Mussoorie -Tourism

Mussoorie, also known as the Queen of the hills, is a famous hill station in Uttaranchal. It is situated at an altitude of 1970 meters above sea level and the perfect getaway from the summer heat of the plains. Mussoorie is spread out over 16 km. along a horseshoe shaped ridge. The hill station of Mussoorie is located near Delhi and Dehradun and a popular tourist destination among the Indian tourists round the year. During summers, the temperature ranges from 20 to 32 degree Celsius and in winters, it ranges from 1 to 7 degree Celsius. There are winter showers and snowfall during December and January. During the monsoon and winter months it is visited by people in search of some peace and quiet.

History of Mussoorie

Mussoorie was established by a Captain Young who built the first British building in 1829. Mall, club, Anglican Church, library and some houses were also built by the British. The early visitors came by road to Raipur, about 10 km east of Dehradun, and were then carried up via Barlowganj.

Tourist Attractions in Mussoorie- Mussoorie is also best for walks like other hill stations. The main tourist attraction in Mussoorie are the Mall, Landaur and Lal Tibba.

Mussoorie Lake- The Mussoorie Lake is situated about 6 kms. short of Mussoorie on the way from Dehradun. The Mussoorie Lake is a delightful spot where paddle boats are available. It commands an enchanting views of Doon valley and nearby villages. 

Gun Hill- Gun Hill is the second highest peak of Mussoorie. The Mall is the starting point for the cable car towards the summit of Gun Hill. The thrill of the ride is memorable and offers beautiful views of the Himalayan Ranges.

Landaur- Landaur is situated at the east end of town, situated at an altitude of 2270 meters above sea level. Landaur is an Indian style bazaar. Woodstock School, an international school which has a sister school in Kodaikkanal in South India is also located here. The Convent Hill and Happy Valley are also situated here where the Tibetan refugees have settled. 

The Mall- The Mall is the main shopping area in Mussoorie. The Mall road connects the two bazaars, Kulri and Library. It is the heart of the town. Along side the Mall is the tourist office, rows of Tibetan trinket and sweater vendors and shops selling walking sticks and cane items. Hand pulled rickshaws manufactured in Glasgow can be seen still here, plying down the Mall. The Mall is the starting point for the cable car towards the summit of Gun Hill, 2142 metres above sea level. On clear days, the peaks of Kedarnath, Badrinath and Nanda Devi from this hill can be seen here clearly.

Lal Tibba- Lal Tibba is the highest hill, situated at an altitude of 2438 meters above sea level. This hill is the highest point in Mussoorie. The view to the north and the snow capped peaks is stunning and best at sunrise.

Jwalaji Temple- The Jwalaji Temple is situated on the top of the Benog Hill and has an idol of Mata Durga. The temple is surrounded by the thick forests and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, Doon valley and Yamuna valley.

Camel's Back Road- Camel's Back Road is suitable for horse riding, walking and beautiful sunset view of the Himalayas. A superb rock formation, with a life-like resemblance to a sitting camel can be seen from this spot.

George Everest House- The George Everest House is the peak estate of Sir George, the surveyor General of India. Sir George had his office and residence here. The Mount Everest, the highest peak of the Himalayas was named after Sir George.

Excursions from Mussoorie

Kempty Falls- Kempty Falls is situated about 15 km away on the Yamunotri road. It is a popular and picturesque water fall, located in the beautiful valley surrounded by the high mountains. The bath at the foot of the falls is refreshing. From Kempty Falls, the area west to the Yamuna gorge is being declared as a sanctuary. This sanctuary is rich in bird life, and also has some wildlife including leopards.

Surkhanda Devi Temple- Surkhanda Devi Temple is the highest point in the area, located at a height of 3021 m on the top of hill. It is situated about 45 km from Mussoorie and 9 kms. from Dhanaulti. It is an important pilgrimage centre. The temple offers extensive views of the snow ranges and exclusive experience one can never forget.

Mossey Falls- The Mossey Falls is a picnic spot, situated about 6 km from the centre of Mussoorie. It is an ideal place for a quiet weekend.

Lakha Mandal- Lakha Mandal is situated on the Yamunotri road, past Kempty Falls. There are hundred of idols of archaeological importance which have been preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India. According to the legend, the Kaurvas made a shellac house and conspired to burn the Pandavas alive here.

How to get here

By Air:- The nearest airport is located in Jolly Grant in Dehradun, about 60 kms. from Mussoorie.

By Rail:- Dehradun, situated about 35 km from Mussoorie is the nearest railway station which is connected to all major cities in India.

By Road:- Mussoorie is connected by road with Agra, Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Shimla and Yamnotri.