If I count the number of weekends I have spent in Mussoorie, I can very well say that it’s a home away from home for me. I guess for every Delhite the first place which comes into mind for a weekend getaway would be Mussoorie, also known as the queen of hills. Located 34 km uphill of Dehradun, it is an excellent place to chill out with plenty of options for everyone.  Party, nature, amazing mall road, trekking you name it and you will get it.

What I love about Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a 6 hr drive from Delhi roughly around 230-250 kms. First thing that mesmerizes you is the 34 km uphill drive from Dehradun to Mussoorie. The one hour scenic drive is a welcome change from the hustle of city life. The change in weather in such a short duration is wonderful to experience, and the road which is full of sharp turns and diversions adds a little excitement to life.

Whenever I suggest Mussoorie to my friends for a weekend trip, usually I get two replies:

1. There is nothing to see there.
2. I have been there millions of times and let’s explore a new place

Because of this very reason I got tempted to share some not so very popular places which are still unexplored in Mussoorie-

For all trekking/nature lovers this is an interesting day walk option; this will require one full day:

Mussoorie Library – Hathi Paon – Everest Hall – Cloud End – Benog Hill – Back to Mussoorie
Situated in the thick deodar forest, Sir George Everest House is a must visit place. This house is named after the first Surveyor General of India Sir George Everest after whom world’s highest peak Mt. Everest is named. The structure is in ruins and you will hardly find anyone around, however an excellent place for a picnic to sit, relax and enjoy the enchanting view of Himalayan ranges & Yamuna river on one side and Doon Valley on the other. Don’t forget to carry your binoculars to enjoy the view & camera to capture some breathtaking pictures of the Mother Nature.

From Everest hall you can take a short trek to Cloud End, a resort built in the 18^th century by the British. The trek is quite adventurous & I would suggest hiring some local to guide you the way. The place is full of flora and fauna and there is an echo point near the bungalow:), don’t forget to call your loved ones and listen to your voice echo back.

From Cloud End you can head towards Benog Hill, another adventurous trek.

Few other interesting places, which are worth exploring:

Surkhanda Devi Temple- This is the highest point in the area and located at the top of the hill. It is situated around 30-35 kms away from Mussoorie. The temple offers extensive view of the snow ranges and an experience one can never forget.

Mosey fall – The fall is surrounded by a dense forest and is 7-8 kms away from Mussoorie. Though it is a small fall, however going on a trek with friends is loads of fun.

Having mentioned the above, I will not dare to miss the  more popular ones as even a million visits are less to admire these beautiful scenic views:

Kempty Falls – 13 Kms away from Mussoorie is located one of the biggest and prettiest waterfall surrounded by high mountains. A bath at the foot of the fall is relaxing, enjoyable and an unforgettable experience during summer days .

Gun Hill offers an astounding view of the Himalayas, a bird’s eye view of Mussoorie and of course the entire Doon Valley. The cable car ride is a must as it offers beautiful mind boggling views.

Camel’s back road – A 2-3 km stretch, enjoyable for walking. You get a spectacular view of the sunset in the Himalayas from here. Don’t forget to spend your evening here.

There are many more places which I can share, in case someone is planning a visit Mussoorie do write to me & it will be pleasure to help you with.