Places To Visit in Mussoorie To Explore Queen of Hill Stations

Looking for a picturesque getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Look no further than Mussoorie! Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, this charming hill station offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Take a stroll down Mall Road, lined with quaint shops and restaurants, or explore the many hiking trails that wind through the hills. Visit the iconic Kempty Falls to feel the cool mist on your face and refresh your senses.

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Mussoorie by visiting the many temples and museums that dot the landscape. And don’t forget to indulge in the local cuisine, bursting with flavor and made with the freshest ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Mussoorie has something for everyone. So why wait? Book your trip today and discover the magic of this beautiful hill station for yourself!

About Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a beautiful hill station located in the Dehradun district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level and is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range and its pleasant weather. Mussoorie is often referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations” due to its scenic beauty and has been a popular destination for tourists since the British colonial era.

The history of Mussoorie dates back to the early 19th century when it was discovered by a British army officer named Captain Young. He was so enamored by the beauty of the place that he decided to build a house and settle there. Soon, Mussoorie became a popular destination for British officials seeking respite from the heat of the plains during the summer months.

Over time, Mussoorie grew into a bustling town with several hotels, schools, and churches being established. It also became a popular spot for writers and artists, including Ruskin Bond, who has written extensively about his experiences in Mussoorie.

Today, Mussoorie is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy its scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking to explore the local cuisine, hike through the mountains, or simply relax in a peaceful and serene environment, Mussoorie has something for everyone.

Architecture of Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a popular hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The town is situated at an altitude of 1880 meters above sea level and is known for its picturesque beauty and colonial architecture. The architecture of Mussoorie reflects the influence of the British colonial period and the local culture of the region.

The town is situated on a ridge overlooking the Doon valley and is divided into two parts, the Mall Road and the Landour area. The Mall Road is the commercial and tourist hub of the town, while Landour is a quieter and more residential area.

The architecture of Mussoorie is characterized by its colonial-style buildings, many of which have been converted into hotels and tourist accommodations. The buildings feature distinctive elements such as pitched roofs, large verandas, and wooden balconies. Some of the prominent colonial-era buildings in Mussoorie include the Savoy Hotel, the Landour Clock Tower, and the Christ Church.

Apart from the colonial-style buildings, Mussoorie also has several temples and other religious structures that reflect the local culture of the region. The most famous of these is the Kempty Falls, a popular tourist attraction that features a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Overall, the architecture of Mussoorie is a blend of colonial and local styles, reflecting the town’s unique cultural heritage and history. The town’s picturesque setting and charming architecture make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

42 Places to Visit in Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a popular tourist destination in India known for its picturesque beauty, colonial architecture, and pleasant weather. The town has several attractions that offer visitors a unique experience of the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Here is a brief overview of the list of 42 places to visit in Mussoorie:

1. Kempty Falls – A scenic waterfall and popular tourist attraction.
2. Gun Hill – A peak that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
3. Lal Tibba – The highest peak in Mussoorie and a popular trekking destination.
4. Mussoorie Lake – A picturesque lake surrounded by hills and lush greenery.
5. Christ Church – A historic church built in the Gothic style.
6. Company Garden – A beautiful garden with several attractions including a mini train ride, a musical fountain, and a flower garden.
7. Mussoorie Heritage Centre – A museum that showcases the town’s history and culture.
8. Jharipani Falls – A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
9. Cloud’s End – A scenic spot that marks the end of Mussoorie.
10. Camel’s Back Road – A popular walking trail with stunning views of the hills and valleys.
11. The Mall Road – A bustling commercial and tourist hub with several shops, restaurants, and hotels.
12. Bhatta Falls – A scenic waterfall surrounded by a forested area.
13. Benog Wildlife Sanctuary – A sanctuary that is home to several species of flora and fauna.
14. Nag Tibba – A popular trekking destination with stunning views of the Himalayan range.
15. K Dev Bhoomi Wax Museum – A museum that displays wax statues of famous personalities.
16. Happy Valley – A scenic valley that is home to the IAS Academy and several Tibetan settlements.
17. Mussoorie Adventure Park – A park that offers several adventure activities including zip-lining, rappelling, and rock climbing.
18. Mussoorie Adventure Zone – A park that offers several adventure activities including skywalk, sky bridge, and zip swing.
19. Landour Bazaar – A popular market that offers several local handicrafts and souvenirs.
20. Shedup Choepelling Temple – A Tibetan temple that is home to several monks.
21. Jwala Devi Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Jwala.
22. Mussoorie Christ Church – A historic church built in the Gothic style.
23. St. Paul’s Church – A historic church built in the Gothic style.
24. Van Chetna Kendra – A park that is home to several species of flora and fauna.
25. George Everest’s House – A historic house that was once home to the famous surveyor and geographer Sir George Everest.
26. Mussoorie Adventure Hike – A trekking and hiking trail with stunning views of the hills and valleys.
27. Kellogg Memorial Church – A historic church built in the Gothic style.
28. Sir George Everest House – A historic house that was once home to the famous surveyor and geographer Sir George Everest.
29. Mussoorie Waterfall – A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
30. Pari Tibba – A peak that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
31. Jabarkhet Wildlife Reserve – A reserve that is home to several species of flora and fauna.
32. Bhadraj Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Bal Bhadra.
33. Mussoorie Adventure Trek – A trekking trail with stunning views of the hills and valleys.
34. Dhanaulti – A scenic hill station located near Mussoorie.
35. Mall Road Market – A bustling market that offers several local handicrafts and souvenirs.
36. Shri Parkasheshwar Mahadev Mandir
37. Mussoorie Lake Adventure Park
38. Mussoorie Mall Road
39. The Mall Road
40. Happy Valley
41. Mussoorie Heritage Centre
42. Char Dukan.

