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Moving to Mussoorie, India | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Mussoorie, India

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 20, 2023

Summary: Mussoorie, India is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty and pleasant climate. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Mussoorie offers breathtaking views of the mountains and lush green valleys. The town is also known for its colonial-era architecture, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. Before moving to Mussoorie, it is important to be aware of the language barrier. While English is widely spoken, Hindi is the primary language of the region. Additionally, the cost of living in Mussoorie is relatively low, but it is important to research the local market and housing prices before making the move. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and traditions, as well as the laws and regulations of the region.

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What do I need to know before moving to Mussoorie?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Mussoorie, they said:

"Before moving to Mussoorie, expats should be aware that the city is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and has a temperate climate. Expats should also be aware that the city is a popular tourist destination and can be quite crowded during peak season. Additionally, expats should be aware that the city is home to a variety of cultures and religions, and that English is widely spoken. Finally, expats should be aware that the cost of living in Mussoorie is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live on a budget," explained one expat living in Mussoorie, India.

"Mussoorie is a hill station--and because of that, most directions include "up from" or "down past", and they're meant in the vertical sense. Be ready and able to walk, or get yourself a driver's license for a car, motorbike or scooter if you're not going to want to walk. Except for the monsoon, the climate is pretty mild. You can buy just about everything you'll need here or down the mountain in Dehradun, so pack your personal sentimental things - furniture, clothing, pots and pans, etc. are all readily available," said one expat in Mussoorie.

How do I find a place to live in Mussoorie?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"We had a residence provided for us, however there are *lots* of real estate agents in town," remarked one expat who made the move to Mussoorie.

"One option for finding a place to live in Mussoorie is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as MagicBricks, 99acres, and Housing.com offer a variety of rental listings in the area. Additionally, you can search for local real estate agents who specialize in the Mussoorie area and contact them directly for assistance in finding a place to live. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations," explained one expat living in Mussoorie, India.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Mussoorie?

"We live in an apartment that is part of an older house. Many expats in the area seem to do something similar, renting from locals or residing in guesthouses, long term," commented one expat who made the move to Mussoorie.

"Expat homes and apartments in Mussoorie are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that offer stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains. Many of the homes and apartments are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and satellite television. Expats in Mussoorie can also enjoy the convenience of having access to a variety of international restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues," remarked one expat in Mussoorie, India.

What is the average cost of housing in Mussoorie?

If you are thinking about moving to Mussoorie, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Mussoorie varies depending on the type of accommodation and location. Generally, accommodation in Mussoorie is quite affordable, with basic guesthouses and hostels costing around 500-1000 rupees per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts can cost anywhere from 2000-5000 rupees per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can cost upwards of 5000 rupees per night," said one expat in Mussoorie.

Should I buy or rent a home in Mussoorie?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Mussoorie, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Mussoorie can be a great investment, as the area is known for its beautiful scenery and pleasant climate. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of amenities and services. Renting a home in Mussoorie may be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to enjoy the area without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility if you are unsure of how long you will be staying in the area. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Mussoorie should be based on your individual needs and preferences," replied a member in Mussoorie.

What should I pack when moving to Mussoorie?

We asked people living in Mussoorie to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"Three things I wish I had brought: a good pair of winter slippers, because houses here are uninsulated, so the winters can be cooler inside than out; another set of good kitchen knives, since ones we have found here are not of very good quality; another pair of indestructible sandals from some of the big name brands, since here you can get cheap sandals custom-made...but they also require resoling, and have no arch support! Thee things I wish I had left at home: electric blanket, because even despite a transformer & converter, it still blew and now the fancy function doesn't work; our queen-size fitted sheets that we were told to bring, because you can't get fitted sheets here--only to find out that 'queen size' is really closer to king, it being two single beds pushed together; my winter coats, because you can manage just fine with a sweater and t-shirt, silk underwear and normal clothes, and so on - winter coats are a waste of space and it's not cold enough," remarked one expat in Mussoorie, India.

"When moving to Mussoorie, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Mussoorie has a subtropical climate, so lightweight clothing made of natural fabrics such as cotton and linen is recommended. It is also important to bring a good supply of sunscreen and insect repellent. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a first aid kit, as well as any necessary medications. Other items to consider packing include a flashlight, a power adapter, and a water filter. Finally, don't forget to bring a camera to capture all the beautiful sights of Mussoorie," said one expat in Mussoorie.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Mussoorie?

We asked people in Mussoorie if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It's all been language based hilarity - the words for /very/ and /ghost/ can be pretty similar," remarked one expat in Mussoorie, India.

"It is important to be mindful of local customs and traditions when visiting Mussoorie. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be respectful of religious sites and to avoid taking photographs without permission. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid using offensive language or gestures. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding food and to avoid eating beef, as it is considered offensive to many Hindus," said one expat in Mussoorie.

Why do people move to Mussoorie?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Mussoorie, they responded:

"Mussoorie is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, pleasant climate, and vibrant culture. The city is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and lush green valleys. The city is also known for its colonial-era architecture, which adds to its charm. Additionally, Mussoorie is home to a variety of outdoor activities, such as trekking, paragliding, and skiing, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers. Furthermore, the city is known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down and start a new life," offered one expat living in Mussoorie.

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How are healthcare services Mussoorie?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Mussoorie, they replied:

"Mussoorie offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. Additionally, there are several pharmacies and diagnostic centers that provide a range of services, including X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans. Mussoorie also has a number of alternative medicine practitioners, such as ayurvedic doctors, homeopaths, and naturopaths. The city also has a number of health and wellness centers that offer yoga, meditation, and other holistic treatments," stated one expat who made the move to Mussoorie.

What are medical services in Mussoorie like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Mussoorie, they replied:

"Mussoorie offers a variety of medical services to its residents and visitors. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide quality healthcare services. These facilities offer a range of treatments, from general check-ups to specialized treatments. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies in the city that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications. Mussoorie also has a number of qualified doctors and nurses who are available to provide medical advice and assistance," offered one expat living in Mussoorie.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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