Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun

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Photo of Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun by Rashmi Kanti

Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand is one of the most visited tourist places of India. Situated at a distance of 270 kms from Delhi, Dehradun is unique all from its name, location, culture, weather & lifestyle. You will find it a high profile & modern city from one phase and a calm village from the other.

Popular for its unpredictable weather, Dehradun is also called 'love city'. You probably have heard people discussing about Doon's 'unpredictable' weather & exotic locations.

Here the unpredictable means- You would have no idea when you gonna need winter wears during hot summers. Yes, the weather is just cannot be predicted. The perennial blue skies, pleasant breeze, beautiful sunshine and rain at the same time lets you feel if you are in an another planet.

Dehradun- Popular Tourist Spot in India

Dehradun is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in India. The stunning landscapes and the soothing climate have made this place a favorite place of travel.

The city also has a strong historical significance to it. Known as Dronanagri, it is said that Dronacharya was born in Dehradun. Several ancient temples scattered here are a proof to this.

In this post, I have listed down several exotic places (and some unknown & unheard places too) of Dehradun that you must surely visit if you are planning a trip to this beautiful city. If not, I recommend you to plan a visit asap.

Lachhiwala

This exotic water spot is located on a route between Dehradun & Doiwala (approx. 15 kms from Rispana, Dehradun). Surrounded all over by the dense forest, the place has fresh water pools that remain live throughout the year. Lachhiwala is a perfect outing spot in summers where you can spent a peaceful day with your friends & family relaxing in the lapse of Nature & Mountains.

Pack your home made food, some mats, water bottle and a camera & witness an exotic trip with full family enjoyment at lachhiwala.

Photo of Lachhiwala Picnic Spot, Lachhiwala Range, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Lachhiwala Picnic Spot, Lachhiwala Range, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Buddha Temple

If you are looking for a calm & peaceful corner in the city, then you must definitely visit this Temple of Lord Buddha. Located in the Clement town area, behind the Graphic Era University, this temple will definitely lift up your spirits high with its awesome scenario & craftsmanship.

The temple is divided into two parts- One with the huge Buddha Statue surrounded with the Buddha Stupas. There are nearly hundreds of stupas in a line with some Buddha 'Shloks' engraved on each. It is believed to fulfill all your wishes if you rotate all those stupas without a pause in between. The other part of Temple has a main hall where Lord Buddha is worshiped. Visitors can visit this main hall only on Sundays.

It is said to be completed by 50 artists who took almost three years to paint the walls of the exemplary structure with gold paint. According to temple authorities the religious establishment was built to preserve and promote Tibetan culture in the country.

Photo of Buddha Temple, Clement Town, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Buddha Temple, Clement Town, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Buddha Temple, Clement Town, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Sahastradhara is a popular tourist destination & waterfall in Dehradun. Many tourists arrive to the city just to visit this place of 'thousands spring falls'. You will find jharnas (waterfalls), boating point, mountain trekking and trolley ride to travel an ancient temple above the hills in Sahastradhara. I can recall one memory when one of my Chhattisgarh based friend visited this place with me and got astonished seeing that exotic & mesmerizing view right from the downhill road to Sahastradhara.

The place is also recommended for its 'Gandhak ka pani' or sulphuric water springs. The ' Gandhak Jal ' is believed to have the miracle effects to heal every type of skin diseases. Tourists can be found bathing in this sulphuric water or can be seen taking this water in the bottles for their friends & family.

Photo of Sahastradhara, Timilimansingh, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

You can enjoy your packed home made food here or can opt for various other cuisines- Chinese, South Indian, North Indian at eatery stalls & Restaurants out here. So what are you waiting for? Plan your next visit to this beautiful city & get set to enjoy the exotic views of mountains & waterfall in Sahastradhara.

Robber's Cave (Gucchu Paani)

This is another most famous & popular tourist destinations in Dehradun after Sahastradhara, Robber's cave is going to be pure delight for the ones who love adventure. This is a 600 meters long river cave surrounded by two huge mountains. Among locals, this place is better known as Gucchupani. The cave is divided into two main parts with its highest fall being 10 meters long. After you cross the cave, you full find a pool of water with waterfalls. You can climb up further to find other exotic views of the place.

Photo of Robber's Cave Ghuchukpani, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Just come with a pair of flip flops or buy one on rent (available there), hold a high pixel camera and capture the amazing moments out there. Don't forget to enjoy the piping hot Maggie noodles that come with a big chunk of Amul butter at the stalls there. They will arrange you chairs in the flowing water stream so that you can enjoy the chilled water while enjoying your cup of tea/coffee with simmering hot bowl of Maggie.

