Permanent migration of people from small towns to bigger cities for employment opportunities, higher and better educational prospects, political disturbance, inter-ethnic conflicts and even for a temporary stay to avail better medical facilities, have led major cities to turn into a concrete jungle. Temperatures are soaring sky high day by day due to deforestation. Therefore to enjoy natural beauty in its full glory, one has to look out for a trip to nearby locations, to favor themselves of pollutant free and natural landscapes.

Living in Delhi and the NCR Region gives one the opportunity to explore hordes of places with scenic natural beauty, in all its charm, still untouched by the hustle-bustle of busy urban life. There are few flawless slope-stations close to Delhi, offering an extraordinary getaway with family and friends. This summer vacation we decided to give, The Queen of Hills-Mussoorie, a visit. Since we were seeking an absolutely peaceful and relaxing surrounding, we planned our trip after school vacations were over.

Considering the fact that all major hill stations get overcrowded during the vacation time, as holidayers throng to cooler locations to beat the heat, we strategized our stay at Mussoorie accordingly.

And Voila!!! Things worked out exactly the way we wished. Our trip gave us the much desired serene and blissful surroundings to totally detox and unwind ourselves.

The +++++ (pluses) of visiting the hill town after the vacations were

• Close to Vacant Resorts, Hotels, Malls (which meant much better services and no queuing up for your turn).
• No jamming at roads.
• Neat sightseeing locations (which otherwise gets cluttered up due to littering during peak times).

How to Reach There?

Nearest Airport and Railway Station is Dehradun and from there a taxi can be hired or you can personally drive up the hill.

We opted for Shatabdi Express from New Delhi to Dehradun (which was much convenient) and took a friend’s car from there to drive personally. About 36 kilometers from Dehradun is Mussourie, a wonderful hill station situated at the height of 2005mts above sea level in Uttrakhand.

A peek at the journey

On our way up the hills to Mussourie, our close encounter with clouds crossing their way amidst lush green hills was a sight to behold. We were completely enamored by the Oaks, the Pines, the Deodars, the undulating tree-covered hills, and the panoramic view of the mountain rise, form layer after layer to the horizon.

The freshness in the air, the pristine beauty of the flora and fauna is breathtakingly fascinating. The steep inclines and the adventurous ride witnessing the soothing, pollution free surrounding, in the lap of mountains alongside relishing hot and freshly roasted, local sweet corn, enroute to the hotel left us completely mesmerized. We were lacking the words to describe such an exhilarating view of the valley down the hill.

I had a similar experience during my visit to Nainital around 20 years back, but I would like to give Mussourie a higher score in terms of steepness and inclination of the road. Navigating our way (thanks to Google Maps) we reached at our destination hotel.

Upon reaching the hotel booked for our 3 days stay in Mussourie, I gave myself a pat on the back for choosing such an apt room which had the most glorious view. Nestled amidst the rich, lush green surroundings, boasting of the most exclusive views of the hills, it had an aura of romance to itself.

The weather was bright and clear and the diverse colors of beautiful nature were at prominent display. A leisurely stroll in the evening amidst the woods around of Pine, Cedar, Birch, and Deodar glowed green. The serene aura and the charm of mountains truly feeds the souls of the peace-loving traveler like me.

On one hand, I was lounging in the silence and peace of the locale and on the other hand I was equally excited to explore the various beauty spots around the vicinity which Mussourie has to offer. The next morning we woke up to this picturesque view of the mists enveloping the mountain slopes and painting the sky a faint mauve. This called for savoring the garma-garam stuffed parathas or puri bhaji and to go along with it a hot piping tea. Nothing could be more pleasant than this incredible weather. The climate in the hills is totally unpredictable and is never the same throughout the day. While we were still rejoicing the refreshing coolness, it was a bright sunny day the next moment.

By 10am we were all geared up to move out of super cozy room to explore the city of glorious views and the peaks.

Places to Visit

Kempty Falls

15km from Mussourie on the Yamunotri road at an altitude of 450ft, it has the distinction of being the biggest and prettiest waterfall located in a beautiful valley and is surrounded by high mountains. Kempty falls is very popular among tourists. This place offers a cascading view of water falling from 40ft. Both at the foot of the falls is refreshing and enjoyable for children and adults alike.

Gun Hill

This place offers a beautiful view of the Himalayan Ranges and a bird’s eye view of the Mussourie Town and Doon Valley. A Ropeway ride to the second highest peak of Mussoorie can be enjoyed here. The sheer thrill of the ride is memorable.

Camel’s Back Road

Shaped like the back of a camel, the road stretches from Kulri Bazaar near Rink Hall and ends at Library Bazaar covering a total distance of about 3kms. The main charm of this road is horse riding and walking. The sunset view of the Himalayas here is worth visiting. A lifelike resemblance of the Camel’s back can be seen from a spot near Mussourie High School.

Company Garden

A picnic spot having a beautiful garden and an artificial mini lake with boating facilities is located at a distance of only 2kms on foot via Waverly Convent Road.

Surkanda Devi Temple

Situated at an elevation of 3030mts above sea level near a village, Kaddukhal, the temple of Surkanda Devi is of great religious significance. A fair is held every year on “Ganga Dussehra” during May-June in which thousands of believers participate.

George Everest House

This house is the peak estate of Sir George, the Surveyor General of India. Sir George had his office and residence here. Mount Everest, the highest peak of the Himalayas was named after Sir George.

Lake Mist

About 5kms before Kempty Falls on the Mussourie-Kempty Road is a developed good picnic spot with accommodation and restaurant facilities, boating is also available. The place showcases nature in an exquisite manner. With the Kempty Falls River flowing through it, Lake Mist has many small but beautiful waterfalls made by the river. This is an absolute gem in the Queen of Hills.

Lal Tibba

Famous for viewing long trails of major Mountain Peaks. It is located at Depot Hill in Landour, set at an altitude of 2290mtrs above sea level.

Clouds End

Clouds End is the landmark to the geographical end of Mussourie. Located at around 7km from main Mussourie city, it is best known for the pleasant scenic view of hills enjoyable climate. A heritage building, built by the British in 1838 is also an attraction here.

We could cover a few, although it has a lot to offer.

I so wish the beauty of this place remains as flawless as ever.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This story is contributed by Mrs. …