Mussoorie, known as ‘the Queen of Hills’, inspires romance in a traveller’s heart with its quaint and charming surroundings. The setting of the hill station with the backdrop of the magnificent Himalayan range is breathtakingly beautiful. It is a dream for all travellers to come once to visit Mussoorie and soak themselves in its majestic setting.
One reason that makes Mussoorie a must-visit hill station for all is its altitude, which is not very high and easy to drive; considering the said factor, the place still does not compromise in beauty and experience. One can easily book a train or a flight to reach Delhi (from here, Mussoorie is merely a six-hour drive) or Dehradun and then take the picturesque road drive via bus, cab or personal car to Mussoorie.
Finding a perfect place to stay is also not difficult here. There are a variety of stays available, from basic hotels to B&Bs, resorts, heritage hotels, luxury hotels, the government stays, cottages, etc. Mussoorie is a popular place and is always seen full of tourists in most seasons. Hence, it is recommended to re-book your hotel before you reach here. For the local feel and vibes, you must stay in one of the many hotels on the famous Mall Road of Mussoorie, near Library Chowk or Camel’s Back Road. But if you are here to dive into the serenity and charm of the mountains, then pick up a stay at Landour, Hathipao or nearby places away from the hustle of the main hill city.
The hill station is an ideal destination for honeymooners, with most resorts offering special packages for honeymoon couples. Mussoorie also offers a host of romantic activities for couples and families. A leisurely late breakfast in bed is a well-deserved luxury after a busy day of sightseeing. You can take advantage of the excellent room service provided by Jaypee Residency Manor, Mussoorie, and begin your day on a happy note with a sumptuous breakfast spread. Your choice of accommodation can make or break your Mussoorie experience. Choose a premium hotel-like Jaypee Residency Manor, Mussoorie, which offers a comfortable and luxurious stay for you. The hotel rooms come with a panoramic view of the scenic beauty of the hill station. With some of the best restaurants in town, the hotel promises a culinary experience of a lifetime.
Mussoorie has so much to offer its tourists that a single visit can never justify the trip unless you are vacationing month-long. Since Mussoorie is well-known amongst travellers, most of its attractions are known. Since the list is long, you may miss a few from your list. Here is a comprehensive list of all the spots you should visit when in Mussoorie.
Best Tourist Places to See in Mussoorie in 2024
The Mall Road
Mall Road is a link that connects all of Mussoorie majorly. All major restaurants, shops, and famous spots like Library Chowk and Camel’s Back Road are connected on either end of Mall Road.
Location & how to reach: Mall Road is the main road of Mussoorie and is located at the centre of the city. It is 100 metres from the bus stand. One can walk or take local rickshaws to reach there.
Things to do: Most of the hotels in Mussoorie are located on either side of this long road. Besides staying here, you can take long walks at any time of the day on the road, where there are points made for the tourists to halt and appreciate the Dehradun Valley and dense clouds. The Mall Road is also famous amongst shoppers as this road has some of the best shops and emporiums from where you can shop woollen clothes, souvenirs, household and show items, wooden handicrafts and more.
Opening hours: There is no fixed time to enter or leave Mall Road. But the shops and restaurants open between 10 AM to 11 AM and stay up till night. A few food outlets open a little earlier, where you can go and have breakfast.
Entry Fee: No fee is required.
The ideal time to visit: You can visit Mall Road at any time of the year other than the monsoon months of July and August as it rains heavily in Mussoorie. Of course, you can stay at your hotel on Mall Road and enjoy the weather through the windows but going out can be unpredictable.
Kempty Falls
Another spot that families, kids and couples love to visit is the Kempty Falls. This place is a waterfall delight with milky gushing water from the height of 40 feet. This place was built up by a British officer to host tea parties in the pre-independence era. A fun place to be, you can plan half a day to spend time with your loved ones and take back beautiful memories from Mussoorie.
Location & how to reach: Kempty Falls is about 15 km from Mussoorie central point. You can drive or book a local cab to get here via Yamunotri Road.
Things to do: At this must-visit tourist destination you can enjoy the cold waterfall and splash in the pool that forms below it. This is the best spot to click some great pictures for your Instagram. If you are done enjoying the waterfall, you can jump into the boats in the nearby pond to slowly derive pleasure from the surroundings. This artificial pond is created for boating which kids and elders both love to enjoy. The place also has food stalls near the fall where you can enjoy hot nation’s favourite momo, Maggi, and other snacks.
Another thing you can do is go for a ride in a ropeway and explore the waterfall and get a top view of the fall and lush green mountains and other water bodies.
Opening hours: Since this place is a little far from the main city, it opens early at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM.
