Introduction
Mussoorie is among the many wonderful hill stations in India that offer adventurous escapes. Located in Dehradun district of Uttarakhand state, it is popularly known as the Queen of Hills for the Himalayan resources that it has been blessed with. Any idea of vacationing or adventure in North India is incomplete if you have not kept Mussoorie in mind. Check out our guide to the top things to do in Mussoorie. Myriad adventure activities, several breathtaking landscapes and the best of shopping spots in hill stations of India — Mussoorie has it all.
Top 19 Things To Do In Mussoorie
Popularly known as the “Queen of Hills”, this hill station showcases many enthralling adventure activities as well as soothing environment and serenity. Among all the several activities, we bring you a list of 19 best things to do in Mussoorie. Make your getaway to the hills memorable with these exhilarating activities:
- Trekking – A Popular Activity
- Hiking – Soak In The View
- Adventure Sports – For Adrenaline Junkies
- Rock Climbing – For Adventure Buffs
- Paragliding – For An Offbeat Experience
- Rafting – A Thrilling Experience
- Roller Skating – A Recreational Activity
- Winemaking – For A Different Experience
- Shopping – Explore The Vibrant Market
- Food Tour – Find Your Favorite Dishes
- Fishing – A Relaxing Activity
- Wildlife Safari – For Wildlife Enthusiasts
- Boating – Enjoy The Beautiful View
- Mall Road – Take A Stroll
- Roaming Over The Corn Village – An Off-Beat Experience
- Photography – Self-Satisfying Activity
- Horse Riding – A Refreshing Activity
- Mountain Biking – Adventurous Sport
- Zip Swing Adventure – A Lifetime Experience
1. Trekking – A Popular Activity
Trekking in Mussoorie is considered the most sought-after adventure for thrill-seekers. There are various locations in Mussoorie where travellers can partake in trekking including the Bhadraj Temple trek, Nag Tibba Summit, Har ki dun trek, Dodital trek, and more. Most of the treks in Mussoorie fall under low to moderate treks that do not require much training. Although Trekking is one of the best things to do in Mussoorie in winter, it is always recommended to check the best time of the trek as the activity could be on hold due to weather or some other reasons. So, get the thrill of adventure by taking up treks and camping trips at Mussoorie. These undiluted times spent with nature provide you the much-needed time for yourself.
Trekking and Camping operators: Trail hikers, Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd., Gio Adventures
Cost: The cost varies from one trek to another keeping in view the time taken, size of the group, distance and the quality of facilities provided.
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2. Hiking – Soak In The View
Mussoorie is full of mesmerizing landscapes. Majestic mountains and lush green valleys, drenched in floating clouds, make walks and treks hard to forget. Walking towards the Happy Valley from Library Head, from Valley View to Clouds End, and from Waverly Convent to Company Bagh are some of the best things to do in Mussoorie. Walk down these roads and lanes you would know why walking is the best way to explore mountains. Some of the best hikes in Mussoorie include Kempty waterfall hike, Happy valley hike, Jabarkhet Nature Reserve hike, Nag Tibba, and more.
Hiking Operators: Yeti Outdoors, Trail Hikers, Scrambling Adventures & Outdoors, Trip The Himalaya
Cost: The cost differs as per various factors of hiking. However, approximately INR 1500 is the starting range.
3. Adventure Sports – For Adrenaline Junkies
Open for public, first time in the world, Skywalk is one of the most fun things to do in Mussoorie. Fancy walking on a 360 ft long single wire rope at a height of 120 ft with free hands — excited? Safety is ensured as you are attached to a supporting wire with the help of a harness. While on a Zipline adventure, you are harnessed on wire rope with the help of pulley at the higher end and then made to slide with speed of 50 km per hour to the lower end of a 330 ft long vertical. Zip Swings is a mix of Zipline and Giant Swing at the height of 80 ft. Harnessed with wire rope, you first go by zipping on the rope till the middle and then swing high at 80 ft. These three make up for the most fun things to do in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand for families with kids and even couples.
