Mussoorie, often called the “Queen of the Hills,” is a charming hill station nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Known for its lush green hills, diverse flora and fauna, and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, it’s a popular getaway for tourists seeking a refreshing escape. The journey from the spiritual plains of Haridwar to the cool climate of Mussoorie offers a delightful transition in scenery.
Distance Between Haridwar and Mussoorie
The journey from Haridwar to Mussoorie is entirely by road and covers a relatively short distance for a hill station:
- By Road: Approximately 80-90 kilometers.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Haridwar
While Mussoorie itself does not have a railway station or an airport, it is very well-connected by road, especially via Dehradun. The journey is straightforward and scenic.
1. By Road (Primary and Most Convenient Way)
Traveling by road is the most popular and convenient way to reach Mussoorie from Haridwar. The route generally goes through Dehradun, and the road conditions are typically good, though the last stretch to Mussoorie is a winding mountain road.
- Journey Time: A direct road journey usually takes 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and the number of stops you make. The ascent to Mussoorie from Dehradun is particularly winding and can take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Routes: The common route is Haridwar → Dehradun → Mussoorie. You’ll drive through the plains to Dehradun, and then begin your uphill climb to Mussoorie.
a. By Bus (Economical and Regular)
Direct bus services are available from Haridwar to Mussoorie, though many might require a change in Dehradun.
- Journey Time: Buses can take anywhere from 2.5 to 5 hours, depending on the bus type, number of stops, and road conditions.
- Operators: Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private bus operators like Zingbus, Empire Travels, and Mahalaxmi Bus Service offer services.
- Types of Buses: You can find various types of buses, including AC seater and semi-sleeper options.
- Ticket Price Estimates: Fares are quite affordable, generally ranging from ₹400 to ₹1,200 per person, depending on the bus type and booking time.
- Pros: Very economical, fairly regular service.
- Cons: Can be a bit slower than private taxis and might be crowded. Some services may involve changing buses in Dehradun.
- Tips: Buses usually depart from the main Haridwar Bus Stand. It’s wise to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. You can check timings and book online through platforms like RedBus, Paytm, or EaseMyTrip.
b. By Taxi/Cab (Most Comfortable and Flexible)
Hiring a private taxi or cab is the most comfortable and flexible option, especially for families or those who prefer a direct and personalized journey.
- Pros: Door-to-door service, privacy, the freedom to stop for breaks or photos at scenic viewpoints, and generally a faster travel time. HillZet Taxi guarantees on-time pickups and drop-offs for the airport, suggesting reliable service for long distances.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive than bus travel.
- Price Estimates: A one-way private taxi from Haridwar to Mussoorie can cost anywhere from ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 or more, depending on the car type (sedan, SUV, etc.) and the service provider. For an Innova, prices might start around ₹3,800. Always confirm all charges, including tolls and driver allowance, upfront.
- Tips: Taxis are readily available at the Haridwar Railway Station and various taxi stands. Many online cab services also operate on this route. Booking in advance, especially during weekends or peak tourist seasons, is recommended. Starting your journey early in the morning helps avoid traffic and allows you to enjoy the scenic drive in daylight.
c. Shared Taxis/Jeeps (Economical Alternative)
Shared taxis or jeeps are a popular and economical option for reaching Mussoorie, particularly the segment from Dehradun to Mussoorie.
- How it works: While direct shared taxis from Haridwar to Mussoorie might be less common for the entire stretch, you can easily take a shared auto or bus from Haridwar to Dehradun. From Dehradun’s main bus stand (Paltan Bazaar area) or Library Chowk, you’ll find numerous shared taxis (like Tata Sumo, Bolero) that regularly ferry passengers to Mussoorie. These fill up quickly and depart frequently.
- Pros: Very economical compared to private taxis.
- Cons: Less comfortable, can be crowded, and you might have to wait for the vehicle to fill up. You won’t have control over stops.
- Price Estimates: A shared taxi from Dehradun to Mussoorie might cost ₹150-₹300 per person.
2. By Train (No Direct Train to Mussoorie)
Mussoorie does not have its own railway station.
- Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station is Dehradun Railway Station (DDN), which is approximately 35 kilometers from Mussoorie.
- How it works: You can take a train from Haridwar to Dehradun. Haridwar has excellent train connectivity to Dehradun, with several daily trains. The train journey from Haridwar to Dehradun usually takes about 1.5 to 3 hours. From Dehradun Railway Station, you can then hire a private taxi, take a local bus, or a shared taxi to reach Mussoorie.
3. By Air (No Direct Flight to Mussoorie)
Mussoorie does not have its own airport.
- Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, which is approximately 60 kilometers from Mussoorie.
- How it works: While you’d typically fly to Dehradun from other major Indian cities, if you’re already in Haridwar, flying is not a practical option as the airport is just outside Dehradun. However, for context, from Jolly Grant Airport, you can hire a private taxi or take a bus/shared taxi to Mussoorie.
For your journey from Haridwar to Mussoorie, road travel is the most efficient and recommended option. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly bus or a comfortable private taxi, the journey itself is a beautiful part of the experience, offering glimpses of Uttarakhand’s diverse landscapes before you arrive at the charming hill station of Mussoorie.