Mussoorie, famously called the “Queen of Hills,” is a beloved Himalayan retreat, cherished for its colonial boulevard ambiance, bracing climate, panoramic views, and lively bazaars. Moradabad—a thriving city in western Uttar Pradesh, renowned for its brass industry and rich heritage—lies conveniently close to the hills, making Mussoorie an inviting getaway that’s just a day’s journey away. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step advice, local insights, routes, costs, and tips for planning a seamless trip from Moradabad to Mussoorie.
Distance from Moradabad to Mussoorie
Start your plans with a reality check on travel distances and times:
- By Road: The distance from Moradabad to Mussoorie is approximately 225–260 km via the most common routes (through Najibabad, Haridwar/Dehradun).
- Travel Time: Typically 5.5 to 8 hours by car or taxi in normal traffic, but may be longer during weekends, hill station rush, or monsoon season.
- Aerial Distance: About 170–185 km, but Mussoorie has no airport—your trip will finish with a scenic hill climb.
How to Reach Mussoorie from Moradabad
Travelers can select from several options that balance comfort, cost, and timing. Here are the principal ways to make the journey:
1. By Road — Private Car, Taxi, or Self-Drive
The fastest and most flexible mode, ideal for families or groups.
Route & Driving Tips
- Recommended Route: Moradabad → Najibabad → Haridwar/Dehradun → Mussoorie (via NH309, NH334, and NH307).
- Distance: 225–260 km, depending on routing and city exits.
- Travel Time: 5.5–8 hours.
- Typical Taxi Fare: ₹4,000–₹7,000 (sedan/SUV/season dependent).
Why Choose Road?
- Door-to-door convenience: No luggage handling or transfers.
- Flexible stops: Enjoy breaks at Najibabad (refreshments), Haridwar (quick Ganga view), or Dehradun (local bakery treats).
- Comfort: Suits travelers with baggage, children, or elders.
Tips
- Start early to avoid city and highway traffic, especially weekends and public holidays.
- Fuel up and check vehicle fitness before the hilly climb past Dehradun.
- During the monsoon, check for hill road advisories or landslide warnings.
- Carry cash for toll booths, roadside dhabas, and unforeseen needs.
2. By Train + Road (Most Reliable & Cost-Effective)
Perfect for travelers who prefer resting on board, and for solo or budget-conscious travelers.
Step 1: Moradabad to Dehradun/Haridwar by Train
- Direct Trains: Moradabad connects well with Dehradun, Haridwar, and Saharanpur. Direct trains like the Nanda Devi Express, Doon Express, and Jan Shatabdi run frequently.
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours (Moradabad–Dehradun); 4 to 6 hours (Moradabad–Haridwar).
- Ticket Fare: Sleeper class ₹200–₹500; AC ₹400–₹1,200.
Step 2: Road to Mussoorie
- From Dehradun:
- 34 km by taxi (₹1,200–₹2,200, 1.5–2 hours), or by state/private bus (₹100–₹200).
- From Haridwar:
- 85 km by taxi (₹1,800–₹3,200, 2.5–3 hours), with regular buses and shared jeeps available.
Why This Option?
- Reliable and comfortable: Avoids driving stress; best for overnight or early-morning travelers.
- Flexible: Multiple trains and connecting buses let you tailor your journey.
Booking Tips
- Reserve IRCTC tickets 2–3 weeks out (summer and holidays fill fast).
- Time your train’s arrival in Dehradun or Haridwar for a daylight hill climb (safer, more scenic).
3. By Bus + Hill Transfer (Budget Option for Individuals)
Simple and economical, ideal for solo and student travelers.
Step 1: Moradabad to Dehradun/Haridwar by Bus
- UPSRTC and private operators run daily buses from Moradabad to both Dehradun and Haridwar.
- Departure: Buses frequently depart in the morning and overnight.
- Duration: 6–8 hours (with stops).
- Fares: ₹300–₹800, depending on the operator and bus class (ordinary, sleeper, AC/Volvo).
Step 2: Dehradun/Haridwar to Mussoorie
- State/private buses, taxis, and shared cabs available throughout the day from Dehradun ISBT/Old Bus Stand or Haridwar.
- Hill climb: 1.5–2 hours from Dehradun (bus/taxi).
Booking Advice
- Book buses online via Redbus/UPSRTC for assured seats in tourist season.
- Arrive at the bus stand early for better seat selection; carry snacks/water for the journey.
4. By Air + Road (Least Recommended)
- Moradabad has no airport. The nearest is Pantnagar or Delhi, but neither offers direct onward flights to Dehradun.
- You’d spend more time and money than using rail or road—choose this only if essential for onward connections.
Additional Travel Information
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie
- March–June: Peak tourist season, pleasant and lively.
- July–September: Monsoon; lush green views but risk of landslides/delays.
- October–February: Crisp winters; snow likely in January–February—pack heavy woolens.
What to Pack
- Summer: Light woolen jacket, hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes.
- Monsoon: Raincoat/umbrella, waterproof shoes, extra dry clothes.
- Winter: Heavy jacket, thermals, gloves, scarf, woolen cap.
Must-See in Mussoorie
- Mall Road: Main street for shopping, food, colonial-era architecture.
- Kempty Falls: Famous picnic & waterfall site (15 km from Mussoorie).
- Gun Hill, Lal Tibba: Iconic viewpoints for Himalayan panoramas.
- Camel’s Back Road, Company Garden, Landour: For walks, nature, and heritage.
Safety & Local Travel Tips
- Book transport and hotels ahead, especially in peak season.
- Carry cash as digital payments can be unreliable in some highland markets.
- Motion sickness medication helps for winding ascents.
- Avoid hill road driving after dusk, particularly in winter or monsoon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there a direct train or bus from Moradabad to Mussoorie?
A: No. All trains/buses stop at Dehradun or Haridwar, then transfer by taxi/bus for the last 34–85 km hill stretch.
Q: How long does it take to get from Moradabad to Mussoorie?
A: By car/taxi: 5.5–8 hours. By train + taxi/bus: 7–9 hours total. By bus: 7–10 hours, including hill transfer.
Q: What is the cheapest way to travel?
A: Bus or train to Dehradun, then a state bus or shared cab up to Mussoorie.
Q: Can I complete the journey in one day?
A: Absolutely—with an early start, you can reach Mussoorie by mid or late afternoon.
Q: What’s the fastest option?
A: Direct road trip by car or taxi, or early-morning train and immediate taxi to the hills.
Conclusion
Traveling from Moradabad to Mussoorie blends convenient access with spectacular Himalayan reward. Whether you drive, hop a train, or bus, you’ll find the journey manageable, affordable, and distinctly scenic as you leave the bustle of western UP for the crisp air, cloud-capped promenades, and colonial ambiance of Mussoorie. Book early in busy seasons, pack for the weather, and prepare to unwind in one of northern India’s most beloved hill stations.
