“Where the clouds descend to kiss the earth, Mussoorie unfolds its magic.”

Anonymous

The north part of India is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Our trip to Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Rishikesh in December 2018 was an amazing blend of joy, adventure, and serenity. Read on for tips to help make your trip through the heart of Uttarakhand, unforgettable.

Dehradun: A Peaceful Prelude

Our trip began in Dehradun, where we were invited to celebrate the wedding of a colleague and friend. Amidst the vibrant celebrations of sangeet and pheras, we found time to explore the city’s hidden gems. We booked a cab to travel to a few stops and one of our first stops was the Mindrolling Monastery and World Peace Stupa, a serene haven.

Our next stop led us through Robber’s Cave, a thrilling underground experience where water-wading was mandatory. Remember to bring waterproof shoes or an extra pair!

We also explored the enchanting campus of the Forest Research Institute, which transported us back to our college days.

Mussoorie: An Enchanting Escape

After bidding farewell to the newlyweds and their blissful celebration, we embarked on a scenic drive to Mussoorie. We had booked a cab for 2 days that picked us from Dehradun, took us through a few destinations in Mussoorie and left us at our hotel in Rishikesh.
Along the way to Mussoorie, we made a pit stop at the frozen Mussoorie Lake. For those of us unaccustomed to the northern chill, it was a magical introduction to the region.

In Mussoorie, we took the cable car on Mall Road to Gun Hill, where we were rewarded with panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayas. Lal Tibba was next on our list, offering equally stunning vistas, albeit with a bit of a wait in the cold. Pack warmer clothes and wear more layers to beat the chill.

Our bout of illness in Mussoorie taught us the importance of dietary caution, especially with milk products. Keep an eye on your dietary choices to ensure a trouble-free trip.

A must-visit in Mussoorie is the Little Llama Cafe, a charming spot with breathtaking views and comforting coffee to help you thaw from the cold.

Rishikesh: Where Adventure Meets Serenity

Our journey continued as we drove to Rishikesh, a city that exudes spirituality and adventure in equal measure. We were fortunate to book a room at Aloha on the Ganges, a picturesque resort with breathtaking views of the river and delicious Pahadi dishes

Our evenings were spent on the famous Ram Jhula, where we witnessed the Ganga Aarti

Although it wasn’t the season for rafting, we couldn’t resist a thrilling canoeing adventure, organized by our resort. The gentle flow of the Ganges and the lush surroundings made it a memorable experience.

Do visit the Little Buddha Cafe for amazing food and views

On our last day in Rishikesh, we followed a local’s suggestion and hiked halfway to Neer Falls. For those with more time, consider camping at the mouth of the waterfalls for a truly immersive experience.

Our journey through Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Rishikesh was an unforgettable chapter in our travel diaries. The beauty of northern India, from its snow-covered peaks and serene rivers, will forever remain etched in our memories.

We hope our experiences inspire you to embark on your own adventure through this enchanting part of the world.