Dehradun is the capital of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, near the Himalayan foothills. At its core is the 6-sided Ghanta Ghar clock tower. To the southwest is Paltan Bazaar, a busy shopping area. Just east is the Sikh temple Gurdwara Nanaksar, topped with ornate white and golden domes, Dehradun is located in the Doon Valley on the foothills of the Himalaya nestled between Song River, a tributary of Ganga on the east and the Asan river, a tributary of Yamuna on the west. The city is noted for its picturesque landscape and slightly milder climate and provides a gateway to the surrounding region.
It is well connected and in proximity to Himalayan tourist destinations such as Mussoorie, Dhanaulti, Chakrata, New Tehri, Uttarkashi, Harsil, Chopta-Tungnath, Auli, and famous summer and winter hiking destinations like The Valley Of Flowers at Dodital, daycare Bugyal, Kedarkantha, Har ki Dun And Hemkunt Sahib for camping and Himalayan panoramic views. The Hindu holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh, along with the Himalayan pilgrimage circuit of Chota Char Dham, viz. Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath, are also primarily accessed via Dehradun, the closest major city.
1. Robber’s Cave
Robber’s Cave, locally known as Gucchu Pani, is a river cave formed in the Himalayas, about 8 kilometers from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. This river cave is believed to be an abode of Lord Shiva and is very close to Sahasradhara or ‘The Thousandfold Springs’ in Uttarakhand. Its specialty is that river water flows out from the middle of the cave. It is a perfect picnic spot amidst the natural beauty of Uttarakhand and must be visited at least once.
2. Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara means ‘thousand-fold spring’. It is a popular attraction, famous for its medicinal & therapeutic value as its water contains sulfur. Sahastradhara is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand and is situated about 14 km from the city of Dehradun, The temperature of the water here is a little lower than its surroundings. Its picturesque beauty attracts a lot of travelers from faraway places. One can even enjoy a stunning view of the mountains on a fun ropeway ride. The water here has a fall of around 9 meters. Since this region has a sedimentary accumulation of Lime and Sulphur, one can spot a plethora of brownish-orange elements in the surrounding caves.
3. Mindrolling Monastery
The Mindrolling Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist centers in India which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country as well as abroad. Hundreds of individuals attain spirituality here daily. While surrounded by greenery, it also has numerous shrine rooms, Tibetan art forms, and murals. What catches the attention of every tourist is the presence of the tall statue of Lord Buddha. This beautiful place should be visited if you are planning a trip to Dehradun.
4. Dehradun Zoo
Dehradun Zoo, formerly known as Malsi Deer Park, is a zoological garden. Heaven for nature lovers, the beauty of the place is highlighted by the rich flora and fauna. The park is a great point to unwind and break away from the busy life of the city. It is a small zoological park with a picturesque location and vibrant wildlife, making it an amazing place for photographers. The park is a part of the Malsi Forest Reserve and is the second-best wildlife attraction in Dehradun following Rajaji National Park.
If you are planning on going out with your family and friends to a relaxing place full of natural beauty, this is the place to go.
5. Regional Science Centre Dehradun
The Regional Science Centre at Vigyan Dham, Jhajra in Dehradun, is a newly established science park. It features a variety of indoor and outdoor exhibits and installations to educate people, especially children. The Regional Science Centre spans an area of approximately 30,450 square meters and comprises the main building and the Science Park. It has a Himalaya Gallery which focuses on the geography, geology, tourism, cultural and traditional knowledge of the Himalayas and also has a replica of the Amarnath Caves. It is a popular place for school trips since it houses interesting exhibits that would supplement textbook learning.
6. Sahastradhara Ropeway
Sahastradhara, which translates to “Thousand fold spring,” is an extremely popular tourist destination in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, the Sahastradhara Ropeway. Featuring a ride that is over an hour long, the ropeway takes you to the top of the mountain to the Sahastradhara Heights Top Station in colorful cable cars which overlook the magnificent valleys, One can click some excellent pictures en route! Upon reaching the Station, stroll around the park, grab a bite to eat at the food court, play games, or go rock climbing.
7. Fun Valley Dehradun
This amusement park cum resort is the perfect arena for a bonding experience with your loved ones. Housing a vast interior complex, multi-cuisine restaurant and kiosks, thrilling rides that include an exciting water park, deluxe rooms and a motel, Fun Valley is the largest amusement and water park in North India.
8. Shikhar Falls
Shikhar Falls is a waterfall picnic spot located around 13km from Dehradun in Kairwaan village of Raipur. On the way up, you will come across shallow pools with birds chirping in the backdrop, different species of butterflies and wild flora complementing the overall beauty of the area. But do remember to wear comfortable, running shoes if you are up for the adventure.
9. Lacchiwalla
Lacchiwalla is a popular picnic destination near Dehradun. Located in the forest area of Rajaji, Lacchiwalla is famous for its greenery, picturesque cottages and hotels. The beauty of the place is heightened by the brook, flowing through the forest area, It also has a garden with several monkeys menacingly hanging around and about the trees.
10. Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park is abundantly rich in flora and fauna and proves a great holiday destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Rajaji National Park has recently received the status of a Tiger Reserve from the Government of India, This area is also enriched with valuable fossils that date back to as old as 10 million years old. The forest area is popular for Sal, Teak and other shrubs. You should explore the wilderness and rich diversity of Himalayan life here with a Jeep Safari or Elephant Safari organized by the Forest Department, the 34 km jungle track is a major attraction here.
