Mussoorie, India – Redefining India Tourism

Mussoorie, the ‘Queen of Hills’ in the state of Uttaranchal, boasts of its idyllic location amidst the Garhwal Hills. This popular hill station in north India offers stimulating views of the valleys below and the snow-capped mountains. Like other hill resorts in India, Mussoorie is far away from noisy traffic, pollution and hustle-bustle of the metro cities. It emerged as a prominent tourist destination in the 1820s.

Tourist Attractions

It is believed that Mussoorie name is derived from the Mansur shrub (Cororiana nepalensis), which is found in abundance here.

Lal Tibba

Situated in the Landhour area (the oldest colony of Mussoorie), Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie. It is a wonderful spot for all the trekkers as it serves as the gateway to the Childer’s Lodge. One can have marvellous views of the entire valley from here.

Gun Hill

This second highest peak of Mussoorie is the most popular among all the tourists. The best activity to enjoy here is the 400 meter long rope-way ride, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges namely Bunderpunch, Shrikanta, Pithwara and Gangotri group. It is believed that prior to India’s independence, a gun was mounted on this hill to be fired at mid-day to enable the people to adjust their watches. Therefore it was named Gun Hill.

Kempty Falls

Located at an altitude of about 4500 feet, Kempty Fall is considered as the most beautiful one in the entire valley. It lies on the Yamunotri Road, 15 km from Mussoorie. Lush green mountains in the backdrop of the falls add to the beauty of the place. The view is best enjoyed during monsoon.

Municipal Garden

For memorable evenings with family or friends, the municipal garden is an ideal place with an artificial mini lake and boating facilities.

Camel’s Back Road

This 3 km long road, stretching from Kulri Bazar to Library Bazaar, is a nice spot for long walks. Mostly people visit the place to view the awesome sunset when crimson red color dissolves in the sky. It is called Camel’s Back Road because it resembles a camel’s back on watching from Mussoorie Public School.

Jwalaji Temple

Located about 9 km from the city center, this temple is built over the Benog Hill. Also serving as a wonderful viewpoint for the entire valley, the temple is surrounded by dense greens. Last 2 km distance to the temple is to be covered on foot, which is actually a fun. This way, one can explore the divine natural beauty of the region as well.

Shopping

Oakwood walking sticks, hand-knit cardigans, Tibetan Prayer wheels and vases are a few items that are the best buy in the Tibetan Street Market. Apart from that, other local shops at the Mall Road can be seen loaded with good quality woodcarvings, brass statues, ceramic vases and precious stones. Pure Ladakhi Shawls and antique Jamawar Shawls are some other best buys in Mussoorie, but are quite costly as well.