Mussoorie is the quintessential British hill-station in the Himalayas and a time-tested weekend getaway from Delhi and UP.
Set in the foothills of the Himalayas in Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, Mussoorie has its origins in yet another Englishman’s search for a retreat from the Indian summer. In 1825, during the British Raj, Captain Young, a British army officer, explored the present site and constructed a shooting lodge here, thus, laying the foundation of the hill station.
The salubrious climate and the possibility of adventure made Mussoorie an attractive destination for Europeans in India. This popularity extended amongst the Indians once the Raj era came to an end and the “Indians and dogs not allowed” sign was removed. A sizeable Tibetan p
+ more about MussoorieMussoorie is the quintessential British hill-station in the Himalayas and a time-tested weekend getaway from Delhi and UP.
Set in the foothills of the Himalayas in Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, Mussoorie has its origins in yet another Englishman’s search for a retreat from the Indian summer. In 1825, during the British Raj, Captain Young, a British army officer, explored the present site and constructed a shooting lodge here, thus, laying the foundation of the hill station.
The salubrious climate and the possibility of adventure made Mussoorie an attractive destination for Europeans in India. This popularity extended amongst the Indians once the Raj era came to an end and the “Indians and dogs not allowed” sign was removed. A sizeable Tibetan population also settled in Mussoorie after the Dalai Lama established the Tibetan Government in Exile here in 1959. Tibetans mostly settled in Happy Valley where a beautiful Gompa (monastery) is situated overlooking the Doon Valley.
The hill station, most likely, gets its name from 'mansoor' (a shrub which grows on these hills) and the town is often referred to as 'Mansoori' by locals. The most important landmark here is The Mall which runs for two km between Gandhi Chowk and Kulri Bazaar. The Raj era remains reflected in the architecture of libraries, churches, some schools and a few hotels here.
Blessed with beautiful streams, waterfalls, Deodhars and Rhodendrons, Mussoorie remains till-date quite fabulous. The snow capped Himalayan ranges to the northeast and a spectacular view of the Doon Valley allow tourists to spend hours amidst its pine-scented hills. One can opt for long walks or a hike around the neighbouring hills to truly immerse oneself in the place.
Despite the hustle bustle it sees all year round, Mussoorie retains its popularity by serving as a gateway to Yamunotri and Gangotri shrines of northern India.
From plush hotels to guest houses with basic amenities the town offers numerous stay options to its varied visitors. Prices are influenced by season and can triple during the summer, early fall and Diwali seasons.
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