Dehradun is Uttarakhand’s state capital and fastest-growing city. Dehradun is situated at an elevation of 1400 feet above sea level and enjoys a pleasant climate all year. Dehradun, located just 30 kilometers from Mussoorie, is known as the gateway to Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. Dehradun is also known as the “Educational Hub of Uttarakhand,” because it is home to some of the country’s most prestigious universities and boarding schools.
Dehradun is abundant in caves, waterfalls, and natural springs, as one might anticipate from a city in the Himalayan range. Robber’s Cave, a natural cave surrounded by hills, is one such popular destination. Dip your feet in the ice-cold water or walk through it – visitors can do either, making Robber’s Cave one of the city’s most popular picnic spots. Lacchiwala is another popular spot for nature lovers, where you can sit and enjoy a relaxing sunset surrounded by a man-made lake and lush greenery. If you’re interested, Lacchiwala can also arrange for trekking and birdwatching.
Dehradun Places To Visit
SAHASHASTRADHARA
Sahastradhara literally translates to “thousand-fold spring.” It is a popular tourist destination known for its medicinal and therapeutic properties due to the presence of sulfur in its water. Sahastradhara, near Robber’s Cave, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand. It is located about 14 kilometers from Dehradun.
This waterfall, also known as Sulphur Springs, spirals through limestone stalactites, resulting in sulphur-rich water. A dip in the Sulphur-rich water here feels cold and refreshing, but it is thought to have extraordinary medicinal benefits. The water temperature here is slightly lower than in the surrounding area. Its picturesque beauty draws visitors from all over the world. A fun ropeway ride can even provide a breathtaking view of the mountains.
Timings: 8:00 AM- 7:00 PM
Entry fee: no entry fee
Best time to visit: September to March
ROBBER’S CAVE
Robber’s Cave, also known as Gucchu Pani in the local language, is a river cave formed in the Himalayas. This river cave is very close to Sahasradhara and is thought to be Lord Shiva’s abode. Its unique feature is that river water flows out of the cave’s center.
The cave is a narrow gorge formed between two layers of conglomerate limestone. It gives the impression of being in a scene from a mystery film, with streams gushing in and echoing inside the cave. If not this, it certainly promises a sense of belonging as Mother Nature slows you down, causing you to resonate with its hypnotic beauty.
The cave cools down during the scorching summer afternoons thanks to extraordinary cold water underground springs. It is an ideal picnic spot in the midst of Uttarakhand’s natural beauty and should be visited at least once.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee: INR 25
Best time: April- October
TAPKESHWAR TEMPLE
Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple is also recognized as the Tapkeshwar Temple. This revered temple, a heartfelt cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located along the banks of a river, lending it a special sanctity. This cave was once the residence of the illustrious guru Dronacharya and is thus also known as Drona cave.
In the main complex, a Shiva Linga is believed to grant the desires of all those who seek the Lord’s blessings. Water continuously filters down from the ceiling onto the Shivalinga, creating an intriguing spectacle to watch.
Tapkeshwar Temple is among the region’s most visited temples. Despite its basic and captivating appearance, it is one of Dehradun’s most popular tourist destinations.
Timings: 6:00 AM- 7:00 PM
Best time: Shivratri
MALSI DEER PARK
Malsi Deer Park, widely recognized as Malsi Zoo, is a zoological garden situated at the bottom of the Shivalik range in Dehradun. The rich flora and fauna highlight the beauty of the place, making it a haven for nature lovers. The park is a great place to unwind and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a small zoological park with a beautiful setting and vibrant wildlife, making it an ideal location for photographers. The park is blessed with natural and tranquil surroundings, making it ideal for sightseeing or a picnic. The park is a component of the Malsi Forest Reserve and, after Rajaji National Park, is Dehradun’s second-best biodiversity attraction.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Monday)
Entry fee: INR 10
Best time: April to July
MINDROLLING MONASTERY
Khochhen Rinpoche founded the Mindrolling Monastery, also known as the Buddha Temple Complex, in Dehradun in 1965. The Mindrolling Monastery, located in the tranquil Himalayan foothills, is one of India’s largest Buddhist centers, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the country and abroad. On a daily basis, hundreds of people find spirituality here.
The monastery is a visual wonder because it is an architectural masterpiece with several sections. The monastery is beautiful because of its gardens, university complex, and Asia’s tallest Stupa. It is surrounded by greenery and has many shrine rooms, Tibetan art forms, and murals. The presence of the tall statue of Lord Buddha draws the attention of every tourist. If you are planning a trip to Dehradun, you should definitely stop by this beautiful location.
Timings: Summers: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Winters: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM
FOREST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
The Forest Research Institute, which was founded in 1906, is spread across 4.5 square kilometers and features imposing Colonial and Greco-Roman architectural styles. Forest Research Institute, set against the tranquil backdrop of the Doon Valley, is a popular tourist destination in Dehradun. Several Bollywood films have been shot at the Institute. Dulhan Ek Raat Ki, Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein, Paan Singh Tomar, Kamra No. 404, Dilli Khabar, Yaara, Dear Daddy, and Student of the Year are just a few of the well-known productions. Many TV commercials and albums have also been filmed here. The presence of the Tons River on its western boundary adds to the beauty of this institute.
The infrastructure includes laboratories, a library, a herbarium, a printing press, arboreta, and multiple areas for conducting forestry research. The institute’s massive Botanical Museum has also drawn a large number of visitors over the years.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry fee: INR 15
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