19 Amazing Places To Visit In Dehradun (2024)
Dehradun is known for its plethora of natural resources including majestic snow-clad mountains, pristine waterfalls, and scenic landscapes. The capital of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is situated in the Doon Valley at Himalayas foothills. Also, it is bordered by rivers like Ganga and Yamuna. Dehradun is highly influenced by the culture of Garhwal as being a part of the Princely Garhwal state. In Dehradun, there is a blend of spirituality, wildlife, sightseeing, nature, culture, and food which makes it a perfect tourist destination of all time. We have curated a list of some amazing places to visit when travelling to Dehradun.
19 Amazing Places To Visit In Dehradun
1. Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara means the thousand fold springs, the place is one of the popular tourist destinations in the city. With waterfalls, step farming, and caves, Sahastradhara provides unforgettable experiences surrounded by marvelous beauty of nature. Well, the ideal time to visit this place in Dehradun is the monsoon season. Also, you can try the ropeway ride from the top of the mountain to enjoy the views of the breathtaking waterfalls. To reach here, it takes 2 or 3 hours to cover the distance 11 km from Dehradun. You can visit here during sunrise to sunset as it open every day.
2. Mindrolling Monastery
Mindrolling monastery houses India’s one of the largest Buddhist learning centers, Ngagyur Nyingma College. Mindrolling monastery was founded in 1965 and re-established by Khochhen Rinpoche. The tourist can enjoy exploring the Tibetan Buddhist temple. Well, the key attraction you find here is the shrine of Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava which look spectacular. It includes wall paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha. Also, buy the art and crafts for Tibetian culture. The foodies come here to enjoy Tibetan food. The opening time is 9 am to 7 pm, however, the inner premise opens on Sundays only. To visit Mindrolling monastery in Dehradun, it will take a duration of 1.5 to 2 hours.
3. Tapkeshawar Temple
Tapkeshawar temple is situated at the bank of the Nandi River, considered as the oldest shiva temple in Uttarakhand. The temple is located beside the cave where the water drips over the shiva lingam. During the Shivratri festival, this cave attracts lots of devotees every year. The temple stays open from 6 am to 7 pm.
4. Tiger Falls
Tiger Falls is located at 1400 meters above sea level height, and the waterfalls are 50 meters high surrounded by the dense forest setting. The waterfall is at an elevation of 312 ft, which is also the highest waterfall in India. The place is recommended for trekking, or to enjoy the beautiful scenic view. This is a must-visit place in Dehradun for all nature lovers and photographers. Spend the perfect outing with your friend or family here. Also, it takes around 1 to 1.5 hours from Dehradun to cover 87 km. Tiger falls is open on all days.
5. Forest Research Institute
Established as the British Imperial forestry service in 1906, Forest Research Institute became the premier institute in India located in Dehradun. Here it includes six main sections along with museums for forestry’s like Social forestry Museum, Pathology Museum, Silviculture Museum, Non-Wood Forest Products Museum, Timber Museum, and Entomology Museum. Also, the site was featured in different Bollywood movies including Paan Singh Tomar, Rehnaa Hai Tere Dil Mein, Student of the year, and Nanban. Forest Research Institute is a heritage university spread in 2000 acres. You can take a stroll in the botanical garden too. The site is open for all days with the timing of 9:30 am to 5 pm. It takes almost 2 hours to reach here.
6. Tapovan
Tapovan is famous for its nature and religious touch. Tourists visit here for trekking or doing yoga or meditation. Also, devotees visit the Sai Baba Mandir. According to Hindu epic Mahabharata, Tapovan is a place where Guru Dronacharya performed penance. Located at the bank on River Ganga, Tapovan is considered as one of the major pilgrims.
The timing for visiting here is 6 am to 8 pm, it takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to reach. With the perfect blend of holiness and nature, Tapovan is beautiful as well as a tranquil place for tourists in Dehradun. Also its a home to Tapovan Temple, one of the holy sites and holds an important place in the Hindu religion. Especially for two-day trips, Tapovan is a must-visit place in Dehradun with your friends or family.
7. Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology
Wadia Institute was known as the Institute of Himalayan Geology previously, it was established in June 1968. Also, it’s one of the best centers in the country related to Himalayan Geology. To explore the diverse geography of India, along with different regions and stunning facts, here you get the museum which is a popular tourist attraction too. The visiting time is 10 Am to 5 Pm but between 1 am to 2 pm, the place is closed. Wadia institute in Dehradun is highly recommended for people who love science and geology.
