Munsiyari, Chaukori & Patal Bhuvneshwar Trip – 5 Nights / 6 Days in Kumaon’s Hidden Paradise
When one thinks of Uttarakhand, famous names like Nainital, Almora, and Ranikhet often surface. But tucked deeper into the Kumaon Himalayas lie destinations that remain raw, mystical, and less commercialized – offering a true Himalayan experience away from crowds. Munsiyari, Chaukori, and Patal Bhuvneshwar are three such treasures that combine natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual depth.
This 5 Nights / 6 Days trip takes you through charming valleys, snow-capped Himalayan views, dense forests, and ancient cave temples. You’ll witness the grandeur of the Panchachuli Peaks, sip tea in Chaukori’s sprawling plantations, and explore the underground wonders of Patal Bhuvneshwar. It’s a journey into the wilderness, silence, and timeless heritage of Kumaon.
Highlights of the Trip
Munsiyari (7,200 ft): Known as “Little Kashmir,” it’s a base for high-altitude treks and offers panoramic views of the Panchachuli Peaks.
Chaukori (6,600 ft): A quiet hill station famous for its tea gardens and sunrise views over Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Panchachuli.
Patal Bhuvneshwar Cave Temple: A mystical underground limestone cave with stalactite formations, steeped in mythology and spirituality.
Dense Himalayan Forests: Drive through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests alive with birdsong and fresh mountain air.
Cultural Encounters: Experience Kumaoni villages, age-old traditions, and local hospitality.
Starry Night Stays: Uninterrupted skies perfect for stargazing in remote Himalayan hamlets.
Moderate Journey: A road trip that balances sightseeing, leisure, and adventure.
Best Season: March–June (greenery & rhododendrons) and September–November (clear skies & crisp Himalayan views).
Itinerary – 5 Nights / 6 Days
Day 1: Kathgodam – Chaukori (approx. 210 km, 8–9 hrs)
Your journey begins with an early morning arrival at Kathgodam Railway Station, the gateway to Kumaon. After meeting your driver/guide, set out on a scenic drive that winds through Almora, Bageshwar, and Kanda valleys.
Along the way, enjoy terraced fields, charming villages, and pine-covered ridges. Stop at a local eatery to savor authentic Kumaoni dishes like aloo ke gutke or bhatt ki churkani.
By evening, arrive in Chaukori, a serene hill station surrounded by tea gardens. As the sun sets, watch the Himalayan peaks turn golden – a magical sight from your hotel balcony. Overnight stay in Chaukori.
Day 2: Explore Chaukori – Tea Gardens & Himalayan Views
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Panchachuli – one of the best sunrise views in Kumaon. After breakfast, head out to explore:
Chaukori Tea Gardens: Walk through lush tea estates, learn about tea processing, and sip fresh brews.
Nag Devta Temple & Dharamghar: Peaceful spots offering panoramic Himalayan views.
Local Villages: Interact with locals and explore traditional Kumaoni homes.
In the evening, stroll around your resort and capture the starry skies with your camera. Overnight stay in Chaukori.
Day 3: Chaukori – Munsiyari (approx. 110 km, 5–6 hrs)
After breakfast, drive towards Munsiyari, a high-altitude destination fondly called the ‘Little Kashmir of Uttarakhand.’
The drive is scenic, passing through Birthi Falls – a stunning 400-ft waterfall that makes for a refreshing break. As you climb higher, the first glimpses of snow-capped Panchachuli peaks appear on the horizon.
By afternoon, reach Munsiyari (7,200 ft) and check into your hotel. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the village to soak in the mountain vibes. Overnight stay in Munsiyari.
Day 4: Munsiyari Exploration – Panchachuli Peaks & Local Culture
Today is dedicated to exploring Munsiyari and its surroundings. After breakfast, head out for sightseeing:
Panchachuli Viewpoint: The iconic five Himalayan sisters rise dramatically against the sky – a dream view for photographers.
Nanda Devi Temple: A serene temple set against a Himalayan backdrop.
Thamri Kund: A small alpine lake surrounded by forests (easy trek option).
Local Market: Explore handicrafts, woolens, and handwoven carpets made by the Shauka community.
Evening at leisure, enjoying a cozy bonfire under the clear mountain sky. Overnight stay in Munsiyari.
Day 5: Munsiyari – Patal Bhuvneshwar (approx. 125 km, 6–7 hrs)
After an early breakfast, depart for Patal Bhuvneshwar, a mystical village famous for its underground limestone cave temple.
The drive winds through charming valleys and forests before reaching the sacred site. Legend says that Patal Bhuvneshwar cave is connected to the abode of Lord Shiva and contains symbolic forms of gods, mythological beings, and divine energies.
A local guide will take you deep inside the cave (via a narrow passage), where stalactite formations resemble mythological figures like Sheshnag and Lord Ganesha’s trunk.
In the evening, relax at a guesthouse near Patal Bhuvneshwar. Overnight stay here.
Day 6: Patal Bhuvneshwar – Kathgodam (approx. 210 km, 8–9 hrs)
Wake up early for one last Himalayan sunrise. After breakfast, begin your return drive towards Kathgodam, retracing through Almora and Bhimtal.
By evening, reach Kathgodam Railway Station, marking the end of your Munsiyari–Chaukori–Patal Bhuvneshwar journey. Depart with memories of snow-clad peaks, ancient caves, and serene villages of Kumaon.
Why Choose This Trip?
Unlike the popular tourist spots of Kumaon, this trip offers:
Blend of Nature & Spirituality: Snow peaks, waterfalls, tea gardens, and ancient caves.
Offbeat Destinations: Less crowded than Nainital or Ranikhet, ensuring peace and solitude.
Perfect Duration: A 5N/6D itinerary balances travel, exploration, and relaxation.
Immense Rewards: From close Himalayan views to mystical experiences in cave temples.
Cultural Encounters: Meet locals, experience Kumaoni hospitality, and taste authentic food.
Essential Trip Information
Trip Duration: 5 Nights / 6 Days
Destinations Covered: Chaukori – Munsiyari – Patal Bhuvneshwar
Maximum Altitude: ~7,200 ft (Munsiyari)
Trip Grade: Easy–Moderate (road trip suitable for families, friends, and solo travelers)
Best Season: March–June (flowers, greenery), September–November (clear skies & snow peaks)
Nearest Railhead: Kathgodam (connected to Delhi, Dehradun, Lucknow)
