MUSSOORIE
Hey there! Do you ever feel like you need to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Well, have I got the perfect place for you! Welcome to Mussoorie, a hill station in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India.
Mussoorie is a place where you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning views while sipping on chai and munching on pakoras. It's a place where you can hike up to Gun Hill and feel like you're on top of the world.
But let's be real, we all know why we really come to Mussoorie - for the Momos! You can find these delicious dumplings on almost every street corner.
And if you're feeling adventurous, head over to Kempty Falls for some cliff jumping or take a ride on the ropeway for a panoramic view of the valley.
But be warned, if you're not used to driving on narrow mountain roads with hairpin turns, your stomach may feel like it's doing acrobatics.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure in Mussoorie - just don't forget your stretchy pants for all the amazing food you'll be eating!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Mussoorie
- How to Reach and getting around Mussoorie
- Weather of Mussoorie
- Places to Visit in Mussoorie
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Mussoorie
- Best areas for Accommodation in Mussoorie
- Shopping in Mussoorie
- Nightlife in Mussoorie
- Festivals and Events in Mussoorie
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Mussoorie
- FAQs
History and Culture of Mussoorie
Mussoorie is a beautiful hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is also known as the "Queen of Hills" and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The history of Mussoorie dates back to the 19th century when it was discovered by Captain Young, an adventurous British military officer.
*Legend has it that he was so enamored by the beauty of this place that he decided to build a house and settle here. *Soon, other British officials followed suit and started building their own houses, turning this small hill station into a bustling town. The culture of Mussoorie is a unique blend of Indian and Western influences.
*While you can find traditional Indian cuisine and clothing here, you can also find cafes serving English breakfast and bakeries selling pastries. The town has many historic landmarks such as the Christ Church, Gun Hill, and Kempty Falls.
*Christ Church is a beautiful Gothic-style church built in 1836 by the Britishers. Gun Hill is a popular viewpoint from where you can see panoramic views of the mountains. Kempty Falls is a breathtaking waterfall where you can take a dip in the cool water. Mussoorie also has its fair share of ghost stories, such as that of Ruskin Bond's haunted house.
*According to legend, Bond's house is haunted by the ghost of Sir George Everest, after whom Mount Everest is named. Overall, Mussoorie's history and culture are captivating and amusing for tourists who want to visit this beautiful hill station with their families or friends!
How to Reach and getting around Mussoorie
By Air: The nearest airport to Mussoorie is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 54 km away. One can hire a taxi from the airport or take a bus to reach the hill station.
By Train: Dehradun railway station is the closest railway station to Mussoorie and is well-connected to major cities across India. From here, one can take a taxi, bus or book a private cab to reach Mussoorie.
By Road: Mussoorie has excellent road connectivity and can be easily reached by road. One can take a bus or hire a taxi from Dehradun or Delhi to reach the hill station. The drive from Delhi takes approximately 7 hours and passes through scenic routes of Haridwar and Rishikesh.
By Bike: For adventure enthusiasts, riding a bike to Mussoorie is an exciting option. The route from Delhi to Mussoorie passes through beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains.
By Trekking: For those seeking adventure, trekking to Mussoorie is an excellent option. The trek starts from Dehradun and takes approximately 3-4 days to complete. The trail passes through beautiful forests, waterfalls and offers stunning views of the mountains.
By Cable Car: For a unique experience, one can take the cable car ride from Jhula Ghat in Dehradun to Gun Hill in Mussoorie. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes and offers panoramic views of the valley below.
No matter which mode of transportation one chooses, reaching Mussoorie is an experience in itself with picturesque views at every turn.
Weather of Mussoorie
Extreme WintersMild Winters
Hot + Dry
Hot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantThe weather in Mussoorie is pleasant throughout the year, but the best time to visit this beautiful hill station is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the temperature ranges between 10°C and 30°C, making it comfortable for tourists to explore various attractions.
In summers, the weather in Mussoorie is pleasant with cool breeze blowing across the hills. It is a perfect time for adventure enthusiasts as they can indulge in trekking, camping, and other outdoor activities. The monsoon season starts from July and lasts till August. During this time, Mussoorie receives moderate rainfall which leads to lush greenery all around.
