The food habits of the barking deer (Muntiacus muntjac) were studied in 2005, analysing fresh pellets collected in spring (N=247) and the rainy season (N=151). Fresh pellet groups were sampled along line transects and analysed using microhistological techniques. Results were expressed in terms of percentage of occurrence (O%) and per cent volume (V%). Muntjac diet included 22 plant species, most of them belonging to browse. In spring, grasses (O%=55.36%; V%=37.5) dominated muntjac diet, whilst in the rainy season browse plants prevailed (O%=48.44%; V%=51.69). Lichens were consumed only in the rainy season. Significant seasonal differences were recorded in the frequency of consumption of the different food items, but not in terms of volume. Imperata cylindrica, Smilax aspera, Moghania strobilifera and Arundinaria falcata were major food items in both seasons. Fruits of Prunus cerasoides, Berberis asiatica and Rubus ellipticus and bark of Pinus roxburghii and Castanopsis indica were also taken in significant amounts. No animal remains were recorded in the diet. Our results suggest that muntjacs are mixed feeders.