Dehradun is a captivating tiny hill station situated on the laps of Missouri. Right from Caves to mountains, Waterfalls to Parks, temples to monasteries, Shops to local markets, there are a variety of things that you can explore and experience while you are at Dehradun. However, we will be looking into some offbeat places in Dehradun to understand the place more and bring out the best for our readers. For a first-timer or the people looking for weekend gateways, this write-up will provide all the required information.
Let’s get to know about the places that are most visited by the people in and out of Dehradun.
Places to visit while you are in Dehradun:
With mesmerizing hills and mountains, river valleys and lakes, indoor activities to outdoor activities, Dehradun has always impressed its tourists.
- Forest Research Dehradun
- Gucchu Pani or Robbers Cave
- Sahastradhara – thousand spring fold
- Tapkeshwar
- Buddha Temple
- Asan Barrage- Man-made wetland
- Lacchiwala
- Dehradun Zoo
- Clock Tower
- Fun Valley
- Khalanga War Memorial
- Regional Science Center
1. Forest Research Dehradun
The forest Research at Dehradun is one of the main landmarks of the place. It is an educational institution as well as a tourist attraction. With museums, extraordinary architecture, interiors that will make you awestruck, and inbuilt museums will make you love the place. Tourists can hire a guide for a tour across the campus. There is a minimal entry fee to visit the place. The timing as per as recent is from 9 to 1 and 2:30 to 5: 30. People can visit the premises and learn more about the place in just a few rounds.
Also Read: A Tiny Hill Station For Weekend Getaways- Kausani
2. Gucchu Pani or Robbers Cave
Gucchu Pani or the Robbers cave is a most sought tourist destination in Dehradun. It is also a favorite among the locals as a perfect picnic spot. It is said that during the pre-independence times, robbers used to hide in this cave from Britishers. And hence the name Robbers cave came into existence. Now it is a perfect spot for those who love picnicking, hiking, and doing the best of wading spots. Tourists have to take care of the dressing part while going into the caves. Try to wear shorts for a comfortable errand. Also, be careful about the kind of footwear, you will be wearing.
There will be a minimal entry fee for tourists above the age of ten!
3. Sahastradhara – Thousand spring fold
Sahastradhara is a spring that is completely different from any that is present in this area. The Sahastradhara is a spring fold that is 14 kilometers from the city. Tourists visit the place for main two reasons. First, explore the beauty and serenity of the place. The waterfall looks miraculously beautiful during the dawn and the dusk. The second famous reason is that taking a dip in the water makes skin aliments cure completely. It is due to the sulfur present in the water. Apart from all these, the place is a well-known tourist spot known for its beauty and natural beauty!
4. Tapkeshwar
Dehradun has a few holy places that you should miss probably. One of which is the famous Tapkeshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated on the bank of the river and that makes the place more surreal. The temple is known for the oldest Shivling inside the temple. And it is worth watching water droplets dripping in the Shivling continuously. It is a most sought place among the devotees coming to Dehradun for a vacation.
5. Buddha Temple
Buddha Temple is a mind-blowing architectural stupa and a major tourist attraction. It is also one of the most visited places in Dehradun. The temple is opened daily from 7 to 7 for the followers and tourists alike. The tourist has to be very careful about a few things while visiting the place. First and foremost, never climb the Buddha Stupa. Do not click photographs of Buddha. And do not sit nearby while the ritual is ongoing.
Also Read: Manali – A Mesmerizing Himalayan Resort Town of India
6. Asan Barrage- Man-made wetland
It is a barrage that is situated between the Yamuna canal and the river in Doon Valley. It is one of the finest tourist attractions of Dehradun. Apart from the tourist attraction that it makes, the place is also of financial and societal value. It is one of the main places through which electricity is generated for the place. Asan Barrage is also a hotspot of rare bird species. It is said that more than 50 species and varieties of birds are found in this reservoir. 19 migratory birds come to this place seasonally. The most amazing fact about the place is that it is completely a man-made wetland!
Hence this place is a must-visit for the tourist, particularly the ones who are bird lovers.
7. Lacchiwala
Lacchiwala is a famous picnic spot in Dehradun that is known for pulling crowds. From various parts of the region. The entire vicinity is surrounded by Sal trees that not only look good but also feel good for the tourist. Apart from the wonderful nature and the surreal atmosphere, people love to take a dip into the man-made pools and relax. There is no entry fee required for a visitor to visit the spot. And within a time of 3 to 4 hours, you can explore the vicinity and enjoy a dip in the pool as well.
8. Dehradun Zoo
Dehradun Zoo is located in the heart of the city. It was once called Malsi Deer Park and is considered one of the most loved tourist attractions. Tourists along with kids love to visit the place, making it the best family vacation spot. There are many animals’ particularly rare species like two-horned deer, Leopards, Neelgai Emu and many others. Also, the Zoo is home to many beautiful birds from various parts of the region. Some of the rarest kinds like parakeets Macaw are found here.
Also Read: Experience The Wonderful Wildlife at Nehru Zoological Park
9. Clock Tower
The clock tower is again one of the most popular landmarks in Dehradun. Also, it is one of the most attractive spots in the city. It is also called Ghanta Ghar. The complex also accompanies shops and GPO that look face to face with each other. It is said that the construction of the clock tower began in 1948 in memory of Lala Balbir Singh. Apart from being a tourist attraction, the place is also a commercial hub and that makes it one of the iconic landmarks of Dehradun. Hence do not miss this wonderful place while you are exploring the beautiful Dehradun.
