WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM DELHI: Mussoorie (Uttarakhand)

“The queen of hill-stations”

Overview: Mussoorie Tourism

If your idea of the perfect holiday involves tranquil hills, untouched nature, and a holiday experience that is unadulterated in the truest sense of the term, Mussoorie is the place you should be heading to.

Nestled amidst the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges, Mussoorie, also known as Queen of The Hills, stands at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level and has a cool, pleasant climate throughout the year. The pristine, natural beauty of Mussoorie makes it a very popular choice of holiday for honeymooners.

If you want to enjoy the beautiful sight of the rolling green slopes juxtaposed with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Mussoorie is the place for you to be.

This beautiful hill station is the perfect retreat from the sweltering weather of the plains, and the fact that it was a very popular holiday destination during the British era can be seen from the multitude of British remnants engulfing the city, such as the archaic architecture of the hotels and churches dotting the entire terrain.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Mussoorie is The Mall (also known as the Mall Road), which is a slightly steep boulevard that has eateries and other shops lining its entire stretch. From the little houses spread around the area to the architecture of even the lamp posts, The Mall gives off a distinct colonial vibe.

Places to Visit:

1. LalTibba:

Untouched by commercialization, LalTibba is located on the top of Depot Hill in Landour, approximately 6 kilometers from Mussoorie. Being the highest point in the area, LalTibba is one of the most stunning viewpoints you would have experienced in your life. The name literally translates to ‘red hill’. Rising to a height of 2,275 meters (7,164 feet), LalTibba is the picture-perfect place to fulfill your sightseeing desires. The telescopes installed here are priceless, and aid in cherishing the beautiful unfettering panoramas of the Nilkantha peak (6,596 meters) in Badrinath, Kedarnath peak (6,940 meters), Banderpoonch range of three peaks with the highest rising to 6,316 meters can all be viewed on a cloudless day.

The 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, it gives you great memories with mesmerizing views of the Tibet border. The place is relaxing and has remains of British Architecture. The unobstructed view it offers is soothing to the eyes. It brings together the blue sky and lush green terrains in front of our eyes.

There are only a handful of places that offer such exhilarating views and being in Mussoorie, it is somewhat necessary to tick this off your must-visit list. There are few things better than being surrounded by a thick verdant forest cover, a tiny little picturesque hill station within eyeshot, and the horizon studded with snow-clad mountains!

2. Lake Mist:

The place is ideal for spending the moments of repose with your family and friends. The pristine lake is among the most beautiful destinations in the Queen of Hills i.e. Mussoorie. The emerald waters are covered by green forest terrains from sides giving the whole scenario a resplendent image.

It comes on the way to Kempty Falls. It feels great to spend time with the serenity of nature’s bliss. It is one of the most beautiful things to be seen in Mussoorie. Another plus point is that the place is less crowded hence you can enjoy the calmness in the laps of nature. It is a gem of an attraction.

3. Kempty Falls:

Located on the way between Dehradun-Mussoorie roads, Kempty Falls is a beautiful cascade of water that falls to the ground from a mighty altitude of 40 feet. Surrounded by high mountain cliffs, Kempty Falls is nestled at an altitude of around 4500 ft above sea level. This place was developed as a picnic destination by John Mekinan owing to its captivating surroundings and scenic beauty. One of the most renowned waterfalls in Uttarakhand, Kempty Falls offers a mesmerizing panoramic view as the waterfalls from the mountains.

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. Offering a stunning view of water stream cascading down from a great height, it divides into five channels. The pond formed at the bottom of the falls makes an excellent spot for swimming and bathing. A flight of stairs leads to the pond where one can soak in the fun with friends and family. Quite famous among the tourists as a picnic spot, this perennial waterfall is crowded almost throughout the year.

4. Gun Hill:

Said to be an extinct volcano, Gun Hill is the second-highest point in the entire area of Mussoorie standing tall 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 meadow of the valley is Eden-green with thigh-high grass and erect tree trunks. The mountains in the distance coronating the valley as the colored flowers act like its garland. The sky above this looks like a roof of bright blue, with fluffy patches of cotton casting shadows on the valley. Fog tinted trees catching a glimpse of the shining sun as the white caps of the Himalayas glisten in the light.

And not just the look of the look, but the smell and feel of this attraction are just as satisfying. When the pure breeze runs through the hair and caresses us with a gentle stroke, the sweetness of the flowers takes over. The fresh, zingy taste of the air leaves us both, relaxed and electrified, at the same time. The whispering of the wind and the buzzing midges, the chirping swallows chasing dragonflies in a dance of joy; the view from the Gun Hill will hypnotize you with its unparalleled beauty and steal all the worries off of your minds in an effortless jiffy.

5. Nag Tibba Trek:

Situated near Mussoorie, Nag Tibba is a relatively unknown and a very exhilarating trekking trail. Known as one of the best weekend treks, the place offers a climb of about 10,000 ft amid the snow-clad mountains.

Also referred to as Serpent’s Peak, Nag Tibba is the highest peak of the Nagtibba range with an altitude of 9915m and is said to serve as a home to Nag Devta. The trail of the expedition is also highly fascinating and spectacular, being adorned with a rich variety of flora and fauna, a rustic Gharwali lifestyle, and oak and deodar forest housing exotic birds and wildlife. The highlight of the trip is the stunning view of Bandarpoonch Peak, Kedarnath Peak, Gangotri Peak, and Doon Valley from the Nag Tibba. The trek is for those seeking a weekend away from the hustle-bustle of the city and to indulge in some easy adventure amid serene surroundings.

6. Jawala Devi Temple:

Located at a divine altitude atop Benog Hills, the Jwala Devi Temple offers a lovely view of the Doon Valley and the milky white Yamuna.

7. Happy Valley:

Famous for housing some magnificent Tibetan monasteries, the IAS academy, candidly beautiful Municipal garden, a splendid valley of flowers, lively eateries, and an all-around jocund environment, Happy Valley lies on the western end of the Library Point. Popularly known as ‘mini Tibet’, this enchanting valley is one of the most detailed and largest renditions of a typical Tibetan society. Home to around 5000 Tibetan refugees, the valley boasts of gorgeous views in the 360 – degree panorama.

Over the years, Happy Valley has been successful in maintaining the old world charm and the rich heritage of the primal Tibetan culture. The eateries on the side boast of delectable lip-smacking Tibetan cuisines, the tiny roadside stalls sell pretty perfect souvenirs, and the all-around vibe of the place is in sync with the tradition and customs of the residing Tibetan refugees. The vivacious charm and the animatedly lively environment make this place unlike any other and is a must-visit recommendation if visiting Mussoorie.

8. Others:

• Cloud’s End
• The Mall
• Benog Wildlife Sanctuary
• Company Garden
• Bhatta Falls
• Mussoorie Christ Church

 

Best time to Visit in Mussoorie:

• March to June is a good time to Visit Mussoorie in Summer
• July to September is a good time to Visit Mussoorie in Monsoon
• October to February is a good time to Visit Mussoorie in Winter.

 How to Reach:

How to Reach Mussoorie by Flight

The nearest airport to Mussoorie is the Jolly Grant Airport located in Dehradun. It is connected to all the major cities of India via New Delhi. After reaching the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Mussoorie, which is just 30 km away from Dehradun.

Nearest Airport: Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport

 How to Reach Mussoorie by Road

Mussoorie is well connected to other cities by road. You can hire a taxi from either Dehradun or New Delhi to travel to Mussoorie. Buses also run regularly on this route.