The winter season in Mussoorie starts from December and lasts till February. The temperature during this time drops down to sub-zero level making it difficult for tourists to explore outdoor attractions. However, snowfall during late December or January adds charm to the already beautiful town.
Overall, March to June and September to November are considered as the best months to visit Mussoorie due to pleasant weather and various outdoor activities that one can indulge in. So plan your trip accordingly and enjoy your stay in this heavenly abode of nature.
Places to Visit in Mussoorie
Kempty Falls: This famous waterfall is located around 13 km from Mussoorie and is a popular spot for tourists. The cascading waterfalls from a height of 40 feet and forms a pool below where visitors can take a dip.
Gun Hill: This is the second highest point in Mussoorie and offers a panoramic view of the entire valley. A ropeway takes you to the top of Gun Hill, where you can enjoy a bird's eye view of the landscape.
Lal Tibba: This is the highest peak in Mussoorie and provides breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas. The area around Lal Tibba is covered with oak and deodar trees, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Happy Valley: This beautiful valley is home to the Tibetan settlement in Mussoorie and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle-bustle of city life. Visitors can explore the local markets selling Tibetan handicrafts and enjoy traditional Tibetan food.
Company Garden: This lush garden covers an area of around 22 acres and is home to several varieties of flowers, plants, and trees. Visitors can enjoy boating in the artificial lake or take a stroll through its well-manicured gardens.
Mussoorie Lake: Located on the Dehradun-Mussoorie road, this picturesque lake offers stunning views of surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can enjoy boating here or have a picnic with friends and family.
Camel's Back Road: This scenic road stretches for about 3 km and offers stunning views of the Himalayan range on one side while on another side there are lush green hills covered with pine forests.
Jharipani Falls: Located around 7 km from Mussoorie, this waterfall cascades down from a height of around 30 meters amidst lush green forests creating an enchanting sight for visitors.
Christ Church: Built-in 1836, this beautiful church has Gothic-style architecture with stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes that make it one of the most visited churches in Mussoorie.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread over an area of around 339 hectares, this sanctuary is home to several species like leopard, Himalayan bear, barking deer, red foxes along with various birds species like pheasants, sunbirds making it an ideal place for wildlife enthusiasts.
Note from author As an AI language model I've tried my best to write about these places but I'd like to point out that some information might be outdated or not entirely accurate as things change rapidly over time so kindly verify any important details before planning your trip!
Adventures Activities
Romantic Places
Relaxing Retreats
Hilly Regions
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Mussoorie
Best areas for accommodation in Mussoorie
Mussoorie, also known as the 'Queen of Hills', is a popular hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The town is famous for its scenic beauty and pleasant weather throughout the year. Choosing the right area for accommodation can make your stay in Mussoorie more enjoyable.
The Mall Road is one of the most popular areas for accommodation in Mussoorie. It is a bustling street with numerous shops, restaurants, cafes and hotels. The location of this area makes it convenient for tourists to explore the town on foot.
Landour is another popular area for accommodation in Mussoorie. It is a quiet and serene neighbourhood located about 6 km from the main town. This area is ideal for those seeking peace and tranquillity away from the hustle-bustle of city life.
Kanatal is a picturesque hill station located about 35 km from Mussoorie. This area offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys. It is an ideal place to stay for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Here are three properties for accommodation in Mussoorie:
JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa: A luxurious property located on Tehri Road, this resort offers world-class amenities such as an outdoor pool, spa, fitness centre and multiple dining options.
Hotel Vishnu Palace: A budget-friendly hotel located on The Mall Road, this property offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi, room service and laundry facilities.
Zostel Mussoorie: A backpacker's hostel located on Landour Cantt Road, this property offers dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms and common areas such as a lounge, kitchen and terrace with panoramic views of the mountains.
Whether you are looking for luxury or budget-friendly options or prefer to stay close to nature, there are plenty of choices available in Mussoorie that cater to all types of travellers.