Weather and Best time to visit Mussoorie

Mussoorie, a popular hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, has a pleasant climate throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Mussoorie is during the summer months, from March to June, and during the winter months, from December to February.

Summer (March to June): The weather in Mussoorie during the summer months is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C. This is the best time to visit Mussoorie for adventure sports and trekking. The days are sunny, and the nights are cool, making it a perfect time to explore the town and its surroundings.

Monsoon (July to September): Mussoorie receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, making it difficult to indulge in outdoor activities. The roads become slippery, and there are chances of landslides. However, the town looks incredibly beautiful during this time, with lush greenery and waterfalls.

Winter (December to February): The winter season in Mussoorie is chilly, with temperatures dropping below 0°C. This is the best time to visit Mussoorie for snow lovers, as the town receives heavy snowfall during this time. The snow-covered hills and valleys create a picturesque landscape, making it an ideal destination for honeymooners.

Overall, the best time to visit Mussoorie depends on the traveler’s preference and the purpose of the visit.

How To Reach Mussoorie

Mussoorie, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, can be reached by various means of transportation. Here are the most common ways to reach Mussoorie:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Mussoorie is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located around 60 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Mussoorie.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Mussoorie is the Dehradun Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Mussoorie.
3. By Road: Mussoorie is well-connected to major cities in North India by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh to reach Mussoorie. The distance from Delhi to Mussoorie is around 290 km, and it takes approximately 7-8 hours to reach by road.
4. Self-Drive: You can also drive to Mussoorie from nearby cities. The roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the mountains and valleys. However, if you are not used to driving on hilly terrain, it is advisable to hire a local driver to avoid any inconvenience.

Overall, Mussoorie is easily accessible by air, train, or road, making it a popular destination among travelers.

Best Places to Stay in Mussoorie

Mussoorie, being a popular tourist destination, offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit the needs and budget of every traveler. Here are some of the popular accommodation options in Mussoorie:

1. Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Mussoorie has many luxury hotels and resorts that offer world-class amenities and services. Some of the popular luxury hotels in Mussoorie include Jaypee Residency Manor, JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, and The Claridges Nabha Residence.
2. Boutique Hotels and Homestays: If you are looking for a unique and personalized experience, boutique hotels and homestays in Mussoorie are a good option. These properties offer comfortable accommodation in a cozy and homely atmosphere. Some popular boutique hotels and homestays in Mussoorie include Rokeby Manor, The Amber Vermont Estate, and The White House Homestay.
3. Budget Hotels and Guesthouses: Mussoorie has many budget hotels and guesthouses that offer basic amenities at an affordable price. Some popular budget hotels and guesthouses in Mussoorie include Hotel Mall Palace, Hotel Shilton, and Hotel Basera.
4. Luxury Tents and Campsites: If you want to experience nature and adventure, luxury tents and campsites in Mussoorie are a good option. These properties offer comfortable tents with all basic amenities and services. Some popular luxury tents and campsites in Mussoorie include Camp Wildex, Kanatal Camps, and Royal Orchid Fort Resort.

