Best Places to Visit in Dehradun for Every Traveler

Best Dehradun Travel Places to Visit for Nature Lovers

Dehradun is not just a city. It is a full travel experience of mountains, forests, rivers, temples, food, culture, and peaceful life. It is also the district headquarters of Dehradun District in Uttarakhand. Located in the beautiful Doon Valley between the Himalayas and Shivalik hills, this place is perfect for family trips, couples, students, and nature lovers.

Let us explore Dehradun District in full detail for your next trip planning.

📍 About Dehradun

Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand and the main city of Dehradun District.
It is located in the beautiful Doon Valley, between:

• 🏔️ Himalayan Mountains
• 🌄 Shivalik Hills

Because of this special location, Dehradun is one of the most scenic and pleasant cities in North India.

🏞️ Meaning of the Name Dehradun

The name “Dehradun” comes from two words:

• Dera – Camp
• Dun – Valley

In the 17th century, Guru Ram Rai, the son of Guru Har Rai, stayed here.
His dera (camp) in this valley gave the city its name – Dehradun.

🕉️ Ancient History

• According to the Skanda Purana, this region was part of Kedar Khand, a holy land linked with Lord Shiva.
• In the 3rd century BC, Dehradun was part of the Mauryan Empire under Emperor Ashoka.
• Later, the area was ruled by:
  • 🏰 Garhwal Kingdom
  • ⚔️ Rohillas
  • 🇳🇵 Gorkhas of Nepal (1803–1815)

🏛️ British Period

• In 1815, the British defeated the Gorkhas and took control of Dehradun.
• The city slowly developed as an administrative and educational centre.
• Famous institutes built during this time:
  • 🌲 Forest Research Institute (FRI)
  • 🎖️ Indian Military Academy (IMA)

Important dates:

• 1871 – Dehradun became a separate district
• 1968 – Included in the Garhwal Division of Uttarakhand

🌆 Dehradun Today

Today, Dehradun is a modern capital city and a popular tourist destination.

✨ Known for:

• Pleasant weather
• Green forests
• Clean air
• Beautiful hill views
• Big schools and universities
• Peaceful lifestyle

Because of its beauty and location, Dehradun is also called:

🏔️ “Gateway to Mussoorie and Garhwal Himalayas”

It is one of the best places in Uttarakhand for:

• ✈️ Travel
• 🎓 Education
• 🏡 Relaxed living

2. District Map & Location Guide of Dehradun

Dehradun District is located in the heart of Uttarakhand, in the beautiful Doon Valley, between the Shivalik Hills in the south and the Himalayan ranges in the north. This perfect location makes Dehradun one of the most important travel hubs of North India.

The district is bordered by:

• Mussoorie & Himalayas in the north
• Haridwar District in the east
• Tehri Garhwal in the north-east
• Saharanpur (Uttar Pradesh) in the south and west
• Yamuna River in the west

Because of this location, Dehradun is a gateway city for popular tourist places like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Chakrata, Dhanaulti and Garhwal Himalayas.

Dehradun District at a Glance

• Area: 3088 sq km
• Population: Around 16.9 lakh
• Tehsils: 7
• Blocks: 6
• Villages: 767

To understand the exact district boundaries, towns, rivers, and road network, you can check the official district map here

📅 3. Best Time to Visit Dehradun

🌞 Summer (March – June)

• Best time for sightseeing
• Ideal for nearby hill trips
• Pleasant weather

🌧️ Monsoon (July – September)

• Lush green surroundings
• Beautiful waterfalls
• Occasional heavy rain

❄️ Winter (November – February)

• Cold and foggy mornings
• Lovely mountain views
• Peaceful travel experience

✅ Best Season to Travel:
March to June and October to February

🚗 4. How to Reach Dehradun

✈️ By Air

• Jolly Grant Airport – 20 km from city
• Direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai
• Taxi time: around 40–45 minutes

🚆 By Train

Dehradun Railway Station is well connected to:

• Delhi
• Mumbai
• Kolkata
• Chennai
• Lucknow
• Varanasi

🚌 By Road

Dehradun has good highway connectivity:

• Delhi – 250 km (4–5 hours)
• Chandigarh – 210 km
• Haridwar – 50 km
• Rishikesh – 40 km

5. Local Transport in Dehradun (Budget Friendly)

Getting around Dehradun is very simple. The city has many transport options for local travel, sightseeing, and day trips.