Cost: INR 600 onwards for Skywalk, INR 300 onwards for Zipline and Zip Swings
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4. Rock Climbing – For Adventure Buffs
Rock climbing and rappelling have been the most conventional things to do in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. Mussoorie has various sizes of rocks ranging from 50 ft to 600 ft. One can choose according to their ability, physical fitness, and mental toughness. This is a new dimension of mountain adventure. Caving requires presence of mind, daring attitude, curiosity and guts. It involves thrill, overcoming fear, and passion for wilderness. 6 km before Dhanaulti, at Buranskhanda, there are several hidden caves surrounded by beautiful alpine meadows, trees, and breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
In fact, Mussoorie trekking and mountaineering are the best ways to test your strength! Mountain biking and ATV riding give another dimension to mountain based adventure sports in Mussoorie and are the best adventure activities in Mussoorie.They are all about speed, control, and thrill and are one of the latest ways of exploring vistas of the Himalayan landscape. Rugged terrains and steep slopes, though risky at times, provide great mountain biking experience in Uttarakhand Himalayas. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Mussoorie. Do keep this in mind when looking for adventure sports in Mussoorie.
Rock climbing and rappelling operators: Zip Line Adventures
Cost: INR 500 for rappelling and rock climbing, INR 3600 onwards for Caving tour for a group of 4, INR 500 per hour for ATV rides and mountain biking
5. Paragliding – For An Offbeat Experience
Mussoorie is one of the best destinations for paragliding in India. Paragliding operators in Mussoorie largely offer joyrides on a two-seater glider operated by professional pilots with over 3000 hours of flying experience. This is surely the easiest offbeat things to do in Mussoorie. It does not need any prior training or experience and one is never too young or old for it. The flights in Mussoorie are long rides of minimum 1 hour (15 km) up to 10,000 ft high. Indulge in one of these exciting activities and adventure sports in Mussoorie for a fun vacation.
Paragliding operators: Paragliding in Mussoorie, Zip Line Adventures
Cost: INR 2000 onwards, a long flight of 60 minutes costs INR 10,000
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6. Rafting – A Thrilling Experience
River Rafting in Mussoorie is one of the most offbeat things to do in Mussoorie. Swift-moving rivers offer a thrilling experience for white water rafters. These rivers flow through deep forests, rocky terrains, mountains and sometimes even along snowy slopes. Stretches along Alaknanda, Dhauliganga and Kali rivers have several challenging rapids. One can opt for a simple half-day tour and can raft from Barkot to Lakhamandal and Damta to Yamuna Bridge, near Mussoorie.
Rafting Operators: Uttarakhand Tourism Board
Cost: These are mostly customized plans inclusive of camping and vary as per the duration and the length of the expedition
7. Roller Skating – A Recreational Activity
It is indeed surprising that Mussoorie has India’s largest roller skating rink. If you are good at balancing, do try your hands at skating here. Give your feet some wheels, the body a swirl and you’ll feel the adrenaline rush giving you a pleasant high. Among the many skating rinks in Mussoorie, Jaypee Resort’s, The Rink in Kulri Bazaar, and Disco Skating Rink, behind the Tourist Office, are the popular ones. It is one of the most fun things to do in Mussoorie in December.
Roller skating operators: Uttarakhand Tourism Board
Cost: NA
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8. Winemaking – For A Different Experience
Popularly known as vinification, the process of making wine is considered as one of the offbeat things to do in Mussoorie. Mussoorie hosts several workshops that teach you the art of winemaking. One is taught to make a variety of wines from apples, pears, ginger, plum, and grapes, etc. Within a month, one can have ten bottles of exclusive wine made by their own hands. The recipes are mailed for later references. These workshops usually end with wine tasting sessions. In fact, it’s one of the best things to do in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand.
Location: Hotel Devdar
Cost: INR 1200
9. Shopping – Explore The Vibrant Market
Not the adventurous kind and wondering what to do in Mussoorie? Go for a shopping gig! The main shopping areas in Mussoorie are the Library, Kulri Bazaar, and Landour Bazaar. The shops here sell curios, ethnic jewelry, and antiques. Beyond Kulri Bazaar a road goes 5 km up to the old cantonment area of Landour. Shops in Landour market sell Raj memorabilia, silver jewelry, and books. One can pick up beautifully handcrafted walking sticks among other things from shops on the Mall. Just below the Mall Road is a Tibetan market where one can buy sleeping bags, windcheaters, sweaters and shawls at very reasonable prices. There are also small scale markets located just a little distance away from Mussoorie that you can explore, and that makes this activity one of the best things to do near Mussoorie and inside it.
