Nestled in the serene foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas, Mussoorie, often called the “Queen of Hills,” is a destination that captures hearts with its natural beauty and colonial charm. In this blog, you’ll discover everything you need to plan the perfect trip—top places to visit, the best food to try, travel modes to get here, and the ideal time to experience its magic. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or an adventurer, this guide has you covered with all the essentials to make your journey unforgettable.
Top 13 Places to Visit in Mussoorie
Kempty Falls
Located on the way between Dehradun-Mussoorie roads, in the Ram Gaon area of Tehri Garhwal, Kempty Falls is one the most popular tourist attraction and picnic spot in Mussoorie. Surrounded by high mountain cliffs, Kempty Falls is nestled at an altitude of around 4500 ft above the sea level. The pond formed at the bottom of the falls makes an excellent spot for swimming and bathing.The name of Kempty Falls is taken from the terms “camp and tea” implying the elaborate tea parties that were once organized here in evenings eventually leading to a localized name Kempty. It was developed as a picnic destination by John Mekinan owing to its captivating surroundings and scenic beauty. Offering a stunning view of water stream cascading down from a great height, it divides into two main falls. Quite famous among the tourists as a picnic spot, the perennial Kempty waterfall is crowded almost throughout the year.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
- Location: 15 km from Mussoorie
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Gun Hill
The Gun Hill is the second-highest point in Mussoorie, situated at an altitude of 2024 meters. The scene from the top of this hill is a panoramic view of the snow-clad Himalayan ranges right beside the widespread Doon Valley and a full view of the hill station of Mussoorie. The Gun Hill, located 400 ft above the Mall Road, is a popular attraction, especially amongst the photographers and nature lovers.
The highlight of Gun Hill is the ropeway which provides a scenic view of the Himalayan ranges. The hill was named so because of the presence of a gun at these hills during the pre-independence days. The gun was fired during the day to enable people to adjust their watches during those days.
Tourists can easily get up to the Hill by getting aboard the ropeway; one gets to travel in a cable car for about 400 m from Jhula Ghar. The ride offers an excellent bird’s eye view of the surrounding Himalayan ranges like Shrikanta, Pithwara and Bunderpunch and of colourful wildflowers. It is also a great opportunity to take some photographs of the natural beauty all around. In fact, one also has the option to get off the ropeway somewhere midway for a few minutes to simply soak in the views. Once at Gun Hill, it is often possible to see Gangotri through a telescope on a clear day.
- Best Time to Visit: March to November
- Location: Near Mall Road
- Entry Fee: INR 100 (cable car ride)
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Lal Tibba
Lal Tibba is a popular viewpoint, located on the top of Depot Hill in Landour, approximately 6 kilometres from Mussoorie. Being the highest point in the area, Lal Tibba is one of the most stunning viewpoints in the region. Rising to a height of 2,275 meters (7,164 feet), Lal Tibba affords breathtaking views of Nilkantha peak (6,596 meters) in Badrinath, Kedarnath peak (6,940 meters), up to Banderpoonch range of three peaks with the highest rising to 6,316 meters. It is also a popular sunrise and sunset point.
The Lal Tibba region has long been occupied, serving as a summer getaway during the British-Raj and a recovering station for the military, hence gaining popularity as a cantonment cum hill station. It is now occupied by the Indian Military Services. In the form of a small terrace, La Tibba has mesmerizing views of the Tibet border. The place is relaxing and has remains of British Architecture.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- Location: 4 km from Mall Road
- Entry Fee: INR 50 (for telescope viewing)
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Camel’s Back Road
Camel’s Back is the name of a road which takes the traveller on a walk, displaying calm and scenic beauty at every step. From the Kulri Bazar to Library Point, the winding road extends up to about 3 km and is frequented by people for morning and evening walks. The road is known as Camel’s Back because of a naturally shaped rock, located at the end of the road, which resembles the hump of a camel. While walking along the path one can also see an old British cemetery, which was built in the mid of the 19th century.Snow-covered peaks of magnificent Himalayas can be seen from here; a few telescopes have been placed by the nearby shopkeepers for the tourists to get a closer look at them. There are a few Victorian bandstands which provide shelter from unpredictable rains and other elements of nature. One can sit over there and get immersed in the surplus beauty which is on the display for hours and hours.Camel’s Back Road is a great vantage point to view one of the loveliest sunsets; it is one of the most remarkable features about this road.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- Location: Starts near Kulri Bazaar
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open all day
Mussoorie Lake
Located at a distance of 6 kms on the Mussoorie- Dehradun highway, Mussoorie Lake is an artificial lake developed and maintained by the City Board and the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority. Surrounded by a mesmerising natural charm and some surreal views of the charming Doon Valley, this lake offers a rejuvenating retreat in nature’s lap.The scenic Mussoorie Lake is a newly developed picnic spot originating from a natural waterfall. Other than the umpteen outdoor activities available at the site, paddle boating is the most popular one. For a nominal fee, you can paddle your way across the lake to enjoy scenic views of the valley and a serene boating experience. Mussoorie Lake also has a hoard of eateries and refreshment stores to help you stay hydrated and full. Besides, the striking road leading to the lake is bound to give you some picture perfect moments and some memorable memories for life.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
- Location: 6 km from Mussoorie
- Entry Fee: – 15 per person , 30 for Boat Ride , 100 for Zorbing Ball , -350 for Zip-Liner Activity
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Cloud’s End
6 km west off the Library, the Cloud’s End viewpoint marks the geographical end of the beautiful hilltown of Mussoorie. Surrounded by thick oak and deodar forests, it tracks 2 km up to the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary offering a lovely walking track, taking in the soothing mountain air. Cloud’s End is visited for the breathtaking views it offers, especially of the Aglar River Valley.
