Rishikesh to Mussoorie Distance, Best Route, and Travel Guide
Planning a trip from the spiritual hub of Rishikesh to the “Queen of the Hills,” Mussoorie? This essential guide provides all the key details for a smooth journey, optimizing your travel for distance, time, and scenic beauty.
Key Distance and Travel Time Facts
The road distance between Rishikesh and Mussoorie is approximately 66 km to 75 km, depending on the exact route taken (via Dehradun).
| Mode of Transport | Approx. Distance | Approx. Travel Time | Best For |
| By Car/Taxi | 73 km | 2 to 3 hours | Speed, comfort, and scenic stops. |
| By Bus | 66 km (Direct route estimate) | 2 to 2.5 hours | Budget-friendly travel. |
Pro Tip: Travel time can fluctuate based on traffic, especially while passing through Dehradun and during the final uphill climb to Mussoorie. Starting your journey early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid congestion.
The Best Road Route: Via Dehradun
The most common and well-maintained route from Rishikesh to Mussoorie takes you through Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand.
Rishikesh to Dehradun: You’ll start on a relatively flat road, which is often a smooth drive.
Dehradun Bypass: Many drivers opt for the Dehradun bypass to avoid city traffic, though the most direct route (NH 7) passes through the city.
Dehradun to Mussoorie: This is the winding, uphill section of the journey, offering spectacular views of the Doon Valley as you ascend to the hill station. The road condition is generally very good.
Travel Options: Choosing Your Ride
Private Taxi/Cab: This is the fastest and most flexible way to travel. You can hire a cab for a direct transfer or a round trip, allowing you to stop for photos and meals at your convenience.
Bus Service: State-run and private buses regularly ply this route, offering the most economical option. Many services run from the Rishikesh bus stand to the Dehradun bus terminal, from where you can take a local bus or taxi for the final leg to Mussoorie. Direct buses are less frequent but available.
Train (Indirect): There is no direct train to Mussoorie. The nearest major railway station is Dehradun Railway Station (DDN). You can take a train from Rishikesh to Dehradun and then hire a taxi or bus for the remaining 34 km uphill journey to Mussoorie.
Scenic Stopovers and Attractions
Make your journey an adventure by exploring these places along the way, mostly clustered in or near Dehradun:
Dehradun: Stop for a visit to the historic Forest Research Institute (FRI), the tranquil Buddha Temple, or the natural wonder of Robber’s Cave.
Maldevta Valley: A beautiful, peaceful spot near Dehradun, perfect for a short detour and photography.
Kempty Falls: While technically closer to Mussoorie, a visit to this famous waterfall is a popular excursion.
Camel’s Back Road During WinterMussoorie is a popular place to visit with lots of things to do and see. Some of the famous attractions include Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba, Mussoorie Lake, and Camel’s Back Road. It’s a fantastic destination for tourists!
Captain Young was fascinated by the beauty of Mussoorie
Captain Young started the work of settling Mussoorie (Tourist Place Mussoorie) in the year 1823. He found this place similar to Ireland. He was enchanted by the beauty here. Therefore, he decided to settle here. He made a shooting range in Mullingar of Mussoorie. He also built a house for himself.
He persuaded the British officers to make a sanitarium for soldiers here, which was completed in the year 1827. From then onwards the settlement started here.
Sisters’ Bazaar is the contribution of Captain Young
Captain Young got a hospital built for soldiers in Mussoorie, which was named British Military Hospital. Here the wounded soldiers of the British army were treated. Residential complexes were built for the nurses and sisters of the hospital, which later came to be called Sisters’ Bazaar.
Credit for settling Mussoorie goes to Captain Young
The credit for settling Mussoorie goes only to Captain Young. On his persuasion, senior British officers agreed to stay here. Because Captain Young convinced his superior William Bentinck that he would develop Mussoorie as a hill station and military depot, which he accomplished.
Beginning of potato and tea cultivation
It was Captain Young who started potato and tea cultivation in Mussoorie. Before the year 1827, potatoes were not grown here. At that time potatoes were grown only in Ireland.
