Cloud end Mussoorie — Attraction in Uttarakhand

Cloud’s End is a serene and picturesque retreat located near Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and historical significance. Positioned at one of Mussoorie’s highest peaks, about 6 kilometers from the main town, Cloud’s End offers visitors an unparalleled experience where the clouds seem to touch the ground, creating a mystical atmosphere.

The location of Cloud’s End is enveloped by dense deodar and pine forests, offering a tranquil environment that appeals especially to nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway. It provides panoramic views of the Aglar River valley, the vast Himalayan ranges, and lush green agricultural landscapes stretching out in the distance. This scenic grandeur makes Cloud’s End a much-loved destination for travelers who want to escape the usual busy tourist spots in Mussoorie.

Historically, Cloud’s End has roots dating back to the British colonial era. The estate was established in 1838 by Major Edmund Swetenham, a British officer, who built a summer bungalow here for his mountain bride, the daughter of a local Zamindar. This property reflects colonial architecture with large wooden porches, broad rooms, and authentic Anglo-Indian furnishings, retaining the charm of a bygone era. Over time, the bungalow was converted into a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to enjoy the blend of old-world charm and modern amenities while immersing themselves in the story of the place.

Visitors to Cloud’s End enjoy a range of activities including serene nature walks, trekking, and bird watching. The trekking paths around the area vary from easy to moderate, making the site accessible to families, casual walkers, and more avid hikers. Photography enthusiasts are drawn to the area for its dramatic sunsets, foggy mornings, and sweeping vistas. The quiet ambiance and fresh, cool air make it ideal for meditative walks and unwinding in nature.

Cloud’s End also features an in-house restaurant where guests can savor delicious multi-cuisine meals while enjoying magnificent views of the surrounding snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The site offers ample parking and is accessible by motorable roads, making it convenient for tourists to visit. Visitors often combine a trip to Cloud’s End with other nearby attractions such as the Jwala Devi temple, which is reached via a short trek from close to the property.

The best time to visit Cloud’s End is from March to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and visibility of mountain views is optimal. Winters bring snowfall, adding a fairytale ambiance, but visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures. The entire area is open from early morning until evening, allowing ample time for exploration...

Cloud End is one of those places that you will remember forever. It was the highlight of our recent trip to the Mussoorie area in northern India - so much so, in fact, that once my husband and I had left there after our pre-booked visit, we changed our plans and went straight back. The house is one of the original Raj era homes, built in a spectacular location with panoramic views across the local mountains towards the vista of the Himalayas. The place is owned by the Agarwal family who are wonderful hosts. The property has been in their family for a couple of generations and Mr Agarwal used to come there for holidays as a child. His fondness for the old house is evident in the respect that has been shown in the renovations. Cloud End has modern facilities, but authenticity has been protected. It's not a place of top-class luxury - that kind of thing is easy to find as a traveller. Cloud End has that rare quality of being utterly real. You don't feel as if you are in a hotel - it's more like a private home. The sense of history is everywhere. Most of the original furnishings of the British family who built Cloud End are still there - even their family photo albums. The accommodation is run by Deeksha Agarwal, with the help of staff who are friendly and competent. The restaurant (which serves daytrippers as well as residential guests and is set a short stroll away from the house) is managed by her sister Divisha. The menu is extensive, with European and Chinese options - but we stayed with the excellent and varied vegetarian Indian dishes. The chef was wonderful and was keen to engage with us about his cooking. Divisha arranged for us to try some Indian home cooked delicacies that we'd never come across before. Sitting in the timber-lined room, surrounded by panoramic views as well as colourful flowers in the foreground, eating great food, listening to the sound of birds - we felt we couldn't ask for more (unless, perhaps, a pot of tea afterwards, served back in the house, in 'our' sitting room). On our first visit we were intrigued by a small temple on the opposite hillside. When we returned we were able to hike there, led by our intrepid host Divisha. Another unforgettable experience. Mr Agarwal lives in the cottage on the property and is a source of intimate knowledge about the area, and a staunch guardian of the land under his care. Cloud End found a place in our hearts and we certainly hope to return...

My recent visit to Mussoorie left me spellbound, and I find it impossible to put into words the sheer beauty and charm of this enchanting hill station.

From the moment I arrived, the crisp mountain air filled with the scent of pine trees embraced me, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The panoramic vistas of the Himalayan peaks against a backdrop of clear blue skies were nothing short of breathtaking.

Mussoorie's Mall Road is a bustling promenade that exudes old-world charm. Strolling down this path, I was captivated by the quaint shops, cozy cafes, and the joyful chatter of fellow visitors. The delectable local cuisine, especially the piping hot momos and spicy chowmein, were a gastronomic delight.

One cannot visit Mussoorie without exploring the iconic Kempty Falls. The rush of icy-cold water and the ethereal beauty of the cascading falls made for a refreshing and unforgettable experience.

Mussoorie also boasts some fascinating historical sites, such as the colonial-era Christ Church, which is a marvel of Gothic architecture, and the serene Landour Cemetery, where history whispers through the ancient tombstones.

The locals are warm, welcoming, and ever ready to share stories of their beloved town. The serene atmosphere and the pristine surroundings make Mussoorie a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those simply looking to unwind amidst nature's bounty.

In the evening, as I stood on the cliff overlooking the Doon Valley, the sunset painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, leaving me in awe of the natural beauty that Mussoorie offers.

Mussoorie, with its unmatched natural beauty, warm hospitality, and a sense of timelessness, is a destination that I will cherish forever. It is truly a paradise on earth and a must-visit for anyone seeking solace and serenity in the lap of...