Munsiyari's Elusive Himalayan Charms

Situated at the edge of johar valley, along the ancient indo-tibetan salt route, munsiyari is as remote as it is alluring. Undisturbed oak forests, breathtaking views and virgin waterfalls lay undiscovered till now. A new glamping retreat is making travel in this rugged but beautiful terrain possible.

- Neelima Vallangi

Given that Munsiyari is the closest one can get to the big mountains of Himalayas by road, the absence of a horizon specked with pointed crests was sorely disappointing. Fatigue was setting in when heavens gates opened up. Pummeled by raindrops the size of cotton balls, I gave up all hope when Himalayas worked their elusive magic at Kalamuni mountain pass. The imposing crease of Panchachuli massif’s highest peak made a glowing appearance through the gaps of clearing storm clouds. All fatigue was forgotten and adrenaline kicked in when I realised how close I was to the formidable Himalayas!

Situated at the edge of Johar Valley, along the ancient Indo- Tibetan salt route, Munsiyari is as remote as it is alluring. Since the border was sealed following the Indo-Sino war of 1962, which left people of the valley suddenly without a livelihood, Johar was abandoned en masse creating several ghost villages that stand today as a memorial to the halcyon days. A gateway of historic importance, Munsiyari is the last frontier after which the rugged mountains extend, leading all the way till Tibet. Therefore, the only people you may see here are mountaineers and a battalion of army that occasionaly crosses this tiny hamlet.