Landour—Mussoorie’s tranquil, colonial-era sister—is perched just above the main Mussoorie hill, at the very top of the Garhwal Himalayas’ horseshoe ridge. Loved by writers (including Ruskin Bond), nature walkers, and anyone seeking quiet, breezy Himalayan charm, Landour is cooler, greener, and far less commercial than Mussoorie’s bustling Mall Road. Getting there from Mussoorie is a short but memorable adventure—perfect for a rewarding day trip, a writing retreat, or a peaceful escape.
1. How Far is Landour from Mussoorie?
- Distance: Physically, Landour proper (Char Dukan area) is about 3.5 to 5 km from Mussoorie’s Mall Road, depending on your starting point.
- Travel Time:
- By taxi/rickshaw/car: 15–25 minutes in traffic (short ride but can be steep and winding).
- On foot: 35–60 minutes via steep but scenic walking paths and steps.
- Elevation: Rises from Mussoorie’s ~2,000m to Landour’s ~2,275m—expect some huffing and cooler winds!
2. Options for Traveling from Mussoorie to Landour
A. By Foot — The Classic Hillwalk (Most Authentic & Scenic)
Route:
Start from either:
- Picture Palace end of Mall Road (Kerala Hotel, Cambridge Book Depot)
- OR via the Ropeway near Mall Road Library (this is longer and indirect)
- Take the Chakrata Road/Tehri Road (marked as Landour Cantt.)—this curves uphill to the main Landour ridge via zig-zag stone paths.
Key Segments:
- Mall Road → Kulri Bazaar → Landour Clock Tower → Char Dukan
- The last 1.5km is typically steeper but full of deodar shade, birdsong, and the aroma of Himalayan pines.
Why Walk?
- Experience the original route trodden by British officers, writers, and schoolchildren of Woodstock.
- Pause at Sister’s Bazaar (Joshiji’s bake shop, hand-made cheese, Landour Bakehouse).
- Gorgeous valley and Doon views, cool air, and photographic spots overlook the mountains and the town below.
- Local tip: Early morning or late afternoon (4–6pm) gives the best light without the main road’s traffic fumes.
What to Expect:
- Challenging but short hillwalk—bring a bottle of water and wear sturdy shoes.
- Rest stops at Sister’s Bazaar, Lal Tibba, or Char Dukan.
- End with coffee/cocoa and pancakes at the famous Char Dukan cafés.
B. By Cab/Taxi/Auto (Convenient, Especially with Luggage or in Rain)
- Taxis and shared jeeps are readily available at Mall Road, Picture Palace, Library Chowk, and other major stands.
- Fare (July 2025): ₹250–₹350 one way (small taxi/auto), ₹100–₹150 per person in a shared jeep (if available); a roundtrip (with 1 hour wait) may be ₹400–₹600.
- Duration: 15–25 minutes in light traffic; can be longer on narrow roads/peak season or with rain/roadwork.
- Where to board: Mall Road (Picture Palace end), main taxi stand behind Clark’s Hotel, or ask at any hotel reception.
Advantages:
- Great for families with small children, elders, rainy or cold weather.
- Drop point: Char Dukan, Lal Tibba, or main bazaar—specify your destination.
Local tip: Taxis can wait for a return trip (popular in high season)—negotiate this upfront.
C. By Self-Drive or Two-Wheeler (Adventure Seekers)
- Narrow, winding roads; plenty of bends and local traffic—drive slowly and watch for schoolchildren, cycles, and monkeys!
- Parking: Limited at Landour Chowk/Char Dukan; park further away in high season or weekends.
- Bikes/Scooters: Rent in Mussoorie for ₹400–₹700/day (plus fuel); park at Sister’s Bazaar and walk to the ridge.
D. By Cycle (For Fitness Fans)
- Cycling up is tough and best suited for experienced riders (grade is steep at points).
- Rental shops on Mall Road sometimes offer cycles.
3. What Awaits You in Landour?
- Char Dukan: The legendary “Four Shops”—pancake house, bun-omelet, bun-maska, endless chai and stories.
- Lal Tibba: The highest point—Himalayan viewing area with telescopes, tea, and fried Maggi.
- Landour Bakehouse: Scones, cakes, apple pies, and world-class bread (try the Himalayan cheese).
- Sister’s Bazaar: The original colonial military canteen area, now home to famed bakers and cheese mongers.
- St. Paul’s Church: Picturesque, tree-shaded spot for meditative peace.
- Walks: Ivy trails, churches, pine groves, and echoes of history all around.
- Woodstock School: Historic international school perched dramatically on the ridge.
4. Local Advice & Tips
- Weather: Always 2–3°C cooler than Mussoorie—carry a jacket or sweater.
- Rain: Mist or rain may descend suddenly; carry a folding umbrella or raincoat just in case.
- Noise/traffic: Landour Cantonment is a quiet zone—horns, loudspeakers, and parties are not allowed. Please respect local silence.
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon—avoid midday heat in May–June, and enjoy sunset at Lal Tibba.
- Return Trip: Most visitors walk down after sunset or call a taxi; streetlights are basic but traffic is safe after dark.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can you visit Landour as a half-day trip from Mussoorie?
A: Absolutely—some do it in just a morning or an afternoon, combining it with lunch/tea.
Q: What’s the cheapest way?
A: On foot or by shared jeep/taxi, each under ₹150–₹350.
Q: Is the walk suitable for elders/kids?
A: Kids—yes. Elders—best by taxi or plan a gentle stroll just in Sister’s Bazaar/Char Dukan (flat). The last 1km up is steep for those with heart or mobility problems.
Q: Can you stay overnight in Landour?
A: Yes—beautiful heritage homestays, small hotels, and Woodstock-area guest houses abound. Book early for summer or Christmas.
Q: Are restaurants open year-round?
A: Most are, but some shut after dusk in winter. Always confirm hours in the off-season.
Conclusion
Traveling from Mussoorie to Landour is an easy, lovely ascent—filled with Himalayan air and colonial nostalgia. Whether you trek the old forest route, take a short taxi ride, or cycle for a challenge, the journey is as rewarding as the peaceful haven at its end. Explore iconic cafés, leafy walks, and the gentle charm that has captivated writers, students, and seekers for centuries—all just under an hour from the bustle of Mussoorie’s Mall.
