Mussoorie is a beautiful hill station in the foothills of the Himalayas. It’s very popular for a family vacation, as well as for business meetings. Be it a family get-together or a visit at work, and even just a break from a busy schedule; Mussoorie has something special up its sleeve for everyone. There is something irresistible about the weather, the great views, and the fun filled markets of Mussoorie teeming with its unique souvenirs.
Now, if you are planning a visit to Mussoorie you might wonder how to reach Mussoorie. Don’t worry! I’m going to guide you step by step about the best ways to reach Mussoorie by train, car, or flight. Each way has its own benefits, and I will tell you everything you need to know for a smooth and easy journey.
1. How to Reach Mussoorie by Train
One of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to get to Mussoorie is through train. As Mussoorie does not have a railway station, you could take a train to Dehradun, the closest major railway station, and proceed from there to Mussoorie.
Train to Dehradun
Nearest railway station: Dehradun Railway Station about 35 Km from Mussoorie. Mussoorie connects to all main cities of the country such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Lucknow to name a few. In case if traveling from Delhi one of the very good options for reaching Dehradun is via Shatabdi Express which may take about 5-6 hours. Among other good choices for people commuting from Delhi include Nanda Devi Express.
Booking tickets for trains is simple and can be done through the IRCTC website or mobile applications, where one can check the availability, class options, and prices. AC coaches are provided for a comfortable journey, and sleeper coaches can be opted for if one needs a budget-friendly option.
From Dehradun to Mussoorie
It’s a 35 km ride through a very scenic road after you reach Dehradun. There are ample of taxis and buses at the train station that can take you to Mussoorie. For about 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions, is taken. I would advise a taxi reservation if you are carrying a lot of luggage.
Why Choose Train Travel?
- Advantages: The train journeys are economical, comfortable, and you get time to relax. During the journey, you will see the landscapes around you, and that will make the trip quite enjoyable. The trains are well connected from most of the cities, and it is convenient for most people.
- Cons: The only drawback is that you have to take another transport (bus or taxi) from Dehradun to Mussoorie, which takes a little extra time from your journey. Besides, there may not be many direct trains from some places.
2. How to Reach Mussoorie by Car
If you enjoy road trips and are looking for a fun and flexible way to get to Mussoorie, driving is an excellent option. The drive to Mussoorie is filled with breathtaking views of the hills, valleys, and forests. You will see some fantastic scenery, especially as you approach Mussoorie.
Driving Routes to Mussoorie
- From Delhi: The distance from Delhi is about 290 km and takes around 6-7 hours. On the way, you pass through Meerut, Roorkee, and Haridwar. Roads are nice and smooth, but when you are close to Mussoorie, the roads get narrow and twisting, so one has to be careful while driving.
- From Dehradun: If you are already in Dehradun, Mussoorie is 35 km away, and it will take you around 1.5 hours to get there.
- From Haridwar: If you are coming from Haridwar, the drive is about 90 km, and it will take around 3-4 hours.
Driving to Mussoorie can be a fun adventure, especially if you enjoy the beauty of nature while on the road!
Road Conditions and Tips
The roads leading to Mussoorie are good, but once you hit the foothills, they become pretty treacherous, especially in the monsoon season when roads become slippery. The journey is beautiful, but I would caution to drive with care, particularly at sharp bends. I would recommend traveling early in the day to avoid traffic, especially in peak seasons such as holidays or weekends.
Why Choose Car Travel?
- Pros: Traveling by car is unbeatable in terms of flexibility. You can stop to take breaks, enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and visit places along the way. It’s ideal for a laid-back road trip with family or friends. Plus, the journey becomes part of the adventure!
- Cons: Driving would be very taxing, especially while covering long meters. The twisted roads around Mussoorie might also be slightly challenging to cover, and a bit of traffic is inevitable at the time of tourists.
3. How to Reach Mussoorie by Flight
If you’re short on time and want to get to Mussoorie as quickly as possible, flying is the best option. Mussoorie doesn’t have an airport, but Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest, and it’s just 40 km away from Mussoorie.
Flights to Dehradun
Dehradun is well-connected by air to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chandigarh. Flights from Delhi to Dehradun are frequent and take about 1 hour. You can book your flight with airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet. The flights are generally affordable, and flying is the fastest way to reach Mussoorie, especially if you’re traveling from a distant city.
From Dehradun Airport to Mussoorie
Once you land at Jolly Grant Airport, you can easily find taxis and buses that will take you to Mussoorie. The drive is scenic and takes about 1.5 hours. If you’re staying at The Manor House, I suggest booking a taxi in advance for a comfortable and direct transfer.
Why Choose Flight Travel?
- Pros: Flying is the fastest way to reach Mussoorie, especially if you’re coming from a distant city. It saves you time, and once you land in Dehradun, it’s a short drive to your destination.
- Cons: The main drawback of flying is that you’ll still need to take a taxi or bus from the airport to Mussoorie. Additionally, flights can be more expensive than trains or driving, especially if you’re booking last minute.
4. Which Travel Option is Best for You?
Choosing the right mode of transport depends on your preferences, time, and budget. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
For Budget Travelers
If you’re looking to save some money, train travel is your best bet. It’s affordable, and the journey offers a relaxing experience, especially if you book in advance.
For Time-Sensitive Travelers
If you’re short on time and want to get to Mussoorie quickly, flying is the fastest option. A flight will save you hours compared to driving or taking the train.
For Road Trip Lovers
If you enjoy scenic drives and have the time, driving to Mussoorie will give you flexibility, and you’ll be able to enjoy the views along the way. Plus, you can explore Mussoorie markets and pick up Mussoorie souvenirs on your way.
5. Tips for a Smooth Journey to Mussoorie
Here are a few helpful tips to make your journey to Mussoorie as smooth as possible:
- Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit Mussoorie are from March to June (for pleasant weather) and September to November (for clear skies and cooler temperatures). I recommend avoiding the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
- What to Pack: Make sure to pack warm clothes, especially for the evenings, even in summer. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore Mussoorie markets or hike around the hill station.
- Travel Planning: Book your travel and accommodations in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons or holidays. Checking the weather and road conditions before traveling will help you avoid any surprises.
Conclusion
No matter how you choose to get to Mussoorie—by train, car, or flight—each journey offers a unique experience. Train travel is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy a scenic ride, while driving allows you to explore the area at your own pace. If you’re short on time, flying is the quickest way to reach Mussoorie, and once you arrive, you’ll be able to dive into the vibrant Mussoorie markets.
Whether you’re there for a business trip, a weekend getaway, or a casual get-together, Mussoorie offers something for everyone. Don’t forget to explore the Mussoorie markets for unique Mussoorie souvenirs to take home and cherish. Your journey to Mussoorie is just as enjoyable as the destination itself!
FAQs
1. How far is Mussoorie from Dehradun?
Mussoorie is approximately 35 km from Dehradun, taking around 1.5 hours by taxi or bus.
2. Can I take a direct train to Mussoorie?
No, Mussoorie does not have its own railway station. You need to reach Dehradun and then take a taxi or bus to Mussoorie.
3. How long does it take to drive from Delhi to Mussoorie?
The drive from Delhi to Mussoorie takes about 6–7 hours, covering 290 km.
4. Is there an airport in Mussoorie?
No, Mussoorie does not have an airport. You will need to fly into Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and then take a taxi or bus to Mussoorie.
5. What’s the best time to visit Mussoorie?
The best time to visit Mussoorie is from March to June (summer) and September to November (autumn), when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
