Gun Hill is the second-highest point in Mussoorie, at about 2,024 metres, rising around 400 feet above Mall Road. A ropeway from Jhula Ghar carries visitors to the top, or you can walk up in about 20 minutes. From the summit you see the snow-capped Himalayan ranges, including Gangotri, Bandarpunch and Srikantha, and the wide Doon Valley below. Small shops, snack stalls and cafes line the hilltop, and the evening light over the valley is worth staying for.
Where the name comes from
Gun Hill is the second-highest point in Mussoorie, after Lal Tibba. Its name dates from the British period, when a cannon was placed on the summit and fired at noon every day. People in town used the sound to set their clocks and watches.
The cannon is no longer on the hilltop. The hill is said to be an extinct volcano, and it is now one of the best-known viewpoints in the hill station.
Getting up the hill
The ropeway starts at Jhula Ghar on Mall Road and covers about 400 metres to the top. The ride is short, and the slope falls away below as the cabin rises.
The walk from Mall Road takes about 20 minutes. It is steep in places and can feel tiring, so wear shoes with good grip and take the climb slowly. Many people choose the ropeway for an easier trip, and the paid parking lot has a wheelchair accessible section.
What you find at the top
The hilltop has small shops selling toys, clothes, souvenirs and snacks. Dhabas and cafes serve tea, snacks and hot Maggie noodles. A restaurant and restrooms are on site.
Telescopes are set up for viewing distant peaks and valleys, and there are games for children. A magic show has been held at the summit. A temple also stands on the hill, and a large water reservoir at the top supplies the town.
The hilltop is now mostly commercial. If you come hoping to see historic features, know that there is no cannon to see.
Views and the best time to go
From the summit, the Himalayan ranges fill the view to the north. Gangotri, Bandarpunch, Srikantha and Kedarnath are among the peaks that can be seen on clear days. Below, the Doon Valley opens out in every direction.
Sunset is the time to plan around. Reach the ropeway about 30 minutes before sunset, watch the light change over the hills, and stay for the evening view. After dark, the lights of Dehradun and Mussoorie spread across the valley. Early morning is quieter, but only a few shops are open around 8 AM.
It gets cold once the sun goes down, so bring a warm layer.
Tickets, queues and closures
During holidays, waits of around an hour have been reported at the ropeway ticket counter, so buy tickets ahead when you can. Fares have been reported differently, so confirm the current price before you go.
The ropeway has been closed for maintenance on at least one visit, so check its status on the day before you plan the trip around it.
Allow about an hour at the top to walk the shops, use the telescopes and sit for the view.
FAQ
How do you get to Gun Hill?
Take the ropeway from Jhula Ghar on Mall Road, a ride of about 400 metres. You can also walk up from Mall Road in about 20 minutes.
Do you need to book ropeway tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended. During holidays, waits of around an hour have been reported at the ticket counter.
How long do you need at Gun Hill?
Allow about an hour at the top, plus time for the ropeway queue.
Are there restrooms or food on the hill?
Yes. The site has restrooms and a restaurant, and snack stalls and cafes line the hilltop.
Is the cannon still there?
No. The cannon that gave the hill its name is no longer on the summit.