Malsi Dear Park

Malsi Deer Park is the only Zoo in Dehradun where you can spot a lot of barasingha deer, leopard, and other wide range of flora & fauna. This zoo is spread over an area of 25 hectares and can be located on your way to Mussorie. The park is recently renovated so if you have visited the place earlier, I bet you will find a complete change to your next visit with a proper drinking water & sanitation facilities.

The zoo authorities don't allow the outside food & snack in the park. A large canteen is available outside where you can fulfill your small hunger needs.

Explore Wildlife, Nature, Exotic Views. Enjoy swings & child rides.

Tickets: 20 Rs per adult & 10 Rs per child below 5 years.

Open all days except Monday (10 am to 6 pm).

Situated at Mussouri Road before DIT at a distance of 10 kms from Clock Tower, Dehradun.

Tip: Don't carry any food items with you before entering since they are strictly not allowed.

Photo of Deer Park, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Deer Park, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Deer Park, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

These are the pictures from my recent visit to this zoo on a rainy day.

Photo of Deer Park, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Tapkeshwar Temple

Tapkeshawar Temple is considered to be the oldest Shiva temple in Dehradun located at the banks of the Nandi River and surrounded by the water falling caves-known as Drona Cave. The place has a huge rush & recognition during the annual Tapkeshwar Mela on Shivraatri and this makes it one of the busiest pilgrim centers of Dehradun. You will have to cross a long cave to reach Lord Shivling. That beautiful hilly cave with the water falling directly on the Linga will make you completely surprised. It is believed that the Dronacharya who was the guru of both Pandas and Kauravas were used to stay on this cave.

Photo of Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun by Rashmi Kanti

MDDA Park

MDDA Park is better known as the lovers park of Dehradun where you will find couples holding each others hands spending some private moments in the lapse of nature. The exotic view of Aravali mountains in the park will leave you in thrill. Eatery shops are available inside. Swings & play ground are available for kids. There is an Aquarium too where you can find a wide variety of fishes.

Open all days from sunrise to sunset.

Ticket charges: 15 per person plus parking charges for your vehicle type.

Outside food is strictly not allowed.

Shiv Mandir, Kothalgate

Photo of Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun by Rashmi Kanti

Shiv Mandir is a famous temple of Lord Shiva that has been visited by a number of visitors across India. The Temple is known for not allowing any type of 'Daan, Dakshina' in the name of God. The temple has strict rules for any type of donation and you will find warnings written all over the walls. What I liked more about this place is- you will get a special Prasad each day- Kheer, Matar Pulaav, Jalebis, Fruits, Halwa as per the week schedule. The temple authorities make a special tea that you should definitely have on your trip to this temple.

Open all days from sunrise to sunset.

Tip: Don't forget to taste their special tea & prasaad.

Maldevta

Maldevta is a place in Dehradun that has been hidden like a gem for most of the people. The place got its recognition because of the exotic hills view, the flowing tons river and a temple "Maldevta" situated at the place. The place also takes you up straight to the Dhanaulti & then Tehri Route. Since the place is unknown, you will not get any rush there. While you travel to this place, you can see many small villages in between with the villagers still far away from modern life. The route is perfect for your adventurous journey. Don't forget to keep water & some food items with you since you'll hardly find any shop there.

Photo of Maldevta Road, Reniwala, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Location: 15 kms from Raipur Chauk, Dehradun.

George Everest

George Everest is the highest Hill around Mussoorie where you can enjoy trekking while exploring the nature's beauty. This place is named after first Surveyor General of India, Sir George Everest. Located at the maximum height in Mussoori, the place has sunrise and sunset points.You can also view the panoramic view of Doon Valley & Himalayan ranges.

Photo of George Everest's House, Khanij Nagar, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of George Everest's House, Khanij Nagar, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Located 38 Kms from Clock Tower Dehradun.

Poor Road conditions can be a problem.

Santla Devi

Santala Devi Temple is situated on a cliff at an altitude of 2083 m near Jaitunwala in Dehradun. It is located on the right bank of Nun Nadi, distance being 15 kms from Main Dehradun. To reach the temple of Santala Devi, visitors need to pass through Garhi Cantt and Punjabiwala villages.

