Dehradun is a popular tourist destination in India situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its natural environment, historical monuments, temples, and cultural heritage. This guide is for those looking to explore Dehradun and its many attractions. We’ll cover the five best things to do in Dehradun, the best places to stay, and more. So, let’s get started!
Overview of Dehradun
Dehradun is a charming mountain city situated in the Uttarakhand state of India and is often known as ‘the gateway to the Himalayas.’ The city rests in the foothills of the Himalayas and enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. Rich in history, culture and traditions, Dehradun offers a wide variety of attractions that can be enjoyed by visitors.
The city offers something for everyone, with activities ranging from outdoor sports to spiritual sightseeing. With its verdant forests, sprawling hills and picturesque valleys, it’s no wonder that Dehradun is often referred to as “Doon Valley.” Bestowed with an abundance of natural beauty, heritage sites and landmarks, Dehradun promises a memorable experience for those seeking adventure or relaxation.
In this guide, we have curated a complete list of the best things to do in Dehradun. So, without further ado let’s dive into this complete guide about the best things to do in Dehradun.
Places to Visit
Dehradun is a gem of a destination in the northern part of India. It is packed with plenty of exciting places to visit such as Himalayan temples, old British settlements, and wildlife sanctuaries. You can find something to do for all sorts – sightseeing, trekking, camping, birdwatching, in Dehradun. In this section, we will talk about the five best places to visit in Dehradun and the list of activities you can do there. So, without further ado let’s dive into this list
Robber’s Cave
Robber’s Cave, also known as Guchhupani, is a natural cave formation located approximately 8 kilometres north of Dehradun in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 6,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by scenic hills, this would be a perfect location for trekkers to enjoy the beauty and adventure of nature. The area around the Robber’s Cave is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, making it one of the top conservation sites in the region.
Although most visitors come here to enjoy its natural beauty there are other attractions that you can explore at Robber’s Cave. Adventure lovers can take part in a range of activities such as rock-climbing, rappelling and river crossing. Nature lovers can explore the rich biodiversity present in the surrounding area including rare species like Himalayan black bear and barking deer. There are also many Buddhist ruins scattered within this region which have been well-preserved over time making it perfect for history buffs looking to explore ancient cultures.
Aside from exploring nature and its heritage, visitors can enjoy peaceful meditation and yoga sessions that take place near the cave. This is due to its peaceful surroundings which makes it ideal for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its serene settings, visitors are sure to find solace when it comes to relaxation at this beautiful destination in Dehradun.
Sahastradhara
For a unique experience, you can take a trip to Sahastradhara. Located about 11 km from Dehradun, Sahastradhara is famous for its sulphur-rich water which has some amazing healing powers. It literally means thousand-fold springs in Hindi, and this place gets its incredible name because of the numerous folds of its waterfalls. The journey to the waterfalls is extremely enchanting and mesmerizing as you pass through various terrains like forests, mountains and rivers.
When you reach the destination, you get an opportunity to enjoy the stunning vistas that this natural place offers while soaking your tired feet in warm sulphur-rich waters. There are a couple of picnic spots as well where you can spend some quality time with your family or friends. Adventure lovers can also explore the surrounding area for rappelling and trekking options nearby. Furthermore, don’t forget to try out Turkish dishes at one of the numerous cafes located here.
Tapkeshwar Temple
Tapkeshwar Temple is located in the hilltop area of Dehradun along the banks of a seasonal river. This more than 200-year-old temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses a natural rock Shivling inside its main shrine. The Shivling in the temple is formed by water dripping over rocks, hence makes it quite famous among pilgrims of not only Uttarakhand but also nearby states.
Apart from being a celebrated pilgrimage site, this picturesque temple offers breathtaking views of surrounding valleys and forests with Himalayan range in the background. It is said that after completing his tapasya (penance), Lord Shiva had blessed the kingdom with abundant rains and thus rivers, flower gardens and gardens were formed here making Dehradun as “The Abode or Dera of Drona” – Dehradun today.
The festive fanfare of Tapkeshwar Temple during Shivaratri attracts pilgrims from around the region in large numbers who offer prayers and seek blessings form the deity. There are spectacular views all around the top too which includes thick dense forest and a number of small streams near by. A nearby 2000 years old Jayanti Mata Gufa (Cave) can also be visited at Seemadwar en route to Tapkeshwar Temple.
