Nestled high in the Garhwal Himalayas, Mussoorie is a beautiful hill station known for its colonial architecture, lush landscapes, and pleasant weather. If you are planning a trip from Alwar, Rajasthan’s “Gateway City,” to this Queen of Hills, you have multiple travel options to suit all budgets and preferences. This comprehensive guide details distances, travel times, the best routes, and critical travel tips for a seamless journey from Alwar to Mussoorie.
Distance from Alwar to Mussoorie
Mussoorie is approximately 425–480km from Alwar by road, depending on the route and traffic. The aerial distance is 350–360km, but no direct flights are available since Mussoorie does not have its own airport. Typical road travel times range from 7.5 to 11 hours, while bus or train journeys (including transfers) may take up to 13–14 hours.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Alwar
By Road (Car/Taxi/Self-Drive)
Driving yourself or hiring a taxi is the most direct and flexible way to reach Mussoorie from Alwar.
- Distance: 425–480km (typical estimates: 448km, 450km, 465km, depending on route)
- Time: 7.5–11 hours
- Recommended Route: Alwar – Gurugram/Delhi (via NH48) – Meerut – Dehradun – Mussoorie (via NH334, NH307).
- Highway Quality: Good up to Dehradun; the last stretch is winding and hilly.
Taxi Fare Estimate:
- Sedan: ₹5,300–₹7,300 one way
- SUV: Slightly higher
- Premium outstation services: ₹4,200–₹6,200 for private car (fares may change by season and vendor)
Advantages:
- Flexible stops for food, fuel, or sightseeing (e.g., Delhi, Haridwar, or Dehradun).
- Door-to-door travel, ideal for groups and families.
Tips:
- Start early to avoid Delhi/NCR traffic.
- Carry snacks and water for the journey; roadside dhabas are common after Meerut.
- Use a GPS or reliable map for the Dehradun-Mussoorie climb.
- Avoid night drives in the hills, especially during monsoons (July–September).
By Bus
No direct bus operates from Alwar to Mussoorie, but you can travel in stages:
- Board a bus from Alwar to Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate – frequent RSRTC services).
- From Delhi, take a bus to Dehradun (Volvo and regular services; journey: 6–8 hours).
- Final leg from Dehradun to Mussoorie by local bus or taxi (34km, approx. 1.5–2 hours).
Time & Cost:
- Total journey: 11–13 hours, including layovers.
- Total fare: Typically ₹1,200–₹2,200 (more for Volvo/Air-Conditioned services).
Booking: Tickets can be booked online for each leg through RSRTC, UTC, or Redbus.
Tip:
- Night buses are available on the Delhi-Dehradun route, enabling you to arrive in Dehradun by morning and transfer onward.
By Train
Direct train connectivity to Mussoorie doesn’t exist, but you can reach up to Dehradun or Haridwar and continue by road.
Main Routes:
- Alwar to Dehradun Trains:
- From Dehradun to Mussoorie: 34km via taxi or local bus (takes 1.5–2 hours).
Popular Train Connections:
| Train No./Name | Departure (Alwar) | Arrival (Close to Mussoorie) | Approx Time | Fare (from) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19565 Okha DDN Exp | 06:18AM | 07:20PM DDN (Dehradun) | 13h 02m | ₹285 |
| 14661 BME JAT Exp | 12:55PM | 09:10PM SRE (Saharanpur) | 8h 15m | ₹600 |
| 19031 Yoga Express | 01:07AM | 11:18AM HW (Haridwar) | 10h 11m | ₹680 |
Advance booking is essential, especially for AC classes during the summer and holiday weekends.
Final Leg Options: From Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Mussoorie.
By Air (Combination Route)
No direct flights link Alwar with Mussoorie. The nearest major airports are:
- Departure: Jaipur International Airport (130km from Alwar, take a taxi or train).
- Arrival: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (60km from Mussoorie).
Steps:
- Get to Jaipur Airport (train/taxi from Alwar).
- Fly Jaipur–Dehradun (1.5 hours; several daily flights).
- Taxi/bus from Dehradun Airport to Mussoorie (1.5–2 hours).
Total journey time: 6–10 hours (depending on transfer times, route, and flight schedule).
Approximate cost: ₹6,000–₹15,000 (varies by air ticket class, taxi fares).
Best for: Time-conscious travelers and those wanting to avoid overnight surface journeys.
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March–June: Best for sightseeing, trekking; pleasant weather.
- July–September: Monsoon; lush views but possible landslides.
- October–February: Crisp winter; chances of snow in Jan–Feb.
What to Pack
- Summer/Monsoon: Light woolens, raincoat, sturdy shoes, hat, sunscreen.
- Winter: Heavy jackets, gloves, thermals, and woolens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the cheapest way to reach Mussoorie from Alwar?
A: Train and bus via Delhi or Haridwar. Expect ₹1,200–₹2,200 in total fares.
Q: Can I travel by taxi? How much will it cost?
A: Yes—private taxi fare is ₹4,200–₹7,300, depending on car type and operator; travel time 7–11 hours.
Q: How long is the journey?
A: By car/taxi: 7.5–11 hours; by train+taxi/bus: up to 13–14 hours, depending on connections and traffic.
Q: Where do I book tickets?
A: Bus/train—book online (IRCTC for trains, Redbus/official road transport websites for buses). Taxis—book via major online taxi providers or local agencies.
Conclusion
Alwar to Mussoorie is a well-connected route offering a blend of cultural, historical, and natural experiences. The most flexible and convenient travel option is by car or taxi, while trains and buses serve the budget-conscious. For those seeking the fastest journey, a combination of rail/road and air travel via Dehradun is possible. No matter the route, Mussoorie’s misty hills, pine forests, and vibrant bazaar await just a day’s journey from Alwar’s royal palaces.
