places

George Everest House | Trek, History And Viewpoint Guide

June 16, 2025

George Everest House is an old building in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. It was the home and office of Sir George Everest, a British man who worked as a surveyor. Now, it is a quiet and beautiful place where people come to relax, enjoy nature, and see great views of the mountains and valleys.

This place is famous because Sir George Everest’s name was given to the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. He helped make maps of India a long time ago. That’s why his house is an important place to visit, especially for people who like history, nature, and trekking.

Historical Background

Who was Sir George Everest

Sir George Everest was a British surveyor and geographer. He was born in 1790 and worked for the British government in India. He became the Surveyor General of India from 1830 to 1843. He was very skilled in geography and mapping and helped improve how maps of India were made. He lived in Mussoorie for many years and used the house (now known as George Everest House) as his home and office.

His role in the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India

The Great Trigonometrical Survey of India was a big project to measure and map the entire land of India. It started in 1802 and lasted many years. Sir George Everest joined this project and later led it. He made sure the work was done with great care and used better tools and methods to make more accurate maps. His work helped future surveyors measure the height of the world’s highest mountains.

Why was Mount Everest named after him

Even though Sir George Everest had never seen the mountain himself, the people who worked after him used his mapping system to find the height of a very tall peak in the Himalayas. That mountain was later found to be the tallest in the world. In 1865, the Royal Geographical Society named the mountain Mount Everest in his honor, to thank him for his work in mapping and surveying.

History of the George Everest House

The George Everest House was built in 1832 by Sir George Everest. He used this house as both his home and office while he worked on the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India. The house is located on a hilltop near Mussoorie and was carefully chosen because of its high position, which helped in his surveying work. From here, he could see long distances across the Himalayas and surrounding areas.

After Sir George Everest left India, the house remained but was not taken care of. For many years, it was almost in ruins and many visitors came only to see the old walls and enjoy the natural views.

George Everest House Today

Today, the house has become a popular tourist spot in Mussoorie. People come here to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take photos, and learn about the history of Sir George Everest. The area is also famous for trekking, camping, and watching sunrises and sunsets.

Renovation by the Uttarakhand Government

In 2021, the Uttarakhand government started a major renovation project to save and improve the George Everest House. The walls were repaired, the roof was rebuilt, and walking paths were made safer. Signboards with information were added in both English and Hindi. The government also improved the road from Mussoorie to the site, making it easier for tourists to reach.

Now a Museum and Tourist Spot

The house has now been turned into a small museum. Inside, you can see:

Old maps and survey tools
Pictures and stories about Sir George Everest
Details about the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India

This change has made the place not just a viewpoint, but also a place where people can learn and connect with the past.

Adventure Activities Around George Everest House

The area around George Everest House is also great for adventure lovers. Popular activities include:

Trekking: There is an easy trekking route from Hathipaon to the house. The trail passes through pine forests and gives beautiful mountain views.
Camping: Some people choose to camp nearby under the stars. It’s a peaceful spot with a cool climate, perfect for a night in nature.
Photography & Bird Watching: With open skies and scenic views, it’s a favorite place for photographers and bird lovers.

Whether you love history or adventure, George Everest House offers both in one spot.

How to Reach George Everest House

1. Step 1: Reach Mussoorie

- Mussoorie is about 35 km from Dehradun.

You can take a taxi, bus, or drive your own car.

2. Step 2: Go to Hathipaon

From Mussoorie Mall Road, drive 6 km to Hathipaon.

The road is narrow but drivable.

3. Step 3: Choose how to go from Hathipaon to the House

By Car/Bike:
- You can drive up to George Everest House.
- The road is a little rough, so drive carefully.
- Limited parking space is available near the house.
By Trekking:
- You can park at Hathipaon and walk 1.5 km to the house.
- The trek is easy and goes through pine forests.

Great views and fresh air make it a peaceful walk.

4. Total Distance

From Mussoorie to George Everest House is about 7.5 km.
Trekking distance from Hathipaon is 1.5 km.

Map

Best Time to Visit George Everest House

1. Ideal Months

The best time to visit is from March to June and September to November.
These months offer clear skies, pleasant weather, and great mountain views.

2. Weather Conditions

Spring (March to May): Cool and perfect for trekking or sightseeing. Flowers and greenery make the area more beautiful.
Summer (May to June): Warm but not too hot. A good escape from the city heat.
Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, fresh air, and less crowd.

3. Avoid Monsoon Season (July to August)

During the monsoon, the area gets heavy rain.
Roads can be slippery, and trekking becomes risky.
It’s better to avoid visiting during these months for safety.

George Everest Museum Details

1. Entry Fee & Timings

Timings: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee: No entry fee — free for all visitors.

2. What You’ll See Inside

Old survey instruments from the 1800s (like theodolites and chains).
Maps and charts used during the Great Trigonometrical Survey.
Photographs and portraits of Sir George Everest and his team.
Displays and storyboards explaining the surveying process and history.

3. Language of Exhibits

All information boards are in both English and Hindi, making it easy for most visitors to understand.

This small museum gives a simple but interesting glimpse into the work of Sir George Everest and how early surveyors mapped India.

Why Visit George Everest House

🌄 Beautiful Views: Enjoy wide views of the Himalayas and Doon Valley.
🧘 Peaceful Atmosphere: A calm and quiet place, perfect for relaxing in nature.
🚶 Trekking & Hiking: Walk through scenic forest trails and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
📸 Photography Spots: Great for sunrise, sunset, and landscape photos.
🕰 Historical Importance: Learn about Sir George Everest and the history of mapping in India.
🏛 Museum Visit: See old survey tools, maps, and displays inside the George Everest Museum.

