Jolly Grant Airport, officially known as Dehradun Airport (IATA: DED), is the main gateway for flights in and out of Garhwal, Uttarakhand. It lies in the foothills east of Dehradun, serving passengers heading to Mussoorie and other hill destinations. Traveling from Mussoorie to Jolly Grant Airport is straightforward, scenic, and achievable by several transport modes. This comprehensive guide covers distance, route options, time estimates, taxi fares, tips for smooth transfers, and frequently asked questions.
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: 58–61 kilometers (depending on exact starting point in Mussoorie and the route chosen).
- Typical Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours by car/taxi—can vary due to weather, traffic, and tourist season.
Step-by-Step Travel Guide
1. By Private Taxi or Cab (Fastest & Most Comfortable)
- Direct Route:
Mussoorie → Dehradun (via winding downhill road, ~34 km)
Dehradun → Jolly Grant Airport (via city or bypass, ~24–27 km) - How It Works:
Taxis can be pre-booked from Mussoorie, through local stands, hotel recommendations, or well-known taxi services. Many companies offer a flat one-way or round-trip airport transfer. - Typical Fare:
- Travel Experience:
Door-to-door comfort; driver helps with luggage. The journey passes through pine forests, Doon valley views, and cityscapes.
Local Tips
- Pre-book taxis in peak season or if you have an early/midday flight.
- Leave extra time during weekends, monsoon, or school holidays for possible traffic delays.
- Consider arranging a return pickup with the same operator for better rates/flexibility.
2. By Shared Cab or Shuttle Service
- Some Mussoorie tour operators and hotels offer shared shuttle airport drops.
- You may need to book a spot in advance—shared options may be limited, especially if flights are early/late.
3. By Bus + Local Taxi (Budget Option)
- Step 1: Take a local or state bus/shared jeep from Mussoorie to Dehradun ISBT or Railway Station (frequent service, ~2 hours).
- Step 2: From Dehradun ISBT, board an airport shuttle bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to Jolly Grant (27–28 km, ~1 hour).
- Total Time: 2.5–3.5 hours (including transfers).
- Budget: Buses are economical, but add waiting/connection times.
Facilities at Jolly Grant Airport
- Modern terminal with waiting lounges, basic eateries, washrooms, luggage carts, trolleys, and pre-paid taxi counters.
- Wi-fi, ATM, medical rooms, and paid car parking on site.
Packing and Planning Tips
- Check traffic updates before departing, especially in monsoon or when local festivals take place.
- Carry printed tickets/ID for airport entry (security checks).
- Refresh at road-side cafés: Plenty of options at Dehradun city or en route.
- Weather: Even in summer, Mussoorie can be foggy (plan buffer time).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How much time should I budget to reach Jolly Grant Airport from Mussoorie?
A: Allocate 2.5–3 hours, including traffic and airport check-in time buffers.
Q: Are taxis easily available in Mussoorie for airport drop?
A: Yes—most stands, hotels, and online platforms can arrange airport taxis; advance booking is suggested for early morning or high season flights.
Q: Is it safe to travel to the airport late at night or early morning?
A: The road is safe, but quieter; confirm taxi reliability and prefer trusted operators.
Q: Is there a direct bus from Mussoorie to Jolly Grant Airport?
A: No. Public buses link Mussoorie with Dehradun, but you’ll need to switch to airport shuttles or taxis for the final leg.
Q: Can I get car rentals or ride-hailing (Ola/Uber) at Mussoorie?
A: Local taxi agencies and some app-based services operate, but availability may be patchy—pre-arrange your ride for a smooth trip.
Sample Itinerary
| Step | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mussoorie to Dehradun | ~34 km | 1.5 hrs |
| Dehradun to Jolly Grant Airpt | ~25 km | 1 hr |
| Total | ~60 km | 1.5–2 hrs |
Conclusion
Getting from Mussoorie to Jolly Grant (Dehradun) Airport is a scenic, direct shuttle through the Himalayan foothills into the fertile Doon Valley. For comfort and reliability, private taxi is the top option, but budget-conscious travelers can combine bus and local taxi legs. Plan ahead, leave early if you have a flight to catch, and enjoy the classic mountain-air-to-runway experience that connects Mussoorie to the world.
