Widely renowned, Mussoorie needs no introduction. It is one of the most popular hill stations across India, frequented by national and international tourists. Nestled in the foothills of Garhwal Himalayan Range, Mussoorie is situated around 36 km from Dehradun. Due to its scenic beauty and colonial style, it is recognized globally as "Queen of Hills". Situated around 35 km from Dehradun and at an altitude of around 2,000 meters, Mussoorie is a perfect place for friends and families. Apart from its serene beauty, Mussoorie is also known for its world
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Widely renowned, Mussoorie needs no introduction. It is one of the most popular hill stations across India, frequented by national and international tourists. Nestled in the foothills of Garhwal Himalayan Range, Mussoorie is situated around 36 km from Dehradun. Due to its scenic beauty and colonial style, it is recognized globally as "Queen of Hills". Situated around 35 km from Dehradun and at an altitude of around 2,000 meters, Mussoorie is a perfect place for friends and families.
Apart from its serene beauty, Mussoorie is also known for its world class schools like Woodstock and Wynberg Allen. It is home to renowned authors like Ruskin Bond, actors like the late Tom Alter and other famous personalities. After Switzerland, it is the only place where you can witness the rare natural phenomenon of the 'winter line', which usually appears during November and January.
The Queen of Hills
The word "Mussoorie" is derived from 'Mansur', a kind of shrub found indigenously in the area. Since its establishment in the early 1800s, Mussoorie has always been a paradise for nature lovers, providing a tranquil escape from city life. On a clearer night, the Doon Valley looks stunning, while the snow capped Himalayan and Shivalik ranges produce a majestic view.
In recent times, its popularity among the newlywed couples has earned it a place on the list of top honeymoon destinations in India. Every year, thousands of people visit Mussoorie to experience its enchanting beauty. Besides enjoying the peaceful time, visitors can also engage in a variety of adventure activities to challenge themselves and overcome their fear.
Winter Line
Mussoorie scenic and picturesque views can be enjoyed round the year, except for the rare phenomenon called the "Winter Line". This unique natural spectacle can only be seen from two places in the world, Switzerland and Mussoorie. Tourists can view this natural beauty from November to January. As the sun sets, the colourful horizon comes alive.
Every year, in the last week of December, the state government organizes a winter line festival. Visitors can witness various activities such as folk dances, cultural programme, and live musical performances. Along with this, they can participate in photography competitions and enjoy delicious, mouth watering local and other delicacies.
Weather Condition
Mussoorie enjoys pleasant weather across the year, with summers offering a perfect escape from the scorching heat and winter luring visitors with snowfall.
| Summer | In summers, the average temperature ranges between 22 to 26 degrees. However, in recent years, summer temperature in Mussoorie have been soaring. |
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| Monsoon | The monsoon season is not ideal for travel, as Mussoorie receives heavy rainfall, causing several issues for both tourists and locals. Landslides and road blockages are among the most common issues during this time. |
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| Winter | During winters, tourists often visit here with a hope of witnessing snowfall, but in recent years, Mussoorie itself didn't receive snowfall. |
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Popular places
Mussoorie beauty is endless, that can be experienced by visiting its most popular nearby attractions : -
- Landour : - A Cantonment area that attracts visitors because of its colonial charm, popular Landour Bakehouse, and Kellogg Memorial Church. The widely renowned Char Dukan is famous among tourists and even the God of Cricket, Sachin Tendulkar.
- Kempty Falls : - It is one of the favourite attractions among tourists, which is situated in the lap of nature. Visitors enjoy a refreshing bath in its spine-chilling cold water, making it a perfect spot to beat the heat.
- Lal Tibba : - One of the highest points in Mussoorie offering a panoramic view of the surroundings. Visitors can view the snow capped Himalayan ranges through a telescope installed here. It is an ideal spot for sunrise and sunset lovers.
- Company Garden : - Located just 3 km away from Mussoorie's famous mall road, it is a great place to enjoy with family and friends. Madame Tussaud inspired K Dev Bhoomi Wax Museum is one of its major attractions. Besides, visitors can also enjoy pedal boating in the man made lake within the garden.
- George Everest Peak : - A must visit spot offering panoramic view of Doon valley. Visitors can engage in various activities like camping, trekking, and Air Safari.