Malsi Deer Park
Malsi Deer Park is a zoological park located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The park is located at a distance of about 10 kilometres from the centre of Dehradun city. Situated in the western foothills of Shivalik range, Malsi Deer Park is home to a wide variety of animals, birds and vegetation. The park has earned a name for itself as one of the most idyllic places for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The wildlife sanctuary sprawls over an area of 13 hectares and houses around 100 deer belonging to two species – Sambar and Barking Deer. Apart from that, many other animals like foxes, civets and game birds like partridges can be seen living harmoniously in their natural habitat. There are also many resident avian species like Peafowl, Jungle Fowls and Red Junglefowl that can be spotted here.
Malsi Deer Park also features beautifully landscaped gardens which add a touch of tranquility to its landscape while providing visitors with great photographic opportunities. The lush green meadows are beautiful to look at during the summer months when it is in full bloom with wildflowers carpeting its terrain in different shades of pink, white and blue hues. Moreover, light refreshments can also be had at the canteen located inside Malsi Deer Park for those who plan on making it an entire day’s outing!
Mindrolling Monastery
Mindrolling Monastery is one of the most prominent spiritual destinations of dehradun. It was founded by the Fifth Dalden, Rigzin Terdag Lingpa in 1676 and is home to Vajrayana Buddhism. This monastery is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India and its main attraction is that it contains the greatest stupa in Asia—The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya.
It has a rich cultural heritage, having produced some of the greatest Buddhist masters in Tibetan history. Notable among them being His Eminence Minling Trichen Rinpoche and Minling Khenchen Rinpoche, both renowned meditation masters. There are many artifacts as well as religious scriptures and symbols around the monastery like Kundi Bells which surrounding monks ring during puja rituals for prayer. Around 700 monks currently reside there representing seven sects in eight colleges of higher learning under its stewardship.
Visitors can attend open teachings from Lamas, partake in ancient prayer practices or sight-see around its grandiose premises surrounded by sublime green mountain landscapes with Dhulandhara Sniadar Peak standing tall at backdrop view, where devotees will embark on special trips to seek spiritual enlightenment once a year on auspicious occasions like Guru Rinpochies birthday festival to celebrate with dance , laduma ryelpa (traditional song competition) display intense lama dances signifying love & genuine devotion for lots thangkas or devotional rolling paintings around fabulous colorful carpets & much more entertaining ceremonial proceedings that mere words can not describe accurately
Activities
There is plenty of things to do in Dehradun. From sightseeing and adventure activities to shopping and dining, there is something for everyone. Here are five of the best activities that you can do while in Dehradun: sightseeing at the Clock Tower, exploring the Rajaji National Park, visiting the Robber’s Cave, enjoying some local cuisine at the Dehradun Market, and visiting the Tibetan Refugee Camp.
Trekking
Trekking is a popular activity in Dehradun and the nearby areas, with many trails to explore. The area around Dehradun is blessed with stunning landscapes and picturesque wonders, making it perfect for trekkers of all levels.
From easy beginner treks to moderate and even challenging treks, Dehradun has something for everyone. Don’t forget to take a woolen cap or a sweater while trekking in higher altitude regions such as Mussorie, which may drop temperature significantly during night time.
Popular treks include the Kedarkantha Trek, Valley of Flowers Trek, Dodital Trek, Nag Tibba Trek Ladakh Senchal Trek , Har – Ki – Dun Trek and Yamunotri Trek to name a few.
No matter what your preference or skill level is , there are suitable treks for all types of trekkers around Dehradun. Enjoy the beauty of nature with friends and family on one of these amazing adventure trails.
River Rafting
River rafting is an exhilarating and adventurous sport that has become increasingly popular in Dehradun. The Ganges is one of the most popular places for rafting, but for a more remote experience, travelers can explore the lesser-known Rapids and River Kosi. Rafters can expect wild waters with dynamic levels of difficulty that provide a perfect challenge for both seasoned and novice rafters alike.
The River Kosi offers multiple levels from grade 1 to grade 5, depending on the river’s flow at various times of the year. The rapids range from slow and moderate to wild and white water, providing a thrilling experience for all age groups. River rafting trips in Dehradun offer travelers with an opportunity to explore local villages along their route as well as enjoy stunning scenery such as forested plains, rocky gorges, glimmering snow-clad mountains, tea gardens and more! All trips are led by expert guides who ensure safety while providing interesting insight into the rich culture of the region as you navigate your way down river rapids.
