places

Sarmoli Village in Uttarakhand

August 1, 2025

Far from the noise of cities and crowded hill stations, there is a quiet little village tucked away in the mountains of Uttarakhand, Sarmoli village. Located close to Munsiyari, this offbeat destination offers something truly rare: untouched nature, warm local hospitality, and a lifestyle that flows with the rhythm of the Himalayas.

Sarmoli is not just beautiful, it feels alive. With stunning views of the Panchachuli peaks, peaceful pine forests, blooming wildflowers, and the soothing sounds of birds and streams, every moment here is a reminder to slow down and breathe. It is a place where travelers do not just visit, they connect, reflect, and often return again and again.

What makes Sarmoli even more special is its inspiring community. Here, responsible tourism is led by the locals, especially women, who open their homes and hearts to visitors while protecting their land, culture, and wildlife.

If you are looking to escape the usual and experience something deeper, Sarmoli is waiting.

Where is Sarmoli Located

Sarmoli is a peaceful mountain village nestled in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, in the scenic Kumaon Himalayas. Sitting at an altitude of around 8,000 feet above sea level, the village is located just a few kilometers above the town of Munsiyari.

Surrounded by snow, covered peaks, lush alpine meadows, and dense forests, Sarmoli is the kind of place where you wake up to the sound of birds and fall asleep under a sky full of stars. It is a perfect base for those looking to explore the raw, natural beauty of the upper Himalayas.

District: Pithoragarh
Region: Kumaon, Uttarakhand
Nearest town: Munsiyari (just 1–2 km away)
Altitude: Approx. 8,000 feet above sea level

If you are traveling to Munsiyari, Sarmoli is just a short detour away, but it feels like a whole different world.

Why Sarmoli is Special

Sarmoli is not just a scenic village, it is a shining example of how tourism can be sustainable, meaningful, and led by local people. This small Himalayan village has quietly made a big name for itself, thanks to its community-based tourism model and inspiring women’s leadership. Here’s what makes Sarmoli truly special

1. The Inspiring Story of Sarmoli

Once upon a time, Sarmoli was just another forgotten Himalayan village, quiet, isolated, and struggling. Young people were leaving in search of jobs, fields were left uncultivated, and old homes stood empty. Locals feared the village might disappear like many others in the hills.

But everything changed when Malika Virdi, a well-known local leader, environmentalist, and former village head (pradhan), moved to the village in the late 1990s. She did not just fall in love with Sarmoli’s beauty, she believed in its people.

Malika encouraged the local women to open their homes to travelers. With her support, they trained as homestay hosts, trekking guides, and nature experts. They learned to manage bookings, serve traditional Kumaoni food, and share their way of life with guests from around the world. This was not just tourism, it was a movement. A way to protect the village, keep young people rooted, and make tourism work for the locals.

The idea worked. Sarmoli slowly transformed. The village began to attract visitors not just for the majestic views of Panchachuli peaks, but for the warmth of its people, the simplicity of life, and the unique experience of living with the community, not just next to it.

Sarmoli became India’s leading model for eco-tourism and community homestays. In 2023, it was honored under the UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages Initiative and featured in Incredible India’s Rural Tourism campaign.

Today, Sarmoli stands proud, not as a busy tourist hotspot, but as a quiet revolution led by women and fueled by respect for nature, culture, and community. When you visit Sarmoli, you are not just a tourist. You are part of a story that’s still being written.

2. A Beautiful Eco-Tourism Model

Sarmoli is a great example of eco-tourism done right. Unlike commercial hill stations filled with hotels and crowds, Sarmoli keeps things simple and sustainable. There are no big resorts or noisy markets here. Instead, tourists are welcomed into local homes that are clean, comfortable, and full of warmth.

Visitors eat home-cooked meals made with fresh, local ingredients. They go on nature walks, bird-watching tours, and treks without harming the environment. The community also follows strict rules on waste, water use, and land care to protect the natural beauty of the region.

This slow, responsible way of travel allows guests to connect with nature and culture, and at the same time, helps the village earn without harming its forests, rivers, or traditions. It is a win-win for both travelers and locals.

3. International Awards and Recognition

Because of its unique approach, Sarmoli has gained attention not just in India, but around the world. Here are a few major highlights:

UNWTO Award: Sarmoli was recognized under the Best Tourism Villages Initiative by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This award honors villages that are leading examples of rural development and tourism.

Incredible India Campaign: Sarmoli is featured in the Indian government’s Rural Tourism Campaign, which promotes offbeat and eco-friendly destinations across the country.

Media Coverage: Leading travel magazines, blogs, and influencers have praised Sarmoli for its peaceful charm, unique tourism model, and women’s empowerment. It’s often called one of the best offbeat places to visit in India.

Best Time to Visit Sarmoli

1. Spring (March to May)

Best time to visit. Forests bloom with rhododendrons, birds are active, and views of Panchachuli peaks are clear. Perfect for birdwatching and village walks.

2. Summer (June to early July)

Lush green and lively. The Himal Kalasutra Festival takes place with cultural events and nature activities.

3. Monsoon (Mid-July to August)

Not ideal. Roads may be slippery due to rain. Limited outdoor activities.

4. Autumn (September to November)

Clear skies, golden fields, and peaceful surroundings. Great for village stays and birding.

5. Winter (December to February)

Cold and snowy. Quiet and beautiful, but basic facilities only. Ideal for those who enjoy solitude.

