After 2 and a half weeks in Rishikesh, the decision to spread our wings is not an easy one. Rishikesh is like an oasis in a desert of intensity, and this is hammered home when we arrive in Dehra Dun, just an hours drive north. Uninspired by the hotels and scenery, we jump into a taxi and head up the hill to Mussoorie, dubbed the 'Queen of Hill Stations'. I am really impressed on the the drive up as road signs stress environmental awareness and the importance of treating nature with respect.
Mussoorie is where well heeled Indians go for holidays, and it is refreshing to see Indian families relaxing together. I visit Kempty Falls, where swarms splash about in the pools below falling waters. A couple of new acquaintances, Ashish and Harsh, insist on my swimming with them. It is really, really cold- and muddy too.
Indians really enjoy the muddy waters of Kempty Falls, but I decide it is not for me and retreat to the shore. We check out some of the other sights around Mussoorie with our friendly local guides, and
have an eventful couple of days. Still, I can't understand how Mussoorie, with rubbish everywhere, rates among Indians as extremely beautiful. Seems the environmentally aware signs have little influence. Maybe I'm just spoilt in Australia, but I really value a distinct lack of litter where I choose to live, holiday and swim.
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