Mussoorie is one of the most popular romantic hill stations in Uttarakhand, which is known for its natural beauty. This is the reason why Mussoorie is also called the “Queen of Hills”, situated amidst the foothills of the Garhwal Himalaya ranges.
Mussoorie is situated at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level and is 35 km away from the capital Dehradun. The natural beauty of Mussoorie makes it a very popular place for a honeymoon. If you want to enjoy the beautiful views of the lush green slopes along with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, then going to Mussoorie is the best option.
This beautiful hill station was a very popular holiday destination during the British period. The architecture of the British period can be estimated by looking at the British remains spread here. Mussoorie is famous for providing amazing views of the Shivalik Mountains and Doon Valley.
It is also known as the gateway to the religious centers of Yamunotri and Gangotri. If you also want to enjoy nature with beautiful hills, then today our article on Mussoorie will make your journey more exciting and easy.
Mussoorie was founded by Lieutenant Frederick Young of the East India Company. Lieutenant Young had come to these hills for the purpose of shooting. He was so impressed by the beauty that he decided to build a hunting lodge (shooting box) on Camel Back Road.
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History of Mussoorie
The name ‘Mussoorie’ is derived from the word ‘Mansoor’. Actually, it is the name of a shrub that is commonly found in the region. In 1803, the Gorkhas under the influence of Umer Singh Thapa consolidated this region and included the Mussoorie border in their territory.
At that time, the East India Company also dominated the provinces. By 1819 he captured the district of Saharanpur and included it in his empire. At the same time, Dehradun was discovered by British soldiers as a holiday destination for downtime. Mussoorie became famous as an ideal place for a summer vacation in 1827.
These places make Mussoorie attractive
The main attraction of Mussoorie is the Gun Hill ropeway. Gun Hill is the second highest peak in Mussoorie and tourists can avail of a cable car ropeway ride up to Gun Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city as well as the surrounding Himalayan mountains. Mussoorie is also very famous for adventure sports.
Mussoorie Adventure Park offers adrenaline-pumping activities such as skywalk, zip swing, and zip line, rappelling, skiing, and paragliding. River rafting is also a very popular tourist activity in Mussoorie, where you can travel through challenging rapids along the Dhauliganga and Alaknanda rivers.
Mussoorie also offers a unique number of activities for tourists. Winemaking! Popularly known as Vinification, the city of Mussoorie has several workshops where tourists are taught the process of making wine from scratch. Mussoorie houses Kulri Bazaar, Landour Bazaar, and Libraries, which sell everything from antique jewelry to plush and stylish sweaters and shawls.
Taking a walk on the Mall Rod is a great experience, as one of the top Indian writers and novelists, Mr. Ruskin Bond, visits the Cambridge Book Depot, Mall Road, every Saturday from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Since 1963, he has lived in Landour, a city in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. People visiting Mussoorie often find his books signed by him.
Lal Tibba is situated at the top of Depot Hill in Landour, about 6 km from Mussoorie. Being the highest point in this region, Lal Tibba is one of the most amazing views of your life.
The literal meaning of Lal Tibba is ‘Red Hill’. Situated at an altitude of 2,275 m (7,164 ft), Lal Tibba is an ideal place to complete Mussoorie sightseeing. This place has been ruled by the Britishers for a long time, but now it is occupied by the Indian military services. The place is cozy and has remnants of British architecture.
This place in Mussoorie sightseeing is ideal to spend moments with your family and friends. One of the most beautiful places in the Queen of Hills i.e. Mussoorie is the ancient lake “Lake Mist”.
The emerald waters are covered by lush green forest areas which gives a spectacular image to the whole landscape. It comes on the way to Kempty Falls. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mussoorie. Another plus point is that the place is less crowded so you can enjoy the peace in the lap of nature.
Under the sky amidst lush green forests, you find the right place for boating. Accommodations have been built on the banks of the lake to promote tourism, providing you with the best services. Amidst the peaceful surroundings, you will have a wonderful experience of exploring every corner of the lake through boating.
Kempty Falls Mussoorie Attraction
Kempty Falls, situated between the Dehradun-Mussoorie roads, is a beautiful waterfall of water that falls on the ground from a height of 40 feet. Surrounded by high mountain cliffs, Kempty Falls is situated at an altitude of about 4500 feet above sea level. This place was developed as a picnic spot by John McKinnon because of its picturesque surroundings and natural beauty.
One of the most famous waterfalls in Uttarakhand, Kempty Falls offers a panoramic view as the water falls from the mountains. Kempty Falls derives its name from “camping and tea”, which refers to the tea parties that were once held here in the evening.