Paragliding
Paragliding is an exciting and thrilling adventure activity that combines the sensation of taking a solo flight with the control of a parachute. With paragliding, you can soar through the sky like a bird and enjoy the mesmerizing views from an aerial viewpoint. Paragliding can take place at varying heights and speeds – from slow, scenic flights to faster, cross-country flights. Depending on weather conditions and experience level, paragliding can range from minutes to hours long and can provide a lifetime of exhilarating experience.
No matter what level of skill you possess in paragliding, there are multiple ways for all types of fliers to get involved in this incredible hobby or extreme sport. Beginner flyers can take part in tandem rides with experienced instructors or learn to solo fly with certified paragliding schools – all while enjoying breathtaking views of nature! Experienced fliers may venture into mountain flying, cross-country flying, competitions or aerobatic flying. Regardless of your level of expertise, whether you’re taking off on your first flight or looking to master a new flying skill – nothing will compare to the joys found in the sky when you soar with paragliding.
Camping
Camping is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Camping can range from roughing it in a remote backcountry location to glamping in developed campsites with modern amenities like running water and electricity. Whether you choose to go camping in your own backyard or head out into the wilderness, there are lots of activities that you can take part in.
At a local campground, you’ll have access to amenities like drinking water, restrooms and showers. You might also be able to access trails for hiking, biking, fishing or kayaking. If you’ve gone off-grid into the wilderness, you will likely have more minimal accommodations but more opportunities for activities such as bird-watching, stargazing and rock climbing. Many campgrounds also offer organized activities such as guided hikes with park rangers or crafts like shelter building or firestarter workshops for kids.
No matter what level of camping experience you prefer, the key is having fun outdoors and being mindful of safety precautions like bringing warm clothing for cold nights, sun protection for warm days, adequate food and water supplies, flashlights and maps so that you don’t get lost! With a little planning and preparation, everyone can enjoy this ancient outdoor pastime without feeling overwhelmed.
Shopping
Shopping is one of the most popular activities in Dehradun. From street markets and malls to designer stores, Dehradun has a wealth of options for shoppers. From traditional and ethnic items to the latest fashion trends, you can find everything and anything in Dehradun. Let’s take a look at some of the best shopping spots in Dehradun.
Tibetan Market
Tibetan Market, also known as Dehradun Bazaar, is a vibrant market situated in the heart of the city. It stretches for several blocks and is filled with local vendors selling a range of goods including traditional Tibetan handicrafts, clothing and jewelry. Tibetans are well known for their colorful garments and beautiful accessories.
This sprawling market offers plenty of bargains! Here you can find scarves, blankets, carpets, traditional shawls, costumes and hats perched on racks along narrow alleyways. Visitors can purchase anything from woolen sweaters to handmade jewellery or traditional dresses; all at very reasonable prices.
The atmosphere in the Tibetan Market is chaotic but unmissable – visitors should make sure to take some time out to explore its stalls hidden in between shops hawking diverse merchandise. The shops are open daily from 09:00hrs -19:00hrs so take your time browsing for souvenirs or simply try a traditional Tibetan dish such as momos (dumplings).
Rajpur Road
Rajpur Road is a bustling area of Dehradun, Uttaranchal’s capital city. With a variety of shops and entertainment spots, it is popular amongst locals and visitors alike. Rajpur Road offers tourists a diverse range of experiences, from street shopping to fine dining. This guide provides an overview of things to do and see on Rajpur Road.
For Shopaholics:
Rajpur Road has something for everyone’s taste when shopping. Blingy boutique stores such as Kashish Collection, Elegant Lady Boutique and Mantraa Clothing offer stylish outfit options while bargain shoppers can find ranges at stores like Final Choice Home Store or Rinku Cloth Centre. The Mall Road Market is the perfect spot to find reasonably priced items such as handmade jewelry and handicrafts; not to be missed is Marwari Bazar which has traditional jewelry stores up its alley!
Foodies Paradise:
Rajpur road does not disappoint food lovers either with its various culinary stops including Cafe Coffee Day for a quick bite or the Punjabi Dhaba at Chakrata road for those who crave Indian food. For those looking for something classier, there are numerous dine-in restaurants such as Gola Restro & Pub and Nukkad Restaurant offering various cuisines from around the world with delicious food served up in quaint ambience.
Adventure Lovers:
For adventure seekers Rajpur road also provides several dynamic options including rock climbing at Harsil Khola Neck Rock or bungee jumping at Tapovan Adventure Park where you can jump over one hundred feet off of the giant rock into an experiential solace waiting below! Trips outside of Dehradun like river rafting down Giri Koura can also be experienced nearby in addition to Zip lining at Sunanda Hill Forest Reserve – all possible within an hour’s drive away from Rajpur Road.
