Embarking on a Solo Adventure: My Memorable Weekend Getaway in Mussoorie

For the weekend, my friend and I planned a trip. We booked a nice, over-the-top Airbnb to spend some time together, unwind, and relax a bit. Everything was sorted, planned, and divided between us, but just before the trip, my friend cancelled due to a family problem. So now, I am left with a booked cottage all by myself. The owner very nicely told me he would not be able to provide a refund. If I wanted, I could come and enjoy the amenities, so I pulled up my socks and went for it alone. Ta-da!

As I had already paid a significant amount for the cottage, I now needed to spend wisely. When the cab driver asked for 3000 bucks to drop me off, and someone told me the bus takes just 300 bucks, I obviously chose the latter. So, I went to the bus stop to take the bus, but there was the longest queue I have ever seen for the tickets. When I asked, they said it would take at least one and a half hours, but I didn’t want to wait so long. I went straight to the bus and asked the driver. He asked me for tickets; the bus was about to leave. He said, ‘Please get lost,’ but I didn’t give up. I asked the bus conductor and literally pleaded, ‘I’m alone; please accommodate me. I’ll pay you.’ He gave me his seat, and the journey began.

The ride was nothing less than a roller coaster. When you are sitting just beside the driver of a bus, you can see everything, like how many times he was about to hit someone, how rash he was driving, and also the views. But it was scary as well as adventurous. The journey was between valleys, and it was beautiful. Finally, I reached the cottage. The owner was kind enough to pick me up from the bus stop, and when I reached the cottage, all my tiredness was gone. It was nothing like I imagined. It was at the top of the mountain; the view from the balcony was breathtaking. The cottage was huge and very cozy. It seemed like time had stopped there, and I had three immensely beautiful, well-decorated rooms, a very cozy living area, and a nice kitchen all to myself. I could stay here forever, as I had the best views, a cozy home, and good food—nothing more I wanted.

But that was just an understatement. When I stepped out of the cottage and started exploring the town, I realized, ‘Mussoorie is magical.’ Every corner, every nook is beautiful. The clouds are just next level; it seems like you can touch them.

I witnessed the sunset there, and oh my god, it was breathtakingly beautiful—nothing I have witnessed before. The sky was so vibrant; it felt truly magical, like the sun was shattering all the colors. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the sky is painted in a myriad of colors, creating a beautiful sight. Many visitors flock to the road in the evening to witness this moment and enjoy the view in peace.

Mussoorie is best for scenic walks. As you roam along, you’ll be treated to views of the Himalayan Mountain range and the valleys below. It’s an excellent opportunity to soak in the natural beauty of Mussoorie and capture some photographs.

You can indulge in any kind of food you are craving and splurge a little by shopping for some antiques at Mall Road.

The famous Landour bakery, which is recommended by the great legend Sachin Tendulkar himself, is like finding a gem. There, coffee and cookies are scrumptious; you’ll realize why people are ready to wait for hours to visit. It gives a cozy, homely vibe.

Go to Char Dukan street in the morning, just eat the good food, take scenic walks, and enjoy the views and people.

Mussoorie is nothing like any other hill station; it offers you everything—best views, scenic roads to walk on, vibrant skies, mountains, waterfalls, and a cozy vibe you won’t want to leave."