11. Har Ki Dun
Har Ki Dun is a beautiful cradle-shaped valley with untouched panoramic beauty, Har Ki Dun you will find yourself surrounded by thick Pine forests and scintillating mountain peaks. This beautiful trail will take you to some of the most unexplored areas of the Garhwal Himalayan region where the simplicity and rustic lifestyle of the residents of the hills is still untouched by time.
12. Assan Barrage
An amazing place bustling with life, the richness of nature and beauty, Assan Barrage is a bird lover’s paradise and a naturalists’ heaven with its artificial lake attracting thousands of birds of varied species. The area created by their confluence is today a place full of life, biodiversity and the most unique bird population in the world. The place buzzes with life and as such is a paradise for all the bird lovers out there. It is also popularly known as Dhaulipur Lake and is thronged by tourists and students alike who come to marvel at its beauty and bird life.
13. Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha is a stunning place offering an easy, classic trek. It is a lovely ridge peak accessible throughout the year with a plethora of rewarding adventures. Kedarkantha Peak is covered with snow during winter presenting a breathtaking sight. The trek to this peak also gives allows you to explore the exotic flora and fauna of the protected area of Govind National Park. The place is perfect for those seeking light adventure accompanied by scenic beauty.
14. Maldevta
Maldevta, located in Shripur, 18 km away from the ISBT, is a popular vacation spot in Dehradun. It offers one of the vistas of nature’s perfection, with the great Himalayas in the backdrop, the pristine Song River gurgling through thick shrubberies and little birds hopping and chirping about the area. You can indulge in a little adventure and trek through the thick wilderness. You can also take strolls and observe birds on the go. The place is indeed one of the most tranquil, without marks of human encroachment. Picnickers should avoid cooking inside the premises. Instead, they are encouraged to bring a packed lunch from one of the many takeaway routes.
15. Trekking in Dehradun
Trekking has been one of the favorite activities among adventure travelers coming to Dehradun. Jwala Devi, George Everest, Bhadraj Temple, Shivalik ranges, Doon Valley, Dakpather and Asan Barrage are some of the places to be mentioned when we talk about trekking in Uttarakhand. Pachhwadun region is one of the starting points for a lot of treks.
16. Tiger View Jungle Camp
Tiger View Jungle camp is situated in the village of Goolar Khalla, 10km away from Dehradun. It shelters the endangered Indian Tiger
Renowned for its natural beauty and the interactive services offered, this Jungle camp is a full-package experience of the wild. The local community has taken an active interest in the conservation of tigers.
17. Bali Pass
The Bali Pass Trek is a beautiful journey that one should try at least once in a lifetime. The trail crosses the Govind National Park, which houses several colorful orchards and species of animals and birds, pens and clicks the trekker’s diary and lenses with enrapturing moments.
18. Zonal Museum
The zonal museum is popular for its collection of artifacts relating to the origin, development and sustenance of mankind on earth, and stands witness to the ancient living conditions and customs of its people.
The Museum situated on Hardwar Road was founded in the year 1971. Zonal Museum opens for the public from 10 am to 5 pm except on holidays, Saturdays and Sundays.
19. Fun ‘n’ Food Kingdom
Fun ‘n’ Food Kingdom is a huge and gorgeous situated near Prem Nagar in Dehradun. Owing to its themed decor, immaculate clean pools and an array of thrilling adventurous rides, the park experiences a huge influx of localities and tourists alike must visit.
20. Rupin Pass Trek
Rupin Pass is a place adorned with stunning beauty offering an adventurous thrill to its trekkers. Situated in the lap of the surreal Himalayan mountain range, the trek holds several surprises for you. The sudden change in the scenery at every nook and corner adds charm to the beauty of this challenging trail. The place doesn’t end there with surprises; the wooden bridges hanging over the dark fold of mountains, icy slopes, echoing gullies and the tiny white rhododendrons covering the entire section of the trail present a mesmerizing sight.
21. Rafting in Tiuni
If you have experience and courage then get ready to raft on India’s one of the wildest rivers Ton and get on a nerve-wracking ride of your life. it gives you a lifetime experience of hard-core rafting amid the wilderness of Tons Valley. The rapids descend at an average rate of 32 ft. per kilometer at the middle ton, making it quite an exhaustive yet exhilarating affair. Rafting on one of the biggest tributaries of the Yamuna River is not for the first-timers or novices.
22. Kalsi
It is located between Dehradun and Chakrata hill station along the banks of the river Yamuna and is the confluence of the rivers, Yamuna and Tons. Inhabited by the people from the Khils, this little retreat offers you an enchanting view of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges.
23. Joy Land Water & Amusement Park
Joy Land Water & Amusement Park is situated in Sahastradhara in Dehradun. With a picture-perfect scenery and hills in the backdrop, the ambiance of the water park looks still better. Owing to its thrill rides and adventure activities, the water park experiences a large tourist influx, especially in summer.
24. Deer Park
This mini zoological park turned out to be one of the favorite picnic spots or hangout places in the city, ideal for family outings or school excursions. After Rajaji National Par, Malsi Deer Park is the most visited wildlife center in Dehradun. the scenic Malsi reserve forest area ensures an amazing sight before the eyes of its visitors, incomparably beautiful.
25. Jabarkhet Wildlife Reserve
This is Jabarkhet Wildlife Reserve for you. One of the top tourist places in Dehradun, this reserve is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. This reserve is the first privately owned wildlife sanctuary of Uttarakhand.