Entertainment Galore:
From hopping between pubs to catching a movie at Luxurious PVR Cinemas Paramount Cineplex there are endless possibilities for entertainment on Rajpur road awaiting keen go-getters. New Vintage Café & Music Lounge showcases quality live music coupled with rocking performances from domestic bands which makes it both entertaining yet calming while Upper Deck’s exciting rooftop seating provide visitors with spectacular views as they enjoy their drinks away from conventional watering holes in calmer premises.
Clock Tower Market
Located at the centre of Dehradun, Clock Tower Market is an ideal destination for tourists and for those who are serious about shopping. It is one of the most bustling markets in Dehradun. You will find everything from traditional clothes, jewelry to electronic items and books here. Besides these there are several street stalls selling a variety of items such as footwear and accessories like bracelets, bangles, earrings, etc. One can find souvenirs as well in shops located in Clock Tower market at reasonable prices.
The overall aura at Clock Tower market is something that you wouldn’t want to miss when you visit Dehradun. It’s vibrant energy alongside delectable street food options make the experience ever more special. If you’re looking to shop for your family members or friends, then Clock Tower Market is definitely one of the places that you should check out!
Food
Dehradun is a city in the state of Uttarakhand, and it is considered to be one of the most popular hill stations in India. The city is known for its spectacular views, beautiful gardens and its delicious food. If you are looking for the best places to eat in Dehradun, this guide will provide you a complete list of the top restaurants and eateries in the city. Read on to find out the best places to enjoy a delicious meal in this beautiful city.
Chutney & Co.
Chutney is a condiment popular in the cuisines of India, Pakistan, and other South Asian countries. It is a mix of spices, herbs and usually contains fruit or vegetables. Chutney can be made with a variety of ingredients such as fruits (mango, apple, tamarind), vegetables (onion, tomato) or herbs and spices (cumin, coriander, red chilli powder). While there is no limit on the combination of ingredients that go into chutney types, here are some common varieties you may find:
Coconut chutney: Made with coconut pieces ground together with tamarind pulp and chili powder.
Lime chutney: A sweet-tart condiment made with lemon juice or lime juice, jaggery (unrefined Indian sugar), green chili peppers and other seasonings.
Mint chutney: A spicy blend of mint leaves blended with yogurt or sour cream to make an ideal dip for samosas or pakoras.
Tomato chutney: Made with tomatoes boiled until soft and then fried in oil with garlic and coriander seeds until fragrant.
Onion chutney: Traditionally made by caramelizing onions until they are roasted brown and then blending them into a smooth paste along with ground spices.
Date & Tamarind Chutney: This savory condiment is prepared by grinding dates, tamarind pulp along with salt and spices like cumin powder and curry to your liking.
Cafe Dehradun
Café Dehradun, located in the heart of the city, is one of the best places to get delicious food. Serving up traditional dishes as well as unique local creations, this café is a great place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes from their extensive menu. From North Indian classics such as butter chicken to Chinese favorites like Hakka noodles, their chefs whip up delicious dishes that keep you coming back for more! For something sweet and refreshing after a meal, try their homemade ice cream or enjoy a hot cup of masala chai! With welcoming wait staff and prompt service, this café is an absolute must-visit when in Dehradun.
Tandoori Nights
One of the best things to do when in Dehradun is to experience Tandoori Nights. The city of Dehradun offers a wide variety of delicious, traditional tandoori dishes accompanied by a host of exciting spices and flavors that will certainly tantalize your taste buds. Whether you are looking for delectable non-veg dishes such as tandoori chicken, fish or lamb, or delightful veg preparations like paneer tikka, bharwan aloo and mushroom varieties, you can find them here. Many restaurants also offer mezze platters and a variety of meat-based starters like kebabs and seekh kebabs. Choose from the many eateries available in the city for an enjoyable Tandoori Night.
Conclusion
Dehradun makes for a great holiday getaway due to its location and climate. Here, you can indulge in a variety of activities and experiences, no matter your age! Take a trek to one of the beautiful mountains or explore the city’s bustling marketplaces – there is something for everyone to enjoy here.
Whether you are visiting this city for just a day or more, make sure you download the Dehradun Local Guide App on your phone while on the go! This app provides an overview of all the must-visit places, best restaurants, and exciting activities that you must try. Don’t forget that with the list of 5 best things to do in Dehradun above, you can plan and create memories in there with ease.