Another major attraction at Cloud’s End is a heritage building set up by a Britisher in 1838, which is one of the oldest buildings in Mussoorie. Retaining the original architecture and other relics, it has now been converted into a heritage hotel (Clouds End Forest Resort). Tourists spend some tranquil time during their stay, along with partaking in activities like hiking, hill climbing and nature walks arranged by the hotel on request. People often club the visit to Cloud’s End with the famous attractions nearby – Jwala Devi Temple and Benong Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Best Time to Visit: September to June
- Location: 6 km from Mussoorie Library
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open all day
Company Garden
The Company Garden is a popular tourist attraction in Mussoorie, located around 3km from the main Mall Road. Nestled amidst the high Himalayas, the vibrant garden is a lovely place to spend an entire day out with your family and friends within the lush greenery and the beautiful blossoms. You can find people enjoying their time sitting or strolling or taking photographs in the eclectic lawn of the garden. There is also an artificial pond for boating with manmade waterfalls.
Also known as Municipal Garden, it is maintained by the Garden Welfare Association of Mussoorie and was laid down by Dr H. Fackner in the early years of this millennium. If you have kids with you, they will also have a gala time in the park with all the exciting rides and so much space to run around. You can even satisfy the nature lover in you in this delightful place and also take back a part with you – buy any small potted plant at the nursery or any souvenir from one of the shops inside the garden.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
- Location: 3 km from Mall Road
- Entry Fee: INR 25
- Ticket : INR 75 – 150 for Boat Ride per person
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Jharipani Falls
A hidden gem, Jharipani Falls is a pristine waterfall surrounded by dense vegetation. It’s an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation.Enclosed in a secluded location about 7-9 km from Mussoorie, near Jharipani village, on the Dehradun-Mussoorie road, Jharipani Falls is a lovely wonder of nature. After reaching a certain point by car, one needs to trek 1.5 km to reach the waterfall. Indulging in this small adventurous journey brings the visitor to the picturesque wild nature where the water fall is producing a soul soothing music of its own. After monsoon, water fall becomes more voluminous and gushes down with enhanced vigour, and hence becomes more enchanting. Well-known boarding schools like Oak Grove School and St. George’s College are located near the Jharipani village.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- Location: 7-9 km from Mussoorie
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open all day
Sir George Everest’s House
Perched on top of a cliff overlooking the beguiling Mussoorie valley, George Everest’s House offers a sense of serenity, tranquility and nostalgia. Built in 1832, the house is located in Park Estate, 6 kms west of Gandhi Chawk in Mussoorie and is also popularly known as Park House. With panoramic sights of the scenic Doon Valley on the side, mighty Aglar river valley and spectacular Himalayan peaks in the north, Sir George Everest’s House holds an old world charm and draws history buffs, nature enthusiasts and adventure travellers to visit it. Although in a dilapidated crumbling state, the ancient dwelling tells the paramount tale of Colonel Sir George Everest.Sir George Everest owned this mountain house in Mussoorie, India and spent a total of 11 years living here and using it as his observatory and laboratory. Although, very derelict and in a precarious state, the house still holds its walls and has a roof; and is likely to be converted into a museum soon. The interiors have been stripped of any belongings, but the doors, fireplace, and windows still remain in place. The walls have been covered in graffiti, although it is whitewashed very often. George Everest’s House now comes under the jurisdiction of the Tourism Department.
- Best Time to Visit: October to June
- Location: 6 km from Mussoorie
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The Mall Road
The Mall Road Mussoorie is Most popular excursion in Mussoorie is The Mall at an altitude of 2000 meters, above the sea level. The Mall is a major attraction in hills of Queen. You have to visit the beautiful Mall Road which stretches from Picture Palace at east to the Library at the west.Mall Road is famous for Shopping in mussoorie and also providing amazing views of the Doon valley. There are benches and lampposts are fixed at every viewpoint at the Mall for attraction and tourist rest. Tourist likes to buy some memorable things at the series of shops of the Mall Road.The Mall is a most popular shopping point in Mussoorie. There are available all types of things like old styled video Game parlours and exciting skating rinks. On the mall road there are An aquarium, a Methodist Church, SBI Building and Cambridge book store are also present. Mussoorie Mall road serve the facilites of food and all types of resturent where you can enjoy food and snacks and some sweet delicacies on the both side of the Mall and also provide the some items for shopping like wooden handicrafts for house etc.What makes Mall Road even more fascinating is its similarity to Mall Road in Shimla. Both destinations are iconic for their bustling atmosphere, scenic beauty, and unique charm.
