Mussoorie: The Queen of the Hills

Nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range, Mussoorie is affectionately known as “The Queen of the Hills” for its breathtaking landscapes and serene ambiance. This charming hill station, situated at an altitude of approximately 2,005 meters, offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can stroll along the famous Mall Road, explore the tranquil beauty of Kempty Falls, or take a cable car ride to Gun Hill for a panoramic view of the Doon Valley. Mussoorie’s colonial architecture, coupled with its cool, refreshing climate, makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst nature’s splendor.

1. Kempty Falls

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)

2. Lal Tibba

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

3. Gun Hill Point

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

4. Company Garden

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

5. Cloud’s End

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

6. Jharipani Falls

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

7. Mussoorie Lake

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)

8. Sir George Everest’s House

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

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

10. Lake Mist,

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

12. Bhatta Falls

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

13. Benog Wildlife Sanctuary

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

14. Nag Tibba Peak

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

15. Robber’s Cave

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

The Best Shopping Places in Mussoorie

1. Mall Road

Mall Road is the main shopping hub in Mussoorie. Most of the hill station’s famous stores are all located here. The shops here sell everything from electronics to consumer durables and even everyday essentials.

Apart from this, you can also get yourself woollen clothing, antiques and shawls. Bargaining is common practice here, so if you got good negotiation skills, you might get yourself a good deal on what you buy.

• Location: Mall Road

2. Cambridge Book Depot

Synonymous with famed author Ruskin Bond, the Cambridge Book Depot has been in existence for a long time. A popular bookstore, this place stocks the largest collection of novels, including those by Ruskin, travel guides, periodicals and magazines.

The staff know their books well and are more than willing to recommend a good read if you are not sure what to pick up. You can meet Ruskin Bond at this store on Saturdays in the afternoon.

• Location: Mall Road
• Timing: 8.30 am to 7.30 pm

3. The Tibetan Market

At this market, you will find many shops and stalls run by local Tibetans. At these stores, you can shop for a variety of winter clothes, shawls, Tibetan woodwork and prayer wheels.

The market is also famous for its footwear and woven carpets. There are a few food stalls too serving momos and other delicious Tibetan delicacies.
Location: Mall Road

4. Kulri Bazaar

Yet another popular shopping market in Mussoorie, the Kulri Bazaar is always crowded till 10 pm. Located at the south end of the Mall Road, there are many shops selling clothing items and a few restaurants. There are a few vendors selling handicrafts at reasonable prices.

• Location: Mall Road

5. Himalayan Weavers

Situated on the Mussoorie-Dhanaulti Road, the Himalayan Weavers is a great place to buy shawls and woven products. The store is run by a British national. All the products are made from natural dyes. The main store is in Dehradun, but there is one at Mussoorie, too.

• Location: Dhanaulti Road

6. Landour Bazaar

An old market, visit here to feel nostalgia and get an insight into Mussoorie’s past. There are a few shops that sell everyday essentials and antiques. You can also find a few shops that sell shoes at this market; the market is especially popular for their Roman sandals.

• Location: Landour

7. Sisters Bazaar

This bazaar is also quite an old one in Mussoorie. The two most popular stores here are Prakash Stores and the Landour Bakehouse. You will also find a few stalls selling antiques and woollen clothes, during the tourist season.

• Location: Mussoorie Town

Best Street Food in Mussoorie: Local Delicacies

1. Aaloo ke Gutke

Aloo ke Gutke is an important dish in Mussoorie. It is prepared using roasted dry spices and boiled pahari potatoes. Mildly spiced, this dish is commonly eaten at festivals. However, it is served in restaurants as well.  Aloo ke Gutke is best eaten with puris and Kheera ka Raita that is normally served with the dish.

Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop, Nainital

• Address: The Mall Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
• Description: A popular spot in Nainital known for its varied menu and delightful local dishes, including Aaloo ke Gutke.

2. Kafuli/Kapaa

This dish is nothing but spinach curry. Commonly prepared in the winter season, this warm and calming dish is popular at many vegetarian restaurants in Mussoorie. The dish is made using a blend of spinach and lai. Some people make it differently, instead of spinach, they use fenugreek leaves. Kafuli is best enjoyed with steamed rice or a plain jeera pulao.

Kafuli (or Kapaa) is a traditional Kumaoni dish made with green leafy vegetables like spinach and fenugreek, cooked with local spices. To try authentic Kafuli/Kapaa, you can visit the following places in Uttarakhand:

1. Sakley’s Restaurant & Pastry Shop, Nainital
   • Address: The Mall Road, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263002
   • Description: A popular spot offering a variety of Kumaoni dishes, including Kafuli.

3. Phaanu

Phaanu is a dish that actually originated in Garhwal, but to the migration of people, it made its way to Mussoorie. Delicious and tasty, the dish is made using lentils that include the Gahat dal. Normally eaten with rice, this dish can also be enjoyed with rotis.

Phaanu is a traditional Kumaoni dish made from lentils, often enjoyed in the Uttarakhand region. To savor authentic Phaanu, consider visiting these locations:

1. Hotel Shikhar, Almora
   • Address: Near Bus Stand, Lala Bazar, Almora, Uttarakhand 263601
   • Description: Known for its authentic Kumaoni cuisine, this hotel’s restaurant serves traditional dishes including Phaanu.

4. Chainsoo

Chainsoo is made using a variety of dals and locally made masala. The dals are roasted to give the dish an earthy flavour, while the spices leave an amazing aroma. Slow cooked, this dish is best savoured with rice or a chapati.

Chainsoo is a traditional Kumaoni dish made from black gram (urad dal) and spices, typically enjoyed in the Uttarakhand region. Here are some places where you can find authentic Chainsoo:

1. Hotel Shikhar, Almora
   • Address: Near Bus Stand, Lala Bazar, Almora, Uttarakhand 263601
   • Description: Known for its traditional Kumaoni cuisine, including Chainsoo, this hotel offers an authentic dining experience

5. Bhang Ki Chutney

Bhang Ki Chutney, yes you heard that right, this dish does have bhang in it and it is actually a delicacy in Mussoorie. Served as a side dish, Bhang Ki Chutney is also made with hemp seeds. The seeds add a fresh aroma and a delicious taste.

Bhang Ki Chutney is a unique and traditional dish from Uttarakhand made with hemp seeds (bhang), spices, and herbs. If you want to try this authentic chutney, here are some places known for serving it:

1.Chandni Chowk Restaurant, Mukteshwar

• Address: Near Mukteshwar Temple, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand 263138
• Description: A local eatery offering traditional Kumaoni foods, including the distinctive Bhang Ki Chutney.

6. Garhwal ka Fannah

You may be wondering why there is so much dal featured on this list, but that’s how it is in Mussoorie. Most delicacies are dal-based and Garhwal ka Fannah is no different.

The dish is cooked in a brown-based gravy and made using black gram dal. Some locals and restaurants make it different, using different kinds of dals. The dish is often served for lunch or dinner and goes well with steamed rice. It is Mussoorie’s answer to rajma chawal.

Garhwal Ka Fannah is a traditional dish from the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, made with various local ingredients and spices. For an authentic experience of this dish, consider visiting these locations:

1. Hotel Sattal, Sattal
   • Address: Sattal, Nainital, Uttarakhand 263136
   • Description: Known for its traditional Garhwali cuisine, this hotel often serves regional dishes like Garhwal Ka Fannah.