Mussoorie is one among 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. Myriad adventure activities,
several breathtaking landscapes and the best of shopping spots in hill stations
of India — Mussoorie has it all. Hence, among all the several activities, we
bring to you a list of best tourist attractions in Mussoorie.
Camel's Back Road:
Camel's Back Road is a four-kilometre-long stretch, named
after a natural cluster of rocks that are shaped like a camel’s hump. This road
connects two prominent locations, starting at Library Point and leading up to
Kulri Bazaar. The slope adjacent to the road contains a colonial cemetery that
dates back to the mid-19th century. With its beautiful views of the surrounding
hills at sunset and sunrise, it is ideal for early morning and late evening
walks. Horse rides and rickshaw rides are also available. Surrounded by Rocky
Mountains and green woods, it’s perfect for a tranquil break from the
hustle-bustle of Mussoorie’s Mall Road.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary:
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is surrounded by pine trees and
snow-capped mountain peaks. It serves as the natural habitat for rare species
of birds including mountain quails and red-billed blue magpie, as well as
wildlife like the Himalayan goat, the Himalayan bear, panthers, deer, and
leopards. Thickly forested with pine and fir trees, the area is also rich in
medicinal plants. Take in stunning views of the surrounding peaks, and sit
beside the Aglar River which flows down from Mussoorie into the sanctuary. This
is an ideal jaunt for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Shedup Choepelling Temple:
Also known as the Tibetan Buddhist temple, this was set up
by the Tibetan population in Mussoorie and is located on the Happy Valley road
close to the IAS Academy. The Dalai Lama took refuge in Mussoorie after he
escaped from Tibet, before the Tibetan community was granted refuge in
Dharamshala. The temple has a serene vibe and is especially suitable for those
seeking a bit of tranquillity amidst the madness. Housing many Tibetan
literature and books, the temple is adorned with clay lamps and colourful prayer
flags.
The Mall:
Take a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road, which is the
heart of Mussoorie. Although it’s jam packed with throngs of tourists on foot
and in vehicles, this is an exhilarating experience which will give you a
chance to get in a spot of shopping too. The two-kilometre-long stretch begins
from Library Point and goes all the way up to Picture Palace, although you
won’t find it as long owing to the variety of stalls selling bric-a-brac,
snacks and other knick-knacks along the way. We suggest munching on a hot
fire-roasted ‘bhutta’ (corn on the cob), which is absolutely essential to make
the experience complete. Look out for stores selling woollens and shawls.
Gun Hill:
The spectacular Gun Hill is among the most famous tourist
attractions of Mussoorie. It is the second highest peak in the region after Lal
Tibba. There is an interesting history that backs the popularity of the Gun
Hill. It is said that from this hilltop, the British used to fire a canon every
afternoon to help the natives know the time. Perched 400 ft above the Mall,
this enthralling place of tourist interest can be reached through a cable car
ropeway. This peak offers stunning views of snow-clad Himalayan ranges namely
Srikantha, Bandarpunch, Pithwara and Gangotri. Besides, the splendid view of
Mussoorie town and Doon Valley would leave you completely spellbound. The point
has many shops, restaurants and stalls where one can indulge in games like
balloon shooting and hoopla.
Municipal Garden:
The Company Garden at Mussoorie is a popular tourist
attraction in the mountain city of Mussoorie. Nestled amidst the high
Himalayas, it is a patch of green maintained by the Garden Welfare Association
of Mussoorie. It was laid down by Dr. H. Fackner in the early years of this
millennium. The vibrant garden is a lovely place to spend an entire day out
with your family and friends within the lush greenery and the beautiful
blossoms. Company Garden is dotted with tropical green trees of all kinds
providing shade to the visitors in patches. You can find people enjoying their
time sitting or strolling or taking photographs in the eclectic lawn of the
garden. There is an artificial pond for boating with manmade waterfalls at the
garden that makes a lovely scene to behold. If you have kids with you, they
will also have a gala time in the park with all the exciting rides and so much
space to run around. You can even satisfy the nature lover in you in this
delightful place and also take back a part with you - buy any small potted
plant at the nursery or any souvenir from one of the shops inside the garden.
Lal Tibba:
Lal Tibba being the highest peak
in Mussoorie gives a divine view of the mountains which house the holy shrines
of Kedarnath and Badrinath which can be seen through the Japanese Telescope
placed at the edge of the cliff. The hill houses the Indian Military Camp and
the towers of Doordarshan and All India Radio. Let loose your spirit to soak in
the pristine beauty and refreshing ambiance of Lal tibba still preserved in its
raw form and untouched by the hands of commercialisation. Stroll up the road
bounded by Conifers, Pine and Rhododendron, with promises to make it a walk to
remember. Landour was primarily inhabited by Britishers and thus is
characterised by beautiful colonial architecture and will be a common site when
you walk up to Lal Tibba. Childer’s Lodge is one such building and a famous
picnic spot for a perfect afternoon filled with fun and frolic.
Mussoorie Lake:
6 km from Mussoorie on way to
Dehradun. The Mussoorie Lake has been recently developed for tourists and lies
on Dehradun-Mussoorie road. Enjoy boating in one of the paddle boats, grab a
quick bite at one of the small restaurants around it, and take in beautiful
views of the valley below.
Kempty Falls:
By far, Kempty Falls is the star
attraction of the hill station of Mussoorie. This site was developed as a
leisure destination by John Mekinan, a British officer, in the year 1835. The
falls derived its name from Camp-Tea- a place where the British arranged tea
parties. This perennial waterfall, set amid high mountain ranges, is perched
above 4500 ft above sea level. Among the
largest cascades in the state, the Kempty Falls emerge from the mountains and
flows down the plains. From bathing in the shallow waters of the falls to
fishing and swimming, there are ample activities for visitors to indulge in. If
you don't seek adventure, enjoy a picnic or simply spend a couple of hours
listening to sound of gushing waters.
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