Dehradun is a picturesque city located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. You can visit the alluring city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. The city is famous for its stunning natural beauty, pleasant weather, and rich cultural heritage. Dehradun is also known as the "Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas" and is a popular destination for those looking to explore mountainous adventures by obtaining a few of the best things to do in Dehradun.
Top Things to Do in Dehradun: Immerse Yourself in Power-packed Adventures
Dehradun is a city that offers a plethora of activities for adventure enthusiasts. You can also indulge in adventure activities, including bungee jumping, zip-lining, and rock climbing. It's also an excellent place to explore other destinations, like the Dehradun to Haridwar distance is approximately 51 km only. Tourists come to the city with the hope of a huge list of things to do in Dehradun, and this city has never disappointed them. So, make up your mind, and come here to experience the following amazing activities.
- Exploring Robber's Cave
- The Forest Research Institute
- Sahastradhara Falls
- Mindrolling Monastery
- Trek to Nag Tibba
- Malsi Deer Park Wildlife
- Rajaji National Park
- Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple
- Paltan Bazaar
1. Exploring Robber's Cave: The Favorite Picnic Spot
Robber's Cave, located on the outskirts of Dehradun, is a popular tourist spot. This cave is surrounded by stunning hills and a gushing stream that flows through it, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. The cave is also known as Guchhupani, which means a hidden cave and is believed to be formed by the splitting of a limestone rock. One of the most fun things to do in Dehradun for visitors is to take a walk through the cave and enjoy the cool and refreshing water that flows through it.
Location: Guchhupani, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248003
Best Time to Do: April – October
Duration: 1-2 hours
Famous For: Cave exploration
How to Reach: Local bus services run up to Anarwala Village, from where it is a km walk.
2. The Forest Research Institute: Architectural Marvel and Vast Collection of Forestry
The Forest Research Institute Dehradun (FRI) is a renowned institution that conducts research in the field of forestry and related sciences. This institute is situated in the heart of Dehradun and is known for its impressive architecture and lush green surroundings. The FRI campus is spread over 450 hectares and is home to several museums and botanical gardens. Taking a tour of the institute and learning about the various research activities conducted here may be among the best things to do in Dehradun with family. This place has been the location for many movie shootings including Students of the Year 2, Student of the Year, Krishna Cottage, and Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein.
Location: Chakrata Road, Dehradun
Best Time to Do: Any time of the Year
Duration: 3 hours
Opening Hours: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Famous For: Research activities, Museums, Botanical Gardens
How to Reach: 9 km from ISBT Dehradun
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3. Take a Dip in Sahastradhara Falls: Water that Cures
Sahastradhara, which translates to "thousand-fold spring," is a famous tourist destination, and visiting here is one of the most amazing things to do near Dehradun. This spring is believed to have medicinal properties and is said to cure several ailments. The water from the Sahastradhara Waterfall is rich in sulfur and flows through limestone caves, forming a beautiful waterfall. You can take a dip in the spring and enjoy the refreshing and rejuvenating experience with your family and friends.
Location: Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun
Best Time to Do: Any time of the Year
Duration: 8 am to 7 pm
Time Needed: 3 hours
Famous For: Sulfur water spring, Limestone cave
How to Reach: Sahastradhara is located on the Sahastradhara Road, 14 km from Dehradun. Buses are available from ISBT Degradun
4. Explore the Mindrolling Monastery: Escape to the Serene Atmosphere
Mindrolling Monastery is a beautiful Buddhist temple located on the outskirts of Dehradun. This monastery is known for its stunning Tibetan architecture and intricate wall paintings. It was established in 1965 by Khochhen Rinpoche and is one of the largest Buddhist centers in India. Visitors can take a tour of the monastery and witness the beautiful statues, paintings, and traditional Tibetan architecture which is among the best things to do in Dehradun. The peaceful surroundings and the serene atmosphere make it a perfect place for meditation and contemplation.
Location: 3, Buddha Temple Road, New Basti, Clement Town, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248002
Best Time to Do:
Duration: 10 am to 7 pm, Monday- 2:30 pm to 7 pm
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Famous For: Tibetan Architecture, Prayer
How to Reach: Located at Delhi-Saharanpur Road at a distance of 4 km from ISBT Dehradun, Taxis are available from there.
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5. Trek to Nag Tibba: Climb to the Highest Point
Nag Tibba is a popular trekking destination near Mussoorie. It is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and is a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts. The trail takes you through dense forests, beautiful meadows, and stunning views of snow-capped peaks. Are you looking for adventure activities in Dehradun? The summit of Nag Tibba at an altitude of 3048 meters above sea level is the one for you. The magnificent summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and is a must-visit for anyone visiting the region. You can witness the majestic peaks of Bandar Poonch Peak, Kedarnath Peak, Gangotri Peak, and Doon Valley.