Entry Fee: Entry is free, but you will have to pay the parking fee of INR 40 and locker charges of INR 50 (if you take one).
For ropeway, you have to pay INR 80 per person in the off-season. However, the ticket prices rise during the season to INR 150.
The ideal time to visit: The best time to come here is June to October, when the waterfall is in a full gush.
Gun Hill
If you are looking to enjoy the beauty of Mussoorie and Doon Valley, then Gun Hill is the place you must visit. It is the second highest point in Mussoorie located 400 ft above Mall Road, from where you can witness nearby areas and the majestic Himalayan ranges like Bunderpunch, Pithwara, Srikantha and Gangotri group. This place gets its name from the fact that a gun was placed on this hill during the British Raj, which used to be fired at noon to set the clock.
Location & how to reach: Gun Hill is located mid of Mall Road. There is an uphill trek of about 20 minutes to reach there. Another more popular way to go to Gun Hill is via a cable car, which is about 400 meters from Jhula Ghar and is also accessible from Mall Road.
Things to do: While on the way, you can enjoy the trek if you are on foot or have a 360 degrees view of Mussoorie from a ropeway. Once you get to the top, you can do what Gun Hill is most famous for; sightseeing the glorious mountain ranges via a telescope on a clear day. The top of the hill is flat where you can find small shops. There are food outlets, so you can eat your favourite food while you sit and enjoy the view and weather. You can also find game shops and small rides like a merry-go-round for the kids.
Opening hours: The timings are from 10 AM to 6 PM. The timings also vary sometimes from month to month. It is recommended to find out timings locally from the jhula ghar.
Entry Fee: Whereas there is no fee to enter Gun Hill, there is a nominal charge of INR 75 for a round trip in a cable car.
The ideal time to visit: One can visit Gun Hill in any month of the year except the monsoon months of July and August.
Clouds End
A beautiful, serene place where all you see are the dense clouds and 2000 acres of Deodar & Oak forest spread like a lush green carpet. Clouds end also marks the geographical end of Mussoorie. People visit this place to pause and feel the pleasing climate and surroundings. The site also has an old heritage structure from the British Raj times. Built by Major Swetneham in 1838, it has beautiful architecture and is one of the oldest structures in Mussoorie. The colonial charm of this place is still alive and is now converted into a hotel which goes by the name Clouds End Forest Resort.
Location & how to reach: It is about 7 km from the main Mussoorie city or the Mall Road. One can take a local cab or self-drive to the point.
Things to do: The place is known for tranquillity, so if you are rushing to Mussoorie to get some, this is the site to be. You can sit and relax or take a little hike in the place which usually stays engulfed by the clouds, hence, the name. This place also offers activities like hill climbing and nature walk in the Deodar & Oak forests up to the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary. This place is also a delight for photography with its breathtaking views, especially of the Aglar River Valley.
Opening hours: There is no fixed time to visit the place. But it is best advised to go during the daylight to enjoy the scenery.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to the spot.
The ideal time to visit: One can visit Clouds End from January to June and October to December.
Bhatta Falls
Bhatta Falls is the place to go if you are a private person and do not like the crowd. Other waterfalls in Mussoorie, like Kempty Fall, is famous and is full of tourists at all times. You can turn to Bhatta Falls to enjoy an uncommercialised side of Mussoorie. This place has been recently developed as a picnic spot near Mussoorie which flourishes a natural stream of water flowing down the hills. The water falls from a height of 30 feet into a small circular pond.
Location & how to reach: Bhatta Falls is located in Bhatta village, about 10 km from Library Chowk Bus Stand in Mussoorie. You can take a local cab or bus and reach Bhatta Falls after a trek of 500 m from the drop-off point. Alternatively, you can go to Bhatta Village and take a recently developed, fully functional ropeway.
Things to do: This peaceful getaway can be best enjoyed with family engaging in activities like swimming in the nearby pond and nature photography. Kids can enjoy swings and rides in the children’s park. As this place is not much commercialised, you will find only a few small eateries and shops. It is advisable to carry some food with you, especially if you are travelling with kids. Although one can trek and reach the falls, we recommend taking the ropeway, recently developed in 2019 to enjoy the view of natural spring and greenery from the bird’s eye view.
Opening hours: The times are 8 AM to 5 PM.
Entry fee: Entry is free if you trek from the village. But you need to pay INR 150 per person for a to and fro cable car ride.
The ideal time to visit: You can visit Bhatta Falls all year round except during heavy rainfalls.
