The cannon that kept enemies at bay

Gun Hill Point's unique name has intrigued tourists for generations, adding an air of adventure to the experience of visiting Gun Hill. Did the hill once house a cannon? Was the cannon used to guard the British summer retreat, or was it simply a way to keep the residents of Mussoorie informed of the time before modern timekeeping devices became popular?

Yes, Gun Hill in Mussoorie was indeed used to mark time during the British Raj era in India. Many residents believe that a cannon was strategically positioned atop this hill and fired at specific times of the day, such as sunrise, noon, and sunset, allowing people to set their routines accordingly. The resounding blasts from Gun Hill could be heard far and wide, acting as a daily time signal that synchronised activities across the hills and valleys of Mussoorie and its surrounding areas. Apart from marking time, these cannon shots were also used to sound alerts or warnings in case of emergencies or approaching danger.

While the practice of firing cannons from Gun Hill has long been discontinued, the curious name has stuck, and Gun Hill Point remains a "must-visit" attraction in Mussoorie.