Happy Valley

Top choice in Mussoorie


Only 3km northwest of town, this scenic outlying region of Mussoorie is famous as the site where the Dalai Lama and fellow exiles arrived in 1959, after escaping from Tibet following Chinese occupation. The spiritual leader stayed for one year before relocating the exiled Tibetan government to Dharamsala. It's a beautiful valley with the atmospheric Shedup Choephelling Temple where the local Tibetan community pray, and a nearby hilltop stupa at Dalai Hills with a large Buddha statue, prayer flags and Himalayan views.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Mussoorie attractions

1. Mussoorie Library

1 MILES

One of Mussoorie's most prominent landmarks is this historical Raj-era library that opened way back in 1843. Its ornate Victoria-style balcony veranda…

2. Christ Church

1.17 MILES

Built in 1836 and featuring stained-glass windows, this is purported to be the oldest church in the Himalaya.

3. Gun Hill

1.55 MILES

From midway along The Mall, a cable car runs up to Gun Hill (2530m), which, on a clear day, has views of several big peaks. A steep path also winds up to…

4. Jama Masjid

1.92 MILES

This local mosque is a place of worship and not for sightseers.

5. Picture Palace Cinema

2.02 MILES

Mostly a landmark and point of reference, this old movie theatre is now a gaming and entertainment centre.

6. Union Church

2.04 MILES

Dating to 1874, this is one of Mussoorie's oldest churches. It still holds mass services.

7. Mussoorie Heritage Centre

2.27 MILES

Sitting beneath Landour's clock tower is this impressive heritage centre that's set up by dedicated local historian, Surbhi Agarwal. She'll take you…

8. Soham Himalayan Centre

2.49 MILES

Part museum, part art gallery, Soham Heritage & Art Centre focuses largely on the culture of the Uttarakhand Himalaya. You'll get guided through the…