About Mussoorie

Mussoorie, often called the Queen of the Hills, got its name from a local shrub called mansūr, and is sometimes referred to as Mansuri by locals. In 1803, the Gorkhas led by Umer Singh Thapa took control of the Garhwal and Dehra regions, which included Mussoorie. However, a war between the Gorkhas and the British broke out on 1 November 1814. By 1815, the Gorkhas had left Dehradun and Mussoorie, and by 1819, these areas were added to the Saharanpur district.

Mussoorie became a resort town in 1825, thanks to Captain Frederick Young, a British military officer. Along with F. J. Shore, a revenue officer in Dehradun, Young explored the area and built a hunting lodge on Camel’s Back Road. He became a local magistrate in 1823, created the first Gurkha Regiment, and planted the first potatoes in the valley. He left Mussoorie in 1844 and later retired as a general, moving back to Ireland. Although there are no memorials for Young in Mussoorie, there is a road named after him in Dehradun.

Mussoorie sits at an average height of about 2,005 meters (6,578 feet), with its highest point being Lal Tibba at around 2,275 meters (7,464 feet). Lal Tibba is also known as a popular lookout point. The town experiences a typical subtropical highland climate. Summers are warm and very wet.

Gun Hill

Places to visit

Mussoorie offers stunning attractions like Camel’s Back Road with its unique rock formations, scenic sunrise, and sunset views. Landour provides a peaceful retreat with beautiful Deodar trees and historical charm. Gun Hill, Dalai Hills, Lal Tibba, and Char Dukan add to the town’s allure with their breathtaking views, serene hiking trails, and delightful local snacks.

Camel's Back Road

Located in the heart of Mussoorie, Camel’s Back Road is a 3 km stretch lined with rocks shaped like a camel’s hump. It offers a breathtaking view of the Doon Valley and the Himalayas. This road is a favorite spot for watching the sunrise and sunset. A walk or jog along this road is the best way to enjoy its beauty. You can also see an old British cemetery, which is the first of its kind in Mussoorie, along the way.

Landour

Landour is a charming town in Uttarakhand, surrounded by dense Deodar trees. This small cantonment town, named after a Welsh village, is rich in history dating back to the British era. Landour’s peaceful setting and natural beauty make it an ideal place to relax and refresh. It is located about 980 feet above Mussoorie, and together, these twin hill stations are known as “The Queen of Hills” due to their stunning beauty. Close to Dehradun and nearby villages like Tehri, Chamba, Dhanaulti, and Chakrata, Landour offers a serene escape from city life. On clear days, you can even see the majestic peaks of Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath.

Gun Hill

Gun Hill, an extinct volcano, is the second-highest point in Mussoorie at 2024 meters. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the snow-covered Himalayan ranges, the Doon Valley, and the entire hill station of Mussoorie. A popular spot for photographers and nature lovers, Gun Hill also features a scenic ropeway. The hill got its name from a gun that used to be fired daily to help people set their watches.

Dalai Hills

Dalai Hills, located above the Lal Bahadur Academy near Happy Valley, is one of the most beautiful spots in Mussoorie. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the Himalayas and green valleys, this place is adorned with Tibetan prayer flags and a statue of Lord Buddha. A Buddhist temple also adds to the serenity of the area. The trails through the forest are perfect for hiking, and the location is ideal for catching sunsets, picnicking, camping, and photography. Refreshment stalls are available nearby.

Lal Tibba

Lal Tibba, situated on Depot Hill in Landour, is the highest point in the area and a popular viewpoint. At 2,275 meters (7,164 feet), it offers spectacular views of Nilkantha peak in Badrinath, Kedarnath peak, and the Banderpoonch range. Known for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets, Lal Tibba has long been a retreat since the British era and now serves as a military station. The small terrace provides mesmerizing views of the Tibet border and features remnants of British architecture.

Char Dukan

Char Dukan is a famous collection of four shops in Mussoorie, away from the bustling mall road. This iconic spot has been serving foodies for years, offering delicious snacks like pancakes, Wai-Wai, Pakoras, and shakes. Located in Sister’s Bazar, Landour, this cozy spot is next to the picturesque St. Paul’s church. Two of the most popular shops here are known for their tasty treats like Apple Cinnamon Waffles, Maggie, and Bun Omelettes. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Mussoorie, providing a perfect setting to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Hotels in Mussoorie

Mussoorie offers a variety of hotels with stunning views and convenient locations. From upscale hotels near Gun Hill and Kempty Falls to cozy hillside retreats near The Mall Road, visitors can find comfortable accommodations for sightseeing, recreation, and dining. Options range from 3-star to 4-star hotels, ensuring a pleasant stay for all budgets

Country Inn Premier Pacific Resort, Mussoorie

This upscale hotel in the foothills of the Himalayas is 2 km from Gun Hill, 17 km from the Kempty Falls.