Soham Heritage Art Center
If you study Mussoorie well, there is so much more than good weather and majestic mountains. Mussoorie is also a place that reflects its mountain culture elegantly. The local people, their language and food speak it all, and so does the Soham Heritage Art Center. It is a place that exhibits the culture and tradition of the hill tribes. So if you are keen to know what pahadi culture is all about, do not forget to add this to your list. This place is a collective of restored pahadi culture, which is almost on the verge of extinction. The owners have made a lot of efforts to portray paintings, murals, sculptures, scrap art, frescoes and artefacts.
Location & how to reach: It is located on Chamunda Peeth Road, only about 3 km away from Library Chowk, Mussoorie. You can take the local rickshaw if you are staying nearby or on Mall Road. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or a cab if coming from far.
Things to do: You can visit and spend one to two hours exploring the culture exhibited at the centre through various media. It will be exciting to study and further appreciate the culture of Mussoorie and the hills. Since this place is located amid the Oak and Deodar forest, you can please your eyes with the surrounding foliage. The area also has a small souvenir shop where you can collect authentic and antique items like jewellery, musical instruments, utensils, accessories, agricultural equipment and more.
Opening hours: The centre opens at 10 AM and closes in the evening by 5 PM. The staff may not be available during the lunch break between 2-3 PM. The place stays closed on Wednesdays.
Entry fee: One needs to pay INR 100 per person. There is no charge for kids below five years of age.
The ideal time to visit: This place can be visited during all months of the year except the monsoon season.
Robber’s Cave
Robber’s Cave, also known as ‘Gucchupani’, is a little-known place, a little far from Mussorie. This place is a natural formation of two parallel rocks between which a stream of water flows. The rocks are wavy and have hidden spots. It is the perfect destination for couples who wish to spend some time together and, at the same time fun spot for adventure lovers. It is said that during the pre-independence era, thieves used to hide in the secret spots between these caves from British officials. Hence, it gets the name Robber’s Cave.
Location & how to reach: You can make a stop here when coming from Dehradun towards Mussoorie. It is situated near Anarwala village at 8 kms from Dehradun city centre near Malsi Deer Park and about 14 km from Mussoorie. You can take a halt while going to Mussoorie from Dehradun or vice versa. You can also book a cab to come down here.
Things to do: You can take a 600-meter-long walk in between the caves through the water. The water level is somewhat knee length or lower, so you can walk through it. Further ahead, through the cave, is a waterfall where you can sit, relax, and have a good picnic with friends and family. The place is also picturesque, so do not forget to get a good load of pictures for your Instagram.
Opening hours: You can visit the caves from 7 AM to 6 PM.
Entry fee: There is a nominal charge of INR 25 to get through the caves.
The ideal time to visit: The place is perfect for visiting in the summers and is an excellent spot to chill away from the heat. The best time to visit the site is from April to October. Make sure you wear comfortable footwear, which is easy to walk in the water. The streams can get knee-high, so if you do not wish to wet your clothes, dress accordingly.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of Rajaji National Park. It is a beautiful natural patch with dense benedictory pines, old cedar trees, and medicinal plants. At this sanctuary, you can catch sight of a wide variety of myriad colourful birds like Mountain Quails, White Capped Water Redstart and Red Billed Blue Magpie. The forest is also home to goats, panthers, leopards, bears and deer. The place also lets you witness the magnificence of mesmerising view of the snow-covered Chaukhamba and Bandarpunch peaks.
Location & how to reach: It is approximately 11 km from Library Chowk, Mussoorie. You can easily reach it by taking a cab or taxi. Better book a to & fro cab as it is challenging to get conveyance back from the sanctuary. To add to the fun, you can also trek from Clouds End to Benog Wildlife Sanctuary.
Things to do: As mentioned, you can trek from Clouds End to here or vice versa. This place is a haven of birds; bird watching and photography are a must here. If you are lucky, you may catch sight of wild animals. This place is also a must-visit for nature lovers d is loved for its enveloping scenic vistas.
Opening hours: The sanctuary opens for visitors between 7 AM to 5 PM all seven days of the week.
Entry fee: There is no entry fee for this place.
The ideal time to visit: The best time to visit is from April to November, but it is open for visitors all year round.
Lal Tibba
The highest peak in Mussoorie, Lal Tibba is about 2,290 metres above sea level and offers outstanding views from the top. This is one of the comparatively less commercialized places in Mussoorie. Located at the Landour area, Lal Tibba provides a mesmerizing view of the Himalayan Mountain peaks. One can also look at the peaks like Badrinath, Kedarnath, etc., with the help of a Japanese telescope installed at the edge of the cliff.
Location: The famous peak point is located 4.5 km from Mussoorie city.
