Mussoorie, famed as the “Queen of Hills,” is a beloved hill station perched in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas, drawing travelers with its colonial charm, stunning mountain views, and vibrant Mall Road. For those starting their journey from Bulandshahr—a culturally rich city in western Uttar Pradesh—the trip to Mussoorie promises a convenient yet scenic transition from the plains to the hills. This detailed article covers distances, travel modes, routes, local tips, and must-know info for planning an enjoyable escape from Bulandshahr to Mussoorie.
Distance from Bulandshahr to Mussoorie
Knowing travel distances helps you plan the mode and time for your journey:
- By Road: The driving distance from Bulandshahr to Mussoorie is between 250 and 304 km, depending on the route taken.
- Aerial (Straight-line) Distance: Around 229–250 km.
- Travel Time: By car or taxi, the journey typically takes about 5.5 to 7.5 hours. Public transportation may extend total time to 8–10 hours depending on connections and wait times.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Bulandshahr
You have several convenient travel options: by road (private cab/self-drive), by train plus road, or by bus plus hill transfer. Here’s a step-by-step look at each route:
1. By Road: Private Car or Taxi (Fastest and Most Flexible)
This is the most direct and comfortable travel mode for most travelers.
Route and Distance
- Distance: 250–304 km, depending on the selected route.
- Time: Typically 5.4–7.5 hours, though travel during weekends, festivals, or monsoons may take longer.
Route Options
- Via Meerut–Saharanpur: Bulandshahr → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Saharanpur → Dehradun → Mussoorie
- Via Ghaziabad–Haridwar–Dehradun: An alternative for those wanting to stop at Haridwar (adds up to an hour).
Taxi / Cab Fare Estimate
- One-way fares: ₹3,100–₹6,100, depending on car type, operator, and demand.
- Sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs available for hire.
- Pre-booking through platforms like GoIbibo, Makemytrip, or local agencies recommended for best rates and reliability.
Advantages
- Door-to-door travel—no luggage transfers, no waiting for connections.
- Flexible stops along the way (good dhabas in Meerut, Muzaffarnagar).
- Ideal for families, small groups, or those traveling with lots of luggage.
Tips
- Depart early morning to avoid traffic congestion, especially around Meerut and Ghaziabad.
- Carry snacks and water, especially if traveling with kids.
- If traveling during monsoon (July–September), check road status in Dehradun hills for possible landslides.
2. By Train + Taxi/Road (Economical, Comfortable)
Bulandshahr doesn’t have direct train connectivity to Mussoorie, but you can efficiently combine train and road segments.
Typical Steps
Step 1: Bulandshahr to Saharanpur / Haridwar / Dehradun (by Train)
- Board a train from Bulandshahr to Saharanpur as the quickest way; direct trains are available.
- Alternatively, take a train to Delhi, then onward to Dehradun or Haridwar for broader timing choices.
- Journey time: 4–6 hours, based on connections.
Step 2: Taxi or Bus from Saharanpur/Dehradun/Haridwar to Mussoorie
- From Saharanpur: Hire a taxi to Mussoorie (150–170 km, 3–4 hours).
- From Dehradun: 34 km up to Mussoorie; regular taxis, buses, and shared jeeps available.
- Total time (train plus road): 6–8 hours.
Fare Estimates
- Train fare: ₹150–₹700 depending on class and route.
- Taxi Saharanpur to Mussoorie: ₹2,000–₹3,500.
Advantages
- Budget-friendly and less tiring than overnight bus travel.
- Scenic train ride to the foothills, followed by short mountain ascent.
Tips
- Book all train tickets early (especially during summer or holidays).
- Try to arrive in Saharanpur or Dehradun before dusk for a safer hill climb.
3. By Bus + Road (Budget Option, Many Connectivity Choices)
Those preferring public transport can combine bus services via Dehradun or Haridwar.
Bus Route Options
- Bulandshahr to Dehradun: Direct UPSRTC buses run thrice daily; fares start around ₹427, journey about 8 hours.
- Bulandshahr to Haridwar: Alternate route, 6.5 to 7 hours.
- Dehradun/Haridwar to Mussoorie: Local Uttarakhand government and private buses, along with shared cabs, connect you for the final uphill 1.5–2 hour stretch; fare: ₹80–₹200.
Booking & Operators
- Tickets available via Redbus, UPSRTC, or at local bus stations.
- Fastest connections during early morning or overnight.
Advantages
- Cheapest way to travel, even for solo explorers or small groups.
- Buses are frequent on main legs.
Tips
- For best comfort, book AC/Volvo buses for the plains segment.
- Travel during daylight hours for scenic views and safety on the hills.
Additional Travel Information
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March to June: Peak tourist season—primary school holidays, pleasant weather, vibrant bazaar life.
- July to September: Monsoon, with scenic greenery but possible delays due to landslides.
- October to February: Winter chill, occasional snowfall in January/February; best for quiet getaways.
What to Pack
- Summer: Light woolens, hat, sunscreen for daytime.
- Monsoon: Waterproof jackets, umbrellas, shoes with grip.
- Winter: Heavy woolens, jackets, gloves, mufflers.
Places to Explore in Mussoorie
- Mall Road: Hub of cafes, local shops, and street food.
- Kempty Falls: Picturesque waterfall 15 km from main town.
- Gun Hill, Lal Tibba: Panoramic viewpoints.
- Company Garden, Camel’s Back Road: Peaceful walks and picnic sites.
- Nearby: Landour, Dhanaulti day trips.
Safety Tips
- Be cautious on hilly stretches—avoid night driving, especially in the rainy season.
- Plan your travel timing to reach Mussoorie by evening.
- Carry cash; some smaller shops do not accept cards/UPI.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there a direct bus from Bulandshahr to Mussoorie?
A: No, but frequent buses run to Dehradun or Haridwar, from where taxis or local buses cover the last 34–85 km stretch.
Q: How long does it take to reach Mussoorie by car or taxi from Bulandshahr?
A: Usually 5.4–7.5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to reach Mussoorie from Bulandshahr?
A: Bus via Ghaziabad or Dehradun—total fare around ₹705–₹1,100, total time 8–9 hours.
Q: Is there good road connectivity year-round?
A: Yes—major highways are well maintained. Check hill road conditions during monsoon.
Q: What is the best route for driving?
A: Via Meerut–Saharanpur for less traffic and easier connectivity.
Conclusion
Traveling from Bulandshahr to Mussoorie is a rewarding journey that’s both accessible and scenic. Private cabs or self-drive options are the most comfortable and time-efficient, while trains and buses offer budget solutions blending comfort with local flavor. Plan in advance, book tickets and cabs early in peak season, and prepare for Mussoorie’s crisp mountain air, bustling Mall Road, and unforgettable Himalayan vistas—just a day’s travel away from Bulandshahr’s historic heart.
