BEST Places to Visit in Dehradun

A great story about top places to visit in Dehradun, Read about the things to do in dehradun for a perfect travel experience.

With a pleasant climate, a charming aesthetic and several tourist attractions, Dehradun is truly the capital city of Uttarakhand at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. Situated in a cozy valley in the Lower Himalayas, it is famously nicknamed as the Doon Valley. The city has something to offer for everyone, in the form of a long list of alluring and best places to visit in Dehradun for couples, families and solo travelers alike.

Dehradun was formerly part of the princely Garhwal State. Local customs of Garhwali people have influenced the culture in the city to an extent. The best places to visit in Dehradun comprise of religious spots, tourist attractions and wildlife havens in the Garhwal Himalayas’ backdrop. Whether you are looking for places to visit in Dehradun in one day or delve deeper than just the most popular and best places to visit in Dehradun, your appetite is surely going to be satiated by this magical place.

Top Tourist Attractions in Dehradun

Home to renowned institutes like Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Forest Research Institute, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Uttarakhand Ayurveda University, Rashtriya Indian Military College and Indian Military Academy, Dehradun serves as an academic and research hub in India. However. it is most famous for being a tourist hotspot for people from all over the country and abroad.

Dehradun is also the gateway to India’s renowned pilgrim sites, namely Haridwar, Rishikesh and the Char Dham Yatra sites, and nearby hill stations like Mussoorie, Nainital. It has a number of sightseeing spots, historical sites and delightful eateries. The bustling shopping area of Paltan Bazaar is situated adjacent to the iconic Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), located right at the city’s core. All in all, if you are a tourist and in Dehradun places to visit and explore here will surely surround you in no dearth.

Picnic and sightseeing spots in Dehradun

There are a number of tourist places in Dehradun where you can enjoy a casual and leisure picnic with your family, friends or your special someone in the peace and solace of some of the most beautiful places to visit in Dehradun. In Dehradun, you will find lush greenery, beautiful forests, hilly spots, caves, rivers and streams all in the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas right behind the Doon Valley.

Sahastradhara

Sahastradhara

Sahastradhara stands for “thousand-fold spring”. It is famous for its medicinal and therapeutic value as its water has rich Sulphur contents. It is for this reason that this site is also known as Sulphur Springs.

You can take a dip in the Sulphur-rich waters to take advantage of its medicinal values. The waterfall at Sahastradhara cascades through limestone stalactites, making for quisite-looking views. A fun ropeway ride to the mountain top allows further stunning views of the mountains, rich Himalayan vegetation and picturesque landscapes. You will also find a number of fun things to do at Joyland Water Park, an amusement park near Sahastradhara. All of these wide range attractions make Sahastradhara one of the best places to visit in Dehradun for couples and families alike.

  • Tickets: No entry ticket
  • Timings: 08:00 am – 07:00 pm
  • How to Reach: Sahastradhara is located about 14 kilometers from Dehradun. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or board a local bus to reach here.
  • Address: Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun
  • Best Time to Visit: September to March is the primary season to visit Sahastradhara for its natural water flow and waterfall. Rainy season and post-monsoon months are also good times to go to Sahastradhara.

Lachhiwala

Lachhiwala

Lachhiwala is a famous picnic spot in the forest area of Rajaji near Dehradun. The picturesque cottages and greenery here attract tourists, and people in and around Dehradun flock here to relax on weekends.

Lachhiwala features a brook flowing through its forest area. This small stream transforms the whole area into a natural water park where people enjoy water activities such as boating, swimming, etc. It is also home to a large garden surrounding the stream where monkeys hang around the periphery and picnic opportunities are abound. This peaceful and natural aesthetic makes Lachhiwala one of the best places to visit in Dehradun for couples and families alike.

  • Tickets: Adults – INR 20, children below the age of 12 – INR 10
  • Timings: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm in summer, 09:00 am to 05:00 pm in winter
  • How to Reach: Lachhiwala is located 21 kilometers from Dehradun on the Haridwar-Rishikesh road. You can take a local bus from the Dehradun ISBT to get to Lachhiwala.
  • Address: Haridwar-Rishikesh Road
  • Best Time to Visit: Summers

Robber’s Cave (Guchhu Pani)

Robber's Cave

Guchhu Pani is a river cave in the Himalayas, known to be a former dwelling place of Lord Shiva. Inside the cave, water gushes through the middle creating a naturally lively space. The cave was discovered by the British as a place used by robbers for stashing stolen goods, which is where its name comes from.

