Mussoorie, famously hailed as the “Queen of Hills,” is a scenic hill station perched in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Known for its serene landscapes, pleasant climate, colonial charm, and sweeping views of the Himalayan ranges, Mussoorie has long been a favorite retreat for travelers yearning for a refreshing mountain escape.
If you are starting your journey from Bijnor — a historic town in Uttar Pradesh known for its cultural richness and proximity to hill foothills — this comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip efficiently. You’ll find detailed information on distances, travel options, routes, transit tips, approximate costs, and must-know local insights to ensure a comfortable and smooth journey from Bijnor to Mussoorie.
Distance from Bijnor to Mussoorie
Understanding the distance and expected travel time between Bijnor and Mussoorie is vital for efficient planning:
- By Road: The driving distance between Bijnor and Mussoorie is approximately 130 to 160 kilometers, depending on the chosen route.
- Typical Travel Time: On average, the journey takes around 4 to 6 hours, subject to traffic conditions, route, and stops.
- By Rail/Air: Mussoorie itself has no railway station or airport. The closest major transport hubs are Dehradun railway station and airport, situated about 34 km from Mussoorie.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Bijnor
There are several practical ways to reach Mussoorie from Bijnor, including road trips, train plus road combinations, and bus plus road options. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each:
1. By Road: Taxi / Self-Drive / Private Car
Traveling by road is often the quickest and most flexible mode of transport between Bijnor and Mussoorie, particularly suitable if you prefer door-to-door travel.
Route & Distance
- Typical Route: Bijnor → Najibabad → Haridwar → Dehradun → Mussoorie.
- Distance: Approximately 130–160 km depending on specific road choices.
- Estimated Driving Time: 4 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
Road Conditions
- The highways are generally in good condition, including stretches of NH734 (Bijnor to Najibabad) and NH334A (towards Dehradun).
- The final stretch from Dehradun to Mussoorie covers steep, winding roads typical of hill climbs, requiring careful driving.
Taxi or Cab Options
- Private taxis or car rentals are abundant in Bijnor.
- Approximate taxi fare for one way ranges from ₹1,800 to ₹3,000 depending on car type (sedan, SUV) and operator.
- Self-drive cars provide flexibility and comfort.
Advantages
- Door-to-door convenience and no multiple transfers.
- Freedom to halt for refreshments or sightseeing en route.
- Ideal for families, groups, or travelers with luggage.
Tips
- Start early to avoid traffic jams, especially near Haridwar and Dehradun.
- Exercise caution while driving during the mountainous last leg, particularly in monsoon or foggy conditions.
- Prebook cabs from reliable operators if traveling during weekends or festive seasons.
2. By Train + Road
Since Mussoorie has no direct rail connectivity, the nearest railhead is Dehradun Railway Station (~34 km from Mussoorie). Traveling by train from Bijnor to Dehradun followed by a short road transfer is a comfortable and economical option.
Step 1: Train from Bijnor to Dehradun
- Bijnor is connected to Najibabad Junction, which is a major railhead on the route to Dehradun.
- You can take a local train or taxi from Bijnor to Najibabad (around 30 km).
- From Najibabad, several trains, including the Dehradun Express and Nanda Devi Express, run to Dehradun Railway Station.
- The train journey from Najibabad to Dehradun typically takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
- Combined Bijnor-to-Najibabad plus train travel to Dehradun takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Step 2: Road Transfer from Dehradun to Mussoorie
- Upon arriving at Dehradun Railway Station, hire a taxi, cab, or shared jeep for the 34 km hill drive to Mussoorie.
- Travel time on this stretch is about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Taxi fares usually range between ₹800 and ₹1,500 for this last leg.
Advantages
- Economical and comfortable, especially for solo travelers or those preferring train travel.
- Enjoy scenic rail routes as you approach the Himalayan foothills.
Tips
- Book train tickets in advance via IRCTC or railway counters.
- Arrange for a pre-paid or confirmed taxi from Dehradun to Mussoorie for safety and convenience.
- Avoid travelling to Dehradun late at night to ensure a safe hill ascent during daylight.
3. By Bus + Road
Public buses provide an economical way to cover the journey in stages, although options can be less direct and involve transfers.
Step 1: Bus from Bijnor to Haridwar or Dehradun
- Several state-run and private buses operate from Bijnor or nearby terminals to Haridwar and Dehradun.
- The journey to Haridwar takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- From Haridwar to Dehradun is another short bus or taxi journey of about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 2: Bus / Taxi from Dehradun to Mussoorie
- State Road Transport buses frequently ply from Dehradun ISBT to Mussoorie.
- The 34 km hilly stretch takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Alternatively, shared or private taxis are available for a faster and more comfortable journey.
Bus Fare Estimates
- Bijnor to Haridwar or Dehradun: ₹150–₹300 approximately.
- Dehradun to Mussoorie bus: ₹80–₹150.
Advantages
- Budget-friendly and accessible.
- Good frequency of buses on major legs.
Tips
- Check bus timings beforehand and plan connections to avoid long waits.
- Carry water and snacks, especially for bus journeys.
- Prefer day-time travel to avoid risks on hilly roads in the dark.
Additional Travel Information
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March to June: Peak tourist season with pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and hikes.
- July to September: Monsoon season; expect lush greenery but also the risk of travel delays due to landslides or roadblocks.
- October to February: Cool to cold weather with the possibility of snowfall; ideal for winter tourism enthusiasts.
What to Pack
- Summer: Light woolens or jackets for evenings, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
- Winter: Warm jackets, thermals, gloves, blankets.
- Monsoon: Raincoats, umbrellas, waterproof shoes.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring hill trails.
Must-see Places in Mussoorie
- Mall Road: Bustling with shops, cafes, and colonial charm.
- Kempty Falls: A popular picnic spot located about 15 km from Mussoorie.
- Gun Hill and Lal Tibba: Scenic viewpoint spots offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Camel’s Back Road: A beautiful walking trail along the hill ridge.
- Company Garden and Jharipani Falls: Ideal for leisure walks and family outings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there a direct taxi from Bijnor to Mussoorie?
A: Yes, private taxis can be hired for the direct trip, offering comfort and convenience.
Q: How long does it take to reach Mussoorie from Bijnor by train plus road?
A: Approximately 5 to 6 hours considering the train from Najibabad to Dehradun and road travel onwards.
Q: Are buses available for the entire journey?
A: No direct buses run from Bijnor to Mussoorie, but buses run between Bijnor and Dehradun / Haridwar and from Dehradun to Mussoorie.
Q: Is it safe to drive through the hills in Mussoorie?
A: Yes, but caution is necessary, especially during monsoons and at night.
Q: Can I complete the trip in a day?
A: Yes, it is feasible to do the journey in one day by car or taxi, or by train plus taxi with well-timed connections.
Conclusion
Traveling from Bijnor to Mussoorie is a rewarding journey that gently transitions from the plains of Uttar Pradesh to the cool, invigorating hills of Uttarakhand. Whether you choose the comfort and directness of a private taxi, the economical and scenic train plus road combination, or the budget-friendliness of bus travel with transfers, the trip is full of beautiful sights and cultural touchpoints.
For the most convenient and comfortable experience, private car hire or taxi is recommended, especially for families or groups. Train travelers benefit from affordable and pleasant journeys, with simple transfers at major hill stations.
Plan your travel according to your budget and comfort preference, book tickets in advance during peak seasons, and prepare for an unforgettable escape to the mystical hills of Mussoorie, just a few hours away from Bijnor.
