Munsiyari, at the base of Panchchuli, is the closest you can get to the Himalayas, with a vehicle (Treks can always take you much closer). This place is a valley at a height of 2200 metres above sea level. To approach it, one has to pass via Thal, gradually climb up to Kalamuni Top, and then descend into the valley with the Panchchuli Peaks, bang in front of you. This slow, silent place has its own charm. It's a virgin territory with not many hotels spoiling and polluting the place and view. Munsiyari is a base camp for a number of treks in the Johar valley, including the Milam Glacier.

The people here are a hardworking lot. There are small benches on the road above just before reaching Munsiyari giving a complete sight of the village. Just sit on these benches after lunch and just observe and you will realise the charm of the place. You will feel there is nothing and yet everything here. People stay in single storeyed houses with grass spread on the top of roof. Some will be in their fields while some will be basking in the sun on their roof tops. Women folk will be sitting together and discussing, again on the roof. You will see the local dogs (they are called Bhotia, and are similar to German breed and quite big and furry) helping their master or trying to get rid of fleas. A silence is all you can hear amidst slight village activity sounds and of course, chirping of birds. This place has a definite charm. Sitting on that bench, you wont realise, where those 2 hours went away.

SIGHT SEEING :

1. Kalamuni Top : This place comes en route Munsiyari and gives an awe inspiring view of the Panchchuli Peaks. There is an Ashram here housing a Sadhu. The roof of the hut was covered with snow. (This place is at a height of more than 3000 metres above sea level). A small hut adjoining houses a localite who sells tea. Sipping this hot tea with your own wafers, while studying the environs and the Majestic Panchchuli Peaks is a joyous and satisfying experience.

2. The slopes : As you come down from Kalamuni Top, there are long snow clad slopes (Snow is only from Dec To March). It would be worth to spend time there. As all sides are open, a strong wind almost always keeps blowing and the temperature dips straight to 0 degrees Centigrade the moment sun goes down.

3. The Sunset : This is probably the most captivating scene of the region, and to be frank, this is the best sunset I have ever seen in my life. Usually, as the sun goes down, the reflection of sun rays on the Himalayan Peaks in the East makes them appear orange. But once the sun disappears, darkness sets in and all is gone. But in Munsiyari, after sun had set and twilight was almost over and darkness about to set in, the Panchchuli Peaks instead becoming dark, became violent orange for about few minutes and then became dark. It may have been due to refraction of light by clouds, but the locals say it is a regular feature. YOU HAVE TO SEE THIS TO BELIEVE THIS.

EXCURSIONS :

1. Gori Ganga : The rapid and dangerously fast flowing waters of Gori ganga must be visited. The road is bad. But a calculated risk is alright. Reaching the bank can take almost 2 hours, so calculate your time and go or else you will land up with bad roads in the dark reminding you of heaven at every road turn.

2. Jauljibi : This place is famous for it's tea gardens and scenic environs.

3. Dharchula : Some 65 kilometres away from Munsiyari, is a border town with Nepal. Not really worth visiting. Just a trade Centre.

TREKS :

2 small lakes called Maheshwar Kund and Tapt Kund (I don't remember this second lake's name). The first is 3 km to and fro, while the other is some 6 or 7 km to and fro. You have to ask a local to prepare chapatis and bhaji and take it with you. The old lady at the Gangpani restaurant prepares food very well.