Dehradun is popularly known as Dera Doon by the localities and there are many places to visit in Dehradun for visitors. It is one of the beautiful cities in Uttarakhand state. The city is situated on the foothills of the Himalayas in the Doon valley. Dehradun sightseeing is a loved activity for tourists because of its pleasant climate.
Dehradun is well connected to other tourist places like Mussoorie, Auli, Uttarkashi, Kedarnath, Badrinath, etc. The city is famous for being an educational hub. The institutes like Indian Military Academy, Rashtriya Indian Military College, and Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy are present in this city.
History of Dehradun
The history of Dehradun is linked with the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is believed that after defeating Ravana, Lord Ram and Lakshman visited this city.
The Royal guru of Mahabharata Lord Dronacharya is believed to be born and resided in this city. Many ancient temples and sculptures are the major attractions of the city.
Dehradun was invaded by Mahammed of Ghazni followed by Taimur in the year 1368. Due to this, the city holds an important place in the history of India. As Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand, many government institutions and places to visit in Dehradun are established here. The city is loved because of its natural beauty.
How to reach Dehradun
Dehradun can be easily reached by railway, roadway, or airways. Their details are as follows:
Airways-
Dehradun is well connected with other parts of India via Jolly Grant Airport. The airport is approximately situated at a distance of 27 kilometers from the center of the city. The closest international airport is situated in New Delhi.
Flights like Air India, Air Indian Express, Alliance Air, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate from this city. Tourists can come and visit Dehradun tourist Places from any part of the country.
Railways-
The Dehradun’s railway station is well connected with other junctions and stations of the country. A major number of tourists came from nearby cities for sight-seeing in Dehradun.
Some of the famous and important expresses that run from the junction are Dehradun Jan Shatabdi Express, Dehradun Express, Varanasi Dehradun Express, Mussoorie Express, and Nanda Devi Express.
The Indian Railway Station Development Corporation is currently working on the redevelopment of the existing railway station to add value to these tourist spots.
Roadways:
The city is well connected to every other state of the country through National and State Highways.
Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
If you are planning for Dehradun sightseeing, you have made the right choice for your vacation. There are abundant places to visit in Dehradun city. Some of which are mentioned below:
Kalanga Monument
This place is situated along the Sahastradhara road. Built by the Britishers in the memory and honor of the Gurkha community, it is the only memorial that is built to honor sacrifices by the Gurkhas during the British rule. It stands as a pride for the Gurkha community. This place was constructed to pay tribute to the soldiers who fought in the battle of Nalapani in the year 1814.
Other details: –
- How to reach – This memorial is located at a distance of 5 km from Dehradun city at Sahastradhara Road. You can reach this place by either by taxi or bus from the railway station or Jolly Grant Airport.
- Timings- It remains open for 24 hours.
- Entry fees – No entry fees.
- Best Time to Visit- Any time of the year.
- Time Required- 1-2 hours.
Tiger falls
This waterfall is located at a height of 1400 km above sea level. The height of the waterfall is approximately 50 meters. It is situated at the foothill of the Himalayas with a dense forest in the surrounding. The water from the waterfall converges into a small pond.
This Dehradun sightseeing place is perfect for a family outing. Being considered as the highest direct waterfall in India, apart from this Trekking, sight-seeing, exploring the area can be done in this location.
Other details:-
- How to reach – This place is 87km from Dehradun city. You can hire a private vehicle to reach this location.
- Timings- 10 am- 7pm
- Entry fees – Rs 50 per person.
- Best Time to Visit-
- Time Required- 1- 2 hours.
Dehradun zoo
It is commonly known as Malsi Deer Park. This zoo is among the most famous Dehradun tourist places in the city. It was constructed with a motive of wildlife conservation and to develop an education center which will provide rescue to wild animals which makes it the best option among Dehradun tourist places for wild-life lovers.
The zoo is the center of attraction for the family as well as couples as they provide diverse knowledge about plants and animals. Due to the presence of different types of flora and fauna, this place is counted among the best places to visit in Dehradun by many people.
This zoo also has a zoological park which provides splendid natural beauty in the area. As it provides habitat for various other animals including snakes and other water animals, many varieties of snakes and water animals can be seen.
This zoo has a fish aquarium named Aquatic World which has recently opened. Some of the species like Silver Shark fish, Oscar fish, Goldfish, Dollar fish, Zebra Danio fish, Jaguar fish, and Green Terror fish.
