Mussoorie... An Extension to our Dhanaulti trip

As we left quite early in the morning from Dhanaulti and had the train from Dehradun at around 11 in the night, we had almost whole day to spare. What could be a better way than exploring the queen of hills..
We wandered like nomads and enjoyed ever bit of our journey. As it was an election day, most of the shops were closed. Still we found some of them open. There is a huge market between picture palace and library.  
There is a famous Tibetan restaurant "Kalsang". Its a treat for non vegetarians.

Kalsang

 As Mussoorie was established by Britishers, its architecture belongs to that era only. We loved the way the raods are built. Beautiful lampshades, handrails, benches take you to the colonial era.

Through the aesthetic handrails

Under a vintage lampshade

That’s a b’ful bench

There are beautiful wall paintings engraved all over the walls of Mall Road. This is something I never saw at any other place. Quite an interesting way of enhancing the beauty.

Decorated walls

Horses on the wall- Mall road

There was so much beauty but one thing that was ruining the obvious charm of this hill station was rapid urbanization. There is construction going on almost everywhere. Mountains are being looted for their resources. This tree was crying out the fate of urban Mussoorie. Unlike Dhanaulti, nature feels neglected in this part of hills.
  
After walking upto library, we took a halt and then again started walking instead of taking a cab. Walking, riding, biking are best ways to travel. It gives you ample time to sink in to the aura of the place. 

From library we had to go to Apple valley. I have my Bua ji living there with her family. It was around 5 km long trail and walked our way.

After taking rest and having a wholesome breakfast, I insisted my sister-in-law, Khyati to accompany us to nearby Tibetan temple. We were in no mood to waste a single moment at home. So, we visited this beautiful temple. 

Temple front

Me & Khyati in temple premises

Majority of residents in Apple Valley are Tibetans. This area has a mark of their culture in everything.

Central School for Tibetans

 While returning, Khyati wanted to exercise her vote, so we went to Tibetan school, the polling centre in that area. It was a nice school, specially opened for Tibetan kids.

Election Day

There are a lot of other places in Mussoorie like Campty Fall, Company Garden, Lal Tibba but due to lack of time, we compromised with this much only.

Visit to the school marked to the end of the evening as it took a long time for Khyati to vote.

 
Just after some great food and tea, we left for Dehradun from where we had to board the train to Delhi. 
That was all about our two day trip to Dhanaulti and Mussoorie.
Back to office but with a refreshed mind....