Every time we picked up a Ruskin Bond story in our childhood, we were struck by wanderlust and a hankering to visit the beautiful yet quaint town of Mussoorie. Dubbed the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’, Mussoorie’s cooler temperatures, breath-taking views of the Doon valley and the distant snow-capped mountains attract hundreds of tourists here every year. Mussoorie is one of the top hill stations in North India you must visit. It doesn’t matter how long you stay; a month or a weekend getaway in Mussoorie is always fun.Here are 10 spots in Mussoorie that will simply take your breath away.

Lal Tibba

Lal Tibba is the highest peak in Mussoorie and is well known for its spectacular views of the mountains and the famous shrines of Kedarnath and Badrinath. There is a Japanese telescope installed on the edge of the cliff for clearer views. Lal Tibba is one of the oldest populated places in Mussoorie housing a camp of Indian Military services, broadcasting stations of All India Radio and Doordarshan.

Lal Tibba

Kempty Falls

Surrounded by lofty peaks, this massive waterfall is a sight to behold. The water splitting into five other cascades and falls for another 40 feet. The best time to visit is all around the year except for the monsoon. A trek to Kempty Falls is a great way to enjoy it’s natural beauty and observe the flora and fauna in the region.

Kempty Waterfalls

Image Credit – Flickr

Camel’s Back Road

Named after a camel’s hump, this 3 km long road is ideal for a jog. Although it gets pretty crowded in the summers, one cannot deny its beauty. You can reach this road either from Library Point or the Kulri Bazaar. Amongst things to do here besides shopping and street food is visiting the 180 year old British cemetery.

Gun Hill

At an altitude of 2,024 meters above sea level, Gun Hill is the second highest point in Mussoorie. Gun Hill is named after the event of firing cannon by the British to tell what time is it to its residents. It now holds a water reservoir for Mussoorie city. It is 400m above the mall and can be reached by cable car or a 20 minute walk.

Lake Mist

On the way to Kempty falls lies the pristine Lake Mist. With forests on all sides, this is a wonderful picnic spot with family and friends.You can indulge in boating or just grab a coffee and bask in the glorious view. The emerald green water provides a fabulous photo opportunity.

Lake Mist

Jwala Devi Temple

Situated at the summit of the Benog Hill, Jwala Devi temple is visited not just by religious followers but also nature lovers! Unlike most temples there is no idol inside, but a flame. Flanked by the Shivalik mountain range on one side and the Yamuna river on the other, this place is well worth visiting. It is also a great starting point for adventurers going up to cloud’s end. Cloud’s end is only a 2 km trek from the Jwala Devi Temple.

Cloud’s end

Cloud’s end in Mussoorie is one of the best spots to observe the sunrise and sunset. A lovely walk that never ceases to disappoint the mesmerised onlooker as the clouds float by in the mist. The pure air and the sense of calm that this spot has will surely relax and rejuvenate your spirit.

Cloud’s end

George Everest’s House

Built in 1832, George Everest’s house is situated in Park Estate in Mussoorie and is often visited for the panoramic views of the Doon valley. Sir George Everest was the Surveyor- General of India from 1830 to 1843 and measure the heights of the peaks here. The whitewashed house is now abandoned but serves as a lovely picnic spot and offers a scenic view of the Aglar river on the other side.

Christ Church

This is a must visit for architecture lovers. Built in 1836, Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows take you back to the British era in India. Do remember to wear appropriate church attire especially if you are visiting during the Sunday mass.

Jharipani Falls

Although not as massive and popular as Kempty Falls, the humble Jharipani falls offer a picturesque view of the Sivalik mountains.The last 1.5km is a hike leading up to the cascading falls. On the way you can spot the step farming fields, the jharipani village and several species of exotic wild flowers.

Jharipani Falls

Stay in at the Sterling Resorts Mussoorie for a memorable experience. Most of the rooms overlook the Doon valley and have a balcony for that perfect morning tea/ coffee with a view.