Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand state, is elevated at 1,480 ft with mesmerizing and vast green landscapes along with the scenic beauty of high mountain ranges in its surroundings. In the Doon Valley, this city is settled beautifully between the Song River on its east and the Asan River on the west. As the name suggests, Dehradun has served as an abode of Guru Drona and got its name from there.
To make you explore this beautiful vast city of Uttarakhand, we have filtered the best places to visit in Dehradun. Therefore in this article, we shall give you an insight into each place in detail, so that you can consider it in your tour wishlist. Let us move forward, and dive into the attractions of Dehradun one by one.
Table of Contents
Places to Visit in Dehradun : Waterfall, Temple, Caves, Local Markets and All
1. Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani)
As the name reveals, Robber’s cave (Guchhupani) is a cave built naturally in the lap of Dehradun. This cave is one of the most popular attractions to visit in Dehradun, and it is also popular with the name Gucchu pani in the local language. Walking into this river cave in the foothills of the lower Himalayas is a thrilling experience. In the interior of this cave, there is a narrow gorge formation where the river flows and visitors walk on that to roam around the entire place inside it. We can say that it is one of the true arts of Mother Earth.
And, because it’s a natural formation, its architecture seems to be only developed from limestone. A total 600 m area is covered by the cave which is particularly divided into two parts. The cave also has a beautiful 10 m high waterfall and its rushing water is what excites travelers.
Entry Ticket Prices
In Dehradun, it is counted as the top attraction of the city. For all tourists, including internationals, It only charges Rs. 35 per person to visit the cave, ticket price may change the over the time and is open from 7:00 Am to 6:00 PM.
Suitable for
This place does not only entertains adults but is apt for all ages, especially for families with kids, newlyweds, and a group of friends.
Activities to Do
Most of the visitors often come here for subtle celebrations as It is such a perfect picnic spot.
History of Robber’s Cave
As local people say, during the 1800s, this place was captured by the Robbers to hide from Britishers. They also used to keep all their theft here, and hence, it was given the name of Robber’s Cave.
How to Reach
Located near Sahasradhara in the valley of Dehradun, this majestic Robber’s Cave is situated approximately 8 km from the city’s center Clock Tower. With a drive of 28 minutes, it is hardly located 10 km away from the Dehradun Railway Station on Anarwala Road.
2. Tibetan Buddha’s Temple:
Tibetan Buddha’s Temple is a Mindrolling Monastery and a renowned holy school, dedicated to Tibetan Religion in Dehradun. located in Clement Town near ISBT Dehradun, it is a beautiful and calm place to spend quality time with your friends, or solo. Its architecture is what attracts the visitors more making it one of the best places to visit in Dehradun. Among the four complexes of Tibetan schools, this one is “Nyingma”. In the educational institution run by the monks, about Five hundred lamas are studying and living. They are taken proper care of and the supply of free food and other necessities to them are very well maintained by the authorities.
There are multiple stalls, eateries, and souvenir shops that are installed in its compound. There are thousands of Tibetan language books available at these shops. Besides, they also sell handicrafts, other adorning items, etc.
Entry Ticket Prices
To visit this wonderful attraction of Dehradun, it is free to enter and open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day.
History
This Monastery was built in 1965 by the supreme of the Kuchen Rinpoche, along with a few other monks, to protect and promote their Buddhist religion and culture.
Architecture
Its structural style is highly inspired by Japanese Architecture and is 220 ft high. This Buddha’s Temple has five floors, among which the first three floors’ walls are decorated with ornate paintings. To climb up onto the next floor there are wooden steps. The fourth floor offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Doon Valley. On its exterior, there is a 103 ft. statue of Lord Buddha adorning the overall complex. It consists of enshrined statues of Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava inside the shrine.
Suitable For
As the Monastery is affiliated with the specific religion of Buddhism, it’s primarily suitable for the believers of Buddhism or Tibetan. However, there is no discrimination going on among the religions, but it is highly visited by the followers of Buddhism and Tibetan Religion.
