Road Trip to Kedarkantha: Mussoorie, Mori, Netwar & the Yamuna Drive

The best Dehradun Sankri road trip stops are Mussoorie, Nainbagh, Purola, Mori, and Netwar. The drive takes about 8 to 10 hours and covers around 200 km before you reach Sankri, the starting point of the Kedarkantha Trek. Most people think the trek begins at Sankri. We see it a little differently. The journey starts the moment you leave Dehradun.

This road trip is one of the best drives in Uttarakhand. You pass through hill towns, river valleys, pine forests, and small villages. Every few hours, the view changes. That is what makes this route special.

If you are planning Kedarkantha, do not rush straight to Sankri. Some of the best memories come from the road itself. Before travelling, it helps to understand how to reach Kedarkantha Trek and the different transport options available.

Dehradun Sankri Road Trip Stops Overview

Here is a quick look at the route.

The route follows Dehradun → Mussoorie → Nainbagh → Naugaon → Purola → Mori → Netwar → Sankri.

This is the popular Mussoorie Mori Netwar Yamuna Tons River Kedarkantha route that most trekkers use. If you are travelling from the city, this guide on the Kedarkantha Trek from Dehradun can help you plan better.

Stop 1: Mussoorie

Mussoorie is the first big stop on the drive. Many trekkers stop here for breakfast. A hot cup of tea and fresh parathas taste even better when the air is cool and the hills are all around you.

Try to leave Dehradun early in the morning. This helps you avoid traffic in Mussoorie. If you are travelling on a weekend, do not spend too much time near Kempty Falls. The traffic there can slow you down a lot. A stop of 30 to 45 minutes is enough for most travellers.

Stop 2: Nainbagh

After Mussoorie, the road heads down towards Nainbagh. This is where the drive starts to feel quieter. The crowds disappear. The hills open up. You also get your first good views of the Yamuna Valley.

There are small tea stalls and local eateries here. Many drivers stop for a short break before continuing. Spend 15 to 20 minutes here. Stretch your legs and enjoy the view.

Stop 3: Purola

Purola is one of the most useful stops on the route. If you forgot to pack snacks, medicines, batteries, or toiletries, this is the place to buy them. You will also find petrol pumps, ATMs, medical stores, and small restaurants.

Many trekkers stop here for lunch. We always tell people not to skip Purola. Once you leave this town, the options become fewer as you get closer to Sankri. It is also a good idea to review a proper Kedarkantha Trek packing list before starting your trip.

Stop 4: Mori

Mori is one of the prettiest places on the drive. The village sits beside the beautiful Tons River. Tall pine trees cover the hills around it. The sound of the river follows you almost everywhere.

Most travellers stop here for tea and photos. Some spend a little extra time just sitting near the river and enjoying the calm. If you ask regular trekkers about their favourite stop, many will pick Mori. Photography lovers should also check out these tips for Kedarkantha trek photography before heading into the mountains.

Stop 5: Netwar

Netwar is the last major stop before Sankri. The road becomes more remote after this point. The forests grow thicker and the mountains feel closer.

Netwar is also known as the gateway to the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary. Most trekkers pass through this village before reaching Sankri. When you reach Netwar, you know you are getting close to the mountains that make Kedarkantha so famous.

The Final Drive to Sankri

The road from Netwar to Sankri is short but beautiful. You pass small villages, thick forests, and mountain slopes. In winter, you may even spot snow along the route. Drive carefully here. The road is narrower than earlier sections. During winter and monsoon, conditions can change quickly.

Many trekkers say this is their favourite part of the drive. Soon you arrive in Sankri Village, the main base for several famous Himalayan treks.

Things to Know Before You Start

A little planning makes the journey much easier.

• Start from Dehradun before 6 AM.
• Keep some cash with you.
• Download offline maps.
• Carry water and snacks.
• Fill fuel whenever possible.
• Keep warm clothes within reach.
• Avoid driving after dark.

These simple steps can save you a lot of trouble later. If you are staying overnight before the trek, here is a guide on where to stay in Sankri for Kedarkantha Trek.

Is the Road Safe?

Yes, the road is safe for most travellers. Cars, SUVs, tempo travellers, and local buses use this route every day. The roads are fully motorable. During winter, snow can affect the final stretch near Sankri. During monsoon, landslides can sometimes slow traffic.

Check local road conditions before you travel. If you are visiting during snow season, reading about the Kedarkantha winter trek can help you prepare better.

FAQs

How long does it take to drive from Dehradun to Sankri?

The drive usually takes 8 to 10 hours.

Which is the best stop on the route?

Most people choose Mori because of the Tons River and peaceful views.

Can I take my own car to Sankri?

Yes. Most cars can reach Sankri during normal weather conditions. If this is your first Himalayan trek, you may also want to read about the Kedarkantha trek for beginners.

Where should I buy last-minute supplies?

Purola is the best place for fuel, cash, medicines, and snacks. Trekkers can also arrange trekking gear rental in Sankri if needed.

Is this route good for first-time mountain travellers?

Yes. The roads are well used, and the journey is easy if you drive carefully. You can also check the overall Kedarkantha trek difficulty level before planning your adventure.

The Kedarkantha Trek may start in Sankri, but the feeling of being in the Himalayas begins much earlier. Somewhere between the Yamuna Valley and the quiet banks of the Tons River, the road itself becomes part of the adventure. Once you reach Sankri, you are standing at the gateway to many Himalayan treks in Uttarakhand.