Mussoorie, the “Queen of Hills” in Uttarakhand, is famous for its colonial charm, scenic viewpoints, and pleasant climate. Among its attractions, Mussoorie Lake (also known as Mussoorie Reservoir) is a relatively new but increasingly popular man-made lake that offers a serene escape with beautiful mountain views. Developed as a tourist spot, it is perfect for boating, picnics, and photography.
Here is your complete guide to Mussoorie Lake.
Quick Overview — Mussoorie Lake
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Dhobi Ghat, Mussoorie–Dehradun Road, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand – 248179 |
| Type | Man-made Freshwater Lake |
| Altitude | Approx. 1,828 meters (6,000 feet) |
| Timings | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily) |
| Entry Fee | ₹15 – ₹20 per person |
| Boating Fee | ₹100 – ₹300 (Pedal / Row Boats) |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June & September to November |
| Nearest Landmark | Library Bus Stand (6 km) |
Location of Mussoorie Lake
Mussoorie Lake is located about 6 km from the main Mussoorie town (Library area) on the Mussoorie–Dehradun Highway. It sits in a valley surrounded by green hills and offers panoramic views of the Doon Valley and nearby mountains.
The lake has been developed with a walking path, gardens, and boating facilities. It is especially beautiful during the monsoon when the water level is high and the surroundings are lush green.
Directions to Mussoorie Lake
Mussoorie Lake is easily accessible by road.
- From Mussoorie Library / Mall Road: 6 km, 15–20 minutes by taxi or auto.
- From Dehradun: Approximately 28–30 km (1–1.5 hours drive).
- From Dehradun Railway Station: Around 28 km.
- From Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun): About 55–60 km.
Shared taxis, private cabs, and local buses running between Dehradun and Mussoorie stop near the lake. The road is scenic with several viewpoints along the way.
Timings and Activities
Mussoorie Lake is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Main Activities:
- Pedal boating and row boating on the lake
- Walking along the lakeside path
- Picnicking in the surrounding garden area
- Photography with the hills in the background
- Enjoying local snacks and tea at nearby stalls
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for a peaceful experience and great photos.
Nearby Places
Mussoorie Lake’s location on the Dehradun–Mussoorie road makes it easy to combine with other attractions:
- Kempty Falls — Popular waterfall (~8–10 km)
- Gun Hill — Famous viewpoint for sunset (~7 km)
- Company Garden — Beautiful botanical garden (~6 km)
- Lal Tibba — Highest point in Mussoorie with scenic views
- Mall Road — Main shopping and dining area
- Cloud’s End — Peaceful nature point at the edge of Mussoorie
FAQs — Mussoorie Lake
Q1. What are the timings of Mussoorie Lake?
A: The lake is open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
Q2. Is there an entry fee for Mussoorie Lake?
A: Yes, a nominal entry fee of ₹15–₹20 per person is charged. Boating has separate charges.
Q3. How far is Mussoorie Lake from Mall Road?
A: Approximately 6 km. It takes 15–20 minutes by road.
Q4. When is the best time to visit Mussoorie Lake?
A: March to June and September to November offer pleasant weather. Monsoon brings lush greenery but heavy rains.
Q5. What activities are available at Mussoorie Lake?
A: Boating, walking, picnicking, photography, and enjoying scenic mountain views.
Mussoorie Lake is a delightful and refreshing spot that perfectly complements a visit to the Queen of Hills. Whether you stop for a quick break while traveling to Mussoorie or spend a relaxed evening boating, the lake offers calm waters and beautiful surroundings for a memorable experience.