🚕 Taxis & Cabs

• Easily available in all areas
• Best for visiting tourist places like Sahastradhara, Maldevta, Mussoorie Road, Robber’s Cave
• You can book local taxis, Ola, Uber, or hotel cabs

🛺 Vikram & Shared Autos

• Cheap and popular local transport
• Run on fixed routes across the city
• Best for daily travel and shopping areas

🛵 E-Rickshaw

• Eco-friendly and affordable
• Perfect for short distances in busy areas like Paltan Bazaar, Clock Tower, Rajpur Road

🚌 City Buses

• Run between major areas
• Connect ISBT, Railway Station, Rajpur Road, Mussoorie Road, Rishikesh Road

🏍️ Bike & Scooter Rentals

• Available near Railway Station and Rajpur Road
• Best for couples and solo travelers
• Good option for visiting nearby places at your own speed

6. Top Tourist Places in Dehradun (Distance from City Center)

🏛️ Monuments & Heritage Places

• Forest Research Institute (FRI) – 7 km
  One of the most famous British-era buildings in Dehradun with beautiful lawns and museums.
• Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib – 2 km
  A historic spiritual monument in the heart of Dehradun.
• Kalsi Ashoka Rock Edict – 85 km (Chakrata Road)
  An ancient stone inscription from Emperor Ashoka’s time.

🏔️ Hill Stations & Mountain Views

• Mussoorie – 35 km
  Queen of Hills, famous for Mall Road, Kempty Falls, and mountain views.
• Chakrata – 90 km
  A peaceful hill town with Tiger Falls and snow in winter.
• Dhanaulti – 60 km
  A quiet hill station surrounded by forests.

🌳 Parks, Gardens & Picnic Spots

• Malsi Deer Park (Dehradun Zoo) – 10 km
  A nice place to see deer, peacocks, and birds.
• Lachhiwala Nature Park – 22 km
  Famous for forest pools and picnic areas.
• Rajaji National Park – 20 km
  A big wildlife park with elephants, deer, and tigers.

🏛️ Museums & Educational Places

• Forest Research Institute Museums – 7 km
  Six museums related to forests, wildlife, and wood.
• Indian Military Academy Museum – 8 km
  Shows India’s army training history.

🛕 Spiritual & Religious Places

• Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple – 5 km
  A cave temple where water drops on Shiva Lingam.
• Laxman Siddh Temple – 10 km
  One of the four Siddhpeeths of Dehradun.
• Mindrolling Monastery – 6 km
  A big Buddhist monastery with a huge Buddha statue.
• Daat Kali Mandir – 13 km
  One of the most powerful Shakti temples of Dehradun.
• Mahasu Devta Temple, Hanol – 120 km
  Most important temple of Jaunsari people.

🏞️ Rivers, Canals & Water Bodies

• Maldevta River Area – 18 km
  A clean river spot with rocks and picnic areas.
• Asan Barrage (Bird Sanctuary) – 40 km
  Famous for migratory birds and boating.
• Ganga River at Raiwala – 20 km
  Holy river Ganga flows near Dehradun.

💦 Waterfalls & Natural Beauty

• Sahastradhara – 14 km
  Sulphur water springs and waterfalls.
• Shikhar Falls – 14 km
  A peaceful forest waterfall.
• Tiger Falls (Chakrata) – 95 km
  One of Uttarakhand’s highest waterfalls.

🛍️ Markets & Famous Streets

• Paltan Bazaar – 1 km
  Best place for shopping clothes and shoes.
• Indira Market – 1 km
  Popular for local shopping.
• Rajpur Road – 3 km
  Branded stores, cafes, and hotels.
• Tibetan Market – 2 km
  Winter clothes, bags, and souvenirs.

🌳 7. Forests & Wildlife in Dehradun District

Dehradun District is one of the greenest travel destinations in Uttarakhand.
Around 43% of the area is covered with forests, making it perfect for:

• Nature travel
• Jungle safari
• Wildlife photography
• Eco-tourism

🌲 Forest Vegetation

The forests are rich with:

• Sal trees
• Chir Pine
• Deodar
• Medicinal plants

Because of this greenery, Dehradun enjoys:

• Fresh air
• Cool climate
• Beautiful natural views all year

🌿 Major Forest & Wildlife Areas Near Dehradun

• Rajaji National Park
  📍 Distance: 15–25 km (Chilla & Motichur Range)
• Malsi Deer Park
  📍 Distance: 10 km
• Thano Forest Range
  📍 Distance: 25 km
• Motichur Forest Range
  📍 Distance: 20 km
• Barkot Forest Area
  📍 Distance: 30 km
• Kansro Forest Area
  📍 Distance: 28 km

🐘 Wildlife You Can See

Dehradun forests are home to:

• Elephants
• Tigers
• Leopards
• Deer
• Wild boars
• Langurs & monkeys
• Peacocks and many bird species

➡️ Rajaji National Park is the best place for jungle safari and wildlife watching, just a short drive from the city.