₹7,392

4 Star Hotel

Hotel Highland by DLS Hotels

On a hillside and offering views of the mountains, this relaxed hotel is 2 km from Mossy Falls, 12 km from Benog Wildlife Sanctuary.

₹5,884

4 Star Hotel

Sterling Mussoorie

Sterling Mussoorie is a great choice for travellers looking for a 4 star star hotel in Mussoorie. This Hotel stands out as one of the highly recommended hotel in Mussoorie.

₹6,524

4 Star Hotel

Mango Tree Courtyard Mussoorie

Set on a wooded hillside, this cosy hotel with views of the Himalayas is 2 km from shops and cafes along The Mall Road.

₹3,919

3 Star Hotel

Hotels at Mussoorie near railway station

Mussoorie offers a range of 3-star hotels with great locations for sightseeing, recreation, and dining. With breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and supportive staff, these hotels provide a comfortable stay at affordable rates, making them ideal for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Mussoorie.

Hotel Ambica Palace Mussoorie

Great location overall for sightseeing, recreation, dining and getting around.

₹2,032

3 Star Hotel

Saiva Hill Resort Mussoorie

Our stay at Saiva was mesmerizing. It is located in the heart of Mussoorie with breath taking view.

₹2,218

3 Star Hotel

Shiva Continental, Mussoorie

Set at the foot of the Himalayas, this relaxed hotel in a redbrick building is 2 km from panoramic mountain.

₹3,446

3 Star Hotel

Shining hills by Lawrence

Absolutely loved the location and views from the room. The staff was very supportive.

₹3,945

3 Star Hotel

Restaurants in Mussoorie

Mussoorie offers a variety of dining options, from unique dishes like Mexican Burritos and Italian Risotto to delicious Amritsari kulchas and Tibetan cuisine. Located on The Mall Road and beyond, these eateries provide a culinary journey with rich flavors and authentic tastes, including South Indian, Chinese, and Jain-style dishes. Prices range from ₹200 to ₹600, catering to different budgets.

Cafe Hinge

We also offer dishes that you won’t get anywhere in Mussoorie like Mexican Burrito, Italian Risotto, Peri Peri Chicken etc.

₹200–600

Funjabi Tandoorzzz

The place might not look tempting but those Amritsari kulcha and Chaap is something you can’t miss. Highly recommend this outlet.

₹200–400

Momos Tibetan Kitchen

Located in the heart of mussoorie(the mall road), this small restaurant is a gem. The food was a culinary journey filled with rich flavors and cultural authenticity

₹200–400

Uphar Vegetarian

Unfussy veggie cafe furnishing South Indian, Chinese & Jain-style dishes along with pizzas & snacks.

₹200–400

How to Reach Mussoorie

To reach Mussoorie, you can fly to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and take a taxi from there. Alternatively, you can take a train to Dehradun, which is 35 km away, and then travel by road. Regular buses and taxis connect Mussoorie to major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and nearby towns.

how to reach

By Train

The closest railway station to Mussoorie is in Dehradun, 35 km away. This station is part of the Northern Railway Zone and has trains coming from many parts of India.

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By Flight

Mussoorie doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which connects to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Trivandrum, Chennai, etc.

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By Road

Mussoorie is well connected by road to Delhi and major cities in Uttar Pradesh through Dehradun. Taxis and regular buses are available from Dehradun to Mussoorie.

Local Transport in Mussoorie

bus

By Bus

Mussoorie is well-connected to other cities by bus. Services run from the Kashmiri Gate bus stop in Delhi to Mussoorie, including both overnight non-deluxe and deluxe options. The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation, Uttarakhand Roadways, and the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation also operate buses to Mussoorie. 

Starting at Only 2₹/Per KM

local transport

By Cab

In Mussoorie, local taxis are available for transport within the town, with fares set by trade unions to avoid bargaining. These taxis can be found at the Library and other key locations.

Starting at only 9₹/KM

local transport

By Auto-rikshaw

While Mussoorie’s hilly terrain makes auto-rickshaws less common, they do operate in limited areas, providing a convenient option for short trips.