Overall, Mussoorie offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget hotels and homestays, making it a popular destination among travelers of all types.

Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Mussoorie As per users Reviews and Ratings

here are some of the most popular hotels in Mussoorie based on their reputation and facilities, along with a brief explanation:

1. Jaypee Residency Manor: This luxury hotel is located on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. It features elegant rooms, multiple dining options, a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
2. JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa: This luxury resort is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil retreat in the hills. It features spacious rooms, multiple dining options, a spa, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
3. Rokeby Manor: This boutique hotel is housed in a restored colonial-era mansion and offers a charming and cozy atmosphere. It features elegant rooms, a library, a garden, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
4. The Amber Vermont Estate: This boutique hotel is located amidst apple orchards and offers a peaceful and serene environment. It features comfortable rooms, a garden, a terrace, and a restaurant serving organic food.
5. The Claridges Nabha Residence: This heritage hotel is housed in a restored 19th-century colonial bungalow and offers a glimpse into the bygone era. It features cozy rooms, a garden, a restaurant, and a library.
6. Fortune Resort Grace: This 4-star hotel is located near the Mall Road and offers easy access to the town’s attractions. It features comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
7. Hotel Sun N Snow Mussoorie: This budget hotel is located near the Mall Road and offers basic amenities at an affordable price. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a terrace offering views of the hills.
8. Hotel Brentwood: This budget hotel is located near the Library Chowk and offers basic amenities at an affordable price. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a terrace offering views of the hills.
9. The Golden Palms Hotel & Spa: This 4-star hotel is located near the Picture Palace and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It features multiple dining options, a spa, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
10. Honeymoon Inn Mussoorie: This cozy hotel is located near the Mall Road and offers a romantic retreat for couples. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving Indian and continental cuisine, and a terrace offering views of the hills.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and there are many other good hotels in Mussoorie that you may consider based on your preferences and budget.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Mussoorie

Mussoorie, located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a popular hill station that attracts tourists from all over the world. To make your trip to Mussoorie comfortable and enjoyable, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

1. Best time to visit: Mussoorie is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between March and June and from September to November. The weather during these months is pleasant, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery without any hindrance.
2. Clothing: As Mussoorie is a hill station, it can get quite chilly, especially during the winter months. So, pack warm clothes, including jackets, sweaters, shawls, and woolen socks. If you are visiting during the summer months, you can pack light cotton clothes.
3. Transportation: Mussoorie is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by bus or taxi from Dehradun or Delhi. You can also take a train to Dehradun and then take a taxi or bus to Mussoorie. Once you reach Mussoorie, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to explore the place.
4. Accommodation: Mussoorie has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.
5. Local food: Mussoorie is known for its local delicacies, including momos, thukpa, and local chaat. Do try out the local food as it is delicious and affordable.
6. Sightseeing: Mussoorie is known for its scenic beauty, and there are plenty of places to visit, including Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba, and Mussoorie Lake. It is advisable to hire a local guide to explore these places and get a better understanding of the history and culture of Mussoorie.
7. Safety: Like any other tourist destination, you need to take care of your belongings and avoid going to isolated places alone, especially at night. It is also advisable to keep a copy of your identity proof and emergency numbers with you at all times.

By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can have a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Mussoorie.

Food To Eat in Mussoorie

Mussoorie, being a popular hill station in India, offers a variety of food options that cater to every taste bud. Here are some must-try food items in Mussoorie:

1. Momos: Momos are a popular street food in Mussoorie. They are steamed dumplings filled with either vegetable or meat stuffing, and are served with spicy chutney.
2. Thukpa: Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup that is a staple food in the Himalayan region. It is made with vegetables, meat or seafood and is flavored with spices and herbs.
3. Maggi: Maggi is a popular instant noodle brand in India, and you can find it at almost every corner of Mussoorie. It is a quick and easy snack to have while enjoying the scenic beauty of the place.
4. Chhole Bhature: Chhole Bhature is a popular North Indian dish that consists of spicy chickpeas served with fluffy fried bread called bhatura.
5. Paranthas: Paranthas are stuffed flatbreads that are served with pickles, curd, and chutneys. You can find a variety of stuffing options like potato, paneer, cheese, and onion in Mussoorie.
6. Local Chaat: Mussoorie has its own version of chaat that is a must-try. It is made with fried dough wafers called papdi, potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy tamarind chutney.
7. Apple Pie: Mussoorie is known for its apple orchards, and you can find delicious apple pies at almost every bakery in the town.