🌄 8. Hidden & Local Places Near Dehradun

Perfect for peaceful and less-crowded trips:

• Maldevta – 18 km
• Kimadi – 12 km
• Thano – 25 km
• Lachhiwala – 18 km
• Shikhar Falls – 15 km

🎉 9. Fairs & Festivals of Dehradun District

Dehradun is not only famous for nature, but also for its rich culture and traditional fairs.
These festivals reflect the religion, culture, and happiness of the local people.

🏳️ 9.1 Jhanda Fair – Dehradun

📍 Location: Guru Ram Rai Darbar
📏 Distance: 1 km from city centre

• Held every year 5 days after Holi
• A new holy flag (Jhanda) is raised
• Thousands of devotees attend from North India
• Very important for religious tourism

🔱 9.2 Tapkeshwar Mela – Dehradun

📍 Location: Tapkeshwar Temple
📏 Distance: 5 km

• Held on Shivratri
• Cave temple near Tons River
• Devotees offer milk and water to Lord Shiva
• One of the top spiritual events in Dehradun

🛕 9.3 Laxman Siddha Fair

📍 Location: Laxman Siddha Temple
📏 Distance: 10 km

• One of the four Siddh Peeths around Dehradun
• Weekly fair on Sundays
• Last Sunday of April is very special
• Peaceful forest surroundings

🎶 9.4 Bissu Fair – Chakrata

📍 Location: Chakrata
📏 Distance: 90 km

• Tribal festival of Jaunsari people
• Celebrated during harvest season
• Traditional dress, music, and dance
• Very colorful cultural event

🛕 9.5 Mahasu Devta Fair – Hanol

📍 Location: Hanol
📏 Distance: 120 km

• Held in August
• Dedicated to Mahasu Devta
• Grand procession of the deity
• Major religious fair of Jaunsari tribe

🇮🇳 9.6 Shaheed Veer Kesri Chandra Fair

📍 Location: Ramtal
📏 Distance: 95 km

• Held during Navratri (April)
• Dedicated to freedom fighter Veer Kesri Chandra
• Organised near a natural water tank
• Peaceful and meaningful cultural fair

10. Things To Do

• Jungle safari in Rajaji
• River picnic at Maldevta
• Temple visit
• Shopping in Paltan Bazaar
• Cafe hopping
• Photography
• Trekking near Chakrata

11. Famous Food of Dehradun

Must try:

• Momos
• Tibetan Thukpa
• Bun Tikki
• Kachori
• Garhwali Aloo Ke Gutke
• Chainsoo
• Sweet lassi

12. Shopping Guide (Dehradun)

Best Markets & What to Buy

• Paltan Bazaar – Clothes, shoes
• Indira Market – Gifts & small items
• Tibetan Market – Jackets, bags
• Rajpur Road – Branded shops
• Mussoorie Road – Souvenirs

13. Hotels & Stay Options

Best Areas to Stay

• Rajpur Road – Luxury hotels
• ISBT Area – Budget hotels
• Mussoorie Road – Resorts
• Chakrata – Hill homestays

👉 Tip: Always book hotels early during peak season.

14. Dehradun Travel Itinerary

Best 3 Days Trip Plan

This simple 3-day plan covers city sightseeing, nature spots, and nearby hill stations.

🗓 Day 1 – Explore Dehradun City

• Forest Research Institute (FRI)
• Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar)
• Shopping at Paltan Bazaar & Indira Market
• Evening walk on Rajpur Road

Best for:
City sightseeing, shopping & food lovers

🗓 Day 2 – Nature & Waterfalls

• Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani)
• Sahastradhara Waterfall & Hot Springs
• Maldevta River picnic
• Sunset at Lachhiwala Nature Park

Best for:
Nature lovers, couples & photography

🗓 Day 3 – Hill Station & Spiritual Trip

• Early drive to Mussoorie (35 km)
• Kempty Falls, Mall Road & Gun Hill
• Return to Dehradun
• Evening visit to Tapkeshwar Temple

Best for:
Hill views, temples & peaceful travel

Why This Dehradun Itinerary Is Best

This 3-day plan helps you enjoy:

• Top tourist places
• Beautiful nature
• Famous temples
• Easy transport
• Comfortable travel planning

✔ Perfect for families, couples & first-time visitors

15. Safety & Travel Tips

• Carry a jacket in winter
• Avoid rivers during monsoon
• Book hotels in advance
• Keep ID & emergency numbers

16. Dehradun Travel Budget & Cost Summary

🏨 Hotel Cost (Per Night)

• Budget: ₹800 – ₹1,500
• Mid-Range: ₹2,000 – ₹4,000
• Luxury: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000+

