Introduction

A curious daily ritual is associated with the Gunhill from the British era, in which a cannon would be shot from the top of this flat-hill. Hence, the name Gunhill. Today, it is one of Mussoorie’s popular tourist sites. Gunhill is the second-highest peak of Mussoorie after Lal Tibba and offers clear and beautiful views of the Himalayan peaks.

The most popular way to reach Gunhill is through the Mussoorie Ropeway. The Ropeway is an enclosed cable-car system that begins from the Mall Road and goes up to Gunhill. The Ropeway ride takes fifteen minutes, though the waiting time at either points is almost twice the travel time. Another way to reach Gunhill is by hiking up a 2-kilometer (1.2 miles) long steep track.

Gunhill is popularly visited for the spectacular Himalayan scenery it affords. You can even view the distant peaks through a telescope available on hire against a minor charge (INR 20). On a clear day, one can get a bird’s eye view of Mussoorie town and the white silhouette of the majestic Badrinath, Kedarnath and Nandadevi peaks.

Gunhill is a small and open compound that has several small shops offering snacks and entertainment options to tourists such as balloon-shooting, and wearing the local costume and getting your pictures clicked. You will also come across a few shops selling pretty souvenirs.

Special Attributes

A high-altitude scenic spot, ideal for photography and watching far-off mountain ranges.

Nuisance

There is long wait before you can board the cable-car in the tourist season. Besides, the photographers on Gunhill tend to be a tad too pushy, so visitors have to be firm while dealing with them.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Cable-cars run at frequent intervals from Mall Road. Alternatively, Gunhill can be reached by foot.

Enjoyed by

Families, Kids, Backpackers

Exposure

Sunlight can be very strong on the summit, so make sure you wear your sunglasses, and sunscreen lotion.

Avoidable Season

July, August

Facilities

Professional photographers, restaurants, cable-cars.

Things Not Allowed

No such restrictions

Tip

Carry woollens, even if the weather in main Mussoorie is warm. Avoid taking the Ropeway between 1600 and 1800 hours, as it is the peak time.

Type of site

Hilltop/vantage point