Paid parking is available at this place. The parking rates for the two-wheeler are Rs 10 and the four-wheeler is Rs 30 respectively.
Other details:-
- How to reach – This place is situated at a distance of 16km from the city. You can either hire a private cab or take a bus to reach this spot.
- Timings- In Summers it opens from 8:30 am-6 pm and in winters it opens from 9 am- 5 pm.
- Entry fees Rs 20 for adults and Rs 10 for kids.
- Best Time to Visit- Any time of the year.
- The time required to cover the area- 3 hours.
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Lakshman Seedha Peth
It is a temple located in Dehradun city. This place is famous as the cremation site of the holy saint Swami Laxman Sidh. Lakshman Seedha Peth is about 12 km from the Dehradun city located at Haridwar road. The location is well surrounded by dense forest and peaceful environment which makes it the best option among other Dehradun tourist places for visitors.
It is believed that Laxman, brother of Lord Ram, underwent repentance after defeating the king of Lanka, Ravana. The temple is usually crowded every Sunday and stands among the best places to visit in Dehradun city.
A fair is also organized on the last Sunday of April month every year called as Laxman Siddh Fair which showcases the cultures and traditions of various local tribes at the temple.
How to reach- The temple is located at a distance of 12 km from the city. You can easily reach the temple by taking a bus, taxi to Harrawala, and then there is a trek of 1 km to reach the temple. The temple is famous for its various religious activities.
Other details:-
- The railway station is at 10 km distance while the Dehradun airport is at 16 km distance.
- Best Time to Visit- Any time of the year.
- Time Required- 30 minutes-1 hour.
Tapovan Temple
This temple is located on the bank of the holy river Ganga. Located at a distance of 5km from Dehradun city, the Ashram inside the temple is famous among its devotees due to which many people come to this place to find inner peace. You can perform many Hindu rituals at the ashram.
This place is also famous for its yoga courses in the entire country. The temple is a famous Dehradun tourist places for people who want peace and serenity. The weather is almost perfect to visit this place.
Tapovan Bhumi is a well-known location for Hindus. Every Hindu considers it to be an auspicious event to visit Tapovan which makes it the best location among Dehradun tourist places for travelers. One should take care of their belongings in the temple as the temple is crowded most of the time.
Other details:-
- How to reach- This place is 7km from the Dehradun Railway station. From the station bus and cab services are available to reach this place.
- Timings- 6 am – 8 pm.
- Entry fees – No entry fees.
- Best Time to Visit- April- July
- Time Required- 2-3 hours.
Mindrolling Monastery
This place is also known as Buddha Temple Complex. It is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. Mindrolling Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist centers in India which attracts many devotees from all over the world.
This place showcases magnificent architecture among all Dehradun tourist places where visitors come across every year. Covered with natural beauty, it has a garden, Tibetan art forms, and murals are the basic attraction for the tourists.
A tall statue of Lord Buddha is among the main attractions of this place. A college is present within the premises of this place which is providing knowledge and education to a Buddhist monk for the upcoming generation.
Other details:-
- How to reach- This place is situated on the Delhi- Saharanpur road at a distance of approximately 4 km. You can easily reach many Dehradun tourist places by hiring a local cab or auto or bus. The Dehradun Railway station is situated at a distance of 9 km from this place.
- The airport is 31 km from this place. It is recommended to carry cameras to capture this irreplaceable beauty. Tourists are supposed to remove their shoes before entering the monastery.
- Timings- For Summers 8 am – 12m, 2 pm -7pm and for winters 9 am- 12 pm, 1:30pm- 6 pm.
- Entry fees – No entry fees.
- Best Time to Visit- April to June
- Time Required- 1-2 hours.
Tapkeshwar Temple
This temple is situated at a distance of 6.5 km from Dehradun city. The temple has a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated at the bank of a river which makes this place one of the best places to visit in Dehradun city. The Shiva Linga is the main attraction of this place. It is believed that this place fulfills every desire of an individual.
The water drops continuously from the ceiling which falls on the Shiva linga. Natural Sulphur water is available for visitors to take a bath before entering the temple. The most magnificent sight of the temple can be observed inside the cave, where the shiva linga is placed. Apart from worshipping, this place also has the facility of trekking.
Other details:-
- How to reach- The temple is located at a distance of 6.5 km from the Centre of the city. You can easily reach this place by hiring a private cab, taxi, or bus.
- Timings- 6 am- 7:00 pm.