Location: Near Mussoorie, 117 km from Dehradun via NH 507
Best Time to Do: Any time of the year
Time Needed: 1 or 2 days
Famous For: Trekking, Panoramic views of peaks and valleys, photography
Some Quick Points about Nag Tibba Trek:
- Distance (both sides): 28 km
- Start Point & Base camp: Patnwari
- Difficulty: Easy - Moderate
- Highest Point: 3,022 meters/9915 feet
6. Malsi Deer Park Wildlife: Meet and Greet the Wilds in Dehradun Zoo
Malsi Deer Park distance from Dehradun is around 10 km and offers tourists wild animals in their natural habitat. The park is home to several species of deer, including the spotted deer and the sambar deer. Visitors can take a walk through the park and enjoy the serene surroundings. The park is also famous as Dehradun Zoo which houses several animals, including tigers, leopards, and Himalayan black bears. The park is a perfect place for nature lovers and is a must-visit for anyone visiting Dehradun.
Location: 93QG+86Q, Diversion, Mussoorie Rd, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248009
Best Time to Do: Any time of the year
Duration: 10 am to 5 pm (Closed on Monday)
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Famous For: Deer, Himalayan antelopes,
How to Reach: Situated on the Mussoorie Road between Dehradun and Mussoorie and can be reached by personal vehicle or taxi within 20-25 minutes from Dehradun.
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7. Rajaji National Park: Let's Hop into the Wild
Rajaji National Park is a famous wildlife sanctuary in Uttarakhand and safari in the Chilla zone of Rajaji National Park is among the best things to do in Dehradun, where tourists can witness the stunning wildlife and natural beauty. Rajaji National Park is famous for its rich flora and fauna and is home to several endangered species of animals, including the Asian Elephants, Tiger and King Cobra, Panther, Bear, Chital, Sambar, Wild Boar, Kakar, Python, Monitor Lizard, Wild Cats. The park is also home to several species of birds, making it a perfect destination for birdwatchers. There are several resorts in Rajaji National Park where one can stay for leisure time.
Location: Uttarakhand
Best Time to Do: November to June
Duration: 6 am to 9 am, 3 pm to 6 pm
Time Needed: 3 hours
Famous For: Rajaji National Park Safari, Asian elephant and the Bengal tiger, Photography
How to Reach: Rajaji National Park is only 21 km away from Dehradun and can be reached by personal vehicle or public transport.
8. Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple: The Land of Serenity and Spirituality
Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a popular Hindu temple located near Dehradun and is one of the most popular places to visit in Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the region. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and is situated near a natural cave where water drips continuously from the roof, giving the temple its name. Visitors, especially the newlyweds, can attend the daily prayers and experience the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the temple which is considered to be one of the best things to do in Dehradun for couples.
Location: 9248+WM3, Tapkeshwar Colony, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001
Best Time to Do: Any time of the year, especially Shivratri
Duration: 4 am to 7 pm
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Famous For: Shivratri Pujan, Prayer, Trekking, Sightseeing, Photography
How to Reach: The temple is situated 6 km distance from Dehradun main city and can be reached by public transport or personal vehicle.
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9. Paltan Bazaar: Try the Shopping Therapy
Among other top things to do in Dehradun includes exploring Paltan Bazaar, which is a popular destination for shopping in Dehradun. The market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and is a perfect place to buy traditional handicrafts, clothes, and jewelry. Visitors can also enjoy the local street food and indulge in some shopping therapy. The market is a perfect place to experience the local culture and is one of the best activities to do in Dehradun with family and friends.
Location: Dehradun
Best Time to Go: Any time of the year
Duration: 10 am to 10 pm
Time Needed: A few hours
Famous For: Handicrafts, books, footwear, bag, souvenirs
How to Reach: 6.8 km from ISBT and 27 km from Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun
From exploring the lush green hills to indulging in thrilling outdoor things to do in Dehradun, there's something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you're a solo traveler or visiting with family and friends, Dehradun will not disappoint you. So, pack your bags and head to the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Take advantage of the best Dehradun tour packages to create memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQS
Dehradun is famous for being the capital of Uttarakhand and a gateway, or some famous hill stations and religious sites. Dehradun has several sightseeing places, shopping destinations and eateries, amusement parks, trekking, camping sites, a zoo, and much more.
Dehradun has many magnificent sightseeing places and at the same time, it offers a plethora of things to do. A few of them are trekking to Nag Tibba, Jungle Safari in Rajaji National Park, Visiting to Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, and shopping at Paltan Bazaar.
Though Dehradun is considered to be a year-long destination, March to June and October to February is the best slot to explore this beautiful bowl of sightseeing sites and adventure.
Rajaji National Park is mostly known for its huge population of elephants and rich biodiversity. The other reason for being famous is it's location near Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh with Ganga and Song River flowing with it.
Yes, there are a few popular trekking trails available near Dehradun. Some of them are Nag Tibba Trek, Har ki Dun Trek, and Roopkund Trek, which offer the most breathtaking experience to mountain fascinators.
Haridwar is around 51 km away from Dehradun, so you can explore both the destinations during your vacation.
If you plan to remain in a camp overnight, it will take you 2-3 days to complete the expedition. Otherwise, the 8-kilometer trek can be completed on the same day with little effort or exhaustion.
The top attractions in Dehradun for tourists include:
- Forest Research Institute
- Robber’s Cave
- Tibetan Buddhist Temple
- Tapovan
- Dehradun Zoo
- Tapkeshwar Temple