Apart from these, there are many other food options available in Mussoorie like pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and traditional Indian dishes. Make sure to try the local delicacies and enjoy the culinary experience in Mussoorie.

Best Places for Shopping in Mussoorie

Mussoorie, being a popular tourist destination, offers a variety of shopping options. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Mussoorie:

1. Mall Road: Mall Road is the most popular shopping destination in Mussoorie. It is a pedestrian-only street lined with shops selling clothes, jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
2. Landour Bazaar: Landour Bazaar is a quaint market located near Mall Road. It is famous for its handmade woollen items like shawls, sweaters, and caps.
3. Tibetan Market: The Tibetan Market is located near the Library Chowk and is known for its handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing items.
4. Classic Emporium: Classic Emporium is located on the Mall Road and is known for its collection of antiques, handicrafts, and traditional items.
5. The Golden Tips Tea Shop: The Golden Tips Tea Shop is located on Mall Road and is known for its collection of teas from around the world.
6. Cambridge Book Depot: Cambridge Book Depot is a popular bookstore located on Mall Road. It has a vast collection of books, including local history, fiction, and non-fiction.
7. Kalsang Friends Corner: Kalsang Friends Corner is a Tibetan restaurant located near the Library Chowk. It also has a small shop selling traditional Tibetan items like prayer flags, handicrafts, and clothing.

Apart from these, there are many other shops and markets in Mussoorie selling local handicrafts, artifacts, and souvenirs. Make sure to bargain while shopping, as it is a common practice in India.

Things you Can buy From Mussoorie as a Tourist

Mussoorie, being a popular hill station in India, offers a variety of unique items that are perfect for souvenir shopping. Here are some things you should buy as a tourist from Mussoorie:

1. Handmade Woollen Items: Mussoorie is known for its handmade woollen items like shawls, sweaters, caps, and gloves. You can find these items in the local markets like Landour Bazaar.
2. Tea: The Golden Tips Tea Shop on Mall Road offers a wide variety of tea blends from around the world. You can buy packaged tea or loose tea leaves as a souvenir.
3. Local Spices: You can find a variety of local spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves in the local markets. These spices are grown in the nearby regions and are known for their unique flavour.
4. Handicrafts: Mussoorie is famous for its handicrafts made of wood, bamboo, and brass. You can find these items in the local markets like Mall Road and Tibetan Market.
5. Local Jam and Jellies: Mussoorie is known for its apple orchards, and you can find a variety of apple-based products like jams, jellies, and juices in the local markets.
6. Handmade Soaps and Candles: Mussoorie has a variety of stores selling handmade soaps and candles made with natural ingredients like beeswax and essential oils.
7. Paintings and Artwork: Mussoorie has a thriving artist community, and you can find a variety of paintings and artwork in the local markets and galleries.

Make sure to buy these unique items as souvenirs of your trip to Mussoorie and take back a piece of the place with you.

Nightlife in Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a beautiful hill station that offers a serene and peaceful environment, and as such, the nightlife in Mussoorie is relatively calm and low-key. Here are some options for nightlife in Mussoorie:

1. Night Walk: Mussoorie is a beautiful place to explore at night. Take a stroll down Mall Road and enjoy the cool breeze and beautiful views of the valley.
2. Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant: Many restaurants in Mussoorie have rooftop seating that offers a beautiful view of the valley at night. Enjoy a romantic dinner with your partner or a group of friends at one of these restaurants.
3. Bonfire: Many resorts and hotels in Mussoorie offer bonfire facilities. Sit around the bonfire, enjoy some music, and share stories with your friends and family.
4. Bar and Lounge: There are a few bars and lounges in Mussoorie that serve alcohol. Enjoy a few drinks with your friends or partner and relax in the serene environment of Mussoorie.
5. Live Music: Some restaurants and cafes in Mussoorie organize live music events. Enjoy some good food and live music with your friends or family.
6. Night Trekking: Many trekking companies in Mussoorie offer night treks to nearby hills. Experience the thrill of trekking under the stars and enjoy the beautiful views of the valley at night.

