Imagine walking through a peaceful forest filled with tall oak trees, colourful rhododendron flowers, and fresh mountain air. Birds are singing, the wind is gentle, and the path under your feet feels soft. At the end of this trail, you find a quiet lake surrounded by nature. This magical place is called Thamri Kund.
The Thamri Kund Trek is one of the most beautiful and easy hikes in Munsiyari, a small town in the state of Uttarakhand, India. This trek is perfect for beginners, families, nature lovers, and people who want to take a short break from busy city life.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this lovely forest walk.
Quick Facts About Thamri Kund Trek
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Harkot, near Munsiyari, Uttarakhand |
| Starting Point | Betulidhar (7 km from Munsiyari) |
| Trek Distance | About 3 km (one side) |
| Trek Duration | 1.5 to 2 hours (one way) |
| Altitude | ~2,900 meters above sea level |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June, September to November |
| Main Attractions | Musk deer, forest walk, mountain views, peaceful lake |
Why Is Thamri Kund Special?
Thamri Kund is not just a simple water body. It is believed to be a sacred lake that brings rainfall to the region. Locals say that when the weather becomes too dry, they pray at this lake and it brings rain.
But that’s not all. What makes this trek really special is the calm and quiet you experience on the way. There are no loud crowds or city noises. All you hear are the sounds of nature. The lake is surrounded by big trees, and on a clear day, you can even see the majestic Panchachuli Peaks from here.
How to Reach Thamri Kund
Getting to Thamri Kund is easy if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Reach Munsiyari
Munsiyari is a beautiful hill town in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Here are some ways to get there:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 310 km away from Munsiyari.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 280 km away.
- By Road: Munsiyari is well connected by roads. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from major cities like Haldwani, Almora, and Pithoragarh.
Step 2: Reach Betulidhar
From Munsiyari, take a 15-minute drive to Betulidhar, which is the starting point of the trek. You can find local cabs or ask your hotel to arrange one.
Step 3: Begin the Trek
From Betulidhar, start your forest walk to reach the magical lake of Thamri Kund.
Trek Route and What You Will See
The Forest Trail
The trek starts at Betulidhar, where you will see open grasslands and distant views of snow-covered mountains. As you begin the walk, the path slowly leads you into a thick forest filled with oak, rhododendron, and pine trees.
The air smells fresh, and sunlight peeks through the leaves. You may even see monkeys jumping on trees and hear birds chirping.
Wildlife and Birds
This area is rich in wildlife. If you walk quietly, you might spot:
- Musk deer (known as Kasturi Mriga)
- Langurs (long-tailed monkeys)
- Himalayan monal (a colourful bird)
- Many butterflies and forest birds
Remember, never try to feed or chase wild animals. Just watch them and enjoy the moment.
Mountain Views
As you go higher, the trees open up and offer breathtaking views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks. The famous Panchachuli Peaks, Nanda Devi, and Rajrambha can be seen on clear days.
Thamri Kund
After about 1.5 to 2 hours of walking, you will reach Thamri Kund. It is a small, still lake surrounded by trees and calmness. The water is clean and reflects the sky and trees around it.
Many people like to sit here quietly, take pictures, or meditate for a while.
Best Time to Visit Thamri Kund
You can visit Thamri Kund during most months of the year, but the best time is:
- Spring to Early Summer (March to June): The forest is full of blooming flowers and fresh greenery.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and excellent mountain views.
Avoid These Times:
- Monsoon (July to August): The path becomes slippery, and leeches can be a problem.
- Winter (December to February): Snow covers the trail and makes walking difficult. Only visit in winter if you are an experienced trekker.
What to Carry on the Trek
Here is a simple checklist to help you pack for the trek:
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Water bottle (no plastic littering)
- Light snacks or dry fruits
- Raincoat or poncho
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Camera or phone for photos
- Personal medicines and first aid
- A small backpack to carry everything
If trekking in winter, carry warm clothes and gloves.
Is the Thamri Kund Trek Good for Beginners?
Yes, it is! The Thamri Kund trek is:
- Short (around 6 km total)
- Easy to moderate level
- Safe for families and children above 8 years
- Great for first-time trekkers
You don’t need a guide, but having one is helpful if you want to learn more about the local plants, animals, and stories.
Responsible Travel Tips
As you enjoy the beauty of nature, please follow these simple rules:
- Don’t throw trash in the forest.