- Entry fees – No entry fees.
- Best Time to Visit- Mahashivratri.
- Time Required- 1-2 hours.
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Lachhiwala
It is among the popular places to visit in Dehradun for a picnic. The place is located in the forest area, Rajaji. The place is blessed with beautiful greenery and eye-catching locations. A small stream is flowing through this area which enhances the beauty of this place.
Many water activities are designed to engage tourists. The place is famous for family outings on the weekends. Lachhiwala also has a garden in which numerous monkeys can be found hanging around the trees.
Other details:-
How to reach- This location is about 21 km from Dehradun city. You can either take a bus or can from the Dehradun station to reach this beautiful place.
Timings- 9 am- 5 pm.
Entry fees – Rs 20 for adults and Rs 10 for children below 12 years.
Best Time to Visit-. Summers
Time Required- 2-3 hours.
Sahastradhara
“Sahastradhara” means “thousand-fold spring”. It is one of the famous places to visit in Dehradun because of its therapeutic and medicinal values, as it has water that contains Sulphur. This place is situated at a distance of 14 km from Dehradun City.
A small dip in this Sulphur rich water will surely refresh you. It will be interesting to be noted that the temperature of the water in this place is slightly lower than the nearby surrounding. The surrounding has rich serenity and vegetation due to the Himalayan Vegetation. Due to the accumulation of Sulphur and Lime together, here the color of caves is brownish orange.
Other details:-
- How to reach: This beautiful place is situated at a distance of 14 km from the city. Buses, taxis, auto, cabs are available to reach this location. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun’s airport) which is approximately 36 km away from this location.
- Timings- 8 am- 7 pm
- Entry fees – No entry fees
- Best Time to Visit- This place can be visited at any time of the year. But visitors prefer to visit the place from September to March. As at this time of the year the water has its natural flow due to the post-monsoon season.
- Time Required- 1-2 hours.
Robber’s cave
Popularly known as Gucchu Pani, it is a river formed in the mountain Himalayas. This place is about 8 kilometers from Dehradun. This cave is believed to be formed by Lord Shiva. Robber’s Cave is close to the Sahastradhara in Uttarakhand. The cave is one of the best places to visit in Dehradun city. Its major attraction is that river water flows out from the middle to this huge cave.
It is mainly formed between limestone formations. The place creates an eye-catching view which can be seen in many Bollywood movies. Robber’s Cave is surrounded by dark limestones and the sound of flowing water echoed at every corner of this place.
The water flowing here is extremely cold which works wonders in the summer. Robber’s cave is supposed to be one of the perfect picnic places to visit in Dehradun city.
Other important details:-
- How to reach: It is situated at a distance of approximately 8 km from the city. It is advisable to take a bus till Vijaypur and then trek for 1 km in the Anarwala village.
- Also, visitors can explore this cave by walking so that you can find a beautiful waterfall on your way.
- Timings- 7:00 am- 6:00 pm.
- Entry fees – Rs 25
- Best Time to Visit- April- October
- Time Required- 2- 3 hours.
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Shikhar falls
This is a picnic spot along with a waterfall. located at a distance of 13km from Dehradun in Kairwaan village, you need to trek for 1 km to reach the waterfall. On the way, you will surely experience splendid natural beauty.
Different kinds of flora and fauna are there in this place which enhances the beauty of these Dehradun tourist places for sure. Comfortable shoes are recommendable to wear. This place is a heaven for photographers, as it has beautiful scenic beauty.
Other important details:-
- How to reach: You can either take a bus or can hire a private vehicle to reach this place.
- Timings- 10 am – 5 pm.
- Entry fees – No entry fees.
- Time Required- 1-2 hours.
Assan Barrage
A beautiful location filled with flora and fauna, it is famous for its collection of different kinds of birds. The Assan Barrage is formed because of the conflict between two rivers Assan and Yamuna. It has some of the endangered species of birds in the world.
It is commonly known as Dhalipur Lake. For a good evening and nighttime entertainment, head to Rajpur Road which has many great bars and restaurants that offer great entertainment along with good food. This place is known for its photography and wildlife.
Other important details:-
- How to reach: This place is well connected to Dehradun’s airport, railway station. You can hire a private taxi, cab or bus to reach this place from the airport. Public and private buses are regularly available connecting Dehradun to Assan Barrage.
- Timings- 10 am – 5 pm.
- Best Time to Visit- Except monsoon all the seasons are fine to visit this place.
