Kempty Falls
Published on November 13, 2024
Kempty Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls near Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, and a well-known stop for travellers exploring the hill station. Located on the road towards Yamunotri, the waterfall drops through a forested mountain valley and forms pools at the bottom. The falls are approximately 40 feet high and are surrounded by green hills, making the area a popular spot for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the cool mountain water.
Where Is Kempty Falls Located?
Kempty Falls is located around 13–15 km from Mussoorie on the Yamunotri Road. The waterfall lies at an elevation of roughly 1,360 metres and can be reached by road from Mussoorie. Its location in a forested valley gives visitors scenic mountain views along the journey.
Why Is Kempty Falls Famous?
Kempty Falls is known for its cascading water, mountain scenery, and pools at the base of the waterfall. It has been a popular tourist attraction around Mussoorie for many decades and was developed as a recreational spot during the British period in the 1830s.
The surrounding area also has small shops and visitor facilities, making Kempty Falls a convenient stop for families, couples, and groups travelling around Mussoorie.
History of Kempty Falls
Kempty Falls has a connection with the colonial history of Mussoorie. The site was developed as a recreational destination around 1835 by British officer John Mekinan. One commonly cited explanation connects the name “Kempty” with “camp tea,” referring to tea gatherings that were held in the area.
Things to Do at Kempty Falls
Enjoy the Waterfall Views
The main attraction is the waterfall itself. Visitors can walk down towards the base and enjoy views of the cascading water and surrounding hills.
Take a Dip in the Pools
During suitable weather and when local conditions permit, visitors can enjoy the water around the lower pools. The rocks can become slippery, so visitors should take care around the waterfall.
Ride the Ropeway
A ropeway provides an alternative to walking down the steep route towards the waterfall area. It can also offer a different perspective of the surrounding valley.
Photography
Kempty Falls offers plenty of opportunities for photography, particularly around the waterfall, forested slopes, and mountain landscape.
Enjoy Local Snacks
Small shops around the tourist area offer snacks and refreshments, making it easy to spend a couple of hours exploring the attraction.
Best Time to Visit Kempty Falls
The most popular period to visit Kempty Falls is during the warmer months when the weather around Mussoorie is comfortable and visitors can enjoy the waterfall area. The monsoon can increase the water flow and make the surrounding landscape greener, but wet rocks and stronger water flow require additional caution.
For a more comfortable sightseeing experience, visitors can consider March to June and September to November, while checking local weather conditions before travelling.
Kempty Falls Information Table
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Mussoorie, Uttarakhand |
| Distance from Mussoorie | Approximately 13–15 km |
| Altitude | Around 1,360 m |
| Waterfall Height | Approximately 40 feet |
| Road | Mussoorie–Yamunotri Road |
| Main Attraction | Waterfall and surrounding valley |
| Activities | Sightseeing, photography, water recreation |
| Nearest Railway Station | Dehradun Railway Station |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun |
| Recommended Duration | Around 2–3 hours |
Distance and elevation figures vary slightly between tourism references, so approximate figures are preferable for SEO content.
How to Reach Kempty Falls
From Mussoorie
Kempty Falls is approximately 13–15 km from Mussoorie and can be reached by taxi or other local transport. The drive takes visitors through the scenic mountain roads towards the waterfall.
From Dehradun
Travellers from Dehradun can first drive towards Mussoorie and then continue towards Kempty Falls. Dehradun is also the nearest major railway connection, while Jolly Grant Airport serves as the nearest airport.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station. From Dehradun, visitors can hire a taxi or use local transport to reach Mussoorie and continue towards Kempty Falls.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From the airport, travellers can continue by road towards Mussoorie and Kempty Falls.
Nearby Places to Visit
A Kempty Falls visit can easily be combined with other attractions around Mussoorie.
- Mussoorie Mall Road
- Gun Hill
- Lal Tibba
- Camel's Back Road
- Cloud's End
- Mussoorie Lake
- Bhatta Falls
You can also explore the official Mussoorie tourism guide by Uttarakhand Tourism for information about other attractions in the area. Uttarakhand Tourism Mussoorie Guide
Travel Tips for Kempty Falls
- Start early to avoid heavy tourist crowds.
- Wear footwear with good grip because the area around waterfalls can be slippery.
- Carry an extra set of clothes if you plan to enter the water.
- Keep phones and cameras protected from water.
- Check weather conditions before visiting during the monsoon.
- Avoid getting too close to strong water currents.
- Keep the waterfall and surrounding area clean.
- Allow around 2–3 hours if you want to explore the waterfall without rushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Kempty Falls located?
Kempty Falls is located near Mussoorie in Uttarakhand, around 13–15 km from Mussoorie on the Yamunotri Road.
2. How far is Kempty Falls from Mussoorie?
Kempty Falls is approximately 13–15 km from Mussoorie, depending on the starting point in town.
3. What is Kempty Falls famous for?
Kempty Falls is famous for its cascading waterfall, mountain scenery, pools, and its long history as a popular tourist attraction near Mussoorie.
4. What is the height of Kempty Falls?
The waterfall is commonly described as approximately 40 feet high.
5. Can you take a bath at Kempty Falls?
Visitors have traditionally enjoyed bathing in the pools around the waterfall, but conditions can change with water flow and weather. Follow local safety instructions before entering the water.
6. How much time is required at Kempty Falls?
Around 2–3 hours is generally sufficient to explore the waterfall, enjoy the surroundings, take photographs, and spend some time around the visitor area.
7. What is the best time to visit Kempty Falls?
March to June is popular for comfortable weather, while September to November can also offer pleasant conditions. During the monsoon, water flow may be stronger and the rocks can become slippery.
8. How can I reach Kempty Falls from Mussoorie?
You can reach Kempty Falls from Mussoorie by taxi or local road transport. The waterfall is around 13–15 km from the town.
9. Is Kempty Falls suitable for families?
Yes. Kempty Falls is a popular family sightseeing destination, although children should always be supervised around the water and slippery rocks.
10. What should I carry to Kempty Falls?
Carry comfortable footwear, drinking water, sunscreen, a waterproof bag for electronics, and an extra set of clothes if you plan to enjoy the water.
Plan Your Mussoorie Trip
Kempty Falls is an easy addition to a Mussoorie sightseeing itinerary, especially for travellers who want to combine waterfall views with other attractions around the hill station. For a planned holiday covering Mussoorie and nearby attractions, you can explore our Mussoorie tour package.