At Guchhu Pani in Dehradun, you can have lip-smacking snacks at the local stalls while soaking in the scenic beauty of the place. The elegant-looking natural cave interiors and a 10-meter high waterfall at Robber’s Cave truly make it one of the top places to visit in Dehradun. In addition, it is also amongst the popular places to visit in Dehradun for couples.

The unusual cold springs where the water originates from go deep underground inside the cave. Tourists rush to this place in the summers to find solace from the scorching Sun, making it a famous picnic spot in Dehradun. Tourists find a unique charm in the way they can enter the cave after folding their trousers to behold the waterfalls within. Inside the cave, the water appears and disappears at the surface in a very enthralling and mesmerizing manner. It is for this reason that Robber’s Cave attracts a huge number of tourists every single day.

  • Tickets: No entry fee
  • Timings: Open from 7 am to 6 pm
  • How to Reach: Guchhu Pani is 7 kilometers from Dehradun city center. You can undertake a short trek from Anarwala village to reach here. Robber’s Cave is in very close proximity to Sahastradhara or “the Thousandfold Springs” in Dehradun.
  • Best Time to Visit: During monsoons from July to September

Malsi Deer Park (now Dehradun Zoo)

Malsi Deer Park

Malsi Deer Park or Malsi Zoo, part of the Malsi Forest Reserve, is a zoological garden situated at the base of the Shivalik Range in Dehradun. Its rich flora and fauna and scenic natural setting in the backdrop of Mussoorie make it almost heaven-like for nature lovers. It is an excellent spot to unwind and take good photographs, and one of the famous tourist attractions in Dehradun.

Apart from deer, other animals to be found at the zoo are the peacocks, nilgais, rabbits, tigers, and Himalayan antelopes. The zoo now has a separate aviary section, which is one of the zoo’s assets, boasting a wide variety of bird species. Its hilly natural surroundings and terrain make Malsi Zoo one of the most ideal places for sightseeing in Dehradun.

  • Tickets: INR 10
  • Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm (closed on Mondays)
  • How to Reach: Deer Park is about 10 kilometers from Dehradun city. You can get here by catching a bus or taxi.
  • Address: New Mussoorie Road, Dehradun
  • Best time to Visit: April to July

Maldevta

Maldevta

Nestled in the cusp of the majestic Himalayas, and home to a temple right in the lap of nature, Maldevta is one of the best tourist attractions in Dehradun.

During the summer months, tourists flock to Maldevta to take a dip in the river’s refreshing and chilling water. Adventure lovers can trek through the thick forests of the area, as there is plenty of exploration to do. Bird-watching is another engaging activity to do, and you can spot several species of beautiful and rare birds even on a casual stroll in Maldevta.

This long list of things to do and enjoy amidst the scenic setting of Maldevta make it a haven for campers. However, campers are advised to visit in groups to ensure safety from the wild animals especially after sunset, and not venture into the more dangerous trekking routes. Day picnickers should bring packed lunch from nearby restaurants instead of cooking inside the premises to avoid attracting the local animals.

  • Tickets: Free entry
  • Timings: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm.
  • How to Reach: Maldevta is located around 18 km from ISBT Bus Stand at Shripur. You can hire a cab or taxi to reach here conveniently, as there is no direct mode of public transport to reach Maldevta from Dehradun main city.
  • Address: Shripur, Dehradun
  • Best Time to Visit: Summers

Kalsi

Kalsi, Dehradun

Kalsi, a small village in the Dehradun district, has historically served as the gateway to the Jaunsar-Bawar tribal region between Dehradun and Chakrata hill station on the Yamuna and Tons rivers’ confluence. Khil, Bhuti and Mundar communities live in the region.

Kalsi will offer you a homely experience in the lush green surroundings here booming with oak and sal trees. As a vast green valley, it offers an enchanting view of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges. Going on walking trails in the morning hours of the summer season or indulging in adventure sports at Kalsi is truly a mesmerizing and engaging experience.