Best markets: The Mall Road, Tibetan Market, Library Bazaar, Kulri Bazaar, Classic Emporium
Things to buy: Wooden and brass items, handicrafts, woolen garments, souvenirs
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10. Food Tour – Find Your Favorite Dishes
If your heart pumps for a new taste, then you must go on a traditional food tour which is one of the most popular activities in Mussoorie. The cuisine of Mussoorie is mainly influenced by Garhwali and Tibetan food. So, you’re sure to find your favorite dimsums and Thukpas and noodle soups on your trip here. Food made out of rice, lentils, pulses, meats, and milk products is what you’re usually gonna come across here. Popular Garhwali dishes include Aloo ke Gutke, Jhangora ki Kheer, Bal Mithai, Singodi, Gul Gula, Bhangjeera, Malta Juice, Rose Juice, and more.
Cost: INR 500 onwards
11. Fishing – A Relaxing Activity
Still wondering what to do in Mussoorie? There are plenty of opportunities for fishing in fresh waters. The hill station is known for its Trout, Maund and Mahseer fish. The Aglar River and Yamuna River would provide you with ample opportunities for trout fishing. However, you will have to take permits from the Divisional Forest Officer of Mussoorie beforehand. There can’t be better things to do in Mussoorie in March.
Best sites for fishing: Aglar River and Yamuna River
Cost: NA
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12. Wildlife Safari – For Wildlife Enthusiasts
Hop on a wildlife cum sightseeing tour and make your trip memorable. This is surely one of the most adventurous activities in Mussoorie. The Benog Sanctuary is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary houses Leopard Himalayan Bear, Panther and the Mountain Quail. On the other hand, Jabarkhet Wildlife Sanctuary is great trekking and camping spot. You may spot leopards at night. It houses leopards, langurs, black bear, porcupines and martens.
Best sites for safari: Benog Sanctuary, Jabarkhet Wildlife Sanctuary and Jim Corbett National Park<
Cost: INR 900 onwards
13. Boating – Enjoy The Beautiful View
Boating is another one of the top things to do in Mussoorie and often the first activity that one can enjoy on their trip to this hill station, as Mussoorie Lake is on the way to Mussoorie. It is a small lake where one can stop on their journey to Mussoorie. It is around 6 km before the city centre. There are a few food stalls where one can enjoy local food and snacks and one can also go boating in the lake. One can also stop at the lake on their way back to enjoy the views and boating here.
Location: Mussoorie Lake
Cost: INR 700 onwards
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14. Mall Road – Take A Stroll
Mall road is like the heart of a body for every hill station, Mussoorie is considered as one of the exceptional tourist destinations of Mall. There is a carnival-like atmosphere in summer where you can enjoy your walk with your partner. One of the main things to do in Mussoorie is to visit Jawahar Aquarium which is located on the Mall road.
Things to do: Indulge in shopping, go for a night stroll
Cost: Free
15. Roaming Over The Corn Village – An Off-Beat Experience
Have you ever heard of decorations with bunches of corn? The people of Sainji village decorated their homes as well as other buildings with bunches of corn. This place is an off-beat place where you can find the connection between natural resources and people’s art. Vacationers can spend their entire day while just interacting with the people of this village. Needless to mention, this is one of the best things to do in Mussoorie.
Location: Sainji Village
Cost: Free
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16. Photography – Self-Satisfying Activity
If you have an interest in photography then Mussoorie is the right place for you, rather it can be said like this is one of the important things to do in Mussoorie for a photographer. There are so many renowned photographers come here every year to catch the mesmerizing view of that place. Memory Falls, Jharipani Falls, Bhatta Falls are one of the most famous places for photography where you can find a mesmerizing landscape of nature.
Location: Anywhere in Mussoorie
Cost: No charges for photography
17. Horse Riding – A Refreshing Activity
Horse riding is one of the best things to do in Mussoorie which can give you a great experience and can make you happy. There is some specific route for this like Camels Back Road, Children’s Lodge are famous places for horse riding. To enjoy beautiful weather with Cool Breeze and Peaceful Atmosphere then camel’s back road is the right place. This place is excellent for a walk with your partner up to 3 km.
Location: Camels Back Road, Children’s Lodge
Cost: INR 150 onwards
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18. Mountain Biking – Adventurous Sport
If you are a bike lover and if you enjoy biking on the road of the mountain then mountain biking is one of the best things to do in Mussoorie. The road of Dhanaulti past Surkanda Devi Temple is a popular biking route where the landscape of nature is green, lush and full of pine, oak, apple and pear trees. This is one of the most famous adventurous activities in Mussoorie among couples and solo travelers. While getting an ultimate adrenaline rush, travelers are bound to quench their thirst for the thrill.
