Mussoorie, famously known as the “Queen of Hills,” is a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas. Known for its sprawling colonial-era charm, misty mountain views, and lively Mall Road, Mussoorie continues to captivate nature lovers and tourists. If you find yourself in Bareilly, a historic city in Uttar Pradesh rich in cultural heritage, and are planning a trip to Mussoorie, this comprehensive guide will walk you through all the travel options, distances, routes, local tips, and essential information for a hassle-free journey.
Distance from Bareilly to Mussoorie
Knowing the distance and travel time helps you plan better:
- By Road: The road distance between Bareilly and Mussoorie is approximately 190 to 230 kilometers, depending on the chosen route.
- Travel Time: Typically, the journey takes between 5 to 7 hours by car or taxi, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- By Rail/Air: Mussoorie has no railway station or airport; travelers rely on nearby transport hubs such as Dehradun (rail and airport) which lies around 35 km from Mussoorie.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Bareilly
You can reach Mussoorie from Bareilly via several travel modes, including road trips, train+road combinations, and bus+road services. Here’s a detailed look at each option:
1. By Road (Taxi / Self-Drive / Private Car)
Traveling by road is the fastest and most flexible way to reach Mussoorie from Bareilly, especially if you prefer personalized travel with the freedom to stop as you please.
Route and Distance:
- Typical Route: Bareilly → Rampur → Rudrapur → Haldwani → Dehradun → Mussoorie
- Distance: Approximately 190 to 230 km depending on the chosen route and detours
- Estimated Drive Time: 5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and weather
Road Conditions:
- The highways up to Dehradun are mostly four-lane or double-lane national highways in good condition.
- The last stretch from Dehradun to Mussoorie is a hilly road with winding curves and elevation gain; caution is advised while driving, especially during monsoon or after dark.
Taxi or Cab Services:
- You can hire a private taxi from Bareilly to Mussoorie, which may cost around ₹3,500 to ₹6,000 depending on vehicle type, provider, and season.
- Popular cabs include sedans for small groups and SUVs or tempo travellers for larger groups or families.
Advantages of Road Travel:
- Direct door-to-door service without multiple transfers.
- Ability to stop for refreshments or sightseeing en route in towns like Rudrapur or Haldwani.
- Ideal for travelers with luggage or those wanting comfort and safety.
Tips:
- Start early in the morning to avoid city congestion and to have ample daylight for the hilly portion.
- Avoid traveling late at night on hill roads.
- Monsoon travelers should check weather and road conditions for landslide risks.
2. By Train + Road
If you prefer train travel, the nearest railway station to Mussoorie is Dehradun, located around 34 km away. Bareilly has good train connectivity with Dehradun through direct or connecting trains.
Step 1: Train from Bareilly to Dehradun
- There are direct trains available, such as the Bareilly-Dehradun Express, with journey duration around 3.5 to 5 hours.
- Alternative trains may pass through intermediate stations with transfer options.
- Train fare ranges from ₹150 (Sleeper) to ₹400 (AC classes), depending on booking and class.
Step 2: Road Transfer from Dehradun to Mussoorie
- Once in Dehradun, hire a taxi or take a state-run/shared bus to Mussoorie.
- The 34 km taxi ride takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours and costs about ₹800–₹1,200.
- Buses are more economical (₹100–₹200) but less comfortable.
Advantages of Train+Road:
- Economical yet comfortable for solo travelers and families.
- Ability to sleep/rest on train for daytime arrivals in Dehradun.
- Less tiring than a full road trip.
Booking Tips:
- Book train tickets online via IRCTC well in advance during peak seasons.
- Pre-arrange your taxi/transfer from Dehradun station for ease.
3. By Bus + Road
Bareilly is well connected by bus services, and you can take a bus to Dehradun and then complete the journey by road from there.
Bareilly to Dehradun Bus:
- UPSRTC and private operators offer bus services to Dehradun.
- Journey time by bus is usually between 6 to 8 hours.
- Bus classes range from ordinary to Volvo AC sleeper buses.
Dehradun to Mussoorie:
- Frequent state-run and private buses operate on this route.
- The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective method for budget travelers.
- Regular bus services available, though seats may be limited in peak season.
Booking:
- Book in advance on platforms like Redbus or directly via UPSRTC.
- Carry water and light snacks due to duration.
Additional Travel Tips and Information
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March to June: Pleasant temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- July to September: Monsoon season; lush greenery but watch for landslides and delays.
- October to February: Cold with possibilities of snowfall; ideal for experiencing winter charm.
What to Pack
- Light woolens for evenings and mornings during summers.
- Heavy jackets, thermals, gloves, and caps in winters.
- Rain gear such as ponchos or umbrellas in monsoon months.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
Places to Explore in Mussoorie
- Mall Road: The town’s social and shopping hub.
- Kempty Falls: A famous waterfall 15 km from Mussoorie.
- Gun Hill and Lal Tibba: Popular viewpoints with breathtaking panoramas.
- Camel’s Back Road: A scenic walking trail ideal for leisurely strolls.
- Company Garden and Jharipani Falls: Family-friendly spots.
Safety Tips
- Hilly drive requires attentive, cautious driving.
- Avoid night travel on hills.
- Keep local emergency contacts handy.
- Carry some cash; mobile/UPI payments may not be available everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there a direct bus from Bareilly to Mussoorie?
A: No direct bus runs between Bareilly and Mussoorie, but buses to Dehradun are frequent, from where you can take a bus or taxi.
Q: How long does the train journey from Bareilly to Dehradun take?
A: Around 3.5 to 5 hours depending on train and routing.
Q: Is it safe to drive myself from Bareilly to Mussoorie?
A: Yes, especially during the daytime on highways and with caution on the hilly last stretch.
Q: Can I do the whole journey in a day?
A: Yes, the total travel time is typically 6 to 8 hours, making a one-day trip feasible.
Conclusion
Traveling from Bareilly to Mussoorie is a journey that seamlessly blends plains to hills, moving from urban landscapes to serene mountain vistas. With flexible travel options ranging from direct road trips to convenient train+road combinations or bus travels, you can choose the mode best suited to your time, budget, and comfort level.
For the fastest and most comfortable experience, hiring a private taxi or self-driving is advisable. Train travelers benefit from a relaxing journey to Dehradun, followed by a short, scenic ride uphill. Bus travel remains a good choice for budget-conscious explorers. Regardless of the mode chosen, plan ahead, book tickets early in the tourist season, and pack appropriately for weather changes.
Prepare for a memorable Himalayan escape as you step into the cool breezes and beautiful environs of Mussoorie, just a few hours away from the cultural heart of Bareilly.