Shopping in Mussoorie
Mussoorie, also known as the Queen of Hills, is a popular hill station located in Uttarakhand. Apart from its scenic beauty, Mussoorie is also famous for its shopping destinations. From handmade crafts to winter wear, there are plenty of things to buy in Mussoorie.
Things to buy
- Handmade shawls and scarves made of pashmina or wool
- Wooden handicrafts like wall hangings and showpieces
- Spices and herbs like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves
- Local jams and preserves made from fruits like apricots and strawberries
Markets to visit
- Mall Road: This is the main shopping area in Mussoorie. It has a wide range of shops selling everything from clothes to souvenirs.
- Landour Bazaar: This bazaar offers a more traditional shopping experience. It has shops selling handmade items like candles and pottery.
- Tibetan Market: As the name suggests, this market offers Tibetan handicrafts like prayer flags, thangkas (Buddhist paintings), and jewelry.
What to avoid
- Fake branded items: While there are shops that sell branded items at discounted rates, it's best to avoid them as they are likely fake.
- Non-local produce: While it may be tempting to buy fruits or vegetables from street vendors, it's best to stick with local produce that you can find in markets.
- Overpriced items: Some shopkeepers may try to charge you more than what an item is worth. It's always a good idea to compare prices before making a purchase.
- Crowded areas during peak season: During peak season (April-June), the markets can get very crowded. It's best to avoid shopping during these times if possible.
Overall, shopping in Mussoorie can be a delightful experience if you know where to go and what to look for. With its variety of markets and unique products, there's something for everyone!
Nightlife in Mussoorie
Mussoorie, a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, offers an array of options when it comes to nightlife. The town has a vibrant nightlife scene, which ranges from cosy pubs and bars to live music venues and night markets.
Rokeby Manor is a charming colonial-style hotel that offers a unique experience for visitors. The hotel has a bar where you can enjoy your favourite drinks with some live music. They also have a bonfire setup where you can spend the night with your friends.
The Tavern is another popular place in Mussoorie. It's located in the heart of Mall Road, and it's known for its sophisticated ambience and wide selection of drinks. The bar also hosts live music performances on weekends.
Kalsang Friends Corner is a Tibetan restaurant that stays open until late at night. It's the perfect place to grab some authentic Tibetan food and spend the night chatting with friends over bowls of steaming noodles.
Apart from these, Mussoorie also has several night markets that are worth exploring. Kulri Bazaar, located on Mall Road, is one such market that stays open until late at night. You can find everything from souvenirs to clothes and accessories here.
Overall, Mussoorie has something for everyone when it comes to nightlife. Whether you're looking for a quiet evening or an energetic night out, you're sure to find something that suits your taste.
Outdoor Activities in Mussoorie
Mussoorie, a hill station in Uttarakhand, has been a popular tourist destination for years. With its picturesque views and pleasant weather, it offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. One can indulge in thrilling activities like trekking, camping, rock climbing, and paragliding. The town is surrounded by many scenic trails that are perfect for hiking and trekking. One can explore the dense forests and waterfalls on these trails while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Camping is another activity that is gaining popularity among tourists visiting Mussoorie. It provides an opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends amidst nature's tranquility. One can enjoy the beauty of the stars at night while sitting around a campfire.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, rock climbing is an ideal activity to try out in Mussoorie. The town has several rock faces that are suitable for both beginner and experienced climbers. The activity requires strength, agility, and endurance but provides immense satisfaction upon conquering the summit.
Paragliding is yet another thrilling activity that one can participate in Mussoorie. It offers breathtaking aerial views of the town's scenic beauty while soaring high above the mountains. The experience of gliding through the air with nothing but a parachute is unmatched.
In conclusion, Mussoorie has something for everyone when it comes to outdoor activities. Hiking, camping, rock climbing, and paragliding are some of the popular options available to visitors seeking adventure in this hill station.
Festivals and Events in Mussoorie
Festivals and events in Mussoorie hold great importance as they reflect the cultural diversity and traditional values of the region. These celebrations bring people together to share joy, happiness, and create unforgettable memories. Some of the most popular festivals and events in Mussoorie that attract tourists from all over the world are:
Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board's Summer Festival (June): This festival is celebrated to promote tourism in Uttarakhand. It includes a variety of cultural events, food festivals, adventure sports, and exhibitions.