With a wide variety of tourist attractions and numerous activities to do, the Kalsi region is one of the best tourist places near Dehradun within 100 kms of the city’s center. If you are a nature and adventure lover and are out on a short trip, Kalsi definitely deserves a spot in your list of places to visit in Dehradun in one day or two. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Dehradun at Kalsi include:

The Ashokan Rock Edict: The fourteenth edict of King Ashoka is inscribed on a pear-shaped quartz rock Kalsi. The edict is written in the Pali language and using Brahmi script. These edicts reflect upon the human nature of Samrat Ashoka for his concern for his subjects. It dates back to 253 BC, and you will find the names of five great Greek kings engraved on the edict as well.

Asan Barrage: Asan Barrage is a bird watcher’s Paradise thanks to the numerous endangered migratory birds that flock here. These birds are actually migrating southwards from Russia and then back. You can easily spot bird species like Osprey, Marsh harriers, greater spotted eagles, wagtails, cormorants, coots and the red-crested pochards here. October to November and February to March is the period to spot migratory birds at Asan Barrage, as it is the time when these birds are passing through Asan Barrage.

Dakpathar: Dakpathar in Dehradun is a famous picnic spot with family and friends. At Dakpathar, you can indulge in recreational water sports like boating, canoeing, sailing, river rafting, water skiing, and hovercrafts, which is truly a thrilling experience. The Yamuna that flows through Dakpathar in Dehradun is uncominated and safe for fishing or angling, especially between September to October and March to April,

Vikasnagar: Vikasnagar offers a variety of foreign goods as one of the best tourist places near Dehradun within 100 kms of the main city. Handcrafted brass, copper trumpets, the local jaunsari drums, and salwar kameez apparel are available at the best prices in Vikasnagar, so is advisable to spend wisely.

Timli Pass: Timli Pass is worth visiting for historical significance. The pass is known for witnessing a fierce battle between the British army Major General Ochterlony and the Gorkhas. Thanks to this meaningful context behind its picturesque location, Timli Pass is regarded as one of the top places to visit in Dehradun.

  • Tickets: Free entry
  • How to Reach: Kalsi is located in Dehradun’s outskirts on the Paonta Sahib road. You can get here by boarding a bus or by catching a taxi.
  • Address: Jaunsar-Bawar tribal region, Dehradun-Chakrata Road
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer months, which are best for outdoor activities

Shikhar Falls

Shikhar Falls, Dehradun

Shikhar Falls is a famous waterfall and picnic spot in Dehradun amongst tourists, and also photographers looking to capture some scenic moments. You may have to hike for about 1 kilometer on the rugged terrains of the region to get to Shikhar Falls. However, its status as one of the top tourist places near Dehradun within 100 kms of the main city attracts a large number of tourists every single day. So be prepared to put on your hiking shoes in line up for the exciting adventure that Shikhar Falls offers. Chirping birds, butterflies, and wild flora are going to complement the beauty of Shikhar Falls during your enchanting visit.

  • How to Reach: Shikhar Falls is located about 13 km from Dehradun in Kairwaan village of Raipur. You can hire a cab or taxi to get here conveniently. After getting to the spot, be prepared to hike for 1 kilometer to reach the falls.
  • Address: Kairwaan Village, Raipur, near Dehradun
  • Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon, when the waterfall is most active

Rajaji National Park

Named after C. Rajagopalachari, Rajaji National Park is a holiday destination for wildlife lovers in the Shivalik mountain ranges. Having obtained the status of a Tiger Reserve from the government, it is definitely one of the most famous tourist places in Dehradun within 100 km of the city.

This national park spreads over the Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri-Garhwal districts of Uttarakhand. You can explore the wilderness and diversity of Himalayan floral and faunal lives by going on a Jeep or Elephant Safari organized by the forest department.

You will easily be able to spot species like Asian elephant, king cobra, panther, bear, chital, sambar, wild boar, kakar, python, monitor lizard and wild cats in the Rajaji forests. Post-monsoon season, you may even run into several species of migratory birds.

Valuable fossils found at the Rajaji National Park date back to 10 million years old. The forest area abounds with Sal, Teak and various forms of shrubbery, to add to the richness of local diversity.