8. Robbery Cave
Robbery Cave, also famous as Gucchupani amongst locals in Dehradun is a 600-meter long river cave. Divided into two main parts along with 10 meters long highest falls. Robbery cave is popular for its natural yet unique phenomenon called a Disappearing stream. According to the locals, Robbery cave was used as a hideout by the robbers during the British Raj. The place is open every day but from 7 am to 6 pm, to reach here it takes around 2 hours’ duration. The tourist here spends their time doing trekking, or excursions. Dip your feet in water which is cold as ice. Also bring an extra set of clothes, because chances are high that you may end up wetting your clothes. To change, there are bathrooms as well as locker facilities available too.
9. Lachhiwala
Lachhiwala is an ideal option for an outing, as this place is located in Dehradun and Rishikesh highway. Also, it’s in the middle of the forest along with man-made pools, giving the perfect vibe for spending some time enjoying nature. The place is surrounded with Sal trees, giving a perfect serene picnic spot and sunset views at the end of the day.
You can spend your time trekking or birdwatching. Also, you can take a break and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can do boating or play different water games too. Visit here during sunrise or sunset, you might be able to capture some jaw-dropping photos too.
10. Malsi Deer Park
Malsi Deer Park ,renamed as Dehradun Park, is perfect if you want to explore the wildlife. The visitors also spot the deer in their natural habitat. Along with Deers, there are many more animals and birds too but they are kept in a cage. The zoo is spread in an area of 25 hectares, located on the way to Mussoorie. The zoo is open from 10 am to 6 pm, but closed on Mondays.
11. Zonal Anthropological Museum
For cultural and history enthusiasts, the Zonal Anthropological museum must visit the place. The museum was established in 1971 by Anthropological society. The place is interesting to explore the life on Himalaya release through the stories, artifacts, and recreated scenes. The museum is especially good for kids, parents can bring them during the trip. There are lots of things to learn and to know. The opening hour is 10 am to 5 pm, except on second Saturdays and Sundays or holidays.
12. Paltan Bazaar
For shopping, Paltan bazaar is the most famous market in Dehradun. The market is lively, as it starts from the clock tower and covers the railway station. In this market, you can buy fancy shoes, bags, inexpensive clothes, handicrafts, and lots of foods. This market is a good place to visit in Dehradun to buy souvenirs and many other stuff. The market starts from 10 am to 10 pm.
13. Tibetan Market
The Tibetan market is pocket-friendly and also best for buying a souvenir in Dehradun. The market is beautiful with vibrant colors that showcase handicrafts and local arts. Here you can also purchase Tibetan handcrafts and Garhwali Jewellery. The opening time for the market is from 10 am to 10 pm.
14. Fun Valley
Well, the Fun Valley is north India’s one of the biggest water parks. This amusement park in Dehradun is must-visit place in Dehradun and is located within 40 km of Dehradun. For parents, Fun valley is a complete package to enjoy some great time with their kids. The park is situated in equal distance from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. The Fun Valley offers different rides that are thrilling and enjoyable. The opening hours are from 9 am to 6 pm.
15. Maldevta
Counted as one of the recommended picnic spots for its peaceful environment. Maldevta is pretty with the river flowing beside green meadows. Also, you can visit the Maldevta temple which is here as well. However there are no restaurants near the place, so it’s recommended to bring your own food. You can find small shops selling chips or teas. Maldevta is overall simple but peaceful. Also, it’s open for 24 hours every day.
16. Regional Science Center
If you are traveling to Dehradun with kids, then the regional science center is a great place. It’s home to the Himalayas gallery, 3D theaters, Dinosaur park, an exhibition hall, library, and auditorium. Before visiting here, you can book the tickets online too. The opening hours are from 10: 15 am to 5 pm. Also from Dehradun, the distance is less than 18 kilometers.
17. Shikhar Fall
For sightseeing, Shikhar fall is a great place in Dehradun. The place is filled with awe-striking natural wonders. You can feel yourself closer to nature, the sight is also perfect for a picnic or spending your time surrounded by a fresh environment. Shikhar fall is ideal for relaxing as well as hiking, bird-watching, or enjoying the sights of waterfalls. It is open for 24 hours, and the distance from Dehradun is 20 kilometer.
Photo From The_Budget_Backpacker Image Source
18. Jwalaji Temple
Jwalaji temple in Dehradun attracts lots of locals and tourists. The temple is devoted to Goddess Durga. Everyone is allowed to participate in Aartis, however, for that, you need to plan your schedule. Five aartis happen in a day, you can attend which ever suits your schedule. The opening hours for Jwalaji Temple is 5 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm.
19. Shiv Mandir
Shiv Mandir is situated on the way to Mussoorie. The temple is beautiful, also here you won’t find any donation box. You can buy the gemstones from the shops inside the temple premises. The visiting hour here is from 9 am to 9 pm. It takes around 11 km from Dehradun.