Bikhauti Mela (July/August): This festival is celebrated at the Bikhauti Temple near Mussoorie. It is a religious festival where devotees take a holy dip in the river and offer prayers to Goddess Parvati.
Ganga Dussehra (June): This festival is celebrated on the 10th day of Jyeshtha month and marks the descent of river Ganga on earth. People take a dip in the river and offer prayers to Goddess Ganga.
Nag Panchami (July/August): This festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. It is celebrated by worshipping snakes as they are considered sacred in Hindu mythology.
Makar Sankranti (January): This festival marks the transition of Sun into Capricorn. People fly kites, eat sweets made from sesame seeds, and take a holy bath in rivers.
Apart from these festivals, there are many other events that happen throughout the year such as:
Mussoorie Adventure Festival (October): This event promotes adventure sports like trekking, camping, mountaineering, paragliding, etc.
Garhwal Himalayan Trekking Festival (September/October): This event promotes trekking activities around Garhwal Himalayas.
These festivals and events showcase the rich cultural heritage of Mussoorie while providing entertainment for locals and tourists alike.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Mussoorie
Pack Warm Clothes: As Mussoorie is a hill station, it tends to get chilly, especially during the winter months. It's important to pack warm clothes, including jackets, sweaters, and thermals, to stay comfortable during your trip.
Book Accommodation in Advance: Mussoorie is a popular tourist destination, and hotels and resorts tend to get booked quickly during peak season. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Explore Local Festivals and Events: Mussoorie hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, which offer a glimpse into the local traditions and customs. Keep an eye out for events like the Mussoorie Winterline Carnival or the Mussoorie Summer Festival that showcase local art, music, and food.
Carry Cash: While most hotels and restaurants in Mussoorie accept credit cards, it's always a good idea to carry some cash with you as well. ATMs can be hard to find in some areas of the town. So make sure you have enough cash with you for emergencies.
Plan Your Activities: There are plenty of things to do in Mussoorie - from trekking in the hills to exploring local markets or enjoying adventure sports like paragliding. Plan your activities ahead of time so that you can make the most of your trip without missing out on anything exciting!
FAQs
What is Mussoorie known for?
Mussoorie is a hill station located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, India. It is known for its picturesque beauty, pleasant weather, and colonial charm. The town is situated at an altitude of 1880 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. It is also known for its trekking trails, waterfalls, and adventure activities.
How to reach Mussoorie?
Mussoorie can be easily reached by air, rail or road. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is around 60 km away from Mussoorie. The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station which is around 34 km away from Mussoorie. One can also take a direct bus or taxi from Delhi to Mussoorie.
What are the best places to visit in Mussoorie?
There are several tourist attractions in Mussoorie that one must visit such as Kempty Falls, Gun Hill Point, Lal Tibba Scenic Point, Cloud's End Point, Camel's Back Road, and more. Additionally, there are several temples such as the Kali Mata Temple and the Jwala Devi Temple that are frequented by tourists.
What adventure activities can one do in Mussoorie?
Mussoorie offers several adventure activities such as trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, paragliding, camping and more. One can also go on nature walks in the forest trails or indulge in water sports at Kempty Falls.
What are the best places to shop in Mussoorie?
Mussoorie has several markets where one can shop for souvenirs such as handicrafts made of wood and metalwork. Some popular places to shop include Mall Road, Landour Bazaar and Tibetan Market.
What is the best time to visit Mussoorie?
The best time to visit Mussoorie is from March to June when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. Monsoon season starts from July till September and it rains heavily during this period making it difficult for tourists to enjoy outdoor activities.
What kind of food options are available in Mussoorie?
Mussoorie has a variety of food options available ranging from local street food to international cuisine. Some popular local dishes include Aloo ke Gutke (spicy potatoes), Kumaoni Raita (made with curd), Bal Mithai (sweet dish) etc. There are also many restaurants serving Chinese, Italian and other international cuisines along with cafes serving delicious snacks like maggi noodles with tea or coffee.