The pond at the bottom of Kempty Falls is an excellent place for swimming and bathing. Kempty Falls is quite famous among tourists as a picnic spot for those traveling to Mussoorie, this perennial waterfall is crowded almost throughout the year.
Bhatta Falls Mussoorie Tourist Place
Bhatta Falls is 7 km (4.5 mi) from Mussoorie on the Mussoorie-Dehradun road near Bhatta village. Mussoorie is a major tourist attraction for people visiting. The place has a few eateries where you can have noodles, boiled eggs, soup, and a sip of your favorite coffee.
Clouds And Mussoorie Tourist Places
Mussoorie’s end is visible at Cloud End, 6 km west of the library. It is covered with dense forests and is at a distance of 2 km till Benog Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a beautiful walking track. The place offers a splendid view of the Aglar river valley.
Gun Hill Mussoorie Tourist Place
An extinct volcano “Gun Hill” is said to be the second highest point in the entire region of Mussoorie at an altitude of 2024 meters. Distant hills paint the valley, trees covered with fog, a glimpse of the sun shining in the light as the white cap of the Himalayas.
Gun Hill has an interesting history that supports its popularity of Gun Hill. It is said that from this hill the British used to set fire to a boat every afternoon so that the natives could know the time. Indeed, tourists feel relaxed and peaceful after coming here.
The Mall Mussoorie Tourist Place
Located in the heart of Mussoorie, The Mall is a colonial relic. There are several video game parlors and skating rings for tourists to enjoy and there is a Tibet market nearby, where you can catch a glimpse of the diverse culture. Here you can often find the author Ruskin Bond browsing the Cambridge bookstore.
Paragliding and Trekking in Mussoorie
If you want to fly in the sky then tandem paragliding is a good option. Mussoorie with hills and windy conditions is a great place to enjoy this activity. Before flying you are given a complete set of rules, which have to be strictly followed.
Nag Tibba Trek Mussoorie Tourist Places
Nag Tibba located near Mussoorie is a very spectacular trekking spot. This place is situated on a climb of about 10,000 feet amidst snow-clad mountains. This place is also known as “Serpent Peak”, Nag Tibba is the highest peak of the Nag Tibba range with a height of 9915 meters.
This place is surrounded by flora, fauna, oak, and deodar trees. The main attraction of the trip is Bandar Tiffak, Kedarnath Peak, and Gangotri Peak. Trekking treks in Mussoorie are for those looking for a weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Mussoorie
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is at a distance of about 11 kilometers from Library Point. This place is interesting for those who like bird watching and wildlife. Old deodar trees and many medicinal plants growing in abundance with deodar trees will bring great joy to the heart of a nature lover. Apart from this, it will be a good experience to see The White Capped Water Redstart and Red Bild Blue Magpie, Panther, Leopard, Deer, Bear, and Himalayan Goats.
Dhanaulti Mussoorie Tourist Place
Situated at a distance of 62 km from Mussoorie, this small town of Dhanaulti in Uttarakhand is situated at an altitude of about 2200 meters above sea level. Surrounded by deodar forests, Dhanaulti is a good place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Long forested slopes, and snow-capped mountains are the specialty here. The good thing is that after visiting Mussoorie, you can stay here while enjoying nature.
Mossi Fall Mussoorie Attraction
Mossi Falls is surrounded by a dense forest and is 7 km (4.5 mi) from Mussoorie. It can be reached via Barloganj or Balahisa. Situated at a distance of 7 km from the main town on Bala Hisar Road, Mossy Falls is named after the moss-laden rocks surrounding the Garha Falls.
The mesmerizing waterfall is away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a hot spot for trekkers. Apart from this, it is known to photography enthusiasts for its rich visuals and minimal human interaction.
Jharipani Falls Mussoorie Attraction
Jharipani Falls is at a distance of 8 km from Mussoorie which you can reach within a 30-minute walk. Apart from being an ideal picnic spot, this place is a very good place for nature lovers and adventure lovers.
Company Garden Mussoorie Attraction
Company Garden is a popular tourist attraction in the hill town of Mussoorie. Amidst the high Himalayas, it is a patch of green maintained by the Garden Welfare Association of Mussoorie. Its foundation was laid by Dr. H. Fakner.
The vibrant garden is a beautiful place to spend the whole day with your family and friends amidst lush greenery and beautiful flowers. You can see people sitting or walking or taking pictures on the lawn of the garden. The garden has a pond for boating along with man-made springs which are a beautiful sight to behold.
