The ‘Queen of the Hills’ – Mussoorie is a quaint little hill station that offers something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a breezy retreat, the exciting places to visit in Mussoorie will surely leave you spellbound. Whether it is boating on Mussoorie Lake or trekking to Gun Hill Point, this hill station is ideal for travellers looking to escape the blistering heat.
This article will end your search for the most popular Mussoorie tourist places. Even if you have visited the place already, there’s a chance you will find a new scenic trail or a secluded viewpoint in this article. Travellers, get ready to be blown away by the beauty of the best places that make Mussoorie the most preferred destination.
Best Places to Visit in Mussoorie in 2024
1. Kempty Falls, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
No trip to Mussoorie is complete without visiting the much-famed Kempty Falls. The site was developed by a British officer in the 1830s for hosting tea parties and ever since, it has become a popular attraction in Mussoorie, especially for picnics.
Plunging from a height of almost 1,364 metres, these falls offer spectacular views of the valley around it. Kempty Falls is among the best places to visit in Mussoorie India. Bathe in the waters of the pool formed at the bottom of the fall, click some pictures, or sit by the side of the cascading fall and enjoy garma-garam Maggi with kadak chai. You will find some of the best hotels in Mussoorie on the way to Kempty Falls.
- Location: Ram Gaon, Tehri Garhwal District
- Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (Extra charges for using the ropeway, starting at INR 120)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Mussoorie
- Interesting Fact: The name “Kempty” is derived from the word “camp-tea” as British tea parties were a common occurrence near the falls during the colonial era
2. Lal Tibba, Mussoorie
Perched on the Depot Hill in Landour, Lal Tibba is one of the highest viewpoints in Mussoorie. Just 6 km from the city centre, this vantage point rests at an altitude of 2,275 metres so you can only imagine the views from up here. The name of the viewpoint literally translates to Red Hill, which is a direct reference to the colour of the sky visible from here during the sunrise and sunset. It is among the must visit places to see in Mussoorie.
On a cloudless day, you will be able to view peaks like Bandarpunch, Kedarnath and Badrinath from this viewpoint. The telescopes installed at Lal Tibba let you soak in the beauty of it all from up close making it among the most Mussoorie famous places.
- Location: Bazar Road, Landour, Mussoorie
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 50
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Landour
- Interesting Fact- The Telescope House in Lal Tibba houses a powerful telescope that allows visitors to enjoy close-up views of the distant peaks, including Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Nanda Devi.
Explore recommended: Places to stay in Mussoorie at best price
3. Gun Hill Point, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
The second-highest peak in Mussoorie, Gun Hill Point is one of the most popular viewpoints in the area. Located at a distance of 1.7 km from Mall Road, this viewpoint can be reached by a 20-minute uphill trek. Apart from a 360-degree view of the town and other parts of the Doon Valley, you will also be able to take in the views of Bunderpunch, Srikantha, Gangotri, and Pithwara Himalayan ranges from here. It is among the most tourist places to visit in Mussoorie Uttarakhand.
- Location: Mall Road, Landour, Mussoorie
- Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Mall Road
- Interesting Fact- During the colonial era, a gun was fired every afternoon from this hill to help people adjust their watches. This practice provided a signal to the locals and tourists to set their timepieces correctly. Hence, the hill came to be known as “Gun Hill.”
4. Company Garden, Mussoorie
At a distance of around 3 km from the Mall Road, the Company Garden in Mussoorie makes for a perfect spot to spend quality time with your family and friends. The entire plan of this garden was laid down by Dr. H Fackner and it is maintained by the Garden Welfare Association of Mussoorie.
You will find beautiful fountains, lush greenery, colourful birds, and different varieties of flowers while taking a walk around the garden. If you are up for it, go for boating on Artificial Lake.
- Location: Bazar Road, Landour, Mussoorie
- Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 25
- Interesting Fact: The Company Garden dates back to the British colonial era. It was established by Dr H.F. Warth, a renowned horticulturist, in the early 20th century.
5. Cloud’s End, Mussoorie
If solitude is what you are looking for on your next trip to Mussoorie, Cloud’s End is where you should be at. A scenic stretch of lush deodar and oak forests, this place is located 6 km from the Library Road and marks the geographical end of the hill town. You can reach Cloud’s End by trekking along the Hathipaon Road from the Happy Valley area.
