Nestled in the misty Garhwal hills of Uttarakhand, Mussoorie is a cherished retreat known for its Victorian charm, panoramic vistas, and cool climate. If you are in Ajmer—Rajasthan’s spiritual heart and home to the iconic Dargah Sharif—an exciting journey northward awaits. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan a seamless 1,000+km escape from Ajmer to the Queen of Hills: distances, travel options, what to expect along the way, and essential tips.
Distance from Ajmer to Mussoorie
Understanding the journey’s scale helps you choose the right travel mode and plan your itinerary:
- By Road: The direct driving distance ranges from 650km to 716km, depending on the route selected and road conditions. The standard road route takes you through Jaipur, Delhi, Dehradun, and finally to Mussoorie.
- By Aerial Distance: The straight-line (aerial) distance is between 550km and 560km as measured by flight.
- Average Travel Time: By car/bus, the journey takes roughly 11–14 hours, depending on stops, traffic, and chosen highways. By bus, the duration typically extends up to 17–18 hours due to scheduled stops and routing.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Ajmer
Getting to Mussoorie from Ajmer is possible through several combinations of trains, buses, flights, and cars. Here are your main options:
By Bus
This is a popular, economic, and relatively straightforward approach for travelers favoring convenience:
- Direct Buses: Volvo AC sleeper and regular deluxe buses operate between Ajmer and Mussoorie.
- Typical Duration: 17h 50m (as per operators like Mahalaxmi Travels).
- Departure & Arrival: Buses typically depart in the evening (around 6:00 PM) and reach mid-day the following day.
- Fares: Ticket prices start from ₹2,999 per seat, and may go higher for premium seating/classes.
- Amenities: Expect AC, sleeper berths, reading lamps, charging points, and basic facilities.
- Booking: Tickets are available on portals such as MakeMyTrip and RedBus. Early booking is wise during peak travel seasons.
Key Bus Tips
- Most buses route via Jaipur and/or Delhi and tend to have multiple halts for meals, refueling, and restroom breaks.
- Quality, speed, and comfort can vary. Go for reputable operators on longer routes.
- Don’t forget essentials such as water and light snacks.
By Train
Trains are ideal for those seeking affordability and a classic travel experience:
- Direct Trains: There is no direct train to Mussoorie, but you can reach Dehradun (the nearest railhead, ~34km from Mussoorie).
- Ajmer to Dehradun: Trains run once or twice a week, and ticket costs range from ₹380 (sleeper) to ₹9,000 (1AC/2AC/3AC for luxury classes). Some options may require transfers at Delhi.
- Total Travel Time: 17–18 hours (including final road transfer from Dehradun to Mussoorie, which usually adds 1–1.5 hours uphill by taxi or bus).
- Booking: Indian Railways (IRCTC) is your portal for bookings.
Pro-tip: Trains fill early, especially near weekends/holidays; secure your tickets in advance.
By Air (Combination Route)
The fastest—but most complex—option is a mix of air travel and road journey:
- No Direct Flight: There’s no direct flight between Ajmer and Mussoorie.
- Closest Airports:
- Ajmer Kishangarh Airport (KQH): Minimal direct connections.
- Jaipur International Airport (JAI): Extensive options. Jaipur is ~130km from Ajmer and easily accessible by train, bus, or cab.
- Arrival Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED), approximately 60km from Mussoorie.
- Typical Route:
- Cab/train/bus from Ajmer to Jaipur.
- Fly Jaipur to Dehradun (1h 25m-2h total air time; multiple flights available daily).
- Taxi, shared cab, or local bus from Dehradun Airport to Mussoorie (1.5–2h drive).
- Total Time: 6–9 hours (best-case, with tight connections), usually ends up 10–12 hours with transfer wait times.
- Flight Fares: Generally from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 depending on season and advance booking.
- Ideal For: Those seeking comfort, saving time, or avoiding long bus/train rides.
By Car or Taxi
If you enjoy road trips and flexibility:
- Self-Drive: The route is about 650–716km; scenic, safe highways are available.
- Estimated Duration: 11–14 hours (excluding breaks).
- Suggested Route: Ajmer → Jaipur → Gurugram/Delhi → Dehradun → Mussoorie.
- Taxi Fare: ₹6,000–₹10,000 for a mid-sized sedan/SUV, higher for premium vehicles.
- Major Highways: NH48, NH334, and NH307.
- Advantages: Stop at your pace, visit cities on the way, suitable for families or groups.
En Route Highlights
- Food hotspots in Jaipur and roadside dhabas.
- Option to visit Haridwar/Rishikesh/Dehradun for spiritual or adventure detours.
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March–June: Enjoy cool breezes and bright, clear views.
- July–September: Monsoon greenery, but be wary of landslides.
- October–February: Winter charm, with crisp air and possible snow in January.
What to Pack
- Summer: Light woolens, hats, sunscreen, sunglasses.
- Winter: Heavy layers, gloves, scarves, sturdy shoes.
- Monsoon: Raincoat/poncho, water-resistant shoes, umbrella.
Local Transport in Mussoorie
- Auto-rickshaws, cabs, and local buses ply between the bus stand, hotels, and tourist attractions.
- Popular sites: Mall Road, Camel’s Back Road, Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there direct buses from Ajmer to Mussoorie?
A: Yes, several AC sleeper and regular buses operate daily.
Q: Is it safe to travel by road?
A: Yes, but avoid night driving in the hills and check monsoon advisory for landslide risk.
Q: Can I book the entire trip online?
A: Yes, with most train, bus, and flight tickets available through major travel portals.
Q: Where is the nearest railway station/airport to Mussoorie?
A: Dehradun serves as both the nearest major railway station and airport.
Conclusion
Traveling from Ajmer to Mussoorie combines cultural richness and scenic splendor—from Rajasthan’s lakes and Sufi tombs, across the heartland, to the Himalayas’ forested slopes. Whether you choose the convenience of a direct bus, the comfort and savings of a train journey, a swift but costlier flight via Jaipur, or your own private vehicle, the adventure is just as rewarding as the destination. Plan ahead, pick your mode, and embark on a journey from the desert plains to the Himalayan mist—Mussoorie awaits!
