Contrary to popular belief that Mussoorie is a destination mainly for older people and families, this picturesque hill station also offers countless options for youngsters. This Mussoorie 3 day budget travel itinerary for aims to provide young travellers with budget-friendly tips and recommendations for an adventurous trip.
Best Mussoorie 3 day budget travel itinerary
Mussoorie does make for an excellent destination for a 3-day trip. Since the town is very accessible, it is largely preferred by families and tourists from the older generations.
When To Visit?
Mussoorie hill station is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the clear skies offer stunning views of the mountains and valleys. The temperature during this time ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and hiking.
The monsoon season (July-August) should be avoided as the region experiences heavy rainfall, disrupting travel plans and making engaging in outdoor activities difficult. Similarly, the winter months (December to February) can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing point, making it hard to enjoy outdoor activities.
Total Cost
The total cost of a trip to Mussoorie can vary depending on your needs and preferences. However, here is a rough estimate of what I spent and what you might also spend:
- Travel: Approx. ₹1,400 (Including two tickets from Delhi to Dehradun and back and two UKTC bus tickets from Dehradun to Mussoorie and back)
- Local commute: ₹1,800 (Including 500 rupees per day for three days for a rented scooter and 300 rupees in fuel expenses)
- Accommodation: ₹1,700 (Three nights, dorm at Go Stops, Library Road)
- Food: ₹ 3,000
- Miscellaneous: ₹ 2,100
This brings the total to approximately 10,000 rupees. You can reduce your food expenses by another 1,000 rupees and split the scooter rental between two people, bringing the total down by another 900 rupees.
Please note that these are just estimates; your actual costs may vary depending on your choices.
Another budget destination that I highly recommend for solo travellers is Udaipur, read: A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Udaipur: A 3-Day Itinerary
Travelling to Mussoorie
Reaching Mussoorie from Delhi takes about 6 hours by road. Opting for a Volvo bus can cost between Rs. 500-900 during peak seasons. However, there are no excellent direct buses; travellers must first reach Dehradun and then take a Uttarakhand tourism bus (for around Rs. 80) which drops passengers at library road in Mussoorie.
Accommodation
Consider traveller hostels like Go Stops, Zostel, and Hosteller for budget accommodations. While Zostel tops the list regarding community experience for young travellers, Go Stops stands out due to its location.
Day 1 – Landour & Lal Tibba
Landour is a quaint town located just 4 km away from Mussoorie and is known for its charming cafes, bakeries, and British-era churches.
Visit Landour Bakehouse to enjoy delicious treats such as peanut butter choco-chip crepes or brownies.
The next stop should be Lal Tibba – one of the best sunset viewpoints in Mussoorie, boasting two cafes: Lal Tibba Cafe (more affordable but overcrowded) and Savoy Cafe (a bit expensive but offers better views). Afterwards, dine at Domas Inn restaurant/cafe – a Tibetan eatery serving freshly cooked delicacies prepared from scratch.
Day 2 – Shedup Choepelling Temple, Dalai Hills And Company Garden
Start your day visiting the only Tibetan monastery in a town called Shedup Choepelling Temple.
Then, trekking up Dalai Hills twice, once in the afternoon and again in the evening, for a mesmerising sunset view.
Afterwards, head to Company Garden, a beautiful garden with colourful flowers, a small lake, and a food court that serves snacks like momos and chowmein.
Later, head to Mall Road and visit Kalsang – a Tibetan restaurant (although not highly recommended due to high prices and subpar food quality). Anahata Cafe near Dalai Hills serves tasty pasta like pesto pasta with garlic bread.
Day 3 – George Everest Trek
George Everest trek offers stunning views from Mussoorie’s highest accessible peak. The first part of the trek takes you to Sir George Observatory along an easy walking path. The real challenge begins at the observatory base, where a 900-meter steep trek awaits adventurers. It is best enjoyed during daylight hours as descending after dark can be difficult.
For your final dinner in Mussoorie, return to Landour and indulge in multi-cuisine offerings at Paprika Restaurant, accompanied by live music.
Return Journey
To head back to Delhi, take a Uttrakhand Tourism bus from Library Road, which will transport you to Dehradun, then board a Volvo bus back home.
Where To Eat In Mussoorie?
Mussoorie offers diverse dining options, from street food to fine dining restaurants. Here are some recommendations for places to eat during your 3-day adventure in Mussoorie:
1] Landour Bakehouse
Located in the quaint town of Landour, Landour Bakehouse is a charming bakery that serves delicious treats like peanut butter choco-chip crepes and brownies. Its cosy ambience and delectable baked goods make it the perfect place to start your day.
2] Domas Inn
Domas Inn is a Tibetan eatery in Mussoorie that serves freshly cooked delicacies prepared from scratch. The restaurant’s menu contains delicious dishes, including momos, thukpa, and shabalay. It’s an excellent spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
3] Savoy Cafe
If you want stunning sunset views, head to Savoy Cafe in Lal Tibba. The cafe’s slightly expensive menu is offset by the serene and peaceful ambience, making it a great spot to enjoy the sunset with a hot cup of coffee in hand.
4] Kalsang
Located on Mall Road, Kalsang is a Tibetan restaurant that serves authentic Tibetan cuisine. While the food is delicious, it can be a bit pricey, and the food quality is subpar compared to other options in the area.
5] Anahata Cafe
Anahata Cafe, located near Dalai Hills, serves tasty pasta dishes like pesto pasta with garlic bread. The cafe offers a relaxed ambience, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
6] Paprika Restaurant
Paprika Restaurant, located in Landour, is a multi-cuisine restaurant that offers beautiful views and live music. The restaurant serves delicious food, including Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes, making it a great spot for your final dinner in Mussoorie.
Conclusion:
This itinerary covers some of Mussoorie’s must-visit spots tailored for young travellers seeking adventure on a budget. With beautiful landscapes, delicious food options, and thrilling activities packed into three days, this trip promises an unforgettable experience. I hope you enjoyed reading Mussoorie travel plan.