Besides offering stunning views throughout the day, this place has the most surreal setting for watching the sun go up and down in the azure sky. Photographers find this place extremely beautiful, and you too might get your next Insta-worthy shot here.
- Location: Hathipaon area, Mussoorie
- Timings: N/A
- Entry Fee: INR 50
- Interesting Fact: Cloud’s End was named by a British officer who was captivated by the ethereal beauty of this spot. Upon reaching this point and witnessing the clouds enveloping the landscape, he exclaimed, “This is where the clouds end!”
6. Jharipani Falls, Mussoorie
Situated in the quaint village of Jharipani, about 7 km from the city centre of Mussoorie, is the stunning Jharipani Falls. Its charm lies in its secluded location that is not marred by touristy crowds yet and it has a view for perfect Mussoorie photos. You can spend hours soaking in the beauty of the falls, clicking good pictures or simply appreciating the views of the scenery around the waterfall including those of the Shivalik range.
You will also find rare varieties of flowers in bloom at the site. The route to the falls is simple and can be easily covered via a car. However, after a certain point, you will have to trek for around 1.5 km to reach the falls.
- Location: Dehradun-Mussoorie Road
- Timings: Open all day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Interesting Fact: It derives its name from the word “Jhari,” which means a cascade or waterfall, and “Pani,” which means water in Hindi. The name perfectly captures the essence of this stunning natural wonder.
7. Mussoorie Lake, Mussoorie
A man-made lake yet one of the most beautiful sites in the city, Mussoorie Lake has become a popular tourist attraction recently. Apart from boating on the lake, you can try water zorbing and zip lining here. Oh, and now you can also do paragliding just a short distance away from the lake.
There are several small souvenir shops, restaurants and a horror house near the lake making it among the best places to visit in Mussoorie. So after you have had your share of fun at the lake, sit down for a delectable lunch or go for a shopping spree.
- Location: Dhobi Ghat, Mussoorie
- Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 15 (Extra charge for other activities)
- Places to Stay: Hotels Near Mussoorie Lake
- Interesting Fact: The lake was developed by constructing a barrier on a small stream that flowed through the area. This resulted in the formation of a calm and serene water body surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
8. Sir George Everest’s House, Mussoorie
Located 6 km from Gandhi Chowk in Mussoorie, Sir George Everest’s House dates back to the year 1832. Better known as The Park Estate, this place once served as the home, laboratory and observatory of Sir George Everest. From measuring the highest mountains to scaling the distances between the mountains of the North, Sir Everest has done it all from this place. It is among the popular tourist places in Mussoorie.
Do visit the observatory to find some insightful information about his life and work. The views from the summit atop which the heritage building sits are strikingly beautiful especially when they are covered in mist. So, even if the history doesn’t interest you, the vistas definitely would.
- Location: Khanij Nagar
- Timings: N/A
- Entry Fee: N/A
9. Camel’s Back Road, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Camel’s Back Road, another Mussoorie tourist place,is a great attraction to visit if you enjoy walking amidst nature and enjoying the views and the pleasant climate. This 3 km stretch road is named so because it resembles the hump of a camel and is best visited in the mornings and evenings.
- Location: The Mall Road
- Timings: All day long
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Interesting Fact: Camel’s Back Road is also famous for the thrilling activity of horse riding. Visitors can rent horses and enjoy a ride along the road, taking in the breathtaking views as they traverse the winding path.
10. Library Bazaar, Mussoorie
If you are a fan of shopping from small and cosy stores, then head over to Library Bazaar. Located in the centre of the hill station, the bazaar is full of shops selling handmade fabrics, silver jewellery, local sweets and delicacies, and cafés giving out freshly brewed coffee and tea. There are a lot of options for hotels in Mussoorie, near Library Chowk.
- Location: The Mall Road
- Timings: All day long
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Library Chowk
- Interesting Fact: It derived its name from the iconic Victorian-style building, The Mussoorie Library, which is located in the market area. The Mussoorie Library, established in 1843, is one of the oldest libraries in the Indian subcontinent.
