Gun Hill also known as Gun View Point, Perched at an altitude of 400 feet, is the second highest point in Mussoorie. Shaped like a volcano, Gun Hill is one of the best vantage points in Mussoorie that offers a panoramic view of the resplendent hills. One can access this place by using cable car which can be taken from Mall road. It is a popular vantage point in Mussoorie.
Gun Hill Overview:
| Place: | Mussoorie |
| Timings: | 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM |
| Entry Fee: | Free |
| Famous for: | Nature, Photography, Peaks, Cable Car Ride and Adventure |
| Exploration Time: | 2 Hours |
Historical Significance of Gun Hill:
Post-Independence, the colonists of this area who were fed up with the atrocities of the British decided to revolt against the enemy. For which, a cannon was mounted atop the hill to fire at the enemy. After which, the place which is currently a part of Woodlawn Cemetery came to be known as Gun Hill. The road which leads to the hill previously known as Kingsbridge road is now called Gun Hill road.
While another local lore suggests that a cannon was installed here by the British, during the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. Every day at noon, a cannonball was fired from here to alert the locals to adjust their watches accordingly. Even after the cannon was removed from the hill, the name got stuck to it. Hence, the place became famous as Gun Hill.
Things to do:
Gun Hill viewpoint is one of the famous tourist attractions in the “Queen of Hills” Mussoorie. It is a perfect place to admire the majestic beauty of the Himalayan ranges of Garhwal. On a clear day you can spot Srikantha, Bunderpunch, Pithwara and Gangotri group of peaks. To savor a 360 degree of this place, head towards the telescope point from where you can explore the far end points with much clarity.
The place projects a glaring vista of the glittering Doon Valley, which looks breathtakingly beautiful at night. Many couples come here to see the sun set behind the glorious hills. You can also visit some of the nearby places like Kempty Falls, Camel’s Back Road, Bhatta Falls, George Everest, Landour, Mussoorie Lake etc.
Activities to do:
If you are an adventurous person, then you can hike up to Gun Hill which involves a steep climb. Other recreational activities to do are trekking, photography, balloon shooting and playing games like hoopla. There is also a merry-go-round for the kids to enjoy.
Food:
Since Mussoorie is a popular hill station, you won’t be leaving this place with an empty stomach. Treat yourself with the mouth-watering food served at the small restaurants and food stalls located here. Sip a hot cup of tea while soaking the galactical beauty of the hills.
Most visitors prefer having Maggi, momos, and paranthas that are served here at minimal cost. If you want to alleviate your eating experience then you can find some of the best restaurants nearby like Little Lama Café, Café Ivy, Kalsang, JW Café, Lovely Omelette Shop, Chic Chocolate, Emily’s etc.
Cable Car Facility at Gun Hill:
Gun Hill is located about 400 feet above the Mall road. It takes less than five minutes to reach here via cable car. The ropeway cable car round trip will cost INR 75 per head. You won’t regret taking the Gun hill ropeway ride as it offers picturesque views of the distant hills and the green landscape.
The timings for ropeway are below:
| January to December | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| May to July and October | 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| August to September and late November to April | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Interesting Facts:
- It is believed that during the British Raj, a cannonball was shot from here every day. During the daytime for the locals to adjust their watches by seeing the location of the sun.
- Gun Hill is the second highest viewpoint in Mussoorie after Laal Tibba.
Best Time to visit Gun Hill:
Since Mussoorie boasts a pleasant weather, Gun Hill can be visited all around the year. However, the ideal time to visit is during the summer months, beginning from mid-April to June end.
Travelling Tip:
- If you are planning to reach here by ropeway, then avoid taking it during the peak hours of 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, as it remains packed with tourists.
- Don’t forget to carry your woolens at all times as the chilly weather will leave you numb.
- Take your binoculars as you might witness some of the best views from here.
How to reach Gun Hill in Mussoorie:
Gun Hill is located at a distance of 450 meters from Mall road in Mussoorie also spelled as Masuri. One can reach here on foot or by taking the ropeway facility available here. Dehradun railway station at 32 km away is the nearest railhead. Dehradun’s Jolly Grant airport at 54 km away is the closest air connectivity from here.