  • Tickets: Indian: INR 750 per person
  • Foreigners: INR 1500 per person
  • Jeep Safari: INR 1500 for private safari or INR 150 per person
  • Safari Timings: 06:00 am – 11:00 am, morning session
    • 11:30 am to 01:00 pm for birdwatching sessions inside the forest
    • 02:30 pm to 5:30 pm for afternoon sessions
  • How to Reach: The park is located 25 kilometers from Dehradun. You can either board a bus or hire a cab to reach Rajaji National Park.
  • Best Time to Visit: Rajaji National Park remains closed except from 15th November to 15th June. It is highly advisable to plan your visit in the early hours in order to explore maximum area within the park.

Tiger View Jungle Camp

Tiger View Jungle Camp, Dehradun

Tiger View Jungle Camp shelters the endangered Indian Tiger. Camping and the jungle safari are major activities to do at the camp, besides spotting flora and fauna in their natural habitat here. A visit to the Tiger View Jungle Camp gives you a full-package experience of the wild amidst the natural beauty of Dehradun’s hills.

  • How to Reach: This camping site is located 10 kilometers from Dehradun. You can board a bus or hire a cab to reach here.
  • Address: Goolar Khalla, Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Institutes and Museums in Dehradun

Dehradun is home to several top institutes of the country pertaining to fields like science and wildlife. These institutes are also some of the top places to visit in Dehradun, housing museums and galleries that attract a number of tourists and enthusiasts on a daily basis.

Forest Research Institute (FRI)

Forest Research Institute (FRI)

Dietrich Brandis, a German-British botanist and forestry academician founded this famed institute in 1878. In the British era, it was named the British Imperial Forest School. British Imperial Forestry Service re-established it as the Imperial Forest Research Institute in 1906. UGC granted a deemed university’s status in 1991 to this Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education Institute.

The Forest Research institute or FRI was established to promote forestry research in India. The institute is home to six museums on Forestry and Research, which are open for public and tourist visits. The Botanical Museum in the institute attracts tourists all-round the year.

The institute is internationally acclaimed for its developed infrastructure and courses. Arboreta, printing press, herbarium, library, and laboratories are the amenities for conducting forestry research. It also houses the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy and the Indian Council of Forestry Research’s head office.

The building and the entire campus retains its original grand and intricate Colonial and Greco-Roman architecture style. This architecture style is one of the reasons it is one of the most significant tourist attractions in Dehradun. Tons River on its Western boundary adds to the beauty of the institute. All of this coupled with the pristine look of the campus such as neatly trimmed expanses of grass where tourists can enjoy a lovely picnic makes it stand out as one of the places to visit in Dehradun in one day.

Famous Bollywood production houses have shot many films like Student of the Year, Krishna Cottage, Dulhan Ek Raat Ki, Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein, Paan Singh Tomar, Kamra No. 404, Yaara, and Dear Daddy. It has been a shooting spot for numerous TV commercials and albums as well. This added context continues to boost FRI’s status as one of the top tourist places to visit in Dehradun city.

  • Tickets: INR 15 per visitor. You can hire a guide for INR 50 to take your around the campus and its museums.
  • Timings: 09:00 am to 05:30 pm.
  • How to Reach: FRI is located around 7 kilometers from the city center and accessible by cabs, autos, or buses from anywhere in the city.
  • Address: Census town between Kaulagarh and Indian Military Academy on Dehradun-Chakrata Road
  • Best Time to Visit: Around the FRI area, the weather is especially more pleasant than the main city throughout the year due to forests in the area. However, the months from March to June are the best time to visit Dehradun for FRI.

Zonal Museum

Zonal Museum was founded in 1971 at Haridwar Road. It is famous for a fantastic collection of artifacts pertaining to humankind’s origin, evolution and sustenance. Furthermore, it depicts the living conditions, rituals and customs of ancient people. Albeit a bit far from the main city, it is truly one of the best tourist places near Dehradun within 100 kms of the city.

  • Tickets: INR 10
  • Timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm (closed on holidays, second Saturdays and Sundays)
  • How to Reach: By boarding a direct bus or taxi
  • Address: Haridwar Road, Dehradun
  • Best Time to Visit: April to July

Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology

Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology

As an autonomous research institute for studying Himalayan geology under the Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology and the Indian Government, Wadia Institute is one of the best hubs of Himalayan Geology in India.