- The time required- 2 hours.
Zonal Museum
This museum is famous for its artifacts collection related to the mankind of earth. The collections tell about the sustenance of the human on earth. The museum was founded in the year 1971. It remains closed on holidays and second Saturday and Sunday.
Other important details:-
- How to reach: You can either take a bus or book a cab to reach this place.
- Timings- 10 am – 5 pm.
- Time Required- 1-2 hours.
Kalsi
This region serves as a gateway of two tribal regions Jaunsar and Bawar. Kalsi is situated between Dehradun and Chakrata along the bank of Yamuna. This place is inhabited by people from regions like Khils, Bhutis, and Mundar communities. Covered by sal and oak trees, this place offers an enchanting view of nature.
Other important details:-
- How to reach: You can either take a bus or book a cab to reach this place.
- Entry fees – No entry fees
- Best Time to Visit- Summer
- Time Required- 2-3 hours.
Tiger View Jungle Camp
The jungle camp is situated in the Goolar Khalla village. This place is 10 km away from Dehradun city. It provides shelter to endangered tigers. You can go on a jungle safari to explore the area.
You can also enjoy the rare facility of camping in this area. The local community residing in this area are highly active in protecting the interest of these endangered species.
Other important details:-
- How to reach- You can either take a bus or book a cab to reach this place.
- Best Time to Visit- April- October
- Time Required- 2-3 hours
Maldevta Road
This can be regarded as a hidden gem of Dehradun. Maldevta road is among those Dehradun tourist places which are loved as a picnic spot. The place can be reached in 30 min drive. The scenic beauty at this place is breathtaking.
Outdoor activities and camping are also available at this place. The calm surrounding and the sound of nature makes this place one of the most visited Dehradun tourist places without any doubt. There are a small number of shops where you can buy edible items. The main attraction at this spot includes:
- Trekmunk
- Sar Outdoors
- Nag Tibba
- Tibetan Buddhist Temple
Other Important details:-
- How to reach- You can reach this place by hiring a private vehicle or cab. It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach this location.
- Entry fees – Free
- Best Time to Visit- In summer, from April to June.
- The time required- 3 hours.
Activities to do in Dehradun
- Trekking: It is one of the favorite activities in Dehradun tourist places along with camping. Jwala Devi, George Everest, Bhadraj Temple, Shivalik ranges, Doon valley, Dakpather, and Asan Barrage are few places famous for trekking.
- Tribal Camping in Chakrata– A beautiful ride through the magnificent lap of nature will project you to fresh and untouched natural beauty. It is topped with tribal culture and traditions. Besides this, all the tents are cozy with comfortable bedding arrangements and open up to mesmerizing nightlife. Food is being prepared on the site that will surely give you camping vibes.
- Bike riding– There are various places to visit in Dehradun which are famous for bike riding. The pleasant climate of the city makes it the best place to explore the city on bikes. Two-wheelers can reach places where cars and taxis can’t reach. The roads are almost perfect and smooth which provides an amazing lifetime experience.
- Visiting an adventure Camp– The tents with greenery and fantastic rope activities to spend the day enjoying with families and friends are available. The campsite is at a distance of 14 km from the railway station. It is one of the best ways to explore flora and fauna along with the local culture. The camping site has a various swiss camp with double bed and attached washrooms. The site provides rope activities like rappelling and rock climbing. Also, you can enjoy bonfire sessions with your family and loved ones.
- Bird watching– The Doon valley where Dehradun resides consists of more than 500 species of birds. Along with local birds, you can find many migratory birds in this location.
Migratory birds crowd the area in the autumns and winters. Local birds can easily be found in rainy seasons. A peaceful recreational activity like bird watching either with naked eyes or with binoculars can be performed here.
Some of the best bird-watching spots can be mentioned below:
- Asan Conservation Reserve
- Lachhiwala
- Maldevta
- Forest Research Institute
- Thano
- Rajaji National Park
- Devalsari
- Street shopping– Paltan bazaar located near the clock tower and railway station is regarded as a main market of the city. From local spices to artifacts, everything is being sold in this market. You name them, you will get them.
Considered as the city’s main market, it is the best place for shopping in Dehradun. Apart from the Paltan market, there are other famous markets like Tibetan Market, Indira Market, Rajpur Road, Ashley Hall, and Arhat Bazaar where you can find amazing stuff for your family and friends.
Happy travelling in Dehradun!!