Mussoorie, known as the “Queen of Hills,” is one of the most charming and picturesque hill stations nestled in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Renowned for its pleasant climate, colonial architecture, panoramic Himalayan views, and vibrant bazaars, Mussoorie is a sought-after destination for nature lovers and vacationers alike. If you are starting your journey from Amritsar, Punjab’s spiritual and cultural gem famous for the Golden Temple, this guide will help you navigate the best and most convenient ways to reach Mussoorie.
This comprehensive article covers the distance, travel options, detailed routes, local travel tips, frequently asked questions, and essential information to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.
Distance from Amritsar to Mussoorie
Before exploring travel options, it’s important to understand how far Mussoorie is from Amritsar:
- By Road: The road distance approximately ranges from 475 km to 540 km depending on the chosen route. It typically takes 10 to 12 hours by car or taxi, accounting for traffic and terrain.
- Aerial Distance: The straight-line aerial distance is roughly 390 km, but there are no direct flights to Mussoorie since it does not have an airport.
Because Mussoorie lacks direct rail and air connectivity, reaching it involves a combination of travel modes—typically train or flight to nearby hubs followed by a road journey.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Amritsar
Here are the main modes of transport with detailed guidance:
1. By Air: Amritsar to Dehradun, then Road to Mussoorie
Fastest and most convenient travel mode, combining a flight and a scenic drive.
Step 1: Fly from Amritsar to Dehradun
- Airport Details:
- Departure: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar (ATQ)
- Arrival: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED)
- Flight Information:
- No direct flights usually; common flights operate via Delhi (IGI Airport, DEL).
- Typical route: Amritsar → Delhi → Dehradun.
- Flight durations:
- Amritsar to Delhi: ~1.5 hours
- Delhi to Dehradun: ~1 hour
- Total flight time including layovers varies between 3.5 to 6 hours.
- Airlines Operating: IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Vistara, and others.
Step 2: Road Journey from Dehradun to Mussoorie
- Distance: Approx. 34 km
- Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours
- Transport Options:
- Prepaid taxis and shared cabs are widely available at Dehradun Airport.
- Private cab hires and auto-rickshaws available at Dehradun city or railway station if flying into Delhi and then taking a train.
- Route: The drive is scenic but involves steep winding roads, providing beautiful views of the Himalayas.
Estimated Overall Travel Time and Cost
- Total duration: Approximately 5 to 8 hours (including wait time, transfers, and road trip)
- Approximate airfare: ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 depending on season and advance booking
- Taxi fare from Dehradun to Mussoorie: ₹1,800 to ₹2,500
Advantages:
- Minimizes travel fatigue for long-distance travelers
- Allows maximum time to enjoy Mussoorie once you arrive
2. By Train: Amritsar to Dehradun or Haridwar, then Road to Mussoorie
A popular option for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer train travel combined with a road journey at the hills.
Step 1: Train from Amritsar to Dehradun or Haridwar
- Nearest Railheads to Mussoorie:
- Dehradun Railway Station (DDN): 34 km from Mussoorie
- Haridwar Railway Station (HW): 85 km from Mussoorie
- Train Options:
- Amritsar to Dehradun: There are no direct trains, but several routes via Delhi, Ambala, or Saharanpur connect Amritsar to Dehradun. Changing trains at Delhi Junction or Ambala Cantt is common.
- Journey time varies between 10 to 16 hours, based on train type and wait times.
- Amritsar to Haridwar: Multiple trains with one or two changes take roughly 10-14 hours.
