Nainital and Mussoorie are the two hill stations families from Delhi NCR ask us about most. Both have colonial-era charm, a busy Mall Road and cool summers. The difference is in the feel: Nainital is built around a lake, Mussoorie along a ridge with long views over the Doon valley.
At a glance
- Distance from Delhi: Nainital about 310 km (7–8 hours); Mussoorie about 290 km (7 hours).
- Nearest railhead: Kathgodam for Nainital; Dehradun for Mussoorie.
- Nearest airport: Pantnagar for Nainital; Jolly Grant, Dehradun for Mussoorie.
- Best for: Nainital for lakes and a gentle pace; Mussoorie for walks, cafés and views.
- Easy add-ons: Bhimtal, Sattal and Jim Corbett from Nainital; Landour, Dhanaulti, Kanatal and Rishikesh from Mussoorie.
Why families love Nainital
Children love boating on Naini Lake, the ropeway to Snow View Point and the ride up to Tiffin Top. The lake district around it is a big plus: Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal are quieter and greener, and good for a calmer day. Our three-day Nainital itinerary shows how to fit it all in.
Where to stay: The Naini Retreat on the Ayarpatta slopes and The Palace Belvedere offer heritage character above the bustle, Excel Hotels & Resorts Nainital puts you on Mall Road, and Cygnett Resort Mountain Breeze at Jeolikote is a quieter resort below the town. Families who want a pure vegetarian stay can choose Rosewood Retreat Bhimtal. See all hotels in Nainital.
Why families love Mussoorie
Mussoorie suits families who like to walk and explore: Mall Road and Library Chowk, the ropeway to Gun Hill, Kempty Falls and the quiet lanes of Landour with their bakeries and views. It also pairs easily with Dehradun, Rishikesh or Kanatal for a longer trip.
Where to stay: Hotel Green Castle sits on Mall Road, while The Nathuli Manor and Hotel Vishnu Palace are pure vegetarian hotels popular with families. For forest views and camping nearby, try Nirmaya Resort in Kanatal. See all hotels in Mussoorie.
Crowds, weather and the best time to go
Both towns get crowded on long weekends and in May and June. March to June is ideal for escaping the heat; October to December brings clear views and crisp air, and both can see snowfall in some winters, usually between late December and February. Weekdays are noticeably calmer and often better value.
Our verdict
If you are travelling with toddlers or grandparents and want an easy, lake-centred holiday, choose Nainital. If your family enjoys walking, cafés and views, or you want to combine the hills with Rishikesh, choose Mussoorie. For a short weekend, both work well; see more hill escapes near Delhi NCR.
Frequently asked questions
Which is closer to Delhi, Nainital or Mussoorie?
They are similar: Mussoorie is about 290 km and Nainital about 310 km by road. Mussoorie is slightly easier by train and air via Dehradun.
Is Nainital or Mussoorie better in summer?
Both are pleasant from March to June. Nainital has the lakes and is calmer mid-week; Mussoorie is livelier, with more cafés and walks.
Can we visit Jim Corbett with Nainital?
Yes. Jim Corbett is about two hours from Nainital, so a combined trip of four or five nights works well for families. See our pick of the best resorts in Jim Corbett.
Where can we find pure vegetarian hotels in the hills?
Rosewood Retreat in Bhimtal, and The Nathuli Manor and Hotel Vishnu Palace in Mussoorie, are pure vegetarian properties we book regularly. Ask us for current rates.
