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The Queen of Hills has wonderful views and peaceful retreats in Uttarakhand.
Among these, one of the most popular spots is the lake in Mussoorie, a man-made stunning water body, which is a fine place to unwind and enjoy recreational activities. Surrounded by rolling green hills, it offers a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. If you are looking for adventure, photography or just want to take a walk on a boat, this place is perfect. The lake is also a great place for couples, families, and solo travellers to take in nature’s beauty.
Quick Details About Mussoorie Lake
Location: Dhobi Ghat, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Type: Artificial Lake
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹15 per person
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Location
Photo: eberhard grossgasteiger / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Mussoorie Lake lies 6 km before Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Dehradun Road while coming from Dehradun. The lake is located next to Dhobi Ghat Village, an undeveloped, lesser-visited non-tourist site. The Bansiwala Road, ITBP Camp Road, also leads toward the area. The lake is easily reachable from other non-touristy areas like Kyar Kuli Bazar. The nearest main junction to this area is Jharipani Chowk, which connects to Kimadi Road, a more picturesque route to Dehradun.
How To Reach Lake In Mussoorie
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By Air: The closest major airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (50 km). From there, take a taxi or bus to Mussoorie. The fastest way is via Rispana Bridge and Mussoorie Road.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station (32 km). At Prince Chowk Taxi Stand, taxis and shared cabs can be found at the station. There are also buses from Dehradun ISBT to Mussoorie that drop you near the lake.
By Road: From Dehradun, head to Mussoorie via Mussoorie-Dehradun Road (NH 707A). Taxis and private vehicles make the journey the easiest. For the drive, take the Jharipani-Chamasari Road for a scenic alternative route.
Things To Do At The Lake In Mussoorie
Here is a list of some of the best things to do at the Mussoorie lake for a memorable experience on your escape:
1. Paddle Boating With A View
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Mussoorie Lake is unique because it provides self-paddle boats, as opposed to commercial boating spots, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. The still waters mirror the enclosing hills, making for a postcard view. Boating at dawn is the best when the mist floats on the lake as if you are in a dream. Take a boat ride at sunset when the sky lights up in pink and orange colours to make it more beautiful.
2. Zip-lining Over The Lake
Photo: Son Tung Tran / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you enjoy thrill-seeking activities, you can try zip-lining above Mussoorie Lake. The cable stretches over the lake, accompanied by splendid bird’s-eye views of the water and surrounding forests. This is more of a beginner zipline since it includes double harness support, unlike a traditional zipline. It only lasts for a short time, but the adrenaline high is worth it. It is best to go early in the day when the wait time is less. The operators give a quick overview of the safety procedures, and helmets must be worn.
5 Places To Visit Near Mussoorie Lake
With attractions and activities in the surrounding area, the lake in Mussoorie becomes a complete package destination to travel.
1. Jharipani Falls
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Located close to Mussoorie Lake, Jharipani Falls is a beautiful hidden spot to escape the crowds. This natural waterfall, which flows down onto rocky formations from hills surrounded by rich greenery, can be reached by a brief 1.5 km hike from the Jharipani village. Less commercialised, the area is perfect for peaceful picnics and nature photography.
Best Time To Visit: July to October
2. Bhatta Falls
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Bhatta Falls is a natural waterfall with crystal-clear water pools developed for swimming. Bhatta Falls has cascades, which create small ponds for the refreshing dip. You can take a ropeway from Bhatta Village, which takes you directly to the falls. Its size, along with small cafés and seating areas, makes it ideal for families. The shallow lower pool is perfect for children, while the upper pools are deeper for swimming.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
3. Company Garden
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Company Garden is a manicured botanical park with seasonal flowers all around, with fountains and a mini-amusement area. It is an ideal place for families and couples alike seeking solace in a quiet, beautiful site close to Mussoorie Lake. The garden is run by The Garden Welfare Association of Mussoorie and also has artificial waterfalls, boating ponds, and an in-house wax museum. Inside, the greenhouse nursery sells potted plants and exotic flowers. You can also explore the cactus section, which has rare varieties.
Best Time To Visit: February to April
Entry Fee: ₹25 per person
4. George Everest’s House
Photo: Harshit karan / Wikimedia Commons
It is a heritage site and an excellent point of view that offers a panoramic view of the Doon Valley on one side and snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas on the other. The house itself is a ruin, but its charm is in its rugged beauty and breathtaking scenery. The house is located after a short 1 km trek from the parking area and adventurers can trek further up the hill to view the entire 360 degrees of the Himalayan Range.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Trek Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Activities: Trekking, paragliding, camping
5. Cloud’s End
Photo: Robinhoodc26 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Cloud’s End is one of the most secluded locations around Mussoorie Lake and signifies the geographic border for Mussoorie. The landscape is covered in thick oak and deodar shrub, a paradise for nature lovers and birders. Cloud’s End is a 4 km forest trail (approximate hiking time 90 mins to 2 hours) from Hathipaon. The site also includes a heritage bungalow, one of the oldest bungalows in Mussoorie, built in 1838, but is now a private resort.
Best Time To Visit: September to November
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, horse riding
Where To Stay
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A variety of accommodations is available near the lake in Mussoorie, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort and Spa promises five-star comforts with scenic views for an idyllic stay. The more affordable yet comfortable option is Hotel SunGrace (4 km from the lake). For travellers seeking a boutique stay, Rokeby Manor, a heritage stay with a vintage charm. Zostel Mussoorie (dorm ₹800 per night; private room ₹3,000 per night) caters to backpackers and solo travellers here.
Where To Eat
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Mussoorie is full of various restaurants that serve good local and international food. The Kalsang Friends Corner on Mall Road is known for its Tibetan food, momo or thukpa. Little Llama Café is a great option for continental food with a great view. Arrive at Lovely Omelette Centre, a small but iconic eatery. For authentic Garhwali cuisine, try Doma’s Inn Café, a gem serving fare such as Mandua Roti and Phaanu for approximately ₹500 a meal.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to the lake in Mussoorie on a budget can cost around ₹4,500 per person, covering transportation, stay in a hostel, and food in local eateries during a two-day trip. A medium-budget trip, with a comfortable hotel, decent food, and some adventure activities, can range between ₹10,000 to ₹15,000.
A 30-minute drive from the city gets you to this secret location, a lake in Mussoorie that features both early-morning serene beauty and some thrilling adventures. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a family, Mussoorie Lake is an ideal getaway that promises memories to cherish for a lifetime. Customise your trip to this exotic location according to your tastes and budgets with TripXL.
Cover Photo: eberhard grossgasteiger / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
