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Kempty Falls

Kempty Falls

Published on November 13, 2024

By: TourMyHoliday Travel Desk | Updated: February 2026

If Mussoorie is the "Queen of Hills," then Kempty Falls is undoubtedly her crown jewel. Falling from a staggering height of 40 feet, this milky-white cascade is the most iconic picnic spot in Uttarakhand. Whether you’re looking to take a refreshing dip in natural mountain pools or enjoy a scenic ropeway ride, Kempty Falls offers a quintessential Himalayan experience.

kempty Fall Mussoorie

Location and Geography

Kempty Falls is situated about 15 kilometres from Mussoorie, along the road to Yamunotri, at an altitude of around 4,500 feet above sea level. The falls are set in a valley and surrounded by high mountain ranges, creating a natural amphitheatre of beauty. The water here cascades down from a height of approximately 40 feet, forming several small pools, ideal for bathing and wading.

The area around Kempty Falls is blessed with lush greenery and tall trees, creating a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The fresh, cool breeze and the sound of water splashing against the rocks offer a refreshing ambience, making it a prime spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

1. The "Camp-Tea" Legacy: A Quick History

Ever wondered about the name? Developed in 1835 by British officer John Mekinan, the area was a favourite spot for colonial officers to host elaborate "Tea Camps." Over time, "Camp-Tea" evolved into the name we know today: Kempty.

2. What to Do at Kempty Falls

  • The Natural Splash Pool: The waterfall splits into five streams, collecting into a large man-made pool at the bottom. It’s safe, invigorating, and the top reason people visit.

  • The Aerial Ropeway: If you want to skip the 100+ steep steps, take the Kempty Falls Ropeway. It offers a stunning "birds-eye" view of the valley for approximately ₹120–₹150 (round trip).

  • Boating at the Lower Pond: Just below the main falls, there is a small pond with paddle boats—ideal for families with young children.

  • Local Garhwali Flavours: The pathway is lined with stalls. Don't leave without trying the Pahadi Maggi or Roasted Corn (Bhutta) with local spices.

KemptyFall Mussoorie

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kempty Falls is from March to June, when the weather is pleasant, and the flow of the waterfall is optimal. Summers are ideal for those looking to cool off, as the refreshing water and pleasant weather make it a perfect escape. Monsoons (July to September) bring a heavy flow, and while the falls are stunning during this season, the area can become slippery and slightly risky due to heavy rainfall.

During the winter months (October to February), the flow of water may be reduced, and the area can become quite chilly. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind the colder temperatures, winter is also a good time to enjoy the falls in a quieter atmosphere.

Feature Details
Location 15 km from Mussoorie (Yamunotri Road)
Timings 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee Free (Only parking and ropeway are paid)
Best Time March to June (for swimming)
Pro Tip Reach by 9:00 AM to avoid the massive weekend crowds.

Nearby Attractions

While Kempty Falls is a highlight, there are several other attractions near Mussoorie that visitors can explore:

  1. Mussoorie Lake
    Located on the Mussoorie-Dehradun road, this lake is another popular spot for picnics and boating, offering stunning views of the Doon Valley.

  2. Gun Hill
    The second-highest peak in Mussoorie, Gun Hill, is known for its cable car rides and panoramic views of the Himalayas and the town below.

  3. Lal Tibba
    As the highest point in Mussoorie, Lal Tibba offers breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and is a great spot for photographers and nature lovers.

  4. Cloud’s End
    A peaceful location surrounded by forests, Cloud’s End is ideal for those looking to escape into nature and enjoy stunning sunset views.

  5. Camel’s Back Road
    A scenic 3-kilometre stretch ideal for evening walks, this road is named for its camel hump-shaped rock formation and offers views of the valley and mountains.

How to Reach Kempty Falls

  1. By Road
    Kempty Falls is well connected by road from Mussoorie. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Mussoorie, which takes around 30 minutes. If you’re travelling from Dehradun, it takes approximately 1.5 hours by car.

  2. By Air
    The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 60 kilometres from Kempty Falls. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Mussoorie and then proceed to Kempty Falls.

  3. By Rail
    The nearest railway station is in Dehradun, located about 50 kilometres away. After arriving at Dehradun, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Mussoorie and further to Kempty Falls.

  4. From Mussoorie: A 30-40 minute drive. You can hire a private taxi from Library Chowk or take a shared cab.

  5. From Dehradun: It’s about 50 km away. The drive takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours via the Mussoorie-Dehradun road.

  6. Parking: There is a designated multi-level parking lot, but it fills up fast during peak summer months.

Kemptyfall mussoorie

Travel Tips

  1. Plan for Crowds
    Kempty Falls can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Plan your visit early in the day to enjoy the place with fewer people around.

  2. Carry Extra Clothing
    If you’re planning to take a dip in the pool, bring an extra set of clothing, as well as towels and waterproof bags for your belongings.

  3. Safety First
    Be cautious on the slippery rocks around the waterfall, especially during the monsoon season. Wearing shoes with a good grip is recommended.

  4. Keep the Area Clean
    Kempty Falls is a natural wonder, so remember to carry your waste with you or use designated bins to help keep the area clean for everyone to enjoy.

Nearby Hidden Gems

If Kempty Falls feels too crowded, consider these nearby alternatives included in our Mussoorie packages:

  • Lake Mist (5 km away): A serene, less-crowded lake with emerald waters and boating.

  • Bhatta Falls: A more "raw" and natural waterfall experience located near the Mussoorie-Dehradun road.

  • George Everest House: For a 360-degree sunset view after your morning at the falls.

Visitor Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip

  1. Pack a "Dry Bag": The spray from the falls is powerful; keep your electronics in waterproof pouches.

  2. Rentals: You don’t need to carry heavy towels. You can rent swimwear and lockers at the base for a nominal fee (approx. ₹50–₹100).

  3. Footwear: Wear sandals or shoes with a strong rubber grip. The rocks near the pool are famously slippery.

  4. Eco-Travel: Kempty is a plastic-free zone. Please use the designated bins to keep the mountain water pure.

How Mussoorie, a town dependent on tourism but now wary of it, is finding the middle ground | India News - The Indian Express

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can we visit Kempty Falls in the winter? A: Yes, the falls are open, but the water is near freezing. It’s beautiful for photography and quiet walks, but swimming is not recommended from November to February.

Q2: Is Kempty Falls safe for kids? A: Absolutely. The lower pools are shallow and specifically managed for families. However, always supervise children near the moving water.

Q3: Are there changing rooms? A: Yes, there are separate, basic changing rooms and locker facilities for men and women located right next to the main pool.

Q4: How much time is enough for Kempty Falls? A: Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours here, including the walk/ropeway ride and time in the water.

Experience the Magic with TourMyHoliday

Don't just visit—explore. Our Mussoorie Tour Packages include private transfers to Kempty Falls, pre-booked ropeway tickets, and lunch at the best-view cafes.