How to Reach Sarmoli

By Train:

Nearest Station: Kathgodam
Route: Kathgodam → Almora → Thal → Munsiyari → Sarmoli
From Kathgodam: Shared cabs or buses are available

By Road:

Travel Time: Around 16–18 hours (depending on your starting point)
Route: Haldwani → Almora → Birthi Falls → Munsiyari → Sarmoli

By Air:

Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (requires road travel after)

Top Things to Do in Sarmoli Village

Sarmoli is all about slow, local experiences. Here is what you can do while staying in this peaceful Himalayan village:

1. Birdwatching Around the Village

Sarmoli is a hotspot for bird lovers, with over 300 species found in the nearby forests. You can spot the Himalayan Monal, Cheer Pheasant, and many colorful songbirds. Local guides also offer bird walks and nature trails.

2. Try Traditional Kumaoni Dishes

When you stay in Sarmoli, meals are not just about eating, they are part of the experience. Home-cooked Kumaoni food, made with love and local ingredients, reflects the flavors of the mountains. Most dishes are simple, healthy, and full of taste.

Here are some must-try traditional dishes:

Aloo ke Gutke – Stir-fried boiled potatoes seasoned with mustard seeds, red chilies, and turmeric. A spicy and tangy mountain favorite.
Bhatt ki Churdkani – A thick curry made from black soybeans, slow-cooked in iron pots to give a rich, earthy flavor.
Chainsoo – A roasted black gram (urad dal) curry with a deep, smoky taste, perfect for chilly evenings.
Jhangora Kheer – A sweet dessert made from barnyard millet, milk, and dry fruits. Light yet delicious.
Mandua Roti – Rustic flatbread made from finger millet (madua), often served with ghee or seasonal sabzi.
Thechwani – A spicy gravy dish made from crushed radish or potatoes, cooked with local spices.
Kaapa – A flavorful spinach curry cooked with spices and thickened with rice paste, comforting and healthy.

You can also ask your hosts to show you how these meals are prepared. Cooking together is a beautiful way to bond, learn, and understand local life more deeply.

3. Join Local Weaving or Craft Sessions

Meet village women who weave wool shawls, knit mufflers, or make bamboo crafts. Visitors are welcome to observe or try weaving on a handloom, a relaxing and creative experience.

4. Help in Farming & Gardening

Depending on the season, you can help with sowing, harvesting, or tending to vegetable gardens. It is a great way to connect with the land and learn sustainable farming practices.

5. Enjoy the Himal Kalasutra Festival (May–June)

If you visit in summer, don’t miss this local event celebrating nature and culture. Expect folk music, art, food tastings, village walks, and more, organized by the Sarmoli community.

6. Relax, Reflect, Reconnect

Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing. Sit in your homestay’s garden, watch the snow peaks, read a book, write, or simply enjoy the peace of village life.

Nearby Treks & Natural Attractions from Sarmoli

Sarmoli village is not only known for its sustainable tourism and cultural richness but also serves as a gateway to some of the most serene and scenic destinations in the Munsiyari region. From short nature walks to panoramic ridge views and alpine meadows, here are some of the top nearby places you can explore during your stay in Sarmoli:

2. Dhandhar Ridge

Ideal for a short and refreshing hike, the Dhandhar Ridge offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding valleys, the Gori Ganga river, and distant Himalayan peaks. The trail begins near Sarmoli and is less frequented, making it perfect for travelers seeking solitude in nature. A small temple sits atop the ridge, adding a spiritual touch to the panoramic viewpoint.

3. Birthi Falls

Located about 35 kilometers from Sarmoli (on the Munsiyari-Thal road), Birthi Falls is a magnificent 126-meter waterfall cascading down amidst lush greenery. A short trek from the road leads to the base of the waterfall, making it a great half-day excursion. The best time to visit is post-monsoon or during summer when the water flow is strong and the surrounding forest is lush.

4. Khaliya Top and Bugyal

One of the most popular treks near Munsiyari, the Khaliya Top trek begins just a few kilometers away from the village. This moderate trek leads you through oak and rhododendron forests to vast alpine meadows (Bugyals) at 3,500 meters altitude. The summit offers spectacular views of the Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, and Rajrambha peaks. It’s also a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare birds, wildflowers, and Himalayan wildlife.

Homestay Experience in Sarmoli

Why Stay in a Homestay

In Sarmoli, you won’t find big hotels or luxury resorts, and that is exactly what makes it special. Instead, you will stay in humble, welcoming homes hosted by local families who open their doors and hearts to travelers. These eco-friendly homestays are not just a place to sleep, they are a doorway into the real life of the Himalayas. By living with the villagers, sharing meals, stories, and everyday moments, you get to experience a culture that’s deeply connected to nature and community. It is a kind of travel that feels personal, meaningful, and unforgettable, and every night you spend there helps support the local economy and preserve this beautiful way of life.

What to Expect

Comfortable rooms with basic amenities
Delicious Kumaoni meals
Warm hospitality from local hosts
Solar power and eco-toilets in some homes
Peaceful environment with stunning views

Suggested 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrive in Sarmoli
Village walk + settle in homestay

Day 2:

Morning birdwatching
Visit Mesar Kund
Local cooking class in the evening

Day 3:

Trek to Khalia Top
Picnic lunch
Return for sunset views

Day 4:

Attend a folk event
Explore local craft center
Depart for Munsiyari/Kathgodam

Packing Tips for Sarmoli

Good trekking shoes
Warm clothes (even in summer)
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Water bottle (refillable)
Torch or headlamp
First-aid and any personal medicine
Binoculars for birdwatching
Raincoat (in monsoon months)

Why Sarmoli is More Than a Destination

Sarmoli is not just a place on the map, it is a feeling. A quiet revolution where nature, culture, and community come together in harmony. Here, every stay supports a local family, every meal tells a story, and every walk reconnects you with the land.

If you are tired of over-touristed spots and want something real, Sarmoli offers that rare chance to pause, breathe, and belong, even if just for a while.

Come for the views. Stay for the people. Leave with a new perspective.

Sarmoli is not just a destination. It is a different way to travel, and maybe, a different way to live.