Mussoorie, often called the “Queen of Hills,” sits in the Garhwal Himalayas and enchants travelers with its colonial charm, misty forests, vivacious Mall Road, and stunning Himalayan panoramas. For those in Kanpur—the bustling heart of Uttar Pradesh known for its history, educational centers, and leather industry—the journey to Mussoorie offers an enticing break from the plains, with adventure, comfort, and remarkable scenery along the way. This thorough guide covers all you need: distances, travel modes, routes, local tips, and answers to frequent questions for a seamless Kanpur-to-Mussoorie adventure.
Distance from Kanpur to Mussoorie
Understanding the scope of the journey will help you plan seamlessly:
- By Road: The direct driving distance from Kanpur to Mussoorie is 650–700 km, varying by exact start and routes taken.
- Travel Time: Road trips usually take 11 to 14 hours without major stops; most travelers break the trip or prefer a rail/air combination.
- Aerial (Straight-Line) Distance: About 510–540 km.
- No direct train or flight: Mussoorie lacks its own railway station or airport; travelers utilize Dehradun, Haridwar, or Saharanpur as gateways and then continue by road.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Kanpur
You have several well-connected, affordable options—choose the one best for your time, comfort, and budget.
1. By Train + Road (Most Popular & Budget-Friendly)
Step 1: Train from Kanpur to Dehradun / Haridwar / Saharanpur
- Direct Trains:
- Few direct trains run all the way to Dehradun or Haridwar from Kanpur; most require a change at Lucknow or Delhi.
- For Dehradun: Board trains like the Doon Express (luggage facilities, AC available) or via Lucknow-to-Dehradun links.
- To Haridwar: More connectivity; several express and superfast trains, many overnight.
- To Saharanpur: Another logical stop with well-timed express options.
- Journey Duration:
- Kanpur to Dehradun: 11–16 hours depending on train and transfer.
- Kanpur to Haridwar: About 10–14 hours.
- Kanpur to Saharanpur: 9–12 hours.
- Fare:
- Sleeper class: ₹400–₹800
- AC Chair Car/3AC: ₹900–₹1,800+
- Tips:
- Book via IRCTC 2–3 months out (summer, holidays fill up fast).
- Prefer overnight/sleeper trains to maximize sightseeing time on arrival.
Step 2: By Road to Mussoorie
- From Dehradun: 34 km up to Mussoorie via winding hill road; 1.5–2 hours; taxis (₹1,200–₹2,000), shared cabs and buses (₹80–₹200) available outside station.
- From Haridwar: 85 km; 2.5–3 hours by taxi or state bus.
- From Saharanpur: 110 km; about 3–3.5 hours by taxi/bus (connect via Dehradun).
- Why Choose This Route?
- Most cost-effective and comfortable for solo, family, or group travelers.
- Overnight trains allow a restful journey; begin your Himalayan ascent during daylight for scenic views and safety.
- Extra Tip:
- For families and those with luggage, pre-book a taxi from Dehradun/Haridwar to Mussoorie.
2. By Air + Road (For Speed & Premium Comfort)
Step 1: Fly from Kanpur to Dehradun (via Delhi)
- No direct flights from Kanpur’s Chakeri Airport (KNU) to Dehradun; connect via Delhi.
- Flight Route: Kanpur → Delhi (1.2 hours), Delhi → Dehradun (1 hour).
- Total Air Journey (including transit): 4–7 hours depending on layover.
- Airfare: ₹4,000–₹11,500, fluctuating with season and timing.
- How to Book: Major carriers like IndiGo, Air India, Vistara via online portals or agents.
Step 2: Dehradun Airport to Mussoorie
- 60 km by taxi (1.5–2 hours; ₹1,200–₹2,000).
- State-run and private taxis are available outside the airport.
- Shared cabs or buses for budget-conscious; may require a short transfer to the Dehradun bus stand.
Why Choose?
- Fastest option for those with limited travel days—great for business, family with children/elderly, or anyone valuing comfort.
- Arrive at Mussoorie the same day with minimum fatigue.
Pro Tip: Try to land in Dehradun before noon to finish the hill journey in daylight.
3. By Bus + Road (Budget Backpackers & Flexible Travelers)
Step 1: Kanpur to Dehradun/Haridwar by Bus
- Daily and overnight government and private AC/Volvo/sleeper buses connect Kanpur to Dehradun and Haridwar.
- Typical Fare: ₹750–₹1,700, depending on class and operator.
- Travel Time: 13–17 hours.
Step 2: Dehradun/Haridwar to Mussoorie (as described above)
Why Choose?
- Most cost-effective and practical for solo travelers or students.
- Online booking via Redbus, MakeMyTrip, or state bus portals is recommended for guaranteed seats.
4. By Car or Taxi (Only for Driving Enthusiasts or Groups)
- Distance: 650–700 km via NH19 → Kanpur–Lucknow → Sitapur → Bareilly → Najibabad → Haridwar → Dehradun → Mussoorie.
- Travel Time: 11–14 hours (nonstop; best split into two days or with driver change).
- Cab Fare: ₹14,000–₹20,000 for round trips; one-way options available.
- Why do this? Only advisable for family groups or those wishing to sightsee en route.
- Driving Tips: Avoid night ascent from Dehradun to Mussoorie, monsoons often delay hill traffic.
Additional Travel Information
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March–June: Peak tourist season; pleasant, rhododendrons in bloom, cool weather.
- July–September: Monsoon brings lush hills but landslides and delays are possible.
- October–February: Crisp winter months with possible snow in January and February.
What to Pack
- Summer: Light woolens, sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes.
- Winter: Heavy jackets, warmers, gloves, muffler.
- Monsoon: Raincoat, umbrella, waterproof shoes.
- For all: Camera, medicines for hill sickness, and some cash for small markets.
Highlights in Mussoorie
- Mall Road: Colonial walkways, shops, street cafés.
- Kempty Falls: Iconic picnic spot 15 km out of town.
- Gun Hill & Lal Tibba: Hilltop views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
- Camel’s Back Road: Scenic walking path.
- Nearby: Landour, Company Garden, Jharipani Falls.
Essential Local Tips
- Book trains, buses, hotels ahead in summer and festivals.
- Cash: Small towns and hills may not always accept cards.
- Taxi Tips: Negotiate fares or book via authorized counters in Dehradun/Haridwar.
- Motion Sickness: Hill climbs can be winding—carry relevant medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I get a direct train or bus from Kanpur to Mussoorie?
A: No direct services—travel to Dehradun, Haridwar, or Saharanpur, then transfer by taxi or bus for the last leg up the hills.
Q: How long does the train+road route take?
A: About 13–18 hours with transfers, depending on wait times, train schedule, and traffic up the hills.
Q: What is the fastest route?
A: Early morning flight via Delhi to Dehradun and taxi to Mussoorie (7–10 hours total).
Q: Cheapest way for students/budget travelers?
A: Sleeper train or ordinary bus to Dehradun, then a shared cab or state bus up.
Q: Can I drive all the way myself?
A: Yes, but the final ascent requires hill driving skills; advisable for groups or with experienced drivers.
Q: Can the trip be completed in a day?
A: Yes, with the fastest connections or an early drive—otherwise, overnight journeys are most relaxing.
Conclusion
Traveling from Kanpur to Mussoorie is a rewarding journey, taking you from the vibrant plains of Uttar Pradesh into the cool, lush heights of Uttarakhand’s hills. Whether you select the speed and comfort of air travel, the classic convenience and economy of rail plus road, a flexible bus journey, or the adventure of a self-driven trip, advance planning ensures a smooth and memorable escape.
