The Pride of Garhwal – Mussoorie and Dehradun

The beautiful northern Indian state of Uttarakhand boasts of many places worth a visit. While the hilly region of Kumaon is home to the Lower Himalayas and offers sweeping views of the snow-clad peaks, the plains of Garhwal have their own unique charm. Uttarakhand’s capital city of Dehradun lies in the plains and Garhwal is home to the Queen of the Hills, Mussoorie.

With its beautiful valleys, snow-clad mountains and amazing views, Garhwal is a must-visit destination.

Dehradun Calling

About 236 kilometres from New Delhi, Uttarakhand’s capital Dehradun is a bustling city located in the Doon Valley. The climate is milder here compared to some of the other tourist destinations in the state. The city has many British-era buildings, the most striking one being the Forest Research Institute. The massive red brick building with Mughal towers is located in a 500-hectare park. It houses a museum displaying various aspects of forestry in the country. The Clement Town area has a vibrant Tibetan community and houses the five-storey stupa of the Mindrolling Monastery. Other places of religious significance include the Tapkeshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and set inside a dripping cave and the Santala Devi Temple, which is located 15 kilometres from the city. For some shopping, visit Paltan Bazaar for good quality spices and the famed Doon basmati rice, as well as for woollen clothes, jewellery and traditional artefacts.

On your trip to Dehradun, be sure to visit the stunning Forest Research Institute | Photo Credit: Rakesh Dogra / flickr

Mussoorie Magic

The hills of Mussoorie have been brought alive by the beloved children’s book writer Ruskin Bond, who has been residing in the adjoining cantonment town of Landour for several decades. Mussoorie is located about 290 kilometres from New Delhi and is just 35 kilometres from Dehradun. The aptly named ‘Queen of the Hills’ offers some great views – the Himalayas to the north and the Shivalik range to the south and overlooks the verdant Doon Valley. Head to Lal Tibba, Mussoorie’s highest peak, for spectacular views. On the way, stop at St. Paul’s Church at Chaar Dukaan. Childer’s is an imposing estate (now known as Nahata Estate) at the top of Lal Tibba, and the shop at the gate is known as Binocular Point – on a clear day you can see the Himalayan peaks from here. Other points of interest include Mussoorie Lake (for boating), Kempty Falls (15 kilometres from the city) and Jharipani Falls (8.5 kilometres away).

Catch stunning views of Mussoorie and the snow-capped hills from Lal Tibba | Photo Credit: rajkumar1220 / flickr

The colonial influences on the town are evident in its architecture – administrative buildings, hotels and churches all bear the distinctive mark of the Raj. As with most hill stations in India, the main promenade in town is known as Mall Road or the Mall. Dotted with shops and restaurants, this is where most tourists hang out. The Gothic Christ Church, built in the 19^th century, is worth a visit especially for its stained glass. And if you’re in town on a Saturday evening, make a beeline for Cambridge Book Depot for the ‘Meet Ruskin Hour’! Get your favourite book signed by the author and take away priceless mementos from Mussoorie.

So, does a trip to Garhwal sound tempting? Book your flight or train tickets with MakeMyTrip and get the best rates.