Trekking Route & Difficulty

The trek to George Everest House is short, scenic, and suitable for beginners. It starts from Hathipaon, about 6 km from Mussoorie. The trail is easy to follow and is a popular route for both locals and tourists.

1. Trek Length & Trail Type

The trek from Hathipaon to George Everest House is around 1.5 km (one way).

The trail is mostly flat with a few gentle slopes.

It passes through pine forests and open meadows.

2. Viewpoints & Highlights on the Way

Enjoy views of the snow-capped Himalayas, Mussoorie hills, and the Doon Valley.

On clear days, you may also spot peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpunch.

The trail is surrounded by greenery and is great for birdwatching and photography.

3. Is It Beginner-Friendly

Yes! The trek is easy and can be done by beginners, families, and kids.

It takes about 30–45 minutes at a relaxed pace.

Wear comfortable shoes and carry water for a smooth experience.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting George Everest House, you can explore many other scenic and peaceful places around Mussoorie. Below are some of the top attractions you should not miss:

Clouds End

Located just 2 km from George Everest House, Clouds End is literally the last point of Mussoorie. Surrounded by dense oak and deodar forests, it’s a quiet and romantic spot that offers amazing views of green hills and endless skies. Early mornings here are covered in mist, giving a dreamy feel. It’s also a great place for nature photography and short forest walks.

Benog Wildlife Sanctuary

Close to Clouds End, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem for nature lovers and bird watchers. The sanctuary is home to many rare Himalayan birds like the mountain quail and red-billed blue magpie. You may also spot deer, leopards, and bears deep in the forest. The peaceful trails inside the sanctuary offer a calm escape and are great for trekking and photography.

Kempty Falls

Located about 15 km from Mussoorie on the Yamunotri Road, Kempty Falls is one of the most visited tourist spots in the region. The water falls from a height of around 40 feet, forming natural pools where visitors love to take a dip. You’ll also find local food stalls, changing rooms, and a ropeway. It’s perfect for families and children who enjoy outdoor fun.

Lal Tibba, Landour

Lal Tibba is the highest viewpoint in Mussoorie, located in the peaceful Landour area. It offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks like Kedarnath and Badrinath on clear days. There are telescopes placed here for a closer look at the distant mountains. The area is less crowded and surrounded by old British-style cottages, pine trees, and clean air — ideal for slow walks and peaceful moments.

Company Garden

Also known as Municipal Garden, this is a well-maintained park with flower beds, fountains, a mini lake, and a small amusement area for kids. There’s also a nursery and a food court. It’s a good stop for families who want to enjoy nature in a fun and easy way. You can do paddle boating, eat local snacks, or just relax under a tree.

Camel’s Back Road

Camel’s Back Road is a 3 km long stretch starting from Library Point. It gets its name from a natural rock formation that looks like a camel’s hump. This road is ideal for a peaceful morning or evening walk. You’ll get clear views of the mountains and enjoy Mussoorie’s calm atmosphere. It’s also a popular spot for horse rides and sunset photography.

Mussoorie Mall Road

This is the busiest and most colorful part of Mussoorie. Mall Road has everything — shops selling woollens, wooden crafts, local sweets, cafés, restaurants, and bakeries. In the evening, the whole area comes alive with street lights, music, and a cool breeze. It’s perfect for a casual walk, some shopping, and trying out local food like momos and hot gulab jamuns.

Gun Hill

Gun Hill is the second-highest peak in Mussoorie and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the town. You can reach it by a fun ropeway ride from Jhula Ghar near Mall Road. There are a few game stalls, food vendors, and binocular stations at the top. It’s a short activity but very enjoyable for all age groups.

Tips for Visitors

Planning your visit to George Everest House? Here are some helpful tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable:

What to Carry

Water bottles – There are limited shops, so carry your own drinking water.
Snacks or light food – Carry some chips, biscuits, or fruits, especially if you plan to stay longer.
Comfortable walking shoes – The area includes forest trails and uneven paths, so wear sports or trekking shoes.
Cap/sunglasses/sunscreen – The sun can be strong during the day, even in the hills.
Camera or phone – Don’t forget to capture the amazing views and sunset!

Safety Tips

The area is generally safe, but avoid going alone after dark.
Watch your step while trekking – some parts can be slippery or rocky.
Be careful near the edges of the cliffs – no railings are there.
If visiting during the rainy season, check the weather forecast and avoid landslide-prone days.
Keep your belongings with you at all times – no lockers available.

Facilities

Toilets – There are basic public toilets near the museum area, but they may not be very clean.
Shops and stalls – A few small shops near the entrance sell tea, snacks, and water.
No restaurants nearby, so it’s best to eat before coming or bring your own food.
No ATMs or fuel stations nearby – plan accordingly.

Time to Spend There

On average, visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the house, enjoying the views, and relaxing.
If you plan to trek, rest, or take lots of photos, you can easily spend 2 to 3 hours here.
Visit during morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and get better light for photos.

Conclusion

George Everest House is more than just a tourist spot — it’s a place where history, nature, and peace come together. With stunning views of the Himalayas, a rich British-era story, and a newly renovated museum, it’s one of the best places to visit in Mussoorie. Whether you’re a history lover, nature explorer, or photography fan, this place offers a little something for everyone.

Don’t forget to visit during the morning or late afternoon for the best experience — the light is perfect for photos, and the air is cool and calm.

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