Ambala, a major city and transport junction in Haryana, is an important gateway between Uttarakhand’s hills and northern India’s plains. Whether you’re connecting flights, trains, or exploring Punjab and Haryana, traveling from Mussoorie to Ambala is direct, convenient, and filled with options to suit every schedule.
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance by Road: Roughly 185–213 km (varies slightly by exact starting and ending point)
- Travel Time: 4–5 hours by car or taxi; longer by public bus or with transfers
- Fastest Route: Mussoorie → Dehradun → Saharanpur or Yamunanagar → Ambala
Step-by-Step Travel Options
1. By Private Taxi or Car (Most Direct and Comfortable)
Route:
Mussoorie → Dehradun (downhill, 34 km)
Dehradun → Saharanpur/Yamunanagar → Ambala (NH307/NH344A, passing scenic rural and city stretches)
- Total Distance: 185–213 km (most services quote around 213 km)
- Time Estimate: 4–5 hours in normal traffic
- Taxi Fare:
- Booking: Easily arranged through online aggregators (GoIbibo, MakeMyTrip, TaxiBazaar, local Mussoorie travel desks)
- Travel Tips:
- Pre-book in peak seasons or for early morning rides.
- Clarify inclusions (tolls, taxes, parking).
- You can opt for a one-way or round trip; discounts may apply for round trips.
2. By Bus (Budget-Conscious Option)
- Operators: State and private buses (RedBus, local UTC services)
- Route: Mussoorie to Dehradun by local bus or shared taxi, then Dehradun to Ambala by intercity bus
- Total Time: 5.5 to 7 hours, including transfer
- Fare: Starts at ₹1,000–₹1,100 per person
- Pro Tips:
- Frequent departures, but book in advance for weekends/holidays.
- UPSRTC and UTC buses are more reliable and stable in hilly and highway stretches.
3. By Train (Alternative for Rail Enthusiasts)
- Route: Mussoorie (downhill by taxi/bus) → Dehradun Railway Station → Ambala Cantt by express/faster trains (e.g. Dehradun Shatabdi or others)
- Total Time: Taxi to Dehradun (1.5–2 hrs), train to Ambala (5.5–7 hrs)
- Train Fare: ₹200–₹1,500 (varies by class and train)
- Why choose?
- Trains are reliable and comfortable.
- Suitable for solo or budget travelers.
Best Route Summary
| Route | Distance | Typical Time | Fare (Economy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Car via Dehradun–Yamunanagar/Saharanpur | 185–213 km | 4–5 hours | ₹3,100–₹4,300 (sedan) |
| Bus (Mussoorie–Dehradun–Ambala) | ~210 km | 5.5–7 hours | ₹1,000–₹1,100 |
| Train (to Ambala Cantt via Dehradun) | ~185 km | 6–8 hours | ₹200–₹1,500 |
Local Tips and What to Expect
- Road Conditions: Mostly paved highways after Dehradun; mountain descent from Mussoorie can be winding but smooth.
- Booking: Taxis and buses are readily available in Mussoorie; for trains, reserve in advance, especially during holiday or tourist peaks.
- Weather: Can be foggy in winter or rainy seasons; plan for potential delays.
- Refreshment Stops: Dehradun, Saharanpur/Yamunanagar, and several dhabas en route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to reach Ambala from Mussoorie by car?
A: Typically 4 to 5 hours by taxi or private car, depending on your route and traffic.
Q: What is the cheapest way?
A: Public bus via Dehradun, or train from Dehradun to Ambala if you factor in total travel time.
Q: Is advance booking required for taxis?
A: Recommended, especially in summer or tourist seasons, and for early morning/late night departures.
Q: Is the road safe for self-driving?
A: Yes—primarily highway after the hill descent into Dehradun, but always exercise caution on winding sections.
Conclusion
Traveling from Mussoorie to Ambala is straightforward and well-served by road, bus, and rail. For maximum comfort and speed, a pre-booked taxi is the top choice; for savings, bus and train options abound. With stunning valleys, bustling cities, and reliable links all along the route, your journey promises both ease and memorable sights.
