12 Underrated Hill Stations in India to Visit Before Instagram Finds Them

2. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand

Munsiyari is a small town that feels like the edge of the world, with wide views across the Panchachuli peaks and a relaxed village pace. It works well as a base for short hikes and longer treks into alpine meadows; tea and simple guesthouses keep daily costs low. The approach from Pithoragarh is scenic and slow, so plan travel time conservatively. Summer and autumn are ideal for clearer mountain vistas and stable trails. There’s limited high-end lodging, but local homestays offer home-cooked food and a chance to learn about Kumaoni cooking habits passed down through generations. Electricity and phone signals can be patchy in remote spots, so download maps and bring a portable battery. For photographers, early-morning panoramas and late-afternoon light on the ridgelines are memorable. Travel here to feel like you’ve stepped into a calm corner of the Himalaya, where markets close early and evenings are spent comparing notes with other travelers around a shared stove.