- Benog Wildlife Sanctuary : - Spreaded over 340 acres, the sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Being part of the Rajaji National Park, visitors can enjoy nature trails, camping, bird watching, and various other activities.
- Jabarkhet Nature Reserve : - A private reserve forest set amidst nature, where visitors can explore hiking trails and stunning natural views.
History
In 1825, the British Army Captain Frederick Young, along with F.J Shore established Mussoorie as a resort. During their stay, they explored the area and built a shooting range near Camel's Back Road. Young, who had been appointed the Doon Magistrate in 1823, also raised the first Gurkha Regiment. The Gurkhas are familiar with the region, as they ruled Garhwal and Dehra between 1803 to 1814 under the leadership of Umer Singh Thapa. However, after ruling a decade they were defeated by the British Army.
During the Tibetan Rebellion, the 14th Dalai Lama sought refuge at Happy Valley, near Mussoorie. During his stay, he preached Buddhism and established the first Tibetan School in Mussoorie in 1960.
Accommodation Facility
As a popular tourist attraction in Uttarakhand, Mussoorie provides ample lodging facilities to its visitors. From luxurious Savoy hotels to budget friendly homestays and guesthouses, it has something for all. Additionally, Airbnb and goSTOPS also provide their services in Mussoorie.
Things To Do
In Mussoorie, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities to make their trip joyous memorable : -
| Adventure Activities | Try zip lining, rock climbing, sky walking, and valley crossing activities at Adventure Camp, Adventure Park, or the Himalayan Adventure Institute. Fares for such services ranges between Rs 500 to Rs. 1,000. |
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| Trekking | Nag Tibba, George Everest, Dalai Hills, Lal Tibba, Gun Hills, and Benog Tibba trek route are some of the most popular trekking routes in Mussoorie. |
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| Air Safari | Experience the thrill of flying amidst the majestic view of Himalayas and Mussoorie, with an Air Safari ride. Fare ranges from Rs 5,000/- to 30,000/- depending on the package chosen. |
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| Nature Walk | Enjoy scenic nature walk through Landour, Happy Valley, and Company Garden. |
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| Paragliding | Mussoorie also provides paragliding facilities to those who want to soar high. Adventure Park and other offer Paragliding in Mussoorie with height ranges from 6,000 to 7,000 feet, with prices between two to three thousands, plus additional charges for flight video recording. |
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| Roller Skating | Test or showcase your skating skills at the Jaypee Residency Manor, which features an open air skating rink and a disco skating rink. |
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| Camping | For great outdoor experience, visitors can avail camping services in the scenic backgrounds of Mussoorie. |
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| Shopping | Explore a variety of handicraft and local artisan products as souvenirs from nearby shops. Mall road is the most popular destination for such unique items. |
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Important Tips for Travellers
If you wanted to enjoy Mussoorie with its true nature and save its memory throughout your life, keep the point mentioned below for a joyful journey : -
Before Travelling | - Peak season like summer and winter are often crowded, plan your visit accordingly.
- Traffic congestion, unavailability of parking and accommodation are most common issues during weekends in peak season.
- During peak season, accommodation prices soar high and difficult to find the right property. It is advisable to book stays in advance.
- Visitors vehicle without prior booking won't be allowed beyond a certain point, especially in peak season.
- The monsoon season is not ideal for visitors, as heavy rain causes landslides and road blockages.
- To enjoy the place most, try to travel during off season.
- Carry woolen essentials during summers, because nights and morning remains cool.
- Travelling by private vehicle can create problems unless you have hill driving experience.
- During the off season try to book accommodation close to the Mall Road.
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During Travelling | - Local administration authorities may ask to produce the hotel booking details, during peak season.
- Mall Road, Library Chowk, Company Garden, and Kempty Fall experience a large influx of tourists, making the place less enjoyable.
- Try to visit some other offbeat places like Happy Valley, Cloud End. Lal Tibba and others.
- Do not miss the authentic local cuisine (Garhwali Thali) at local eateries.
- Mall Road enjoy the most especially during night.
- Wear comfortable or trekking shoes during nature walk.
- Do not miss sunset from Dalai Hill, Cloud Ends and from Lal Tibba.
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Nearby Attraction
Apart from its popular places there are some major attractions which shouldn't be missed by visitors.
