Pankaj Kumar takes a walk down the Mussoorie’s labyrinth lanes and discovers the simplicity of hill life and its quiet charm
Every hill station has its postcards. It speaks through morning fog, wooden railings, old bungalows and quiet faces passing by with familiar smiles. The hills around Mussoorie are shrouded in clouds that drift low, hiding the landscape and giving the entire scene a dramatic, almost magical feel. In one of the most striking photographs, it feels as if the viewer is standing inside the clouds themselves.
Among the town’s familiar spots is Char Dukan captures the heart of Mussoorie’s everyday charm. It’s a place where locals and visitors pause to enjoy a quiet moment, sharing stories over warm drinks or snacks. The soft colours and rustic textures of Char Dukan fit naturally into the calm surroundings, making it a timeless part of the town. The hills around Mussoorie hold a quiet strength. From Lal Tibba, the highest point, you can see how vast the mountains stretch, even when clouds roll in and hide the view. On such days, the silence itself feels important.
Mussoorie’s churches stand quietly among the trees, like old friends who have watched over the town for years. The Kellogg Memorial Church rises steadily, its stone walls strong and calm. Not far from there, St Paul’s Church sits on a hill, its presence familiar to anyone who has spent time here. These buildings remind you of the history work into the hills, the stories carried by generations who have lived here. The Mall Road, with its shops and cafes, moves at its own easy pace. It is quiet but offers enough life to remind you the town is waking and breathing. People stroll slowly, stopping to look at small shops or simply enjoy the cool air. The street lamps light up as the evening falls, giving the road a quiet glow.
One special part of Mussoorie is Ivy Cottage, the home of Ruskin Bond. It feels like the heart of the town itself. Seeing his home is like stepping into one of the lanes of storybooks and full of quiet wonder. The house sits surrounded by trees, peaceful and calm, much like the writer who has long captured the spirit of these hills in his words.
Nearby is the old house of Sir George Everest. Though it shows signs of age, the house holds a steady dignity. There is a feeling here that no matter where you come from, you are part of the place for a little while. This is Mussoorie, a town with calm, small moments of hills, homes and people. It stays with you long after you leave, like a quiet song you find yourself humming.
Why Go Back?
These photos, taken back in 2014, take us to a Mussoorie that feels almost like a dream wrapped in the kind of cold that makes you pull your coat a little tighter. Because some places don’t change, not really. These photos are a reminder of quiet, of beauty, of a town that knows how to slow down.
