How to Reach Munsiyari

If travelling by air, Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh is the closest airport, though flights are limited. Most travellers prefer road travel for better connectivity.

The journey to Munsiyari is long but incredibly scenic, offering views of deep valleys, rivers, and Himalayan landscapes.

1. Understanding Munsiyari’s Connectivity Through Road, Rail and Air Routes

Munsiyari is a high-Himalayan destination located in the Pithoragarh district of Kumaon, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes and direct views of the Panchachuli Peaks. Because of its remote location and elevation, the journey to Munsiyari is longer compared to other hill stations, but the route is scenic, rewarding and well connected through multiple gateways. Travellers searching for how to reach Munsiyari, the best route from Delhi or the smoothest travel path through Haldwani or Almora will find several practical options. Although the destination has no airport or railway station of its own, the combination of road networks, nearby railheads and accessible airports makes reaching Munsiyari straightforward.

• Reaching Munsiyari by Air 

The nearest major airport for Munsiyari is Pantnagar Airport, although the smaller Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh also operates limited regional flights. Travellers arriving from distant states often prefer the Pantnagar route.

Pantnagar Airport route:

1. Located around 315 kilometres from Munsiyari
2. Travel time from airport to Munsiyari is approximately 9 to 10 hours
3. Taxi services available directly outside the airport
4. Route passes through Haldwani, Almora and Thal

Naini Saini (Pithoragarh) Airport route:

1. Located about 130 kilometres from Munsiyari
2. Travel time is around 4 to 5 hours
3. Limited flight connectivity but shorter road journey

Air travel is ideal for travellers who want to reduce time spent on plains and begin the hill journey sooner.

• Reaching Munsiyari by Train 

Since Munsiyari does not have its own railway station, travellers depend on the major Kumaon railheads located in the foothills. Kathgodam and Haldwani are the most commonly used.

Nearest railway stations:

1. Kathgodam (approx. 275 kilometres from Munsiyari)
2. Haldwani (slightly farther but equally convenient)

Rail travel advantages:

1. Excellent connectivity with Delhi, Lucknow, Dehradun and Kolkata
2. Multiple overnight and morning trains
3. Easy access to taxis, shared jeeps and buses outside the station
4. Road journey from Kathgodam to Munsiyari takes 8 to 9 hours

Travellers searching for the easiest and most comfortable long-distance entry to Munsiyari usually prefer the train route.

• Reaching Munsiyari by Road

The road journey to Munsiyari is long but beautiful. The route passes through forests, valleys, orchards, traditional villages and riverside stretches, making it extremely rewarding. Travellers coming from Delhi NCR and major Uttarakhand towns often choose to travel entirely by road.

Road travel details:

1. Delhi to Munsiyari distance: around 580 kilometres
2. Travel time: 15 to 18 hours depending on route and stoppages
3. Best broken into two legs: Delhi to Almora / Chaukori, then to Munsiyari
4. Smooth highways until Almora or Bageshwar
5. Mountain roads become more scenic closer to Munsiyari

This method is ideal for people who enjoy long drives and mountain scenery.

• Best Road Routes to Reach Munsiyari From Major Cities

1. Delhi to Munsiyari (most common route):
Delhi → Ghaziabad → Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Almora → Bageshwar → Thal → Munsiyari

• Smooth highways till Haldwani
• Scenic hill roads after Almora
• Plenty of food and rest stops

2. Haldwani or Kathgodam to Munsiyari:
Haldwani → Bhimtal → Almora → Bageshwar → Thal → Munsiyari

• Ideal for travellers arriving by train or flight
• Balanced combination of comfort and scenery

3. Nainital to Munsiyari route:
Nainital → Bhowali → Almora → Bageshwar → Munsiyari

• Very scenic
• Suitable for travellers combining multiple Kumaon destinations

4. Pithoragarh to Munsiyari route:
Pithoragarh → Thal → Munsiyari

• Shortest hill route
• Ideal for travellers using Pithoragarh airport

These routes provide flexibility depending on origin and travel preference.

• Bus Travel to Munsiyari 

There are no direct buses to Munsiyari from major cities, but several comfortable options exist.

How bus travel works:

1. Overnight buses from Delhi to Haldwani, Kathgodam or Almora
2. From these towns, travellers hire taxis or take shared jeeps
3. Shared jeeps from Thal or Bageshwar to Munsiyari operate regularly
4. Ideal for budget travellers and solo visitors

This method is economical and relies on easily available local transport.

• Taxi and Self-Drive Options 

Many travellers choose hired taxis or self-drive options for the final approach to Munsiyari. The drive provides uninterrupted mountain scenery and plenty of viewpoints.

Why this option is preferred:

1. Complete flexibility with timing and routes
2. Ability to stop at viewpoints, cafés and waterfalls
3. Comfortable for families and groups
4. Popular among travellers exploring Almora, Chaukori or Bageshwar
5. Road conditions remain manageable for most of the year

This makes the journey enjoyable and personalised.

• Final Recommendation — The Best Way to Reach Munsiyari Based on Your Travel Style

Your ideal route depends on distance, budget and comfort preferences.

Recommended choices:

1. For long-distance travellers: Flight to Pantnagar or Pithoragarh, then road trip
2. For most travellers: Train to Kathgodam, then scenic road journey
3. For Delhi NCR visitors: A two-day road trip for comfort
4. For budget travellers: Bus to Kathgodam or Almora, then shared jeep

Despite its remote location, Munsiyari is well connected and offers multiple reliable travel approaches. The journey, with its forests, valleys and mountain curves, becomes an unforgettable part of the experience.