Places to Visit in Dehradun - Explore India with Serenity and Adventure

Dehradun is a beautiful city and the capital of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, located in the Doon Valley of the Himalayan foothills. A harmonious mixture of nature, spirituality, and modernity, Dehradun is famous because of its picturesque landscapes, favorable climate, and eternal spirituality. It is a beautiful city with various places of attraction that fulfill various tastes and interests, which makes it an inevitable place to visit by travelers. Here are some of the top places to visit in Dehradun.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Dehradun

Robber's Cave (Guchhupani)

Robber's Cave, locally known as Guchhupani, is one of the most intriguing natural formations in Dehradun. This river cave, believed to have been used by robbers to hide during British rule, is a narrow gorge formed in a limestone area. Tourists are allowed to wade through the streams of cold water that runs through the cave making it an exciting and cooling experience. The inside of the cave coupled with its tall walls and the sound of running water contributes to its mystical beauty. The best time to visit the place is between April and October. The site is an escape by the warm sun rays.

The Robber’s Cave is one of the most famous places to visit in Dehradun

Sahastradhara

Another best place to visit Dehradun is Sahastradhara, meaning "Thousand-fold Spring," is a stunning natural site famous for its therapeutic properties. This water contains a lot of sulfur that is considered to be medicinal. This viewing point is also enclosed with beautiful vegetation and has a calm atmosphere that is ideal to relax and unwind. Sahastradhara caves and waterfalls are the major tourist attraction here, more tourists visit this place during monsoon season as the flow of water is maximum at that time. So when you are in Dehradun you have to come here you will be amazed by the sight, the water and the spheres in this area.

Sahastradhara can be visited throughout the year though the best time to visit this place is between September to March. These months have natural water flows and are considered to be the months when the region is in demand among tourists. The best time to visit Sahastradhara is during rainy season or after monsoon, to have the best possible view of the waterfall.

The beautiful view of Sahastradhara

Mindrolling Monastery 

The Mindrolling Monastery, established in 1965 by Khochhen Rinpoche, is one of the largest Buddhist centers in India. It is an architectural masterpiece, which is decorated with beautiful gardens, large courtyards and elaborate murals. The Great Stupa, meant to be one of the tallest in Asia, is 60 meters high and contains a Shrine Room Series with relics, murals and scriptures. The calm atmosphere of the monastery gives a chance to visitors to get a peaceful retreat and to obtain the knowledge about the culture and teaching of buddhism.

Mindrolling Monastery

Tapkeshwar Temple

The Tapkeshwar Temple is a holy temple devoted to Lord Shiva located in the Garhi Cantt, this is the best and perfect place to visit in Dehradun with family. What is special about this temple is that it is inside a natural cave where water constantly drips on the Shiva Linga forming a fascinating impression. This unending dripping is assumed to be a miracle and contributes to the spiritual importance of the temple. The environment around it is serene and natural, thus, making it an ideal location to meditate and have some reflections.

Tapkeshwar Temple

Forest Research Institute (FRI)

One of the most famous landmarks of Dehradun is the Forest Research Institute which boasts of grand Greco-roman building and a large campus. FRI was founded in 1906 and it is a leading research institute of forestry in India. It has six museums on the campus displaying different facets of forestry, such as pathology, social forestry, silviculture and timber. Its green and botanical gardens are well maintained and offer a quiet atmosphere to the visitors and it is also a favorite place of picnics and nature walks. It is among the top 10 best tourist places in Dehradun.

Travelers can make use of the Forest Research Institute to go for a perfect picnic

Malsi Deer Park

Malsi Deer Park or Dehradun Zoo is a small zoological park situated at the foothills of Shivalik range. It is an ideal place, both for families and wildlife lovers of Dehradun. It has many species such as deer, peacocks and two-horned deer and many birds in the park. It is also a good place especially to children and nature lovers because of its well maintained environment and the chance to see the animals in their natural environment.

Travelers can easily see and interact with cute deers

Shiv Mandir

Shiv Mandir is the best place to visit near Dehradun, which is an esteemed temple in Dehradun dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds significant reverence among locals and visitors alike. Positioned along the picturesque route to Mussoorie, the temple boasts stunning surroundings that enhance its spiritual aura.

If you are going towards or coming back Mussoorie, it is a short stop that is strongly advised to visit Shiv Mandir in the evening and experience the peaceful atmosphere. There is no donation box at Shiv Mandir, unlike many other temples as the founder stresses a pure intention in the service of the deity. There is also the facility of buying gemstones by the visitors at the onsite shop of the temple and a snack and tea stall just outside the temple serves snacks and tea to both the travelers and the worshippers.

Shiv Mandir

Clock Tower

The Clock Tower, also known as Ghanta Ghar, is a prominent landmark in Dehradun. This six-faced clock tower was constructed prior to independence right at the center of the city. Its clocks might not keep accurate time anymore but the tower still reigns superior attracting locals and foreigners alike to its structural beauty. But more than just an architectural value, the Clock Tower is etched in the hearts of the people of Dehradun, as a favorite hangout place and a source of town pride. There is a busy center of activity around the Clock Tower, with colorful shops, busy markets and cozy restaurants making it a fun place to be.

The Clock Tower in Dehradun

Tibetan Market

Browse through the Tibetan markets along Parade Ground road or Rispana Pul, for some pocket-friendly shopping experiences that do not come heavy on the pockets. A paradise of colour and design, these busy bazaars offer exquisite Tibetan handicrafts and Garhwali traditional Jewellery that will most certainly lead you into an uncontrolled shopping spree. Get quirky souvenirs and handmade goods to recall your visit to the place, and give in to retail therapy to your full extent. Donot forget to purchase some souvenirs to your family, friends and loved ones to take a part of rich culture and craft work of Dehradun.

Travelers can choose some handmade products to give to their friends and families

Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is a heaven to all nature lovers and wild life enthusiasts situated on the outskirts of Dehradun. It is named after C. Rajagopalachari, the last Governor-General of India, and is a park which contains a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is especially home to Asian elephant population, tigers, leopards and birds of several species. There are various safari packages available in the park and they enable tourists to have a glimpse of the thick forests as well as view animals in their wildlife.

Gave drives at Rajaji National Park

Best Time To Visit Dehradun

The best time to visit Dehradun is between March and June, when temperatures vary from 15 to 35 degrees Celsius. Because it is shortly before the summer season begins, the weather stays comfortable. It is when the flowers blossom and the wind is calm, with brilliant blue sky, making it the ideal time for touring. It is also an excellent time to visit Dehradun for photographers and nightlife aficionados. The monsoon season in Dehradun is often the off season, but it is also a great time to take advantage of several discounted hotel and airfare discounts.  

Conclusion

Dehradun, with its blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural richness, offers a diverse array of attractions for travelers. Whether you are seeking adventure, spiritual solace, or a peaceful retreat in nature, this charming city has something for everyone. The welcoming climate and the hospitality of the locals further enhance the experience, making Dehradun a destination worth exploring.

Let’s apply for an India e-visa now to enjoy the whole summer in Dehradun. With our support, travelers can obtain an e-visa within a few days without going to the Embassy. All places to visit in Dehradun listed above are popular destinations that are chosen by international travelers. Once you have a valid India visa, you can experience all these beautiful places in Dehradun without any difficulties. Now, let’s start your application and enjoy this India trip!