Mussoorie, known as the “Queen of the Hills,” sits west of Nainital and is one of Uttarakhand’s most popular destinations. The two hill stations are approximately 300–320 km apart and are well connected via scenic highways and reliable public transport. Here’s a step-by-step guide to all the best travel options, travel times, costs, and key tips.
Distance and Overview
- By Road: 300–320 km (commonly cited highway routes)
- By Train: 9–10 hours (includes road/rail transfers)
- Usual Travel Time: 8–10 hours (road, depending on traffic and weather)
Main Travel Options
1. By Taxi or Private Car
- Fastest and most flexible option
- Travel Duration: 7.5–8.5 hours by road
- Typical Fare: ₹7,500–₹11,000 (one way; varies by car and season)
- Booking: Taxi stands, online cab services, hotel travel desks
- Route: Nainital → Haldwani/Kathgodam → Rudrapur → Haridwar → Dehradun → Mussoorie (alternate via Najibabad/Dehradun)
- Perks: Door-to-door transfer, can stop at Haridwar, Dehradun, or roadside cafés for sightseeing or meals
2. By Bus
- Economical but less direct (may require changing in Dehradun)
- Direct Private Buses:
- Duration: 10–12 hours
- Fare: ₹2,000–₹3,000 (depends on class/operator)
- Departure: Often overnight or evening (ex: 7:00 PM from Nainital Bus Stand/Tallital)
- Operators: AC sleeper, semi-sleeper, Volvo
- Drop: Mussoorie main bus stand or specified stop (verify with the operator)
- Government Buses:
- Transferring at Dehradun is typical; Nainital → Dehradun (8–9 hours), then local bus/taxi (37 km, 1–2 hours) to Mussoorie
- Booking: Online ticketing portals and at bus stands
3. By Train (Train + Road Combination)
- Best for budget travelers or reliable scheduling
- Step 1: Nainital to Kathgodam/Haldwani by taxi or bus (1–1.5 hours)
- Step 2: Train from Kathgodam to Dehradun (overnight express or day train, ~8–9 hours)
- Typical Example: Kathgodam–Dehradun Express (12092/14120)
- Step 3: From Dehradun station, hire a local taxi or board a bus to Mussoorie (35 km; 1.5–2 hours)
- Combined Duration: 9–11 hours (not counting wait times)
- Costs: Train ₹400–₹1,600; taxi/bus Dehradun–Mussoorie ₹300–₹800
Sample Comparison Table
| Mode | Route Details | Duration | Typical Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Private Car | Nainital–Mussoorie (direct) | 8–9 hrs | ₹7,500–₹11,000 | Fastest, door-to-door |
| Bus | Via Dehradun or direct/overnight | 10–12 hrs | ₹2,000–₹3,000 | Several nightly options |
| Train + Road | Kathgodam–Dehradun–Mussoorie | 9–11 hrs | ₹700–₹2,400+ | Overnight with transfers |
Essential Travel Tips
- Book early for all options in summer and holiday seasons.
- Bus: Confirm your drop-off point in Mussoorie since some buses end at Dehradun.
- Weather: Hill roads can be slow during monsoon (July–September) or winter.
- Luggage: Pack light for easy transfers, especially if you mix bus/train segments.
- Refreshment Stops: Major highways have plenty of stops for meals/restrooms, especially near Haridwar and Dehradun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a direct train from Nainital to Mussoorie?
A: No, you must travel via Kathgodam and Dehradun.
Q: What’s the fastest way?
A: By private taxi or car, covering the journey in about 8 hours in good traffic.
Q: Are buses available every day?
A: Yes, both private and state buses connect Nainital to Mussoorie, most with a change at Dehradun.
Q: Can I make the trip in one day?
A: Yes, but start early for daylight travel; overnight bus/train is more relaxing.
Summary:
You can reach Mussoorie from Nainital by direct road (taxi/car), via public or private overnight bus, or by a comfortable train journey to Dehradun followed by a bus or taxi up to Mussoorie. Taxis offer the most comfort and speed; buses and trains are best for budget or solo travel. Plan and book in advance for a smooth inter-hill journey.
