Uttarkashi is a vibrant town on the banks of the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand, known as a gateway to the Char Dham pilgrimage sites (Gangotri and Yamunotri). The road journey from Mussoorie to Uttarkashi is one of scenic valleys, changing climates, and classic mountain driving.
Distance and Travel Overview
- Road Distance: Approximately 150–175 km (depending on exact starting point and route).
- Travel Time: Usually 6–8 hours by car or taxi, possibly longer if making stops or during bad weather.
- No direct trains or flights; all travel is by road.
- Routes are winding and involve hilly stretches; drive with caution and plan for rest breaks.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
1. By Private Car or Taxi (Most Convenient)
Typical Route:
- Mussoorie → Dehradun → Rishikesh → Chamba → Dharasu → Uttarkashi
- Mussoorie to Dehradun: ~34 km, 1.5–2 hours (downhill mountain road)
- Dehradun to Rishikesh: ~45 km, 1.5 hours (good highway)
- Rishikesh to Chamba: ~60 km, ~2 hours (winding hill road, scenic)
- Chamba to Dharasu: ~55 km, ~2 hours (forest and mountain route)
- Dharasu to Uttarkashi: ~33 km, 1 hour (narrow, hilly road)
Total travel time: Typically 6–8 hours including stops.
Why choose this?
- Door-to-door convenience
- Option to stop in Dehradun, Rishikesh, Chamba, or on the Bhagirathi riverside for meals or tea
- Flexible pace and rest breaks, especially useful for families or groups
Tips:
- Start early to avoid afternoon fog or traffic, especially in monsoon and peak pilgrimage season.
- Refuel in Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Chamba; pumps are less common in upper stretches.
- Carry snacks, water, and cash for meals and emergencies.
2. By Bus and Shared Jeep (Budget-Friendly or Solo Traveler Option)
- Mussoorie to Dehradun: Frequent buses and shared taxis (30–60 min intervals), ~2 hours.
- Dehradun to Uttarkashi: Regular state and private buses from Dehradun ISBT; 6–8 hours depending on route/stops. Some services go via Rishikesh, others are more direct.
- Shared jeeps are also available from Dehradun, especially earlier in the morning.
Notes:
- No direct bus from Mussoorie to Uttarkashi—always a transfer at Dehradun.
- Buses are reliable in fair weather but may be delayed in monsoon or winter.
Tips:
- Book tickets in advance for weekends or pilgrimage season (May–October).
- Opt for morning departures from Dehradun for a safer daylight mountain drive.
Places to See En Route
- Dehradun: Stop for refreshments, bakeries, and supplies.
- Rishikesh: Pilgrimage town on the Ganga; great for brunch or sightseeing.
- Chamba: Forested hill town with beautiful Himalayan views.
- Dharasu: Scenic Bhagirathi river valley.
Best Season to Travel
- March–June: Clear, cool, and best for sightseeing.
- July–September: Monsoon—lush but be prepared for road delays due to landslides.
- October–November: Crisp weather, ideal for trekking.
- December–February: Cold, possible snow; always check weather before starting.
Packing & Safety
- Carry warm clothes and a rain jacket year-round; weather changes quickly in the hills.
- Good shoes for stops and short walks.
- Powerbank, torch, light snacks, personal medication.
- Drive slow and use low gear on winding hill sections—especially after Chamba.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there a direct bus from Mussoorie to Uttarkashi?
A: No, you must first travel to Dehradun, then transfer to a state or private bus to Uttarkashi.
Q: How long does the journey take?
A: 6–8 hours by private car or taxi (without long stops). By bus + transfer, it can take 8–10 hours, depending on connections.
Q: Is it safe to drive myself?
A: Yes for experienced hill drivers. Roads are winding but generally in good condition; always check for weather or landslide updates, especially in monsoon.
Q: What about accommodation en route?
A: Rishikesh, Chamba, and small dhabas/guesthouses are available along the route; Uttarkashi offers a range of hotels and lodges.
Summary Table
| Segment | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mussoorie to Dehradun | ~34 km | 1.5–2 hr |
| Dehradun to Rishikesh | ~45 km | 1–1.5 hr |
| Rishikesh to Chamba | ~60 km | 2 hr |
| Chamba to Dharasu | ~55 km | 2 hr |
| Dharasu to Uttarkashi | ~33 km | 1 hr |
| Total | ~150-175 km | 6–8 hr |
Traveling from Mussoorie to Uttarkashi is a classic and scenic Himalayan journey—easy to arrange by car, taxi, or public transport, as long as you plan your timing, check road conditions, and bring appropriate supplies for the mountains. Enjoy your adventure to Uttarkashi!