11. Lake Mist, Mussoorie India
One of the scenic Mussoorie places to visit is the Lake Mist. The lake has a boating point from where you can hire a boat at an affordable fee. The place is located on the way to Kempty Falls and is usually crowded during the weekends.
- Location: Kempty Fall Road
- Timings: All day long
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Kempty Falls
- Interesting Fact: Lake Mist is not actually a natural lake but a man-made reservoir.
12. Snow Adventure Zone, Mussoorie
If you are a daredevil, definitely pay a visit to Snow Adventure Zone, a government-approved adventure park. The place is located in a serene spot and you can try out zip-lining, valley crossing, and adventure activities.It is among the best places to visit in Mussoorie for adventure sports enthusiasts.
- Location: Buranskhanda
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Entry is free. Activities are chargeable
13. The Mall Road, Mussoorie
The Mall Road is ‘the happening place’ in the hill station. This centre point is filled with shops, eateries, cafes, and tourist spots. An unmissable tourist place in Mussoorie, Mall Road is the best place to take a stroll or sit and relax in any of the famous bakeries or cafes. You can find many options for Mussoorie hotels on Mall Road. It is also one of the best places to visit in Mussoorie at night.
- Location: The Mall Road
- Timings: All day long
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Interesting Fact: Mall Road in Mussoorie is a vehicle-free zone. It is one of the few pedestrian-only streets in India, allowing visitors to leisurely stroll and explore the vibrant atmosphere without the disturbance of traffic.
14. Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie
This serene picnic spot is complete with waterfalls and a small freshwater pond to waddle about. You can take the ropeway from the Bhatta Village to the Falls. Do carry your own food and beverages, as there is no provision up there. However, make sure not to litter this natural paradise.
- Location: Bhatta Village
- Timings: 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Interesting Fact: It is not a natural waterfall but a man-made one. The waterfall is created by diverting water from the nearby Balta village stream.
15. Jwala Devi Temple, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand India
Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Jwala Devi Temple is situated on top of the Benog Hill. You have to trek for about 2 km from the Clouds End tourist spot to reach the temple. The temple is small and ancient and the view from the hill is astounding.
- Location: Benog Hills
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Interesting Fact: The temple is named after the eternal flame, which is said to have been burning continuously for centuries without any known source of fuel.
16. Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Mussoorie
The Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 11 km from Mall Road and is among the most loved Mussoorie sightseeing places when it comes to natural and scenic spots. Filled with cedar and pine trees, the sanctuary is popular for the varied species of exotic birds you can spot here. For wildlife enthusiasts, it is one of the best places to visit near Mussoorie.
- Location: Mussoorie Range, Benog
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: N/A
17. Christ Church, Mussoorie
Located in the centre of the city, this serene religious place is considered one of the first churches built in the Himalayan Ranges. Built in Gothic architectural style, the church is crowded during the weekends.
- Location: Camel’s Back Road
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Interesting Fact: It boasts a unique architectural feature known as the William Hill Organ. This magnificent pipe organ, installed in 1911, is one of the few remaining examples of its kind in India.
18. Nag Tibba Peak, Mussoorie
Located at a height of 10,000 feet, the Nag Tibba Peak is the highest peak in Uttarakhand in the lesser Himalayan Regions. The Nag Tibba Trek is one of the most difficult treks in Mussoorie and is attempted only by expert trekkers. It showcases famous bird’s eye view of the Mussoorie height.
- Location: Garhwal Himalaya
- Timings: All through the day
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Garhwal
20. Robber’s Cave, Mussoorie
This natural little hideout is a less-explored attraction in Mussoorie. This narrow creek is between two enormous rocks and a steady stream flows through. You can waddle about the stream and reach the waterfall at one end.
- Location: Gucchupani, Malsi
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹25 per adult
- Interesting Fact: The cave was once a hideout for robbers who used it as a secret refuge. It is believed that they would hide their loot inside the cave, and the complex network of tunnels made it difficult for others to locate their hidden treasures.
20. Kellogg Memorial Church, Mussoorie
Built in 1903, this church is a perfect example of Presbyterian architecture and houses the Landour Language School. The church is just 5.5 km from the main bus stand of the hill station and is located in a picturesque spot.
