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If you are looking for an adventurous day of hiking in the hill town of Mussoorie, then Benog Hill trek is just the thing for you. It is perfectly designed for beginners to get them used to the art of trekking. The journey presents a great opportunity to witness and admire the incredible flora and fauna in this part of the world. On this excursion, walk for about 20 km through the lush forests of the region. Though it looks like a long journey and will probably take an entire day, it will not be boring as the path will be full of amazing sceneries.
The Benog Tibba trek starts from the Library, and an option to begin it from Clouds End is also at your disposal. Clouds End – a heritage hotel – is considered as the geographical landmark, signifying the end of Mussoorie. Start the journey from here by walking through thick forests of oak and deodar. Along the way, pass through Benog Mountain Quail Sanctuary, and hike your way to the top. Strolling through the sanctuary is the highlight of the excursion, and if it is your lucky day, then you might get a sight of the rare mountain quail.
This Benog Hill trekking itinerary then takes you to the summit, and later you make the descent. Thereafter, passing through Murray Pumping Station, end the jaunt in Happy Valley. Famous for its enchanting gardens and temples, it presents itself as a perfect place to bring this trek to Benog Tibba full circle.
About the Place:
Often referred to as the Queen of Hill Stations, Mussoorie is where the hike starts. Benog Mountain Quail Sanctuary, which is a prominent attraction in the area, is one of the locations that the trek goes through. Established in 1993, it has an area of around 339 hectares. The sanctuary has become a hotspot for birdwatchers because of all the diverse and rare species of avifauna found here. The Aglar watercourse, which is a tributary of the Yamuna River, flowing through here, adds to the scenic charm of the sanctuary. Hiking along gentle slopes, covered with thick deodar and oak forests, will definitely make your day.
Itinerary:
Travellers have the option of starting this Benog Hill trek either from the Library or from Clouds End. If beginning the journey from the Library, then follow the main road, past Savoy Hotel and Modern School. From Waverley, which is further ahead, walk for about 3 km through lush forests to reach Park Chungi. Keep on the path for a little longer arriving at the Everest Park Estate, and then strolling for about 3 km more towards Clouds End. The next destination of the Benog Tibba trek is the enchanting Benog Mountain Quail Sanctuary. This site was established to protect and preserve the habitat of the near-extinct mountain quail or as it is locally called, Pahari bater. Spread over an area of around 339 hectares, the sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers.
Continuing this on-foot excursion, reach the summit of the hill and take photos of what you see from up here. In this part of the Benog Hill trekking tour, the hike becomes a bit demanding, and you might have to stress your thigh muscles a little. Benog Tibba gives a great view of surrounding snow-capped mountain peaks and the Yamuna River. In the final stage of the trek to Benog Tibba, hike downhill from the peak towards Happy Valley. This landform is quite popular among tourists, and it is also frequented by the local people as there are many temples here. Finally, passing through Murray Pumping Station, end your venture near Central School for Tibetans.
Duration: 6-7 hours (Day Hike)
Region: Mussoorie (West of Library)
Distance: 15 – 20 KM
Grade: Easy
Starting Point: Library/Cloud’s End
End Point: Happy Valley
Price applicable on a minimum of 6-7 persons travelling together.
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