencies, and special tourism packages

  • Nagarjuna Travels offers customized Munsiyari Helicopter Tours on request for groups, senior citizens, or luxury travelers.

🛑 Tip: These services are not daily and depend on weather and government notifications. Advance inquiry is a must.

Final Thoughts

Reaching Munsiyari involves a journey through some of the most scenic and untouched parts of Uttarakhand. While it takes time, the breathtaking views of Panchachuli Peaks, charming Kumaoni villages, and tranquil Himalayan trails make it truly worth the effort.

For a hassle-free journey, @nagarjuna_travels offers customizable packages, private transfers, trekking tours, and even helicopter arrangements to Munsiyari. Contact us to plan your dream Himalayan escape today!