Auto-rikshaw is starting From 10.Rs

local transport

Renting Vehicle

For exploring distant attractions, chauffeur-driven rental cabs are available. These services can be booked locally or online, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free holiday.

Starting at only ₹1499.

Best Time to Visit Mussoorie

The ideal time to visit Mussoorie is from April to mid-July, as the weather is perfect for exploring. September to mid-November is also great for experiencing the beautiful, foggy Himalayas. If you love snow, December to February is your best bet, but try to avoid the rainy season from mid-July to mid-September.

The best time to visit Mussoorie is during the summer, from April to mid-July, when the weather is perfect for sightseeing. This period is also the peak season. Another great time to visit is from September to mid-November, when you can enjoy stunning views of the mist-covered Himalayas. For those who want to experience snowfall, December to February is ideal. It’s best to avoid visiting during the monsoon season, from mid-July to mid-September.

Distance of other cities from Mussoorie

a large building next to a body of water

Mumbai

The Distance of Mussoorie to Mumbai is (1,729.4 km) via NE 4

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Delhi

The Distance of Mussoorie to Delhi is (273.7 km) via NH 709B

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Bengalore

The Distance of Mussoorie To Bangalore is (2,473.4 km) via NH 52

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Chennai

The Distance of Mussoorie to Chennai is (2,452.8 km) via NH 44

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Tips and Advice for Mussoorie

When planning a trip to Mussoorie, it’s essential to consider a few practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, make your travel and accommodation bookings well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak tourist seasons, such as summer or the autumn months. Mussoorie can get quite crowded during these times, and last-minute bookings might leave you with limited and more expensive options.

While exploring the charming town of Mussoorie, respect the local culture and environment. Refrain from littering and avoid any behavior that could damage the natural beauty or cultural heritage of the area. Remember, preserving the pristine condition of tourist spots is a responsibility shared by all visitors. Additionally, when sampling the local cuisine, choose clean and reputable eating places. Street food can be tempting, but be cautious with your choices to avoid any health issues that might spoil your trip.

Safety should always be a priority, so it’s advisable to explore the town in groups, especially if you plan on venturing out during the evening or to less crowded areas. Mussoorie is generally safe, but staying in groups can help avoid any potential risks. Also, many tourist attractions in Mussoorie require entry tickets. Ensure you purchase these legitimately at the entrance to avoid any fines or penalties for trespassing. By following these simple guidelines, you can look forward to a memorable and hassle-free visit to the Queen of the Hills.

FAQs About Mussoorie

Mussoorie, known as the "Queen of Hill Stations," is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant social atmosphere, and variety of entertainment options. Its pleasant climate makes it a popular destination for holidaymakers. Additionally, Mussoorie serves as a gateway to the sacred shrines of Gangotri and Yamunotri.

Mussoorie is adorned by the flowing Kempty river, which enhances the beauty of Lake Mist with its charming waterfalls.

Lal Tibba is the highest peak in Mussoorie, sitting at 2,290 meters. It currently serves as a base camp for the Indian military.

Mussoorie has historical ties with Maharaja Duleep Singh, the son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who was known as the 'Lion of Punjab'. Duleep Singh had a tumultuous life with many challenges.

Mussoorie itself is not a capital; it is a hill station located within the Dehradun District of Uttarakhand. It is about 35 kilometers from Dehradun, the state capital.

Buransh, made from a type of rhododendron that grows in the Himalayas, is a traditional local beverage in Mussoorie. It's a unique drink that visitors often enjoy trying.

Mussoorie celebrates several festivals, including Phool Dei in mid-March, Bikhauti, Harela, Olgia, Uttarayani, as well as the Autumn and Summer Festivals. These events reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Kafal, a red berry-like fruit, is famous in Mussoorie and is considered the state fruit of Uttarakhand. It is a significant source of income for local farmers, especially during the summer harvest.

Landour is the twin town of Mussoorie. Together, these towns formed a renowned hill station during the British Raj, and they continue to be prominent tourist destinations today.

Cities Around Mussoorie

Nainital

Nainital is a city and important tourist destination located in Nainital district of Uttarakhand state of India.

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Dehradun

Dehradun is the capital of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, near the Himalayan foothills.

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Haridwar

Haridwar is an ancient city and important Hindu pilgrimage site in North India’s Uttarakhand state.

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Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a city in India’s northern state of Uttarakhand, in the Himalayan foothills beside the Ganges River.

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