- Popular trains include:
- Amritsar–Delhi Duronto, Amritsar–Hazrat Nizamuddin Shatabdi (to Delhi, then connecting trains)
- Delhi to Dehradun or Haridwar express trains
Step 2: Road Transfer to Mussoorie
- From Dehradun: 1.5-2 hours by taxi or bus to Mussoorie
- From Haridwar: Roughly 2.5-3 hours by private taxi or public buses
Approximate Costs
- Train fares: Sleeper class ₹250-₹600; AC 3-tier ₹700-₹1500+
- Road taxi fares: ₹1,500-₹2,500 (Dehradun to Mussoorie), slightly higher from Haridwar
Advantages
- Cost-effective, especially for families and solo travelers
- Overnight trains offer sleep and rest
- Scenic train route through northern plains and foothills
3. By Road: Direct Taxi or Self-Drive from Amritsar to Mussoorie
For travelers who enjoy driving or want full flexibility, taking a taxi or self-driving is a viable albeit long option.
Route Details
- Common Routes include:
- Amritsar → Jalandhar → Ludhiana → Chandigarh → Roorkee → Dehradun → Mussoorie
- Distance: Approximately 475 to 540 km depending on highway choices
- Roads: Mostly National Highways (NH3, NH44, NH334), smooth till Dehradun; last 34 km is a mountainous ascent.
Estimated Travel Time
- Driving time usually takes about 10 to 12 hours without long breaks.
Advantages
- Flexible travel schedule with optional detours and meal breaks
- Ideal for families, groups, or travelers with bulky luggage
- Opportunity to explore cities en route: Chandigarh, Haridwar, and Dehradun
Taxi Fare Estimate
- Approximate one-way fare:
- Sedan: ₹7,000 to ₹10,000
- SUV: ₹9,000 to ₹13,000
Tips for Road Travel
- Start early to avoid city traffic congestion in Ludhiana and Chandigarh
- Avoid driving the last mountain stretch post-dusk to prevent accidents
- Keep an eye on weather conditions during monsoon (July–September) due to landslide risk
Additional Travel Information
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March to June: Pleasant weather, clear skies, perfect for sightseeing
- July to September: Monsoon season with lush green landscapes but possible road delays due to rains
- October to February: Cold winters with possibilities of snowfall in January and February; suited for snow lovers
What to Pack
- Light woollens for evenings and mornings
- Sturdy walking shoes for sightseeing and hill treks
- Rain gear during monsoon season
- Warm jackets, scarves, woollen caps for winter visits
Popular Places to Visit in Mussoorie
- Mall Road: The lively hub for shopping and dining
- Kempty Falls: Picturesque waterfall known for picnics and photography
- Gun Hill: Must-visit viewpoint with cable car access
- Lal Tibba: The highest point in Mussoorie with stunning Himalayan views
- Camel’s Back Road: Wonderful walking trail with natural rock formations
- Company Garden: Beautiful garden for families and kids
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there a direct flight from Amritsar to Mussoorie?
A: No, there are no direct flights. You need to fly to Dehradun or Delhi and travel by road to Mussoorie.
Q: How long is the train journey from Amritsar to Dehradun?
A: The journey can take between 10 and 16 hours with one or two train changes.
Q: Is it safe to drive from Amritsar to Mussoorie?
A: The highways are generally good till Dehradun. Exercise caution during the mountainous final leg, especially in inclement weather or at night.
Q: Are prepaid taxis available from Dehradun airport to Mussoorie?
A: Yes, prepaid taxis and shared cabs are common and recommended for safe and hassle-free transfers.
Q: What is the best route considering travel time and convenience?
A: Flying from Amritsar to Dehradun with a subsequent taxi to Mussoorie is the quickest. Trains to Dehradun/Haridwar followed by road travel are more economical but take longer.
Conclusion
Traveling from Amritsar to Mussoorie can be both exciting and rewarding, offering a dramatic shift from the rich cultural tapestry of Punjab to the serene Himalayan foothills. Depending on your budget, comfort preference, and time availability, you can choose from rapid flights combined with a mountain drive, economical overnight trains plus scenic cab rides, or adventurous road trips.
Plan your trip considering weather, bookings, and local transport to ensure a smooth experience. Mussoorie’s enchanting hills, vibrant markets, and cool mountain air await to make your vacation truly memorable.