Activities to do
If you are a professional traveler, you can take your time to explore the huge complex of the Temple and as well as admire its wonderful surroundings. If you’re interested in knowing its historical background, you can also indulge in the processes by which the overall Monastery operates.
Facts
- It is regarded as the largest in Asia and is widely visited by tourists who come to Dehradun.
- It is also one of the four schools of Tibetan Religion.
- This Tibetan school is also called the Mindrolling Monastery.
Location and How to Reach
This ever-captivating landmark is located at the clement town, this Buddhist Monastery is 37 km away from the Dehradun Railway Station. Once you reach the station, you can take a local taxi or any other transport to the Monastery as It’s easily accessible by road.
3. Forest Research Institute (FRI)
In Dehradun, there is another popular place to visit, the FRI center, which is a “deemed university” and is referred to as the Forest Research Institute. Most of the travelers who plan their trip to Dehradun include this in their itinerary as well. This educational and research institute set its roots as a Forest school with the initial name of Imperial Forest Research in 1878. However, it began to work in 1906. There are several branches of the same in different locations across the nation.
It is also considered to be one of the oldest and best universities in the particular field. There are almost six museums on the campus that behold a huge collection of items that are directly or indirectly related to forest items.
Entry Ticket Prices
The museum opens daily between 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. The price of the ticket per person is Rs 40, excluding the charges for parking.
Architecture:
The architecture of the FRI premises is designed in Colonial style, the main building of the institution is honored as a National Heritage which is also a main tourist attraction of the whole campus. It is greatly inspired by the Greek-Roman structural framework and constructed by C.G. Blomfield in 1929.
There are a total of six sections in the visitor museums:
- Pathology Museum
- Silviculture Museum
- Entomology Museum
- Timber Museum
- Non-wood Forest Products Museum
- Social Forestry Museum
Suitable For:
The institution can be visited by people irrespective of their age and field of education. Students must especially plan a visit there to be aware of the Forest departments and their way of operating.
Activities to do:
Apart from visiting museums here, you can also take a peaceful nature walk in the serene and calm atmosphere within its vast scenic landscape. Visitors often like to take photographs of its surroundings and even some of them enjoy picnicking here with their family. The green campus of the institute also consists of varieties of flowers and plants.
Location and How to Reach:
The FRI is located on the Chakrata road. From Dehradun Railway Station, it is 7.4 km away. You can easily find a taxi/Vikram or bus to directly get there.
4. Kimadi Waterfalls:
The Kimadi Waterfall is a hidden gem to visit in Dehradun and is one of its most attractive waterfalls. This waterfall is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas making its way through a slope between the lush green forest and offering its visitors the one of a kind view. Strolling here is no less than a walk in heaven.
In this place, hundreds of tourists come here just to either sit near the gushing water of the fall or to walk around it.
In Kimadi, Dehradun, there are a few other waterfalls, but this one has something more beautiful and serene about its nature. It is comparatively bigger and unbeaten among all of them.
Also Read: Best Waterfalls in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand.
This place also serves as a picnic point and due to its backdrop beauty, couples come here for their photoshoot as well. If you’re in Dehradun, then this place must have your full attention.
Entry Ticket Prices
It is a natural place, and free to visit anytime but visiting in the daytime and avoiding monsoon season is recommended.
Suitable For
Because it’s a tourist place and a perfect picnic point, any age of people would enjoy it here. For Honeymooners and birdwatchers, it is such a picture-perfect place.
Activities to do
If you come to visit the Kimadi Waterfall, other than the sightseeing, you can also enjoy Bird Watching here. Because of the presence of flora, here you get to witness various avion birds and rare Himalayan wildlife. Along with this, the Photographers can also take mesmerizing shots and videos here.
Location and How to Reach
Reaching Dehradun Railway station only requires a drive of 26 km from the station. Talking about transportation, if you have your own vehicle, you can directly drive here. Otherwise, you can choose any other local transportation that will drop you here.
5. Santala Devi Temple:
This religious shrine in Dehradun is one of the most visited temples. This temple is nestled in the dense forest of Santur Grah, just above the right bank of Nun River in Santala Parvat. From the Dehradun Railway station, this place is only a 13 km drive to the starting point of the trek, Punjabiwala.
