Hello travel enthusiasts, harsh here!!! Welcome aboard! Let me take you on a journey to the stunning hills of Mussoorie, nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand. I recently explored this charming hill station with two of my closest friends. Meticulously planning every step to ensure we soaked in the essence of its beauty and enjoyed a seamless travel experience. Join me as I recount our adventure through this hidden gem of nature’s embrace.
From New Delhi to Dehradun: A Journey on the Nanda Devi Express
I was so excited to start my adventure by hopping on the famous Nanda Devi Express. It would take me from the vibrant streets of New Delhi to the peaceful charm of Dehradun. Also, I made sure to take a ticket for the well-known Dehradun-New Delhi Shatabdi for the trip back. Showcasing just how reliable and convenient Indian Railways can be for reaching far-off places.
Top Accommodation Picks for a Stay in Mussoorie:
- I loved staying amidst the lush green hills, and the Mussoorie Gateway Hotel was perfect for that. Also, it sits right on Mall Road, offering a lovely getaway for just Rs 900 a night. The best part? They provide a free shuttle service to Mall Road. Making it super convenient to explore the local charm without any hassle.
- Also, we stayed at Jharipani Castle, one of Mussoorie’s oldest buildings. Originally owned by Crown Breweries during British rule, it later became the royal family’s property, also known as “Patiala House.” Likewise, they offer neat, clean, and comfortable log huts and luxury rooms with private bathrooms. Along with landscaped gardens and terraces.
From Dehradun to Mussoorie: A Day 1 of Scenic Beauty and Nature’s Majesty
Setting off from Dehradun as the sun kissed the horizon, I ventured on a scenic bus journey to Mussoorie. The bus dropped me off at the quaint end of Picture Palace, marking the beginning of my adventure along the famed Mall Road.
The uprise to Lal Tibba, renowned for its breathtaking sights, unfolded as a leisurely 3-kilometre walk, punctuated by frequent pauses to absorb nature’s grandeur. Also, we had a delicious breakfast at the iconic “Lal Tibba Binoculars and Café.”. Moreover, I was thrilled to use the free rooftop binoculars, which gave me an amazing view of the endless mountain peaks.
While Company Garden exuded charm with its man-made waterfalls and green lawns, it paled in comparison to the untamed splendour of Mussoorie’s natural environs, reaffirming my belief in the unmatched magnificence of nature.
Spiritual Awakening in Happy Valley: Day Two of My Mussoorie Adventure
Day two began with my excitement to explore even more. I left the comfort of Mussoorie Gateway and embarked on a spiritual journey through the peaceful Happy Valley.
Also, we visited Shedup Choepelling Temple, a serene Buddhist monastery surrounded by lush hills. Moreover, I found solace in the chanting that filled the air.
Next, we hiked to Dalai Hill, where a golden Buddha statue stands among colourful prayer flags, each colour representing the hopes of the faithful.
The whole trip cost Rs. 10,000 per person. It was worth every penny. After the amazing journey, I went back to New Delhi by train. It was such a wholesome experience.
Top Café Recommendations in Mussoorie: For Food Lovers
- Lal Tibba Binoculars and Café: The cafe here is known not for its food but for its terrace with binoculars. From here, you can see ranges like Badrinath, Kedarnath, and the Banderpooch peaks. To use the binoculars, you just need to buy something from the menu—I got coffee for Rs. 90.
- Cafe IVY: This cafe has the best ambience and a mesmerising view of the valley. It is decorated with antiques, books, and posters of legendary music bands. The staff is very humble. It’s the perfect place to take a break while hiking to Lal Tibba—a great recharge point. Best Dishes: Maggie, Pizza, and Waffles.
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie:
- Summer (April to June): Ideal for escaping the heat of the plains. Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. Perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Winter (December to February): Experience snowfall and winter sports. Temperatures can drop to sub-zero levels, so pack warmly.
Things to pack:
- Warm Layers: Even in summer, evenings can be cool. Pack sweaters, jackets, and scarves.
- Also, comfortable shoes are good for walking and hiking. Opt for waterproofing if possible.
- Moreover, Umbrellas or raincoats, especially during monsoons.
- Likewise, carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
- To stay hydrated, pack some snacks.
Tips for travellers:
- Book in advance if possible, but if you’re going spontaneously, head to the Landour area for quieter stays. Check out both hotels and homestays for a range of experiences.
- Also, be prepared for sudden weather changes. The hill station can get quite chilly, especially in the evenings.
As I drove back to the city, I felt rejuvenated and grateful for the unexpected adventure. Mussoorie, with its gorgeous hills and warm hospitality, had truly captured my heart. So, enjoy your spontaneous trip to Mussoorie and soak in the natural beauty of the Queen of the Hills!Dig into a treasure trove of travel tales at https://sowl.in/stories/ for your wanderlust satisfaction!
