8 Offbeat Places to Visit Near Mussoorie

Nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range, Mussoorie charms visitors with its natural beauty and tranquillity. Majestic snow-capped mountains, gushing waterfalls, and lush forests create picture-perfect scenery. The aroma of flowers and greenery fills the air. From quiet nature walks to lively shopping sprees at bustling bazaars, Mussoorie offers experiences for all tastes. Nearby destinations also entice travellers to extend their stay in this region. Whether you seek adrenaline rushes or peaceful retreats, want to backpack solo or vacation with family, these offbeat places to visit near Mussoorie cater to all types of tourists with their bountiful natural beauty and diversity of experiences ranging from rejuvenating to exciting.

8 Places to Visit Near Mussoorie

Here are some top places to visit near Mussoorie offering amazing vacation experiences including attractions, hill towns, cities and temples to suit diverse interests: -

• Haridwar
• Kempty Falls
• Dehradun
• Rishikesh
• Dhanaulti
• Chamba
• Rajaji National Park
• Chakrata

Haridwar

Also known as 'Dev Bhoomi' or the Land of the Gods, Haridwar complements this hill station's beauty as one of the best places to visit near Mussoorie. Haridwar has maintained its ancient heritage as a revered Hindu pilgrimage site for millennia. The pulsating rhythm of ringing bells, chanting mantras and devotional songs reverberate across its iconic temples. Marvel at the intricately carved shrines of Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi, bathe in the holy Ganga waters of Har Ki Pauri or offer salutations at Maya Devi, the temple where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati are said to have fallen. Witness spectacular displays of spiritual grandeur during evening aartis when lights, prayers and hymns dedicated to the Gods illuminate the riverfront. The sounds, colours and rituals transport you to a mystical spiritual plane. Haridwar's sacred past merges seamlessly with its lively festivals, removing you from the chaos of ordinary life. Lose yourself instead in the glorious divinity it radiates as the Gods' land.

Kempty Falls

Nestled in verdant valleys ringed by the green Garhwal ranges, the gushing waters of the Kempty Falls beckon tourists with their mighty roar. Revel in a rejuvenating bath under the natural waterfall, beat the summer heat by taking a dip in the nearby pools or scream your heart out on the exhilarating trolley ride meandering precariously along the cliffs. Shop for knick-knacks and local handicraft items at the market, and relish hot pakoras and chai with panoramic views all around. The sights and sounds infuse new life into your senses. Just 15 km from Mussoorie, the Kempty Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Mussoorie that offers a perfect break from routine where you can chill with family and friends. Let the child in you come alive as you immerse in the liberating pleasures of nature’s company beside these thunderous falls.

Dehradun

Nestled in the Doon Valley against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas, Dehradun is a charming town known for its premier schools and laidback cafes. But there is more to it than just educational institutions. Dehradun offers a plethora of attractions like the intriguing Robber's Cave, the sulphur springs of Sahastradhara that are believed to have medicinal values, the innovative Timber Museum providing insights into conservation efforts, the holy Tapkeshwar Temple, and the wildlife haven of Rajaji National Park - home to rich biodiversity. Pleasant weather, lush surroundings and a peaceful ambience make Dehradun one of the best places to visit near Mussoorie. Just 35 km away, it lets you escape from the hustle of cities and lose yourself in nature's tranquillity. From treks to temple visits, Dehradun promises experiences to delight the mind, body and soul.

Rishikesh

Encircled by the mighty Garhwal Himalayas, the spiritual town of Rishikesh near Mussoorie needs no introduction. With its world-renowned identity as the 'Yoga Capital of the World’, Rishikesh has become a pilgrimage for spiritual seekers and wellness enthusiasts alike. The rhythmic chants of mantras, ashrams practising ancient techniques, and yoga studios offering life-transforming experiences continue to draw people worldwide to this holy town on the banks of the Ganges. But spirituality aside, Rishikesh also caters to adventure junkies through activities like river rafting, bungee jumping and cliff diving that pump adrenaline in the gorgeous mountainous backdrop. Iconic attractions like the Laxman Jhula suspension bridge, the 13-storied Neelkanth Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Gita Bhawan also showcase Rishikesh’s cultural significance and natural charm.

Dhanaulti

Nestled high in the Himalayas at 2,290 meters, the hill town of Dhanaulti has emerged as one of the popular places to visit near Mussoorie in winter. Enveloped in tranquillity, with rhododendron forests and breathtaking mountain vistas, it makes for an ideal weekend retreat. The serene and pristine natural environs create a perfect ambience for relaxation or adventure. Go skywalking for fabulous aerial views, enjoy camping on starry nights, or boating on peaceful lakes. With its high-altitude location and wealth of outdoor activities complemented by the untouched beauty of oak and deodar forests, Dhanaulti offers a soul-stirring getaway that lets you experience nature at its finest.

Chamba

Nestled amidst the soaring Langtang Himalayan range, the panoramas in Chamba showcase magnificent mountain vistas. As an offbeat destination, Chamba promises tranquil environs perfect for nature lovers. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Garhwal hills from the Surkanda Devi Temple, glimpse local history at the Gabbar Singh Memorial, enjoy boating on Tehri Lake, or find spiritual solace at the Bageshwar Mahadev Temple. The best time to visit is from March to June when flowers like rhododendrons bloom and the weather is pleasant. Immerse yourself in nature through wildlife safaris, treks, museum visits and more as you relax in Chamba's peaceful embrace.

Rajaji National Park

No tour to Mussoorie is complete without a visit to the magnificent Rajaji National Park, one of Uttarakhand's ecological treasures. Sprawling across the banks of the Ganges, this bountiful forest is home to rich and diverse wildlife. As you explore the wilderness, sightings of majestic elephants, large grazing sambar deer and the quick-footed goral offer exciting safari experiences. Over 400 species of exotic birds also inhabit its woods, a paradise for avid birdwatchers. Blessed with this abundance of flora and fauna, Rajaji allows you to immerse in nature by appreciating its stunning biodiversity up close. Its proximity to Mussoorie at just 90 km makes it easily accessible. Visit between November to June to fully enjoy its sublime natural beauty as you spot exotic creatures amidst verdant forests and revel in wilderness at one of North India's finest national parks.

Chakrata

For backpackers and adventure junkies, Chakrata emerges as one of the best places to visit near Mussoorie with its rugged mountain charm. Enveloped within lofty Himalayan peaks, dense jungles and apple orchards, Chakrata promises outdoor escapades including one of Uttarakhand's toughest yet stunningly scenic trekking circuits. Conquer the challenging Tiger Falls trek to glimpse breathtaking waterfalls, traverse flower-strewn alpine meadows around Mundali, explore ancient Budher Caves or enjoy panoramic vistas of snow-capped ranges from Chilmiri Neck. Winters lure thrill-seekers for skiing sprees on inclined slopes. From cathartic forest walks to heart-pumping rappelling, rock climbing and camping under starry skies, Chakrata is tailor-made for adrenaline adventures. Just 80 km from Mussoorie, its raw, rugged beauty and offbeat location let you immerse in nature, making it the perfect retreat for backpackers and trekkers seeking untouched vistas rather than touristy haunts.

These places to visit near Mussoorie offer perfect escapes - secluded hill towns and temples, adventurous treks, wildlife-rich forests, sacred pilgrim sites, cascading falls and more. Book a Mussoorie tour package or Mussoorie honeymoon package to experience the region's diverse magic.