The view from its highest point is so wide and full of scenic vistas. Its ambience also holds a serene, optimistic aura, where devotees feel a new and fresh infusion of sacred energy. It is also called Santura Devi temple.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of cost
History
There is a long story about the birth of this shrine which dates back to the Mughal era. The Santala Devi and her brothers were the protectors of Hinduism and used to stop the Mughals from converting Hindus into them. After fighting for most of their life, they once realized that in the future, they would no longer be able to fight against them due to the scarcity of weapons, so they decided to pray to God instead. According to the locals, it was Saturday when a sudden light flickered on them, and they turned into statues. Since then, the villagers come to have Darshans of the Santala Devi and her brothers every Saturday.
Suitable For
For being religiously specific, this temple is devoted to Hindu Mythology and religion, so we recommend that Hindus visit this temple during their trip to Dehradun. Secondly, because the path to the temple only covers a short trek, it can easily be hiked by any age group.
Activities to do
Other than diving into the divinity of the place, you will spot the varied Himalayan flora and fauna throughout the trek. Because it also involves trekking, and so it is loved by the trekkers.
How to reach
To reach the temple, you are required to undertake a short trek of at least 45 min which takes you to the top where the Santala Devi temple is located. You can also utilize the bus services that will take you to Jaitunwala and hire a local taxi to Punjabiwala; from there, start your trek of 2 km to the temple.
6. Maldevta:
A famous picnic spot near the Raipur region of Dehradun. Amidst the huge green mountains, alongside the gushing water of the Song River, Maldevta offers a perfect place for vacations.
It is surrounded by an enchanting environment where you can relish the raw beauty of Mother Nature. At Maldevta, there is also a temple of the local deity which can be reached through a flight of stairs and is one of the main attractions of this place.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of cost
Suitable for
From youngsters to Elders, from honeymooners to old-age couples, this place has proven to be heaven for every tourist who comes here.
Activities to do
You can go for nature watch, enjoy bird watching, and even just sit on the riverside with your feet inside the water to refresh yourself. For Adventure enthusiasts, this place has a lot of activities to offer, such as biking, swimming, cycling, and more that will help you make your journey more fun and memorable.
Location and How To Reach
The Maldevta picnic point is 14 km away from the Dehradun Railway Station. You can either hire a taxi or take a local bus to Maldevta from the Station.
7. Khalanga War Memorial
This monument is built in memory of Gurkha soldiers who fought for the first Anglo-Nepalese war against the Britishers in 1814. This memorial is also popular with the name of Khalinga War Memorial and is sometimes mispronounced as Khalinga Memorial.
This Museum was constructed by the Britishers in the early 19th Century to honour and commemorate the courageous Gurkha soldiers. There are no entry fees required to visit this museum, and it is open every day from 9 Am to 5 pm.
This memorial is a must-visit spot in Dehradun as not only its historical significance but also its scenic beauty allures the tourists.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of cost
History
The war started on 10th October and lasted till November when the Colonial masters faced a heavy defeat from the Gurkha warriors. General Balbhadra Kunwar was the supervisor of these army men. Against the Britishers, the Gurkhas were very small in number and were not even equipped enough, despite every limitation, they fought bravely and achieved victory over them. Later, disheartened because of not winning the Nepali territory, the Britishers stopped the water supply to Nepalese soldiers. They started dying due to severe thirst but stood still in their position until they died themselves. After four days without water, the general, with 70 other survivors, abandoned the fort.
Suitable for:
From students’ point of view, this place holds great significance with its history attached to it. It’s also recommended for travellers who take an interest in knowing about our past and the sacrifices made by our country.
Activities to do
Near the museum, you can hike, enjoy wildlife Safari, shopping, boating and more.
Location and How To Reach
It is situated in the Tibbanaa Pani in Dehradun city. From Dehradun railway station; it’s only 11 km. You can easily travel in a bus or taxi to enjoy the scenic beauty of the route.
