A Serene Escape: 7-Day Dehradun-Mussoorie Itinerary with Offbeat CharmsThis itinerary is perfect for those who have already seen the main sights or prefer a more relaxed, less-crowded journey. It swaps some of the more popular tourist spots for tranquil, hidden gems.
Day 1: Arrival and Dehradun's Tranquil Side - Arrive in Dehradun and check into your accommodation. Instead of the bustling city center, head to Lachhiwala Nature Park. It's a peaceful forest area with a gentle stream, perfect for unwinding after your journey. In the evening, visit Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, a unique cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which offers a serene and spiritual experience.
Day 2: The Trekker's Delight in Dehradun - Today is for adventure. Start with a visit to Maldevta, a scenic spot known for its natural beauty and a river flowing through a gorge. It's a great place for a short trek or just enjoying the riverside. Afterward, consider a visit to the Forest Research Institute (FRI), a stunning colonial-era building with beautiful grounds and museums. It's a less-crowded alternative to the city's more popular attractions.
Day 3: Journey to Mussoorie and a Walk in the Woods - After breakfast, drive up to Mussoorie. Instead of heading straight to Mall Road, check into your hotel and then make your way to Camel's Back Road. This is a beautiful, quiet stretch of road perfect for a leisurely walk with panoramic views. For a peaceful evening, explore the lesser-known parts of Mall Road and find a quaint cafe to enjoy the mountain air.
Day 4: Exploring the Unseen Mussoorie - Today, explore some of the more hidden gems. Begin with a trek to Jharipani Falls, a serene waterfall that requires a short hike to reach, making it less crowded than Kempty Falls. In the afternoon, head to Landour, a peaceful cantonment town. Explore the beautiful colonial architecture, and visit Char Dukan, a cluster of four old shops famous for their snacks and peaceful surroundings.
Day 5: The Tranquility of Dhanaulti - Embark on a day trip to Dhanaulti, a serene hill station a short drive from Mussoorie. Dhanaulti is known for its quiet, alpine forests and stunning views. Visit the Eco Park (comprising of Amber and Dhara) which offers beautiful walking trails through deodar and oak trees. You can also visit Surkanda Devi Temple, which is a trek to the top of a hill and offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks.
Day 6: Mussoorie's Heritage and Views - Return from Dhanaulti and dedicate the day to Mussoorie's heritage and spectacular views. Visit George Everest's House, the historic home of Sir George Everest. The ruins and the surrounding area offer some of the most stunning views of the Doon Valley. In the evening, take the cable car to Gun Hill to watch the sunset over the Himalayas, a classic but unmissable experience.
Day 7: Departure - After a final breakfast, check out and head back to Dehradun for your onward journey, filled with memories of the tranquil hills and offbeat discoveries.