Young’s Donegal House was in Rajpur village
Captain Young lived in Mussoorie (Tourist Place Mussoorie) for about 40 years. In Dehradun, his residence used to be ‘Donegal House’. Even today, from between Rajpur–Shahanshahi Ashram, a path passes through Jharipani reaching Mussoorie, which was constructed by Captain Young.
Suggested Read- waterfalls in Dehradun
Mussoorie from Rishikesh:
1- Sahastradhara waterfall
Sahastradhara waterfall is a stunning place near Dehradun in Uttarakhand, India. It’s located on top of a mountain near Mussoorie. The name “Sahastradhara” comes from a Sanskrit word meaning “a thousand streams.” The waterfall is incredibly beautiful, forming a semi-circle as the water flows down from a great height, making it a mesmerizing sight to see. Rishikesh to Mussoorie Distance
Suggested Read – Maldevta Valley on the way to Mussoorie
2- Maldevta Valley Rishikesh to Mussoorie Distance
Maldevta Valley is a beautiful valley in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. It’s well-known for its natural beauty and has become a popular spot for visitors. The valley is close to the famous Mussoorie hill station and sits at an altitude of 3500 feet above sea level. It’s a perfect place for a calm and enjoyable picnic with your family and friends.
3- Maldevta Waterfall
The Maldevta waterfall cascades down from a great height, creating a mesmerizing sight and a serene atmosphere. The sound of the gushing water, the cool mist that surrounds the area, and the lush greenery of the surrounding forests create a refreshing and rejuvenating experience for visitors. Rishikesh to Mussoorie Distance
4- Bhatta Waterfall Rishikesh to Mussoorie Distance
Bhatta Waterfall is a popular tourist attraction in Mussoorie, known for its stunning natural beauty. Situated on the outskirts of the city, this three-tiered waterfall is located close to the charming town of Landour, which is famous for its picturesque surroundings..
5- Benog Hill Rishikesh to Mussoorie Distance
Benog Hill is a well-known destination located in Dehradun, which is a popular hill station in India. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, Benog Hill is a paradise for trekking and paragliding enthusiasts.
Situated in the northern district of Dehradun, Benog Hill is a perfect destination for those who seek adventure and wish to explore the natural wonders of the region. The hill offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for nature walks and bird watching.
6- Dalai Hills
If you are going to visit Mussoorie then definitely include Dalai Hills in your travel list. It is also known as Buddha Temple. Situated near Happy Valley of Mussoorie, visiting Dalai Hills will be a different kind of adventure for you. In Dalai Hills you have to do trekking of about one kilometer, which is quite enjoyable.
Keep your sports shoes ready and climb while watching the greenery of Mussoorie. Above, you will get to see a beautiful statue of Buddha. Do not forget to have a photoshoot here. Such views you will hardly get anywhere. While returning downwards, on the left side, there is also a Buddhist temple, where you can see the mountain views in a peaceful atmosphere.
7- Dhanaulti
At a distance of about 55–60 kilometers from Mussoorie is Dhanaulti. By covering a two-hour journey, you will reach Dhanaulti. On the way, you will find many viewpoints, where you can click photos with friends, partner, or children. On the way, there are beautiful cafes, where you can enjoy delicious snacks.
Dhanaulti is famous for adventure activity and sports. Apart from this, in Dhanaulti there is an Eco Park, whose ticket is 50 rupees. In this park you will find greenery, beautiful views, and swings for children.
8- Mussoorie Mall Road and Kitab Ghar
In the evening you can go out to roam Mussoorie Mall Road. From food and drink to shopping you will get everything on Mussoorie Mall Road. You can taste hot roasted corn.
Stalls of boiled spiced chickpeas are also set up a little distance apart. Small and big cafés with very wonderful interiors will also be seen, where you can order according to your budget.
You can also shop for woolen clothes, shawls, etc. Beautiful library and view points are made. From Mussoorie Road up to Kitab Ghar roam walking and reaching. The distance of about two kilometers you will not even realize.
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