8. Sahastradhara
It is one of the most visited tourist spots in Dehradun and must be included in your itinerary while going on a vacation. Sahastradhara is primarily famous for its unmatched beauty and enthralling vistas. Its name means “Thousand Fold Springs.
The cascading waterfalls and the secret caves add more to its existing charm. This place also consists of water pools that hold medical powers as the water drips from the limestone and converts it into sulfur springs.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of cost
Activities to do
Besides, Sahastradhara offers various activities and places to appreciate. There is a ropeway facility that takes you to the top of a mountain from where the view of the Doon Valley and the other mountains in the backdrop leaves you stunned and becomes a lifetime memory to cherish.
Suitable For
Sahastradhara has something for every age, from children to Adults, from Lovers to couples. This place is highly recommended for the newlyweds and the Honeymooners because of its romantic surroundings and cosy weather.
Location and How to Reach
Sahastradhara is only 17 km distant from the Dehradun Railway Station. It is easily accessible from the road, so you can. Either take a taxi or a local bus to get there.
9. Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple:
In Dehradun, the Tapkeshwar Mahadev Mandir is a place of religious significance. This shrine is supposed to be as old as 6000 years ago. Surrounded by lush greenery, hills, and thick forests, the temple has its charismatic features.
In the temple, Mahashivratri is celebrated auspiciously, with thousands of devotees attending the event, and the Mahaprasad is also distributed among all of them. The temple is decorated nicely with flowers and colourful lights. To participate in this festival, “Aghoris” from Kedarnath and Badrinath also come here. On Shivaratri also, there is organized Bhandara for the devotees, and other prominent festivals are also celebrated here.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of cost
History
According to its history, the mentor of Pandavas and Kauravas, Guru Dronacharya, used this place as his abode. Along with him, his wife and a newborn son, Ashwatthama resided here. At that time, Dronacharya ji was unable to afford milk from the market and neither could he buy a cow to feed the milk to his son. Being helpless, Ashwatthama himself started praying to Lord Shiva and milk immediately began to drip out from the Shivling. Since then, it’s been known as Drona Cave.
Suitable for
It is suitable for every member of every age, as it doesn’t require much exercise.
Activities to do
Because it’s situated in the forest and alongside the river, you will enjoy trekking here amidst the natural aura of the region. Besides, there are multiple stalls of local food which you can try.
Location and How To Reach
It is located only 8 km away from Dehradun Railway Station so you can easily take a vikram (taxi) or bus to the temple.
10. Mall of Dehradun
Mall of Dehradun is now one of the famous Place to visit in Dehradun. Located on the Dehradun – Haridwar Road in the Mokhampur region, it offers a modern space where visitors can relax and unwind after exploring the city’s attractions. With a wide range of retail stores, cafes, restaurants, a multiplex, and family-friendly entertainment options, the mall stays lively with both locals and tourists throughout the week.
Whether you are travelling with family, meeting friends, or simply looking for a break from the afternoon heat, The Mall of Dehradun is a convenient stop. Everything you need is available under one roof, making it easy to enjoy shopping, grab a meal, watch a movie, or spend a few leisurely hours without the hustle of crowded traditional markets.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of Cost
Activities to do
- Shop from popular fashion and lifestyle brands.
- Enjoy a meal at cafés and restaurants.
- Watch the latest movies at the multiplex.
- Spend time at indoor gaming and entertainment zones.
- Relax and enjoy an evening stroll inside the mall.
Best Time to Visit
The mall is open throughout the year. Evening hours are generally the most lively, while weekday afternoons are relatively less crowded.
Location and How to Reach
Mall of Dehradun is located around 7.6 km from Dehradun Railway Station on Haridwar road. It can be reached easily by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or private vehicle.
11. Paltan Bazar
Paltan Bazaar is one of Dehradun’s oldest and busiest markets and most popular market for shopping, loved for its lively atmosphere and authentic local charm. The market is lined with shops selling clothing, footwear, handicrafts, accessories, spices, and a variety of everyday items at reasonable prices. It’s also a favourite spot for trying local street food, making it a great place to shop and eat at the same time.