- Best Time to Visit: Evening hours
- Location: Central Mussoorie
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open all day
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary – Nature’s Haven
If you’re in need of a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, consider visiting the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary – a nature lover’s paradise nestled in the Himalayan foothills near Mussoorie. Benog is where you can experience the untamed beauty of the outdoors and reconnect with nature.
The sanctuary is a haven of natural beauty and biodiversity. It is part of the Rajaji National Park and encompasses lush green valleys, dense forests, and rolling hills. Upon entering the sanctuary, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant array of flora, from majestic deodars to colourful wildflowers that blanket the meadows. It’s the perfect natural escape.
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
Location: About 11 km from Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Entry Fee: ₹150 per person (approx.)
Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Landour – Colonial Charm
Landour, a quaint hill station near Mussoorie, is known for its colonial charm, scenic beauty, and serene environment. Located at an altitude of 7,500 feet, Landour offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the Doon Valley. The town’s British-era bungalows, narrow winding roads, and lush forests provide a perfect setting for a peaceful retreat.Visitors can explore the town’s historical landmarks, including St. Paul’s Church and the Landour Bakehouse, or take leisurely walks along the scenic trails. Landour’s old-world charm and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit: March to June (pleasant weather) and September to November (post-monsoon serenity).
Location: Landour, near Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, India.
Entry Fee: No entry fee for the town; charges may apply for specific attractions.
Timings: Accessible throughout the day.
Nag Tibba – Trekking Adventure
Famously called the ‘Mountain of the Serpent’, the Nag Tibba trek starts north east of Mussoorie, at the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges, at an altitude of 3,048 meters. The local people have been offering prayers (puja) to the Snake God (Nag Devta) at this peak which is testament to its sanctity. They believe that the Snake God protects their cattle from snake bites.The Mussoorie-Nag Tibba trek will delight every trekker, whether amateur or veteran. For visitors coming from Delhi, it is an idyllic and ideal weekend trek. The trek offers visitors the chance to savor a variety of enchanting experiences, from the vision of the majestic snow-capped mountains to camping under the star-lit night sky and walking in the verdant lush forests.The Nag Tibba trek starts at the village of Pantwari via the hill station of Mussoorie. There are many charming little villages that surround Pantwari, such as Bandsari village, Kori village, etc. From here, the trek heads down to the villages of Devalsari and Thatyur. There is a distance of 8 kilometers from Pantwari to the peak of Nag Tibba. Trekkers will walk through ancient forests filled with deodar and oak teeming with exotic wildlife. This is a trek that will be a cherished memory for life for both adrenalin-seeking adventure buffs as well as the more peaceful nature-loving trekkers.
Best Time to Visit: October to April (winter for snow) and May to June (pleasant summer weather).
Location: Nag Tibba, near Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, India.
Entry Fee: No entry fee (trekking guide or camping charges may apply).
Timings: Open throughout the day (ideal to start the trek early morning).
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
Mussoorie enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:
- Summer (March to June): Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Monsoon (July to September): Offers lush green surroundings but with occasional landslides.
- Winter (October to February): Perfect for snow lovers and honeymooners.
Local Cuisin
Mussoorie offers a delightful mix of Garhwali and North Indian cuisines. Don’t miss out on:
- Aloo ke Gutke
- Kafuli
- Bal Mithai
- Chainsoo
- Local Tea and Momos
Some popular eateries to explore:
- Kalsang Friends Corner
- Lovely Omelette Centre
- Chic Chocolate
Modes of Travel
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (60 km away), connected to major cities.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun, with regular trains from Delhi and other cities.
- By Road: Mussoorie is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from Dehradun and nearby cities.
FAQs
1. What are the accommodation options in Mussoorie? Mussoorie offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Some popular options include JW Marriott Mussoorie, Fortune Resort Grace, and Hotel Brentwood.
2. Is Mussoorie safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Mussoorie is considered safe for solo travelers. However, always follow basic safety precautions.
3. What adventure activities are available in Mussoorie?
You can enjoy trekking, rock climbing, camping, and paragliding in and around Mussoorie.
4. Are there any local festivals worth attending?
Yes, the Mussoorie Winterline Carnival held in December is a vibrant festival showcasing local culture, music, and food.
5. What are the shopping options in Mussoorie?
Mall Road and Kulri Bazaar are the best places for shopping. You can buy woolens, wooden artifacts, and local handicrafts.
Conclusion
Mussoorie’s serene landscapes, colonial charm, and vibrant culture make it an irresistible destination for travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a romantic escape, Mussoorie has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Queen of Hills.
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