Mussoorie–Kempty Fall Trip – A Blissful Escape to the Queen of Hills
When one speaks of hill stations in Uttarakhand, the names Nainital, Ranikhet, and Auli often pop up first. But nestled in the lower Himalayas, offering a perfect balance of colonial charm, cascading waterfalls, lush green hills, and vibrant bazaars, lies a timeless favorite – Mussoorie. Popularly called the Queen of Hills, Mussoorie has for centuries been the escape for travelers seeking a refreshing break in the lap of nature.
Situated in the Dehradun district at an altitude of about 6,170 ft (1,880 m), Mussoorie was established as a British summer retreat in the 19th century. Its pleasant climate, thick deodar and oak forests, breathtaking views of the Shivalik ranges, and snow-clad peaks of the Greater Himalayas continue to lure travelers from all over the world.
And at the heart of every Mussoorie itinerary lies the famous Kempty Falls, a stunning waterfall tumbling from a height of over 1,300 meters (4,300 ft). Surrounded by forested mountains and echoing with the sound of gushing water, it has been the star attraction of Mussoorie for decades.
If Nainital is about lakes and Almora about heritage, then Mussoorie is about misty mornings, colonial charm, lively bazaars, and of course, the magic of waterfalls. This 5 Night / 6 Day trip is designed for those who want to experience both the classic attractions of Mussoorie and its quieter, hidden corners.
Highlights of Mussoorie & Kempty Fall Trip
- Kempty Falls: The iconic waterfall where visitors can bathe, picnic, or simply soak in the refreshing vibes.
- Mall Road Mussoorie: Colonial-era architecture, cafes, and local shopping streets that buzz with life.
- Gun Hill: Mussoorie’s second-highest point offering panoramic views of the Doon Valley and Himalayan ranges.
- Company Garden: A well-maintained park with colorful flowers, boating, and a lively picnic vibe.
- Camel’s Back Road: A peaceful stretch for evening walks with beautiful sunrise and sunset points.
- Lal Tibba: The highest point in Mussoorie, famous for clear views of Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Tibet border ranges on clear days.
- Mussoorie Lake: A serene man-made lake perfect for boating and leisure.
- Local Culture: Colonial charm, Tibetan markets, and Garhwali traditions blend beautifully in Mussoorie.
- Adventure Activities: Ropeways, horse rides, and short hikes around the hills.
- Starry Hill Nights: Cool evenings, bonfires, and the charm of a hill-station stay.
Detailed Itinerary – Mussoorie & Kempty Fall Trip (5 Nights / 6 Days)
Day 1: Arrival at Dehradun – Drive to Mussoorie (35 km / 2 hrs) – Evening at Mall Road
Your journey begins as you arrive at Dehradun Railway Station or Jolly Grant Airport. From here, a scenic 2-hour drive takes you uphill to Mussoorie. The winding road climbs through pine and deodar forests, with the Doon Valley unfolding below.
By afternoon, check into your hotel in Mussoorie. After some rest, step out to explore the lively Mall Road – the heart of Mussoorie. Colonial-style buildings, local cafes serving steaming momos and hot chocolate, Tibetan handicraft shops, and the sight of mist rolling down the hills create a magical first impression.
End the evening with a leisurely walk to Gun Hill Ropeway or enjoy the sunset from a viewpoint before returning to your hotel.
Day 2: Mussoorie Sightseeing – Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, Company Garden & Mussoorie Lake
After breakfast, the day is dedicated to exploring Mussoorie’s classic attractions. Start with a visit to Gun Hill, the second-highest point in Mussoorie, reached either by ropeway or a pleasant walk. From here, you get sweeping views of the snow-clad Himalayas in the north and the Doon Valley in the south.
Later, walk along Camel’s Back Road, a naturally shaped rock formation resembling a camel’s hump, perfect for peaceful strolls and photography. Continue to the Company Garden, a beautiful park adorned with colorful flowers, small rides, and boating options.
In the afternoon, head to Mussoorie Lake, a charming spot where you can relax by the waterside, try boating, or simply enjoy the tranquility. Return by evening and explore local cafes like Kalsang or Little Llama Café. Overnight in Mussoorie.
Day 3: Excursion to Kempty Falls & Local Markets
This is the highlight day of your trip! After breakfast, drive (or take a short trek) to Kempty Falls, about 15 km from Mussoorie. Surrounded by high mountain cliffs, the falls cascade down into a pool where tourists often bathe, splash around, or enjoy boating.
The sound of gushing water, the sight of white spray sparkling in the sun, and the cool refreshing environment make this a delightful experience. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy near the falls.
By afternoon, return to Mussoorie and spend time exploring Library Bazaar and Landour Bazaar, famous for books, antiques, and old-world charm. Don’t miss local treats like bun omelette, jalebi, and piping hot tea. Overnight stay in Mussoorie.
Day 4: Landour Excursion – Lal Tibba, Char Dukan & Ruskin Bond’s Mussoorie
Today, explore the quieter and more colonial side of Mussoorie – Landour, a cantonment town just 6 km away. Begin with a visit to Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie, where on clear days you can see the Himalayan ranges of Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Tibet border peaks through telescopes.
Later, stop at the famous Char Dukan, a cluster of four legendary cafes serving pancakes, waffles, and parathas for decades. This area is also associated with author Ruskin Bond, who has made Mussoorie his home. Sometimes, you may spot him at Cambridge Book Depot signing books for fans.
Spend the evening enjoying Landour’s peaceful walks lined with deodar and oak trees before returning to your hotel in Mussoorie. Overnight stay.
Day 5: Adventure & Leisure Day – Ropeway, Trekking & Evening Bonfire
Your fifth day is reserved for a mix of adventure and leisure. Start with the Gun Hill Ropeway ride if you haven’t already, or try short hikes like George Everest’s House trek, a scenic trail leading to the residence of the famous surveyor. The viewpoint here offers stunning vistas of the Himalayas and Doon Valley.
Adventurers can try horse riding at Camel’s Back Road or paragliding options near Mussoorie.
By late afternoon, return to your hotel for some rest. In the evening, enjoy a cozy bonfire, traditional Garhwali dinner, or simply a stroll under Mussoorie’s starry skies. Overnight stay.
Day 6: Departure – Drive Back to Dehradun (35 km / 2 hrs)
After breakfast, bid farewell to the Queen of Hills. A short drive will take you back to Dehradun, where you can catch your train or flight home. Carry with you beautiful memories of misty mornings, cascading waterfalls, lively bazaars, and the refreshing charm of Mussoorie.
Why Choose the Mussoorie & Kempty Fall Trip?
While many travelers rush through Mussoorie in a day or two, this carefully planned 5N/6D trip allows you to:
- Explore deeply – covering not just Kempty Falls and Mall Road, but also Landour and hidden gems.
- Enjoy leisure & adventure – balancing sightseeing with time to relax in nature.
- Family-friendly itinerary – perfect for couples, families, or groups.
- Blend of culture & charm – experience colonial history, local cuisine, and Garhwali hospitality.
- Manageable travel – just 35 km from Dehradun, making it accessible yet refreshing.
Essential Trip Information
- Duration: 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Altitude: Mussoorie ~1,880 m (6,170 ft) | Kempty Falls ~1,364 m (4,475 ft)
- Best Season: March–June (pleasant summer escape) & September–November (clear skies, festive vibe)
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~60 km)
- Nearest Railhead: Dehradun (~35 km)
- Trip Grade: Easy–Moderate (comfortable for families & beginners)