Timings: You can visit here between 7:30 am to 8 pm.
Entry Fee: The entry fee for Lal Tibba is 50 INR.
Interesting Fact: Lal Tibba, meaning “Red Hill,” is the highest point in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, Badrinath, and more. The site features an old telescope that allows visitors to marvel at the majestic mountain ranges, adding to the charm of this scenic spot.
Mussoorie Lake
It is an artificial lake that is a great spot for visitors and tourists. One can also do pedalled boating in the lake and enjoy many scenic spots nearby. It is famous amongst family and friends as a great picnic spot. It is magnificent during monsoons and gives a serene experience.
Location: Mussoorie Lake is situated about 6 kilometers from Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, India.
Timings: The lake is usually open to visitors from morning 8 am till evening 6 pm.
Entry Fee: The entry fee is Rs 15 per person.
Interesting Fact: Mussoorie Lake is an artificial lake created by a natural waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers boating facilities, providing visitors with a serene and picturesque experience. The lake is a popular spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the scenic beauty of Mussoorie.
Tranquil Mountains
The scenic beauty of Mussoorie and the areas nearby will take your breath away with their beauty and tranquillity. The serenity of the place makes it a popular place for visitors who wish to mingle their fun and frolic with their routine work.
Camel’s Back Road
Location: This 3kms long road is at the back side and opposite The Mall.
Timings: The best time to visit this road is during the day so that you can see the bend nicely.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee.
Interesting Fact: This iconic road is named after the rock formation resembling a sitting camel’s back. Stretching for about 3 kilometers, it offers a scenic walking trail with stunning views of the Himalayas and the Doon Valley. The road is a perfect spot to witness enchanting sunsets. Lined with deodar trees, it provides a tranquil escape from the bustling town, making it a favorite among locals and tourists seeking a stroll amidst nature’s beauty.
Sir George Everest House
The Sir George Everest House in Mussoorie is a historic landmark perched atop a hill. Once the residence of Sir George Everest, the British surveyor after whom Mount Everest is named, the house offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and the Doon Valley. You must visit the place to explore the museum inside, which displays artifacts related to Sir George Everest’s life and work. It is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike in the charming hill station of Mussoorie.
Location: Sir George Everest House is located in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, India. It is situated atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Timings: The timings for visiting Sir George Everest House are from 10 am to 6 pm.
Entry Fee: There is no entry fee
Interesting Fact: Sir George Everest House, named after the Welsh surveyor, served as his laboratory and observatory during the 19th century. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges and played a pivotal role in the mapping of the Indian subcontinent.
Tips for Travel Mussoorie Tourist Places
Travelling to Mussoorie is surely a delightful experience if done with proper planning. There are many places to see in Mussoorie that must be visited if you are in the city. The best places to visit in Mussoorie include Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and Camel’s Back Road. You can use local taxis or rickshaws for convenient transportation within the town. These are touristy places with many attractions.
FAQs
Q1. Where can I stay in Mussoorie?
Ans: For a luxurious stay in Mussoorie, consider Jaypee Residency Manor, a 5-star hotel offering elegant rooms, scenic views, and top-notch amenities. Located on a hilltop, the hotel provides a serene ambiance and easy access to popular attractions like Gun Hill and Mall Road. Guests can enjoy fine dining, spa services, and recreational facilities during their stay. With its picturesque surroundings and impeccable hospitality, Jaypee Residency Manor promises a memorable experience.
Q2. When Does it Snowfall in Mussoorie?
Ans: Snowfall in Mussoorie typically occurs during the winter months, primarily from December to February. This period sees a drop in temperatures, and the hill station transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes. The chilly climate and the scenic beauty during this time make it a popular destination for snow enthusiasts. Travelers looking to experience the magical charm of Mussoorie blanketed in snow should plan their visit during these winter months.
Q3. Which month is best to visit Mussoorie?
Ans: The best time to visit Mussoorie is between April and June and between September and November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months offer a cool escape from the heat, while the autumn months provide clear skies and stunning views.
Q4. How do I plan a sightseeing in Mussoorie?
Ans: To plan a sightseeing trip in Mussoorie, create a list of must-visit attractions such as Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and Camel’s Back Road. Allocate specific days for each site, considering travel time and local weather. Book accommodations and transportation in advance, and plan for local dining options and relaxation periods.
Q5. Can we see the Himalayas from Mussoorie?
Ans: Yes, you can see the Himalayas from Mussoorie. Lal Tibba, the highest point in the area, offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. Gun Hill and Camel’s Back Road also provide panoramic vistas of the Himalayan range, especially on clear days, showcasing the majestic beauty of the mountains.