- Location: Landour
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Interesting Fact: It is believed to be the oldest existing church in Mussoorie. It was established in 1903 by Reverend Dr. Samuel H. Kellogg, an American Methodist missionary.
While a trip to Mussoorie is all about the views, the hot chai and trekking to the best viewpoints, do not forget to take a stroll along the Mall Road. The bakeries and restaurants here serve some of the tastiest sandwiches and cupcakes. Plus, you can stock up on some souvenirs that you will only find in the hills, to take back home. So for your next weekend getaways from Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Dehradun, or other cities up north, explore the best of Uttarakhand and its beauty at the pretty little town of Mussoorie.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mussoorie
Q. Which is the nearest airport to Mussoorie hill station?
A. The nearest air gateway to Mussoorie hill station is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, located at a distance of about 60 km. Flights from all major cities in India ply to Dehradun airport via Delhi.
Q. What are the different ways to reach Mussoorie from Dehradun?
A. Dehradun to Mussoorie distance is 33.8 km. You can take a bus from Dehradun railway station to reach the opposite ends of Mussoorie’s Mall Road — Library and Picture Palace. Another option is to hire a taxi from Dehradun to Mussoorie; the road journey will take approximately one and a half hours. You can even find a bike on rent in Dehradun to travel up to Mussoorie.
Q. How to get around Dehradun?
A. Most parts of Dehradun will have to be covered on foot; however, rickshaws are allowed in some parts of the city. For travelling to nearby attractions like Kempty Falls, taxis can also be hired. Another option for local sightseeing is GMVN — a government-operated 2X2 seater vehicle. There are many famous places to visit in Dehradun and Mussoorie to explore.
Q. Where to shop in Mussoorie?
A. The best shopping places in Mussoorie include Tibetan Market and Library Bazaar on Mall Road, Landour Bazaar, and Kulri Bazaar.
Q. What are some places to visit in Mussoorie for food lovers?
A. If you’re a foodie, you must visit popular restaurants and cafes in Mussoorie like Char Dukan, Cafe by the Way, Emily’s, Kalsang, Little Llama Cafe, Chic Chocolate, Lovely Omelette Centre and Tavern. You can try these cafe while exploring places to visit in Mussoorie in one day.
Q. What are the famous things of Mussoorie?
A. Some of the famous Mussoorie tourist places are Mall Road, Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and Lal Tibba.
Q. Are 2 days enough for Mussoorie visiting places?
A. Some places to visit in Mussoorie in 2 days include Gun Hill, Kempty Falls, Mall Road, Lal Tibba, Landour, and the Tibetan Buddhist Temple. There are many adventure sports and things to do in Mussoorie as well to enjoy during the getaway.
Q. Where is Mussoorie?
A. Mussoorie is a hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range. The average height of Mussoorie elevation of around 1,880 meters (6,170 feet) above sea level and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Q. How to reach Mussoorie?
A. The nearest airport to Mussoorie is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 60 kilometres away. The nearest railway station to Mussoorie is the Dehradun Railway Station, located around 34 kilometres away. Regular bus services operate from Delhi, Mussoorie to Dehradun, Haridwar, and other nearby cities to Mussoorie.
Q. How to reach Mussoorie from Delhi?
A. Delhi to Mussoorie distance is approximately 290 km, and the journey takes around 6-7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. There are options for flights and Delhi to Mussoorie bus, and also by taxis. There are no direct Delhi to Mussoorie train options.
Q. When does it snowfall in Mussoorie?
A. You can experience Mussoorie snowfall during the winter season, typically between the months of December and February. The exact timing and intensity of snowfall can vary from year to year, as it depends on weather patterns and climatic conditions. The weather in Mussoorie during winter ranges from 4°C-26°C.
Q. When is Mussoorie at her charming best?
A. Queen of Hill’s charm is at its peak during the summer season when the Mussoorie weather is pleasant. The hill station provides a respite from the scorching heat of the plains, attracting tourists looking for a cool and refreshing getaway. Mussoorie temperature ranges from 11°C – 36°C, it is considered to be the best time to visit Mussoorie.