Overall, the nightlife in Mussoorie is relatively low-key, but it offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the serene environment and beautiful views of the hill station at night.

Activities and Things to do in Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a popular hill station in India and offers a range of activities and things to do for tourists. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Mussoorie:

1. Trekking: Mussoorie offers a range of trekking trails for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Some popular treks include the trek to Lal Tibba, Benog Hill, and Gun Hill.
2. Cable Car Ride: Take a cable car ride from Jhula Ghar to Gun Hill, which is the second-highest point in Mussoorie. Enjoy the panoramic views of the valley from the top.
3. Visit Kempty Falls: Kempty Falls is a popular tourist spot in Mussoorie. Take a dip in the cool waters of the falls or enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
4. Shopping: Mussoorie offers a range of shopping options, from local handicrafts to branded clothes. Explore the markets on Mall Road and Landour Bazaar to shop for souvenirs.
5. Visit the Christ Church: The Christ Church in Mussoorie is a beautiful colonial-era church and a popular tourist attraction. Admire the beautiful stained-glass windows and the stunning architecture.
6. Visit the Mussoorie Lake: Mussoorie Lake is a beautiful artificial lake and a popular tourist spot. Enjoy boating, picnicking, and hiking around the lake.
7. Visit the Tibetan Buddhist Temple: The Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Mussoorie is a serene and peaceful place. Admire the beautiful prayer flags and the stunning architecture.
8. Paragliding: Mussoorie also offers paragliding activities. Experience the thrill of flying like a bird over the valley.

Overall, Mussoorie offers a range of activities and things to do for tourists. From adventure activities to serene walks, Mussoorie has something for everyone.

Lesser Known facts about Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a popular hill station in India, but there are some lesser-known facts about this beautiful place. Here are some lesser-known facts about Mussoorie:

1. Mussoorie was originally a hill station for the British. It was established as a summer retreat for the British in the 19th century.
2. The name Mussoorie comes from the plants of Mussoorie or shrub of Mussoorie, which are found in abundance in the area.
3. The highest point in Mussoorie is Lal Tibba, which is also known as the “Depot Hill”. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.
4. Mussoorie was the hometown of famous author Ruskin Bond. Many of his stories are based in and around Mussoorie.
5. Mussoorie was the first place in India to have a cable car. The cable car was built in 1926 and is still operational.
6. Mussoorie has a long and rich history. The town was a popular hunting ground for the Garhwal Kings before the British arrived.
7. The Mussoorie Mall Road is the longest pedestrian-only street in India. It stretches for about 3 km and offers a range of shopping and dining options.
8. Mussoorie has a thriving Tibetan community, and the Tibetan Market is a popular shopping destination. You can find a range of Tibetan handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs in this market.

Overall, Mussoorie is a beautiful place with a rich history and culture. Explore the lesser-known facts about Mussoorie and discover the hidden gems of this popular hill station.

FAQ about Mussoorie

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Mussoorie:

Q: What is the best time to visit Mussoorie?

A: The best time to visit Mussoorie is from March to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Q: What are the top tourist attractions in Mussoorie?

A: Some of the top tourist attractions in Mussoorie are Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba, Mussoorie Lake, and the Christ Church.

Q: What are some adventure activities to do in Mussoorie?

A: Mussoorie offers a range of adventure activities such as trekking, paragliding, zip-lining, and rappelling.

Q: What are the popular shopping areas in Mussoorie?

A: Some popular shopping areas in Mussoorie are Mall Road, Landour Bazaar, and Tibetan Market.

Q: How to reach Mussoorie?

A: Mussoorie is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway station is in Dehradun. You can also take a bus or hire a taxi from Delhi or nearby cities.

Q: Is Mussoorie safe for tourists?

A: Yes, Mussoorie is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take basic safety precautions, especially when traveling alone or at night.

Q: What are some lesser-known attractions in Mussoorie?

A: Some lesser-known attractions in Mussoorie are Cloud’s End, Jabarkhet Nature Reserve, Bhatta Falls, and Company Garden.

Q: What is the local cuisine of Mussoorie?

A: The local cuisine of Mussoorie is a blend of Garhwali and Tibetan cuisines. Some popular dishes include momos, thukpa, aloo ke gutke, bhatt ki churkani, and kandalee ka saag.