Beyond shopping, Paltan Bazaar offers a glimpse into the city’s everyday life. The bustling streets, friendly shopkeepers, and vibrant energy create an experience that feels uniquely Dehradun. Whether you are searching for souvenirs, enjoying local snacks, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, Paltan Bazaar is a place that deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of Cost
Activities to do
- Shop for clothes, footwear, and accessories.
- Buy local handicrafts.
- Taste popular street food and traditional snacks.
- Explore the colourful market lanes.
- Experience the everyday life of Dehradun’s local markets.
Best Time to Visit
The market is best explored during the evening when most shops are open and the atmosphere is lively. If you prefer a quieter shopping experience, visit during the morning or early afternoon.
Location and How to Reach
Paltan Bazaar is located near Clock Tower in the heart of Dehradun. It is around 1.7 km from Dehradun Railway Station and is easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or on foot from nearby areas.
12. Daat Kali Mandir
Dat Kali temple one of the temple’s most well-known traditions is associated with newly purchased vehicles. Many residents of Dehradun and travellers from nearby regions visit Dat Kali Temple soon after buying a new car, bike, or commercial vehicle to seek the blessings of Goddess Kali. Offering prayers before using a new vehicle is considered an auspicious custom, and devotees believe it brings protection, safe travels, and good fortune on the road.
Dat Kali Temple is one of the most revered temples near Dehradun and holds deep religious significance among devotees. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the temple is located at the entrance of the Doon Valley on the Dehradun – Saharanpur Road. Surrounded by lush green hills and forests, it provides a peaceful atmosphere where visitors often stop to offer prayers before continuing their journey to Mussoorie, Chakrata, or other destinations across Uttarakhand.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of Cost
Activities to do
- Offer prayers to Goddess Kali.
- Spend a few peaceful moments in the temple surroundings.
- Visit during Navratri to witness special celebrations.
- Enjoy the scenic views around the temple.
- Learn about the temple’s importance among local devotees.
Best Time to Visit
The temple remains open throughout the year. Early mornings and evenings are generally the most peaceful times for darshan. During Navratri, the temple attracts a large number of devotees.
How to Reach
Dat Kali Temple is located around 13 km from Dehradun city centre on the Dehradun-Saharanpur Road. It is easily accessible by taxi, private vehicle, or local transport.
13. Malsi Deer Park / Dehradun Zoo
Located on the scenic road connecting Dehradun and Mussoorie, Malsi Deer Park is a peaceful destination where nature and wildlife come together. Now developed as Dehradun Zoo, it offers visitors an opportunity to spend time amidst greenery while observing a variety of animals and birds. The well-maintained pathways, gardens, and open spaces make it a pleasant place for families, especially those travelling with children.
Although it is not a large wildlife park, its calm surroundings and convenient location make it a worthwhile stop during a Dehradun sightseeing tour.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of Cost
Activities to do
- Observe deer, peacocks, nilgai, rabbits, and other animals.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk through the landscaped park.
- Spend quality time with family in the open recreational areas.
- Capture photographs of the natural surroundings.
- Let children enjoy the dedicated play area.
Best Time to Visit
Morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit, especially during summer, when the weather is more pleasant and animals are generally more active.
Location and How to Reach
Malsi Deer Park is situated about 10 km from the city centre on Mussoorie Road. Taxis, local buses, and private vehicles provide easy access to the park.
14. Subir Raha Oil Museum:
The Subir Raha Oil Museum is a famous place for its uniqueness in Dehradun. This museum was earlier known as Patiala House and the Maharaj of Patiala used it as a Palace of Patiala in 1956. The major purpose of building this museum was to make people educated and aware of the various aspects and different sectors of the Oil industry.
Entry Ticket Prices
The museum tour asks for a minimal fee of Rs. 10 per person. It is open 5 days a week and is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Timings
- Morning: 10:00 am – 1:00 PM
- Evening: 2:00 pm – 5:00 PM
Architecture
The entire Museum is divided into four departments. The first one of them informs about the types of crude oil; some charts and a Foucault Pendulum are also there. The second sector teaches the production of oil and how the ONGC (Oil And Natural Gas Corporation), which is India’s largest oil production company. The 3rd sector gives us information about transportation and refining technologies. The fourth and last section of the museum gives us a brief knowledge of the further plans, budgets, assets, and other remaining things related to the Oil industries.
