Mussoorie - Holiday In Hills & Greens

By Author: Nagma Biswas
Total Articles: 26
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This Queen of Hills remains in the veil of mist and clouds most of the year and appears clearly as an enchantress only when summers scorch the plains. It is then that Mussoorie gives a cool retreat to those who wish to get a chilly break from the heat. The charisma that Mussoorie possesses is visible clearly from the Doon Valley from where the snow-capped peaks and deep green become observable. The main part of Mussoorie town looks down towards the foothills and the plains. The northern side however is more charming and commands views of the Himalayas.

A discovery of the British, Mussoorie soon became popular with the whites who made it their favorite summer retreat. The British charm is still visible in the many churches, libraries, hotels and summer palaces that have remained from their times. The trend continues and the town sees a flood of tourists in the hotter months. In fact the economic scene of the town is dominated by the tourism industry. This is pretty evident by the dominating presence of billboards and cab fleets even as you enter Mussoorie. The mass inflow of tourists has not left Mussoorie the solitary ...
... retreat, which it was earlier. However, it is still the best retreat from the plains when the sun blazes and one needs a cooler getaway.

British churches, buildings and other structures are strewn all over the landscape of the town. A particularly majestic structure here is the residence of the Maharaja of Kapurthala. It is not open for public viewing, but one can always admire its majesty from outside. The Gun Hill is another place which needs to be visited for the historical value it holds. It derives its name from the huge gun that was once mounted here. It was fired everyday at noon in order to signal the locals of the time of the day.

Ask any local from Mussoorie and they would suggest that the best way to enjoy the treasures of the town is to explore it on foot. The inside pockets of the hills are particularly rewarding with the immense tranquility they offer. The Camel Back Road is a nice trail stretching some three miles. The views of the Himalayas, the valleys and some English cemeteries make the views picturesque. The Landour area is worth dedicating an entire day to. This is believed to be the original settlement which later on developed to become Mussoorie as it is today. The Landour bazaar, the clock tower and the Sisters Bazaar are worth visiting. The Char Dukaan area here is a popular shopping stop.

The Mall in Mussoorie is the lifeline of the town. Most of the shops and coffee houses in Mussoorie are concentrated here. Hotels too have found it as the best site in here. A short walk, it is a favorite for locals who simply love to stroll along the charming esplanade. The Savoy Hotel is a major attraction here. Though centuries old, the hotel still holds an appeal that attracts all those who visit the place. It's too creepy to be picked up as a staying option, but is definitely a must visit in Mussoorie.

Mussoorie is one destination that has something exciting for almost everyone. While the young and the adventurous can look forward to some good time hiking, mountain climbing and trekking, those who love to have it more relaxed can go for simple strolls and enjoy the natural beauty, the town possesses. Mussoorie is most definitely one of the best places in the country to get refreshed.

Nagma Biswas is an author writing about travel and tourism in India and abroad. To book Hotels in Mussoorie visit Sarovar hotels.