Camels Back road in Mussoorie is one such place where you won’t find the dessert ship but the view of towering peaks. This isolated road stretches from Kulri Bazaar to all the way up to Library Chowk in Mussoorie. The place is surrounded by rocky-mountains and green woods. It is perfect for having a tranquil break, away from the hustle-bustle of Mussoorie Mall road. It is an isolated stretch perfect for strolling in Mussoorie.
The Camels back road is one of the most visited places in Mussoorie. It is named after the rock which is shaped like a camel with a hump on its back. One can catch a view of this road from Mussoorie Public School. The entire stretch is outlined by conifers, offering an unobstructed view of the Himalayas. The road overlooks the sleepy Doon Valley. One can see the thin film of fog approaching as one stands aloof, wrapped up in thoughts.
Camel’s Back Road Overview:
| Horse Riding: | 100 Rupees per person for 2.5 km |
| Distance from Library Bus Stand: | 3 km |
| Visited From: | Library Bus Stand |
| Trip Duration: | 1-2 hours |
| Transportation Options: | Cab/Auto |
| Length of Visit: | 1-2 Hours |
| Best Time: | During Sunrise |
| Famous For: | Nature Walks, Cycling and Exploring |
| Entry Fee: | Free |
History of Camels Back road:
The Camel’s Back road was built in 1845 to offer a swift walking trail to the visitors which opens up to a view of the lofty Himalayas. The road features an ancient Hawa Ghar, where the tourists can sit and admire the view of the snow-clad peaks. The Hawa Ghar at Camels Back road was formerly known as ‘Scandal Point’.
Telescopes are also installed here to savor a view of the Herculean peaks. Numerous tales and fables have been associated with this road. One of which states that once a British couple was mounting on a horse. Suddenly the girl’s horse galloped and missed its balance which led them into the trench. When her lover saw this, he followed her and jumped from the hill. They both died and the point was called as “Lover’s Leap”.
Best Time to Visit Camels Back road:
Since the place experiences pleasant weather throughout the year. One can easily visit here in any season. If you want to escape the maddening rush of the peak season, then refrain from visiting Camel’s Back road in summers.
The ideal time to visit here would be from September to November. During spring the boulevard remains studded with vibrant colored flowers. If you want to play in the snow and witness the snow-bound peaks, then come here in the winter season.
Things to do:
Camel’s Back road is an isolated stretch that coaxes the loners and solitude seekers to throng here. The place is ideal for nature walks as one can seize beautiful views of the valley and mountains from here. Many lovebirds visit here to enjoy the silken sunset that paints the sky with its crimson colors. You can indulge in photography as the place offers a beautiful panorama of Doon Valley.
Stellar views of the mighty peaks of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri, Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi and Trishul can be seen from here. Camel’s back road is the backbone of Mussoorie. One can stroll here, go for cycling or enjoy long romantic walks with your partner. Those seeking spirituality in the peaceful surroundings of Mussoorie can visit the famous Nirankari Bhawan and Kripalu Ji Ashram located here. Some of the nearby places to visit from here are Kempty Falls, Bhatta Falls, Mossy Falls, Jawahar Museum, Sir George Everest’s House, Landour Clock Tower, Gun Hill, Mussoorie Lake etc.
Food:
There are no major eateries or food options available at Camel’s Back road. However, there are a few decent restaurants which are quite famous for serving delicious food at minimal prices. Some of the popular nearby restaurants from Camel’s Back road are Little Llama Café, Café Ivy, Kalsang, JW Café, Lovely Omelette Centre, Chic Chocolate, Tibetan Momo’s Restaurant and many others.
The mid-19th century Colonial cemetery at Camel’s Back road:
There is a 180 years old cemetery lying midway on the loop of the road which dates back to the mid-nineteenth century. Many foreigners visit here either for paying homage to their deceased relatives or searching for their loved ones in the old graveyards.
Travel Tips for visiting:
The Camel’s Back road can be accessed by private vehicle. However, it gets busy at around 10:00 am and around 5:00 pm. Keep your eyes on the traffic as the roads have many bends and curves. Buy eatables mid-way during the journey as you won’t find any shop at Camel’s Back road. Carry a few snacks but kindly don’t litter here.
If you don’t want to cover the entire stretch on foot. You can alternatively take an exit from the Picture Palace, which will make you reach Mall road in no time.
Those who do not wish to walk can take the haanth-rickshaws that are easily available here. These manually driven hand rickshaws have an open top, which offers views of the world outside. You can also buy postcards from the nearby shop as a reminder of the time spent here.
How to reach Camels Back road in Mussoorie:
Camel’s Back road is located about 3 km away from Library Bus Stand. This 3 km stretch starts from Library Point sprawling up to Kulri Bazaar. The travelers can easily reach the Camel’s Back road by hiring an auto rickshaw or by riding on horseback.
Dehradun railway station is the nearest railhead located at a distance of 34 km from here. Cabs and auto-rickshaws ply from the station up to Camel’s Back road. The closest air connectivity is the Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun at 56 km away from here.