- Avoid loud music.
- Don’t pick flowers or disturb animals.
- Stay on the marked trail.
- Carry a small bag to bring back your waste.
Let’s keep this place beautiful for future visitors.
Local Legends and Stories
The lake is believed to have powers. People say that if the area suffers from a long dry spell, prayers at Thamri Kund bring rainfall. It is a sacred spot for many locals.
There are also tales of shepherds who once saw strange lights near the lake during full moon nights. These stories add to the mystery and charm of the place.
What Else Can You See Nearby?
After finishing the Thamri Kund trek, you can explore more beautiful places in and around Munsiyari:
1. Birthi Waterfall
Located around 35 km before Munsiyari on the main road, this 125-meter-high waterfall gushes down with force, especially during monsoon. Surrounded by thick forest, it’s a peaceful picnic spot. You can also enjoy a short uphill walk from the roadside to reach the best view. A small tea stall nearby offers hot snacks. Birthi Waterfall is a great stop for travellers entering or leaving Munsiyari.
2. Madkot Hot Springs
About 22 km from Munsiyari, Madkot village is known for its natural hot water springs. These sulfur-rich waters are believed to have healing properties, especially for skin and joint problems. A dip here can be very relaxing after your trek. The route to Madkot also passes through charming mountain scenery, and small tea stalls serve local food. The springs are open to all and maintained by locals.
3. Lichen Park
India’s first lichen park is situated in Munsiyari and is both educational and fascinating. It showcases over 150 species of lichens – organisms that thrive in clean air and cold climates. The park has walking paths, interpretation boards, and friendly guides who explain how lichens help in ecology. Great for kids, researchers, and eco-tourists, this unique park promotes conservation and awareness of sensitive mountain flora.
4. Panchachuli Base Camp
Located about 40 km from Munsiyari in Dar Village, this trek is a dream for adventure seekers. It takes you through alpine meadows, river crossings, and glacier views. The Panchachuli peaks stand like five towering guards against the sky. The route passes through tribal villages like Sona and Meola, offering a glimpse into local life. Best done over 4–5 days with camping.
5. Balanti Potato Farm
Just 2 km from Munsiyari, Balanti Farm is a lovely meadow where you can enjoy peaceful views of the valley and Panchachuli peaks. The walk to the farm is short and scenic, ideal for mornings. The farm grows potatoes and seasonal vegetables, giving you a glimpse of local farming. It’s a quiet spot for picnics, reading, or watching the sunrise.
6. Darkot Village
Only 6 km from Munsiyari, Darkot is an ancient village known for its traditional stone houses and woollen handicrafts. You can buy hand-woven pashmina shawls, carpets, and woollen jackets directly from local weavers. The village also offers a chance to learn about Kumaoni architecture, culture, and hospitality. Walk around and interact with locals to truly experience mountain village life.
Book a Thamri Kund Trek Package
If you don’t want to plan everything by yourself, you can book a Thamri Kund trek package. These trekking tours often include:
- Pickup and drop off from Munsiyari
- A local trek guide
- Tea or a simple packed lunch
- Safety support
Search online for Book Thamri Kund Trek or ask your hotel for local trekking guides. Booking a package also supports local tourism and gives jobs to people in the area.
Conclusion – Why You Should Do the Thamri Kund Trek
If you love nature and want to spend a quiet day in the mountains, the Thamri Kund Trek is perfect for you. It is simple, beautiful, and filled with natural wonders.
You don’t need to be a mountain expert or carry big gear. Just bring a smile, walk slowly, and let the forest show you its magic.
Whether you are a solo traveller, with your family, or a group of friends, this trek will give you memories to carry home.
And the best part? This is one of the most affordable Uttarakhand treks, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.
FAQs About Thamri Kund Trek
1. Do I need a permit?
No. The Thamri Kund trek is free for all and does not require any official permit.
2. How long does the trek take?
It usually takes 3 to 4 hours for a round trip.
3. Can kids or older people do this trek?
Yes! It’s a great trek for families, kids (above 8), and even elders with good fitness.
4. Is the trail safe?
Yes. It is safe and well-marked. Still, avoid going alone and start early in the day.
5. Are there any shops or food stalls?
No. You need to carry your own water and snacks. No food is sold on the trail.
6. Can I camp near Thamri Kund?
No. Camping is not allowed close to the lake to keep the area clean and safe.