Location: Mussoorie
Cost: No entry fee if you are taking your own bike, but if you rent one then the prices vary for that
19. Zip Swing Adventure – A Lifetime Experience
There are many adventurous things by which you can make yourself happy. Zip swing adventure is one of the most popular things to do in Mussoorie which can give you a great experience of adventure. Through this activity, the adventurers will not only get the feeling of flying over the valley rather they will swing in between this. On the whole, this one-of-its-kind thrilling activity can give you chills and feel the beauty of nature at the same time.
Zip swing operators: Zip Swing Adventures
Cost: INR 900 onwards
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How To Reach Mussoorie
There are several ways that one can use in order to reach Mussoorie. Being a favorite among tourists, this destination has a well-connected network of transport. By Air: The nearest airport to this destination lies around 54 kilometers away and is named Jolly Grant Airport. One can use airways if they seek a quick commute. By Train: There are several trains that connect New Delhi with Dehradun, such as the Mussoorie Express, the Shatabdi Express, and the Nizamuddin AC Special. From a journey of a few hours to an overnight journey, there are both the options available for travelers. By Road: Mussoorie is a well-connected town that has an impeccable road-network backing it up. Buses, cabs, or private vehicles, everything can be used to cover the distance and reach Mussoorie by road.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Mussoorie
How many days are enough for Mussoorie?
You must plan a trip for at least 2 to 3 days if you wish to encounter most of the experiences of Mussoorie. Visiting the local markets, exploring iconic tourist attractions, planning getaways to waterfalls and valleys, there are numerous interesting things to do in Mussoorie.
Is it safe to travel Mussoorie during Covid times?
You need to follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the government. Make sure that you are taking the following precautions:
1. Wearing mask in public places
2. Maintaining 6 feet distance from others
3. Sanitizing your hands regularly
4. Avoiding social gatherings and crowded places
5. In case of any symptoms, get yourself tested urgently
Which are the most romantic things to do in Mussoorie for couples?
The following are the most romantic things to do in Mussoorie on a holiday:
1. Indulge in adventures at Kempty Falls
2. Watch sunset at the Cloud’s End
3. Evening strolls at Camel’s Back Road
4. Capture panoramic views from Lal Tibba
5. Buy plants from the Company Garden
6. Go for picnic at Gucchu Pani.
What are the best activities to enjoy in Mussoorie for families with kids?
There is so much in Mussoorie that families with kids can enjoy and make the most of their vacation. They can go hiking, cable car rides, visit wildlife sanctuary, enjoy food and shopping, go sightseeing to enjoy a fun-filled time in Mussoorie.
What are the best restaurants in Mussoorie?
There are many amazing restaurants in Mussoorie that offer the best food experience to the visitors here. The most popular restaurants in Mussoorie are:
1. Trout House Grill & Bar
2. JW Cafe
3. The Writer’s Bar
4. Regency Restaurant
5. Wisteria Deck
6. Urban Turban Bistro
Are Ola & Uber cabs available in Mussoorie?
Ola and Uber cabs aren’t available in Mussoorie as of now. However, travelers can hire Ola cabs in Dehradun. For Mussoorie, private cabs can be hired which makes a smart option.
How is the road from Haridwar to Mussoorie?
Mussoorie doesn’t have an airport or a train station and by road from Haridwar is the best way to reach the hill town. You can either hire a cab or drive your private vehicle to cover the distance of 86 km from Haridwar to Mussoorie. It is a smooth drive of 3.5 hours and the scenic route is another added advantage.
Which month is best for Mussoorie?
Mussoorie is pleasant all throughout the year. However, if you wish to witness the best of it, you can visit the place anytime between October and June. During this time you can indulge in various recreational activities and make the most of your Mussoorie vacation.
Where can I go shopping in Mussoorie?
The following are the most popular markets in Mussoorie:
1. The Mall Road: Home Decor, outfits, souvenirs, etc
2. Tibetan Market: Hand-woven carpets, sober artifacts, inexpensive outfits and accessories
3. Library Bazaar: Wooden items, trinkets, vases, electronic products
4. Kulri Bazaar: Local handicrafts, outfits, accessories, footwear, etc
5. Classic Emporium: Handcrafted lampshades, Tibetan sculptures, accessories, etc