How to Reach Mussoorie: A Complete Guide

Mussoorie, often called the “Queen of the Hills,” is a popular hill station located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. With its scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and peaceful environment, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. If you’re planning a trip to Mussoorie and wondering how to reach there, this guide will provide you with all the information you need. From different modes of transportation to the best routes, we’ll cover everything to ensure you have a smooth journey to this charming hill station.

1. Reaching Mussoorie by Air

The quickest way to reach Mussoorie is by air. However, Mussoorie does not have its own airport, so the nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.

Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (Approx. 55 km from Mussoorie)

• Location: Jolly Grant Airport is located about 25 kilometers from Dehradun city and approximately 55 kilometers from Mussoorie.
• Flight Connectivity: This airport is well-connected to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and others. Daily flights operate to and from Delhi, which is the most convenient route for many travelers.

How to Reach Mussoorie from Jolly Grant Airport

After you land at Jolly Grant Airport, you can easily find taxis or private cabs that will take you directly to Mussoorie. The journey from the airport to Mussoorie takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The road to Mussoorie is picturesque, with beautiful hills and valleys making the ride enjoyable.

Tip: Pre-booking a taxi from a reliable source can help you avoid last-minute hassles and ensure you get a fair price.

2. Reaching Mussoorie by Train

Another convenient way to reach Mussoorie is by train. The nearest railway station is in Dehradun, which is about 33 kilometers away from Mussoorie.

Dehradun Railway Station (Approx. 33 km from Mussoorie)

• Location: Dehradun Railway Station is centrally located in the city of Dehradun.
• Train Connectivity: Dehradun is well-connected to all major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Lucknow. Trains like the Nanda Devi Express, Dehradun Shatabdi, and Mussoorie Express offer daily services from Delhi to Dehradun. If you’re coming from other parts of the country, you will likely have to catch a train to Delhi first and then board a connecting train to Dehradun.

How to Reach Mussoorie from Dehradun Railway Station

Once you reach Dehradun Railway Station, you can take a taxi, cab, or a shared jeep to Mussoorie. The ride takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. There are also buses that operate regularly between Dehradun and Mussoorie, which are cheaper but may take a little longer.

If you’re looking for a more economical option, the bus service is quite reliable, and the local Uttarakhand State Transport Corporation (UTC) runs regular buses from Dehradun to Mussoorie.

Tip: It’s advisable to book your train tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as they tend to get sold out quickly.

3. Reaching Mussoorie by Road

Traveling to Mussoorie by road is a great option, as the drive is scenic and gives you the freedom to explore various stops along the way. Mussoorie is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh.

From Delhi to Mussoorie (Approx. 290 km)

The most common route taken by travelers is from Delhi to Mussoorie. The distance between Delhi and Mussoorie is about 290 kilometers, and the journey by road takes roughly 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Route from Delhi to Mussoorie:

• Delhi → Ghaziabad → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Dehradun → Mussoorie.

From Dehradun to Mussoorie (Approx. 33 km)

If you’re starting your road journey from Dehradun, the distance to Mussoorie is only 33 kilometers. It takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to reach, depending on the traffic.

Types of Road Transportation Available:

1. Private Car: If you’re traveling with family or friends, hiring a private car or driving your own vehicle is a great option. You can enjoy the flexibility of stopping at viewpoints and roadside eateries.
2. Taxi or Cab: Taxis are easily available from nearby cities, and many tourists prefer to hire one for the convenience of direct travel. You can hire taxis from Delhi, Dehradun, or other neighboring areas.
3. Bus Services: If you’re on a budget, taking a bus is an economical option. Several private and government-run buses operate from Delhi and Dehradun to Mussoorie. The buses are comfortable and can range from regular to luxury services, depending on your preference.
4. Self-drive: If you’re an experienced driver and enjoy mountain roads, renting a self-drive car is another good option. However, be cautious, as the road to Mussoorie can be winding and steep at some points.

Tip: If you’re driving yourself, try to leave early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic, especially during weekends and holidays.

4. Reaching Mussoorie by Bus

Bus travel is one of the most affordable and popular ways to reach Mussoorie, especially for backpackers and solo travelers.

Bus Services from Delhi to Mussoorie

There are several bus services available from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmere Gate to Dehradun. From Dehradun, you can take another bus or a taxi to reach Mussoorie. Some buses go directly to Mussoorie as well.

Types of Buses Available:

• Government Buses: The Uttarakhand State Transport Corporation (UTC) runs regular buses between Dehradun and Mussoorie. The journey is comfortable, and buses are available throughout the day.
• Private Buses: Many private bus operators also run buses between Delhi and Mussoorie. These can range from regular to luxury buses, depending on your budget and comfort level.

Tip: Book your bus tickets in advance, especially during the peak season, as buses can get filled up quickly.

5. Best Time to Visit Mussoorie

While Mussoorie is a year-round destination, the best time to visit depends on the kind of experience you are looking for:

• Summer (March to June): If you want to escape the heat of the plains, summer is the perfect time to visit. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings lush greenery, but it also makes the roads slippery and prone to landslides. It’s not the best time to travel by road, but if you enjoy solitude and nature, the misty mountains can be quite enchanting.
• Winter (October to February): If you love snow and chilly weather, winter is the best time to visit Mussoorie. Temperatures can drop to freezing point, and snowfall is common, especially in December and January. However, roads can sometimes be blocked due to snow, so keep that in mind while planning your trip.