Things to see and do at Company Gardens
- The Flora and Flowers Company is the main attraction of the garden. The company Garden’s lush carpeted lawns are covered with over 800 types of flowering plants and most of these flowers are in bloom from late spring until the end of the monsoon – making the place look like a garden of paradise.
- Nursery : There is no end to flowers and plants at Company Garden of Mussoorie. There is a greenhouse nursery from where you can buy smaller versions of the flowers that will serve as a memento of your visit along with your balcony garden.
- Amusement Park: There is an amusement park inside the Company Garden. Children can ride many things here.
- Lake, Waterfalls and Boating : There is a man-made lake with an artificial spring which adds to the beauty and aesthetics of the whole place. You can go paddle boating in the lake. The fee per person for 15 minutes of boating is Rs.75.
- Dining and Shopping: Company Garden has its own food court that serves hygienic and delicious food. You can enjoy a fun and delicious snack here. There are also around 10-12 shops inside the complex that sell small souvenirs and trinkets for you to take home. There is also a shop where you can get photographed by a professional photographer in authentic and traditional Himachali attire.
- Telescopic view: It is a very pleasant experience to see the surrounding Himalayan mountains through binoculars. Its fee is only 10 rupees.
Mussoorie weather
- Mussoorie in summer (March – June)
Mussoorie has long summers which last from March to June. The temperature of Mussoorie in summer ranges from 15 °C to 25 °C. This is the reason that most people come to visit Mussoorie in summer. The popularity of Mussoorie during summers also leads one to believe that it is indeed the best time to visit. Summers in Mussoorie also means that the snow has melted from the winter months, leaving perfectly flowing streams and spectacular waterfalls that add to the beauty of the place. One can also indulge in adventure sports and trekking during these months.
- Mussoorie in Monsoon (July – September)
The review of monsoon in Mussoorie is most contradictory and proves to be different from person to person. While some say that the roads leading to the hill station are proved extremely dangerous by the frequent landslides and hence make Mussoorie inaccessible, others believe that monsoon is probably the best time. The roads of Mussoorie are really slippery and prone to landslides in the months of July, August, and September. Hence Mussoorie is an ideal destination in monsoon for individuals who want some peace and a break from their busy lives.
- Mussoorie in winter (October – February)
Winters are also considered the best to visit in Mussoorie. This is because the entire hill station is covered in a sheet of white snow. At night the temperature drops to zero degrees. The road gets blocked from mid-December to February due to snowfall. Snowfall generally occurs during December, January, and February.
Famous Markets of Mussoorie
1. Mall Road
Mall Road is the main shopping hub in Mussoorie. Most of the famous stores in the hill station are all located here. The shops here sell everything from electronics to consumer durables and even everyday essentials. Apart from this, you can also buy woolen clothes, antiques, and shawls for yourself. Bargaining is common here, so you should have the talent to bargain.
2. Cambridge Book Depot
Cambridge Book Depot, synonymous with renowned author Ruskin Bond, has existed for a long time. It is a popular bookstore, which shares the largest collection of novels. You can meet Ruskin Bond at this shop on a Saturday afternoon. This shop is open from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm.
3. Kulri Bazaar
Another popular shopping market in Mussoorie is Kulri Bazaar. It is always crowded till 10 pm. Kulri Bazar, located at the southern end of Mall Road, has several shops selling clothing items. You will also find some vendors selling handicrafts at reasonable prices.
4. Himalayan Weavers
Himalayan Weavers located on the Mussoorie-Dhanaulti Road is a great place to buy shawls and knitted products. The store is run by a British national. All products are made from natural dyes. The main store is in Dehradun, but it also has a store in Mussoorie.
5. Gandhi Chowk
Gandhi Chowk Market is very popular for its roadside shops. Here you can also buy Chinese bouquets along with local artifacts, and products.
6. Landour Market
In this market, you can get a glimpse of Mussoorie’s past. Here you will find many antique things to buy. There are also many shoe shops here. Especially Landour market is famous for Roman shoes.
7. Sister Market
This market is also very old in Mussoorie. Two of the most popular stores here are Prakash Stores and Landour Bakehouse. You will also find some stalls selling antiques and woolen clothes during the tourist season.
What is the best time to visit Mussoorie?
Mussoorie is known for its pleasant temperature, scenic views, and numerous trekking and hiking trails. September-June is the best time to visit Mussoorie. Summers will make your experience more exciting and adventurous. Do not plan to visit Mussoorie in monsoon at all as there are a lot of chances of landslides during this season, which can hamper your trip. Mussoorie is one such place which proves to be happy in terms of weather.
