Mussoorie at a glance, month by month
Where snow falls first around Mussoorie
Landour and Lal Tibba
The highest part of town (about 2,200-2,300 m) around Lal Tibba, Char Dukan and Sister's Bazaar gets snow first and holds it longest. Cars need prior registration to enter Landour.
Dhanaulti and Surkanda Devi road
The road east towards Dhanaulti (about 25 km) and Surkanda Devi often gets more snow than Mussoorie itself, and is where most snow-day crowds head.
Mall Road and town centre
Mall Road and Library Chowk see snow on fewer days, and it usually melts by the afternoon. Snow here makes the lanes slippery rather than deep.
On a snow day in Mussoorie
- Leave Dehradun early; the Mussoorie road jams within hours of fresh snow, especially on weekends.
- The Mussoorie-Dhanaulti road can close for some hours or a day after a heavy fall until it is cleared.
- Roads turn icy after sunset. Drive down before dark, and carry chains if you have them.
- Police sometimes stop cars at the edge of town on busy snow days; park lower down and walk or take a local taxi.
- For Landour, register your vehicle in advance or walk up from Picture Palace (see the Landour vehicle registration guide).
- Snow is not guaranteed. Check the IMD Dehradun forecast a few days ahead and ask your hotel the evening before.
The seasons in Mussoorie
Winter
Snow chanceCold days and freezing nights. Snow falls on some days, most often in January, and the Winterline can be seen at sunset.
Spring and summer
Most popularPleasant days and cool nights while the plains swelter. May and June are peak season, with heavy weekend traffic.
Monsoon
AvoidGreen hills, mist and full waterfalls, but frequent rain, fog and landslides on roads. Views are usually hidden.
Autumn
Best for viewsThe clearest skies of the year, with snow-peak views and few crowds. Probably the best time for walks and photography.
Mussoorie month-by-month details
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain / snow | Crowds | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0° to 10° | Chance of snow | Medium | Coldest month; snow on some days, icy mornings. |
| February | 2° to 12° | Chance of snow | Low | Cold, with occasional late snowfall. |
| March | 6° to 17° | Low | Medium | Pleasant days; rhododendrons begin to flower. |
| April | 10° to 22° | Low | Medium | Warm days, cool nights. Good for walks. |
| May | 13° to 25° | Low | High | Peak summer season; heavy weekend traffic. |
| June | 15° to 25° | Rising | High | Busy until the monsoon arrives late in the month. |
| July | 15° to 21° | Very heavy | Low | Monsoon rain, fog and landslide risk. |
| August | 15° to 21° | Very heavy | Low | Wettest period; views usually hidden. |
| September | 13° to 21° | Moderate | Low | Rain eases; waterfalls are full. |
| October | 9° to 20° | Low | Medium | Clear skies and snow-peak views. |
| November | 5° to 16° | Low | Low | Crisp and clear; quiet before winter. |
| December | 2° to 13° | Chance of snow late | Medium | Cold; busy around Christmas, New Year and the Winterline Carnival. |
Temperatures are typical ranges for the town and vary from year to year. Snowfall is not guaranteed.
What to pack for Mussoorie
Winter (Dec - Feb)
- Heavy jacket and thermals
- Gloves, woollen cap and scarf
- Warm socks and closed shoes with grip
- Moisturiser and lip balm
Summer (Mar - Jun)
- Light clothes for the day
- A sweater or fleece for evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
Monsoon (Jul - Sep)
- Rain jacket and umbrella
- Waterproof shoes
- Quick-dry clothes
- A warm layer
Mussoorie Snowfall & Best Time: FAQs
What is the snowfall time in Mussoorie?
Snowfall time in Mussoorie is late December to February. January is the most likely month, and the first light snow sometimes comes in the last week of December. Some winters bring several falls and others very little, so check the forecast a few days before you go.
Does it snow in Mussoorie in December?
Sometimes, but usually only in the last week of December, and often just a light fall in Landour and on the Dhanaulti road. For a better chance, plan for January.
Does it snow in Mussoorie every year?
Most winters see at least a few snow days, but the amount varies a lot. In dry years Mussoorie town may get none while Dhanaulti and Surkanda Devi still get some.
Where is the best place to see snow near Mussoorie?
Landour and Lal Tibba in town, and Dhanaulti and Surkanda Devi about 25-33 km away. They are higher and usually get more snow than Mall Road.
How can I check if it is snowing in Mussoorie today?
Look at the IMD forecast for Dehradun district, local news and recent social media posts tagged Mussoorie, and call your hotel. Fresh snow usually brings heavy traffic the same day.
Which is the best month to visit Mussoorie?
October and November for clear views and fewer crowds; March to May for pleasant weather; January if you want a chance of snow. Avoid July and August.
What is the Winterline in Mussoorie?
A band of warm colour that appears along the horizon at sunset on clear winter evenings, roughly from October to January. Mussoorie holds a Winterline Carnival, usually in late December.
