Mussoorie, fondly called the “Queen of Hills,” is one of the most famous hill stations nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Known for its pleasant climate, panoramic views of the Himalayas, colonial charm, and vibrant local markets, it attracts tourists from all over India for a refreshing escape. If you are planning to travel to Mussoorie from Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, this guide will provide you an in-depth overview of the best routes, travel modes, distances, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Distance from Bhopal to Mussoorie
Understanding the distance and typical travel times between Bhopal and Mussoorie helps in choosing the most suitable mode of transport:
- By Road: The driving distance ranges roughly between 1,170 km and 1,300 km, depending on the route selected. Driving nonstop typically takes about 22 to 26 hours, but most travelers break the journey into multiple days for comfort.
- By Air & Road: Since Mussoorie does not have its own airport, travelers usually fly to nearby airports like Dehradun or Delhi and then cover the rest of the journey by road.
- Aerial Distance: Straight-line flight distance from Bhopal to Dehradun is approximately 950 km, but direct flights are limited.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Bhopal
There are several modes to travel from Bhopal to Mussoorie — combining flights, trains, buses, and road transport based on comfort, budget, and time availability. Below are the most practical and popular options:
1. By Air + Road: Fly from Bhopal to Dehradun or Delhi, then Road to Mussoorie
This combination is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Mussoorie from Bhopal.
Step 1: Flight Options
- Bhopal to Dehradun:
- Currently, there are no direct flights from Bhopal (Raja Bhoj Airport – BHO) to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport – DED).
- You can fly from Bhopal to Delhi and then catch a connecting flight from Delhi to Dehradun.
- Flights from Bhopal to Delhi take about 1.5 to 2 hours; Delhi to Dehradun flights take about 1 hour.
- Bhopal to Delhi:
- Direct flights from Bhopal to Delhi are available throughout the day.
- Flight duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Flight fares vary widely depending on booking time and season, typically ranging between ₹3,000 to ₹9,000 one-way.
Step 2: Road Journey From Dehradun or Delhi to Mussoorie
- From Dehradun to Mussoorie:
- Distance: About 34 km.
- Travel Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by road.
- Transport: Taxis, prepaid cabs, shared jeeps, or state-run buses are available.
- Taxi fare: ₹1,800 to ₹2,500 approximately.
- From Delhi to Mussoorie:
- Distance: Approximately 280 to 300 km.
- Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours by road.
- Transport options include private taxis, buses (including Volvo and AC coaches), or trains until Dehradun/Railheads followed by road transfer.
Quick Overview:
- Total travel time via Delhi & Dehradun: Approximately 7 to 10 hours, including flight, transfer, and taxi time.
- This is the most time-efficient and comfortable option for most travelers.
2. By Train + Road: Bhopal to Dehradun or Haridwar by Train, then Road to Mussoorie
For travelers preferring budget options or scenic train travel, this is a popular choice.
Step 1: Train from Bhopal to Dehradun or Haridwar
- Direct trains to Dehradun or Haridwar from Bhopal are not available, but you can do this in two legs:
- Bhopal to Delhi: Multiple trains run on this busy route, including the Bhopal Shatabdi Express and Bhopal Express, various journey durations from 8 to 12 hours depending on train.
- Delhi to Dehradun or Haridwar: Several express trains operate daily. Trains to Dehradun take 5.5 to 7.5 hours; trains to Haridwar take about 4 to 6 hours.
- Total combined rail travel time: Around 15 to 20 hours, depending on wait times and connections.
- Booking should be done via IRCTC at least 2-3 months in advance especially for peak tourism seasons.
Step 2: Road Transfer from Dehradun or Haridwar to Mussoorie
- As with the previous option, 34 km by road from Dehradun is about 1.5 to 2 hours by taxi.
- From Haridwar, 85 km to Mussoorie takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours by road.
Advantages:
- Economical, comfortable overnight travel option.
- Enjoy scenic views along train routes.
- Great for solo travelers, couples, or families on a budget.
3. By Road: Self-Drive or Taxi from Bhopal to Mussoorie
For travelers fond of road trips and adventure, self-driving or hiring a private taxi offer complete flexibility.
Route and Distance
- Typical Route: Bhopal → Sagar → Jhansi → Kanpur → Bareilly → Rampur → Rudrapur → Haldwani → Dehradun → Mussoorie.
- The drive covers approximately 1,170 to 1,300 km depending on the exact route.
- Roads mostly include NH44 (Golden Quadrilateral), NH27, and then the hilly NH307 towards Mussoorie.
Driving Time
- Approximately 22 to 26 hours of nonstop driving.
- Usually split into 2 or 3 days with overnight stays in convenient cities such as Jhansi, Kanpur, or Bareilly to break journey fatigue.
Taxi or Cab Service Costs
- One-way fares vary depending on vehicle type:
- Sedan: ₹15,000 to ₹22,000
- SUV or larger vehicle: ₹20,000 to ₹30,000+
- Costs may be higher during peak seasons and holidays.
Advantages:
- Freedom to stop at preferred places en route.
- Suitable for groups or families with luggage.
- An adventurous way to explore several cities and states.
Additional Tips for Traveling to Mussoorie from Bhopal
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March to June: Ideal weather, spring bloom, and sunny days.
- July to September: Lush monsoon greenery but occasional landslides and travel delays.
- October to February: Crisp winters, with snow in January-February; best for snow lovers.
What to Pack
- Summer: Light woolens, sunglasses, sunscreen, hats.
- Winter: Warm jackets, thermals, gloves, scarves.
- Monsoon: Raincoats, umbrellas, and waterproof footwear.
Places to Visit in Mussoorie
- Mall Road: Busy shopping and dining area.
- Kempty Falls: Popular waterfall with picnic spots.
- Gun Hill & Lal Tibba: Highest points offering panoramic views.
- Camel’s Back Road: Scenic walking trail.
- Nearby: Landour, Jharipani Falls, famous for hiking trails.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are there direct flights from Bhopal to Dehradun?
A: No direct flights currently, but connecting flights via Delhi are available.
Q: How long is the train journey from Bhopal to Dehradun?
A: Approximately 15 to 20 hours with transfers in Delhi.
Q: Is it safe to drive from Bhopal to Mussoorie?
A: Yes, highways are generally good. Extra caution is advised on the hilly approach to Mussoorie.
Q: Can I reach Mussoorie in one day from Bhopal?
A: Flying plus taxi option can get you there in about 10 hours total. Road or train journeys usually require overnight travel.
Q: Can I book taxis online for local travel?
A: Yes. Many providers operate rides from Dehradun to Mussoorie with online booking options.
Conclusion
Traveling from Bhopal to Mussoorie offers you several options depending on how fast, economical, or scenic you want your journey to be. The fastest way is to fly from Bhopal to Delhi, then take a connecting flight to Dehradun and finally enjoy the picturesque drive to Mussoorie. Budget-friendly travelers may prefer the train journey via Delhi and then road transfer. Adventurous souls can opt for the extensive road trip, experiencing the changing landscapes of India en route.
Plan your travel well in advance during peak tourist seasons. Pack appropriately for the mountain climate, and you will be ready to enjoy the cool breezes, stunning views, and vibrant culture that Mussoorie offers.