10. Fun Valley
The fun valley is a spot that you shouldn’t miss if you are with family, especially kids. It is situated right in between the famous three cities including Haridwar and Rishikesh. Thus it is said to be located in the golden triangle of Uttaranchal. This aquatic amusement park has everything that lures a kid. Water slides by the side of the river make sitting more fun and surreal at the same time. Tourists can visit the park from 9 am to 7 pm in the evening.
Get a chance to visit the fun park with the family especially when you are with kids.
11. Khalanga War Memorial
Khalanga War Memorial is a heritage site and the most visited tourist spot in Dehradun. This memorial is dedicated to the Gorkha soldiers of the 1814 battle with the British. Hence the spot is also one of the historically significant places in Dehradun. It is also the first monument that was built by the British, for their opponents. This place holds a great value in the historical aspects of the place. Hence if you are interested to explore the same do visit Khalanga War Memorial for sure!
12. Regional Science Center
Regional Science Centre is a recently created one that educates children and also plays the role of being a tourist attraction. It is a science park located in Vigyan Dham, Dehradun. This spot is also considered a weekend gateway by the locals who visit the place mostly on weekends. The place is open to tourists and visitors all around the week except for Mondays. There will be a minimal entry fee to explore the vicinity and to enter inside the building. And that makes the place a favorable place for any tourist to visit.
Things to do at Dehradun
- Picnic at Nature Park
- Paragliding
- Seeking Serenity at Monasteries
- Nightlife
- Shopping at Tibetan Market
1. Picnic at Nature Park
Dehradun is a place with several parks and picnic spots. Families can be seen enjoying their quality time with family and friends during weekends. This makes Dehradun is a hotspot for the locals seeking a picnic time. There are Several Lake spots, waterfall spots and hiking areas that ultimately led to the best spots for families to spend time.
Take some time to errand such spots and check out the best for yourself.
2. Paragliding
When it comes to hill stations and Himalayan valleys you will find outdoor activities thriving like nothing. And without say paragliding is one of the favorite activities among others. Paragliding in Dehradun is a special one that has the view of the Doom valley from up above the sky is such a fabulous one.
Paragliding is a bit expensive affair. At Dehradun, the cost may range from 80,000 to 1,25000. Hence place your budget prior but don’t miss the chance to fly through the sky of Dehradun.
3. Seek serenity at Monasteries
Serenity and peace walk hand in hand at this beautiful tiny hill station. With nature in its abundance, temples surrounding the vicinity make the place surreal. Around Dehradun, there are few monasteries that are visited frequently by tourists. These monasteries are architectural eminence and also beautiful enough to attract devotees and tourists alike. Visit as many as monasteries you can when you are in Dehradun and try to enjoy the serenity that brings along with it.
4. Nightlife
Night life in Dehradun is all about revisiting nature. People love the concept of sleeping under the open starry sky. Tent houses can be arranged or can also be self-arranged. There are pubs and cafes that run around 24/7 in the city if Dehradun. People love to get a hike of the nightlife in some of the pubs with drinks and music. Hence if you are a night person loving to explore the vicinity of the place.
5. Shopping at Tibetan Market
Dehradun Tibetan market is not for its namesake, it is completely run by the Tibetan community residing in that part of the city. One can shop for the best artifacts and handicrafts made by the Tibetan people. The products are 100 percent unique and traditional which makes them the best souvenirs. Apart from that, you can get some wonderful Garhwali pieces of jewelry and wind chimes that is different from our normal markets. Visit this beautiful market of Tibetan influence and get yourself a piece of their tradition and culture!
Also Read: Divine Tour of Kedarnath Dham: An Eternal Hindu Pilgrimage Site of India
Dehradun is a place in Uttrakhand and a very popular tourist attraction among youngsters and honeymooners. With several outdoor activities like paragliding and kayaking, these place serves right for the people looking for an adrenaline rush. Dehradun is also known for its educational aspects and hence you can find many institutions right from the IAS training academy here at the heart of the city. And for rest go and explore yourself and let us know which your favorite was?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dehradun the best place to visit?
Dehradun is a hill station in Uttaranchal. Right from Caves to mountains, Waterfalls to Parks, temples to monasteries, Shops to local markets, there are a variety of things that you can explore and experience while you are at Dehradun
What is the Best Time to visit Dehradun?
Preferably during the summers as it is a hill station. And avoid mostly monsoon season.
Is Dehradun best for outdoor activities?
Yes, Dehradun has the best outdoor activities with trekking, hiking, paragliding and beach walks.
Things to keep in mind while visiting Dehradun.
You need to keep the weather in your mind and avoid monsoon season while visiting Dehradun.
What languages are spoken in Dehradun?
Hindi is the official language but locals speak and understand English as well.
How safe to visit Dehradun?
Dehradun is the safest place to visit as per tourism.
Are there any historical places in Dehradun?
Yes, there are many historically significant places in Dehradun that has influence. Mostly related to the religious aspect, temples and monasteries.
How is Dehradun for shopping?
Dehradun is good for shopping if you are looking for some traditional Tibetan purchase. Visit Local Tibetan Market.
Can I get cheaper accommodation in Dehradun?
Accommodations are not that cheaper in Dehradun, particularly during the peak tourism times.
Is Dehradun a good honeymoon destination?
Yes! Dehradun is without any doubt popular among honeymooners and couples. The snowcapped mountains, ambiance, surroundings, nature and luxurious stay pave the way to it.
Important Phone Numbers to have while visiting Dehradun.
- District Administration (DM, SDM, City Magistrate) : 0136 2623503
- Women Helpline : 7409002299
- Passport Office : 0135-2652165, 2652162