Best Areas:
ISBT (budget), Rajpur Road (mid-range), Mussoorie Road (luxury)

🍽 Food Cost (Per Day)

• Budget: ₹300 – ₹500
• Mid-Range: ₹600 – ₹1,000
• Luxury: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500

Must Try:
Street food, cafes, Garhwali food, momos, North Indian meals

🚕 Local Transport Cost

• Budget: ₹100 – ₹300
• Mid-Range: ₹300 – ₹700
• Luxury: ₹1,000+

Options:
Vikram auto, city bus, shared taxi, private taxi

🎫 Sightseeing Cost

• Budget: ₹50 – ₹300
• Mid-Range: ₹300 – ₹700
• Luxury: ₹1,000+

Places Covered:
Parks, museums, waterfalls, Rajaji National Park, FRI

🚌 Day Trip (Mussoorie / Rishikesh)

• Budget: ₹300 – ₹600
• Mid-Range: ₹800 – ₹1,500
• Luxury: ₹2,000+

Travel Modes:
Bus, shared taxi, private cab

🛍 Shopping & Souvenirs

• Budget: ₹200 – ₹500
• Mid-Range: ₹500 – ₹2,000
• Luxury: ₹3,000+

Best Markets:
Tibetan Market, Paltan Bazaar, local handicrafts

💰 Total Daily Budget (Per Person)

• Budget Travel: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
• Mid-Range Travel: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000
• Luxury Travel: ₹7,000 – ₹15,000+

Ideal For:
Solo travelers, couples, families & groups

17. Colleges & Universities

• Doon University
• DAV PG College
• DBS PG College
• Graphic Era University
• MKP College
• Uttarakhand Technical University

18. Hospitals

• AIIMS Rishikesh
• Doon Hospital
• Coronation Hospital
• Fortis Escorts
• Max Hospital
• Graphic Era Hospital

19. Places to Visit Near Dehradun

20. Cities & Towns of Dehradun District

21. Major Dams

22. Rivers of Dehradun District

23. Important Travel Information

• Police: 100
• Fire: 101
• Women Helpline: 180018041111
• Child Helpline: 1098
• STD Code: 0135
• PIN: 248001
• Language: Hindi, Garhwali
• Currency: Indian Rupee

24. Why Visit Dehradun

Because it has:

• Mountains
• Rivers
• Education hubs
• Peaceful lifestyle
• Spiritual places
• Good hotels & food

25. District Economy & Local Life

• Farming: Explore detailed farming guides on our website
• Forest products
• Tourism
• Education
• Small industries

People are simple, helpful, and friendly.

26. Dehradun Travel FAQs

1. Is Dehradun safe for tourists?

Yes, Dehradun is one of the safest cities in Uttarakhand. It is good for families, couples, and solo travelers. Police and tourist help services are easily available.

2. What is the best time to visit Dehradun?

The best time to visit Dehradun is from March to June and October to February when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor travel.

3. How many days are enough to visit Dehradun?

A 2 to 3 day trip is perfect to cover all major tourist places in Dehradun, nearby waterfalls, temples, markets, and Mussoorie.

4. Does Dehradun get snowfall?

Dehradun city usually does not get snowfall, but nearby places like Mussoorie, Chakrata and Dhanaulti receive snowfall in winter.

5. Is Dehradun a budget-friendly travel destination?

Yes, Dehradun is a low-cost travel destination. You can find budget hotels, local food, and cheap transport easily.

6. Is Dehradun good for family trips?

Yes, Dehradun is ideal for family travel. It has parks, temples, picnic spots, wildlife parks, and safe hotels.

7. What food is famous in Dehradun?

Dehradun is famous for momos, bun tikki, Tibetan food, Garhwali dishes, and bakery items.

8. Is Dehradun good for couples?

Yes, Dehradun has many romantic places like Maldevta, Sahastradhara, Lachhiwala, Kimadi, and Shikhar Falls.

9. What are the best shopping places in Dehradun?

Popular shopping areas are Paltan Bazaar, Indira Market, Tibetan Market, Rajpur Road and Mussoorie Road.

10. Is travel insurance needed for Dehradun?

It is not compulsory, but travel insurance is highly recommended if you are visiting hill areas, wildlife parks, or doing adventure activities.

27. Final Words

Dehradun District is a perfect mix of city life, mountains, forests, rivers, temples, food, and peace. Whether you are planning a family trip, couple trip, or solo travel, this place will never disappoint.

If you are planning a trip, do not forget to:

• Book a good hotel
• Carry travel accessories
• Keep basic travel insurance

Happy journey with DuniyaGhumo360.com 🌄

Photo Gallery

Reference Websites:

• dehradun.nic.in