Restaurants & Local Cuisine in Mussoorie
Being a popular tourist destination, Mussoorie offers a wide variety of cuisines. Apart from local cuisine, it offers Chinese, Tibetan, Indian, Thai, Moroccan, Italian, Goan, and global cuisines. One can enjoy cakes, and muffins as well as many cafes and some hookah bars here.
Just seeing the Tibetan food here can make your mouth water. Especially never forget to taste the momos here. Local dishes of Uttarakhand that you will find here include kappa (a green curry), sisunak saag (a dish prepared with green leafy vegetables and many local ingredients), and aloo ki sabzi (a Kumaoni potato dish).
How To Reach Mussoorie
1. By road
Several states and privately operated buses to Mussoorie are available from Dehradun and other parts of the country. Travelers can also avail themselves of private deluxe buses from nearby places like Nainital and New Delhi.
2. By train
The railway station of Dehradun, situated at a distance of about 60 km, is the nearest railway station to Mussoorie. This railway junction is well connected to major cities of the country. Travelers can take a taxi from the railway station to Mussoorie.
3. flights
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Mussoorie, located at a distance of about 60 km. This airport is well connected to Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. Travelers can hire taxis from the airport to reach their destination.
FAQs About Mussoorie Hill Station
Q: Where is Mussoorie located?
A: Mussoorie is located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. It is situated in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas, approximately 35 kilometers from the city of Dehradun.
Q: How can I reach Mussoorie?
A: The nearest airport to Mussoorie is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The nearest railway station is also in Dehradun. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Mussoorie.
Q: What is the best time to visit Mussoorie?
A: The best time to visit Mussoorie is during the months of April to June and September to November. These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months are also a popular time to escape the heat of the plains.
Q: What are the popular tourist attractions in Mussoorie?
A: Mussoorie offers several popular attractions, including the Mall Road (the main shopping and entertainment hub), Kempty Falls, Gun Hill (offering panoramic views of the Himalayas), Lal Tibba (the highest point in Mussoorie), Company Garden, and the Mussoorie Lake. Visitors can also explore the nearby Camel's Back Road and take cable car rides to reach Gun Hill.
Q: Are there trekking opportunities near Mussoorie?
A: Yes, Mussoorie serves as a base for several treks in the region. The most popular trek is the trek to nearby Nag Tibba, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Other treks include the Bhadraj Temple trek and the trek to the nearby hill station of Dhanaulti.
Q: Is Mussoorie a family-friendly destination?
A: Yes, Mussoorie is a family-friendly destination with its pleasant weather, scenic beauty, and various attractions suitable for all age groups. Families can enjoy leisurely walks on the Mall Road, visit amusement parks, take pony rides, and enjoy the breathtaking views from various viewpoints.
Q: Can I try local cuisine in Mussoorie?
A: Yes, Mussoorie offers a variety of local cuisines that are worth trying. Visitors can savor popular dishes like Garhwali cuisine, which includes dishes like Kafuli (a spinach-based curry), Jhangora (a local millet), and Bal Mithai (a sweet made of roasted khoya).
Q: Are there accommodations available in Mussoorie?
A: Yes, Mussoorie offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. There are luxury hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and budget hotels available in and around the town.
Q: Are there shopping opportunities in Mussoorie?
A: Yes, Mussoorie offers a vibrant shopping experience, especially on the famous Mall Road. Visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts, woollens, Tibetan artifacts, local souvenirs, and more. There are also local markets and bazaars where one can explore and buy local products.
Q: Are there any adventure activities available in Mussoorie?
A: Yes, Mussoorie offers various adventure activities for thrill-seekers. Visitors can indulge in activities like zip-lining, paragliding, rock climbing, and rappelling, which are available at different adventure parks and centers in and around the town.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mussoorie truly deserves its title as the “Queen of Hill Stations.” Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, this charming town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and a serene atmosphere. With its picturesque landscapes, pleasant weather, and a range of tourist attractions, Mussoorie attracts visitors from all over the world.
From strolling down the bustling Mall Road to marveling at the breathtaking views from Gun Hill, or even embarking on treks to nearby peaks, Mussoorie has something to offer for everyone. Families can enjoy leisurely walks, couples can find romantic hideaways, and adventure enthusiasts can engage in thrilling activities.
The local cuisine, shopping opportunities, and warm hospitality add to the overall charm of the place. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a memorable family vacation, Mussoorie is sure to captivate your heart and leave you with cherished memories of its enchanting beauty.
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