Photo of Santala Devi, Galajwari, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Santala Devi, Galajwari, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

It is one of most visited pilgrimage sites in Dehradun. This temple has great cultural and religious significance. It is believed that on Saturdays the Goddess Santala Idol transforms into stone.

You will have to climb up the straight mountain route of approx 2 kms in order to reach the Temple. Don't forget to taste the Mata ka Bhandara there.

Tip: If you are a heart patient or Anaemic, dont visit the place. There is no other way to reach temple except climbing the whole mountain route of 2-3 kms by foot.

Sai Mandir

The Sai Darbar Temple is one of the popular temples in Dehradun. Located on Rajpur Road, 8 kilometers from the Clock Tower, the Sai Darbar Temple is a calm and peaceful temple where you can spent some relaxing moments with an environment full of devotional Sai songs. Dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba, the temple is visited by many devotees across different faiths.

Located just 8 kms from the clock Tower, Dehradun.

Tip: Go on Thursdays to enjoy the Kadi Chawal Prasad out there.

Photo of Sai Mandir, Rajpur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Sai Mandir, Rajpur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Thano Road

If you are a photo freak then this place is perfect for you! Thano Road is said to be the shortcut to Bhaniyawala- Haridwar route. It is an amazing route that goes off up to the hills surrounding dense forests. The place is perfect for photography & adventure. Situated at a distance of 20 kms from Raipur Chauk, the place is better to be visited in 2-wheeler. In between you will see a bridge with tons river flowing down. Many couples & friends can be seen clicking the shots there.

So what are you waiting for, pack up your bag with some eateries, hold your DSLR, fill up your 2-wheeler tank and witness a journey that you gonna remember for the years to come!

Photo of Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

These are some of the pics I clicked of that route..

Photo of Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Also Read: 10 Most Popular Food Joints & Street Food in Dehradun.

Khalanga (Kalinga war Memorial), Tapovan

Khalanga War Memorial is a tribute to the famous Gorkha Army Chief Balbhadra. You will locate the Khalinga Main Entry Door at the Tapovan area of Raipur (approx. 8-9 kms from Clock Tower Dehradun)

Photo of Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Top 16 Places to Definitely Visit in Dehradun by Rashmi Kanti

The road will take you off up to the hills where a beautiful Gorkha Temple is built. People come & relax at this calm & exotic place but you may make it a bit adventurous by riding up straight to the hills. The route is covered with dense forests with an amazing view of sunset. I have recently visited the place after hearing a lot. Look above what the pictures have to say about this awesome unheard & unknown place in Dehradun.

FRI

The premier research institute of forestry in India is located in Dehradun. The Forest Research Institute was established in 1906 as the British Imperial Forestry Service. The site also contains a museum for forestry with six main sections that are Pathology Museum, Social Forestry Museum, Silviculture Museum, Timber Museum, Non-Wood Forest Products Museum and Entomology Museum.

You must have seen this research institute in many Bollywood films like Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gam, Paan Singh Tomar, Student of the Year etc.

Photo of FRI (Dehradun, Forest Research Institute, Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Famous for: Education, Architecture, Gardens, Photography, Museum.

Tickets: 25 INR per person (museum) and a nominal entry fee for vehicles.

Open all days from 9:30 am to 5 pm.

Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is an Indian national park and tiger reserve situated in Dehradun-Haridwar-Pauri region near the foothills of the Himalayas. The park is spread over 820 km². The dense forest of Rajaji is blessed with elephants, tigers, leopards, deers, ghorals & Wild Pigs.

Photo of Rajaji National Park, Chila Gate, Reception, Cheela Colony, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Rajaji National Park, Chila Gate, Reception, Cheela Colony, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti
Photo of Rajaji National Park, Chila Gate, Reception, Cheela Colony, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Have a look on beautifully captured pictures during my office trip to Rajaji.

Photo of Rajaji National Park, Chila Gate, Reception, Cheela Colony, Uttarakhand, India by Rashmi Kanti

Opt for Jeep safari that provide opportunity to see peacocks, groups of spotted deer or cheetal, monkeys, Sambhar, Elephant and many other animals and birds. Jungle Safari or Jeep Safari is open in two ranges. Chilla Range and Motichur Range.

October to February are the best months to visit Rajaji National park as its winters and probably you may get a chance to see the Jungle King- Tiger.

Tickets: Entry fees for Indian Visitor - Rs. 150.00 per person for 03 hour Jungle Safari....Read this full blog on rashmikanti.wordpress.com

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