Suitable for
This museum captivates the most enthralling and amazing information about the oil factories and hence can be visited by everyone taking an interest in understanding the processes behind its functioning. For kids, it’s one of the best places to educate them other than their ordinary syllabus.
Location and How to Reach
From the Dehradun Railway Station, it is only 4 km. You can either hop on an auto-rickshaw, book rapido and take a bus directly to the Museum.
15. Vedic Sadhana Ashram Tapovan:
In Nalapani, Dehradun, the Vedic Sadhana Ashram is an accurate place in Dehradun for any sort of yoga or meditation, with all the serenity and tranquility in its surrounding environment. The visitors come here to find peace for their souls, bodies, and minds. It serves as a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban cities. This ashram is basically a Sewa Sansthan that is based in Dehradun city. Most of the travellers seek the spiritual and authentic knowledge of their culture and religion. The faculty members there are kind and supportive. It’s a place full of optimism, led by numerous members. The ashram was founded by Baba Gurumukh Singh Ji in 1949.
Entry Ticket Prices
Free of cost
Suitable For
This ashram is open to everyone who wants an escape from the hectic life schedule to regain their mental posture and wants to indulge in meditation. For people who love practicing yoga, this place is a must-visit.
Activities to do
You can avail yourself of the benefits of meditating among other professional practitioners. Apart from these, you can also enjoy a leisurely walk around the raw nature and can connect to them.
Location and How to Reach
To reach the ashram, you will have to climb some stairs through the dense forest. From Dehradun Railway Station, the Vedic Sadhana Ashram is 7.5 km away on the Nalapani Road, Tapovan Marg. You can take a bus or a taxi to reach its starting point.
The Hidden Cost of Visiting Dehradun During Weekends
Most travelers plan their Dehradun trip over the weekend, assuming it is the most convenient time to explore. While that works for work schedules, it does not always lead to the best travel experience. Saturdays, Sundays, long weekends, and public holidays bring a noticeable increase in local visitors from Dehradun, nearby towns, and cities like Delhi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh.
If you are hoping for peaceful sightseeing, easy parking, and uninterrupted photography, visiting on a weekday can make a significant difference.
What Changes During a Weekend Visit?
| Aspect | Weekdays | Weekends & Public Holidays |
|---|---|---|
| Crowd Level | Comfortable and relatively peaceful at most attractions. | Popular attractions become significantly busier, especially between 11 AM and 5 PM. |
| Parking | Finding parking is usually straightforward. | Parking near Rajpur Road, Robber’s Cave, and Sahastradhara can take extra time. |
| Travel Time | Traffic is generally smooth within the city. | Roads towards Mussoorie, Rajpur, and Sahastradhara often experience congestion. |
| Photography | Easier to capture clean landscapes and attraction views. | More visitors in the frame, making photography less enjoyable. |
| Overall Experience | Relaxed pace with shorter waiting times. | Expect queues, slower movement, and a busier atmosphere. |
Popular Places That Are Most Affected
- Paltan Bazar
- Road Towards Mussoorie
- Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani)
- Mall of Dehradun
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
If your schedule allows, Monday to Thursday usually offers a much more relaxed experience. Attractions are less crowded, parking is easier to find, travel between places takes less time, and you will have better opportunities for photography without large crowds.
Summary
No matter what age group you belong to, Dehradun has a variety of tourist spots in its land to amaze you with its natural or sometimes handmade beauty. To make your Dehradun Tour more exciting and enthralling, we have written this article introducing only the best places to visit in Dehradun. As Dehradun is a well-developed city, so each place mentioned above in the article is accessible by taxi or two-wheeler. Overall, you’ll not have to put extra effort into visiting these places. And, the other significant information about the Dehradun tourist spots is written above, so you can consider it as a tour guide.
We hope you will look forward to planning for these wonderful places to visit in Dehradun in upcoming vacations.
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