The weather outside is becoming unbearable, especially if you’re based in the cities. To beat the sweltering sun, the thought of escaping to the mountains might seem like the best decision. A quick 2-3 day getaway in the hills, with your family or friends, or even solo, would be so enticing right now. Are Mussoorie and Dehradun already on your radar? For folks in Delhi, both places are close, convenient, and offer a bit of variation in the mountain vibes. But which one is better for you? Here’s a detailed guide that covers the best of both places.
Mussoorie or Dehradun, which is better? Let’s find out:
Mussoorie or Dehradun: How to Reach
If you plan on visiting Mussoorie, you will pass through Dehradun. Mussoorie is about 34 km away from Dehradun, about a 1.5-hour drive from the city. The nearest airport to Mussoorie is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport. You can either plan a stay in the city before heading towards the hill station or drive directly to Mussoorie, which takes about 2 hours.
Mussoorie and Dehradun are both accessible via road. If you’re taking a longer vacation, you can take a train to Dehradun and then take a cab to Mussoorie.
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie or Dehradun
Hill stations are best explored at the end of summer or early winter to enjoy the place in mild weather. The best time to visit Mussoorie is between March to June. The weather is pleasant in the evenings, skies are clear to enjoy the expansive views of the Himalayan range. For those who love snow, late December brings chillier winds and occasional snowfall.
Dehradun lies at the bottom of the mountainside and has milder weather throughout the year. Monsoons in the mountains are very unpredictable, reaching extreme levels. And being in the valley, there are chances of flooding. So avoid the monsoon months. The ideal time to visit Dehradun is from October to May. If you’re an adventure junkie who likes trekking and trailing in the deciduous forests, summers are a good time.
Mussoorie or Dehradun: Things to Do
Mussoorie and Dehradun both have things to offer for different types of travellers: luxury lovers, adventure junkies or solo explorers.
Things to do in Mussoorie
Called the ‘Queen of Hills,’ Mussoorie charms with the unending views of mountain peaks. As you start going up the winding roads, you will have a peak-and-boo of lush hills on either side of the road. Other than the buzz of other tourists, Mussoorie is relatively quiet, letting you experience nature more closely. Nature enthusiasts must visit these popular tourist places in Mussoorie:
- Kempty Falls
- George Everest Trail
- Landour
- Lal Tibba View Point
- Mall Road
Things to do in Dehradun
Dehradun, being a capital city, has a lot more buzz. There are temples, monasteries, a Tibetan market, and views of the Himalayas in the distance, which keep the hilly charm intact. Parts of the city feel very cosmopolitan, while some exude a small town quiet charm. The crisp air makes walking around in the evening very pleasant. Some places you must visit in Dehradun:
- Tapkeshwar Temple
- Gucchupani or Robber’s Cave
- Mindrolling Monastery
- Forest Research Institute
- Malsi Deer Park
- Rajaji National Park
Where to Stay in Mussoorie or Dehradun?
Mussoorie and Dehradun are popular summer destinations in India. So you will likely find tourists at many places of interest. But you can enjoy a private haven if you book your stay at our private villas in Mussoorie and Dehradun:
Villas in Mussoorie
If you’re taking an annual summer vacation to Mussoorie with your extended family or friends, you can find solace at Airyland Estate. This is a massive 7-bedroom private villa surrounded by majestic views of the Himalayas. One of the best stays near Mussoorie Mall Road, it evokes an aura of living inside a heritage home.
Wakefield Estate is another 5-BHK private holiday home in Mussoorie, where you can run around in lush lawns, enjoy alfresco meals and enjoy bonfire nights. The team can help you go on nearby trails, spot birds and soak in the beauty of the place.
Villas in Dehradun
Tucked away in a green embrace, Ivy Cottage is a charming 4-bedroom villa in Dehradun perfect for a peaceful family retreat. Surrounded by thick foliage, the home offers privacy, comfort, and the right amount of luxury. Think lazy afternoons by private pool, evening barbecues in the cozy outhouse, and a garden that’s practically made for morning chai and birdwatching.
Mussoorie or Dehradun: Which is Better?
Mussoorie has that easy, laid-back charm if you just want to slow down. You can spend your day strolling along Mall Road, popping into little shops, sipping hot coffee, and biting into fresh buns from old-school bakeries. If you’re travelling with your parents, take them to one of the many viewpoints. Nothing like watching the sun dip behind the hills with a cup of chai in hand.
Dehradun is a lovely option if you want to just want to take a quick escape to a cooler, quieter city side. It’s ideal for a family vacation, with plenty of spots where kids can enjoy nature too. You can go on safari rides or explore caves and waterfalls that feel like scenes out of a storybook. You can always get around to Rishikesh and Haridwar and imbibe in the spiritual vibe of these destinations.
For the best time, plan a stay in private villas in Mussoorie or Dehradun. That way, you can ensure a relaxing vacation throughout. With home-cooked specialties and warm hospitality, arranging fun activities, you can enjoy a fully tailored stay and explore the places as you wish. Even if you don’t plan to do anything at all, just enjoy the peace in elegant homes that comfort like your own.