The museums at Wadia Institute illustrate diverse geographic locations, giving you the opportunity to assimilate stunning facts about several territories in India just by visiting the institute’s campus. Vast in size and neatly maintained, the campus allows for a very enjoyable and memorable visit at Wadia Institute.

  • Timings: 06:00 am to 07:00 pm.
  • Entry Fee: Free entry
  • How to Reach: You can board a bus, take an auto rickshaw or hire a taxi from anywhere in the city to visit the Wadia Institute..
  • Address: 33, General Mahadev Singh Road (GMS Road), Dehradun

Indian Military Academy (IMA)

Indian Military Academy

The IMA in Dehradun is one of India’s most famous army officer’s training academies. It became operational from October 1, 1932, with a starting batch of 40 cadets. Brigadier L.P. Collins was the first commandant of this academy.

The IMA is based on a very large area across both sides of the Chakrata-Dehradun Road. It is situated amidst the peace and calm of the surrounding forests and away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The academy boasts of ideals like fervor and discipline, which reflects in the architecture of the academy and neatness with which the campus is built and maintained. Additionally, the architectural style of Indian Military Academy is very attractive as well.

  • How to Reach: You can board a bus or hire a cab to reach the IMA. It is located about 8 kilometers away from Dehradun’s city center.
  • Address: 19, Chakrata Rd, Phase 2, Indian Military Academy, Dehradun

Chetwoode Hall (at IMA Dehradun)

Chetwoode Hall is situated adjacent to the Indian Military Academy building on Dehradun-Chakrata Road. The hall exhibits a wide range of artifacts worthy of tourist visits, all underlining and highlighting the splendour of the Indian armed forces from the country’s glorious past. In addition, the gallery also boasts of a collection of the Indian army’s modern artilleries and sophisticated ammunitions. It is open to tourists all year round, but is closed during the IMA Parade ceremony.

Iconic landmarks in Dehradun

These tourist spots in Dehradun are famous landmarks in Dehradun, and have gained spots as some of the iconic places in Dehradun that the city identifies with, besides the other popular tourist destinations in Dehradun.

Kalinga War Memorial

Kalinga War Memorial

The British founded the Kalinga War Memorial along Sahastradhara Road in Dehradun to honor the Gorkhas after a battle between the two. It holds a special spot as the only war memorial built by Britishers in order to honor their enemy. This glory and valor of Gorkhas symbolised through this memorial serves as a matter of pride for the Gorkha community to this day.

  • How to Reach: Kalinga War Memorial is located about 4 kilometers from Dehradun city center. You can reach here by catching a bus or taxi.
  • Address: Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer months

Clock Tower

Clock Tower, Dehradun

Clock Tower or Ghanta Ghar is an iconic and old landmark in Dehradun on Rajpur Road, It serves as one of the iconic identifying pillars of Dehradun, quite literally so as the exclusive architecture of the tower depicts six faces to an 85-meter tall facade, with a gold plate on top bearing the names of freedom fighters who laid their lives for India’s independence.

The British started work on the clock tower before independence, which got completed in 1953. The monument was inaugurated by none other than Lal Bahadur Shastri himself. Upon inception, the tower was actually named as “Balbir Tower”.

Located right at the heart of Dehradun, the clock tower area is one of the best places to visit in Dehradun city for its abundance of shopping opportunities and liveliness surrounding the area. The famous Paltan Bazaar of Dehradun where you can find almost anything from apparel to electronics is located right adjacent to Clock Tower.

  • How to Reach: You can hire a taxi, cab, or rickshaw to reach the Clock Tower. You can also use public transport like shared auto rickshaws and buses to get here.
  • Address: Near Paltan Bazaar, Dehradun City
  • Best Time to Visit: Winter season

Temples and Religious Spots in Dehradun

There are a number of famous temples in Dehradun, which have a deep history and context associated with them. They are also some of the best places to visit in Dehradun for sightseeing and a complete enjoyable day.

Tapkeshwar Temple

Tapkeshwar Temple, Dehradun

Tapkeshwar Mahadev is the oldest temple for Lord Shiva in Uttarakhand. As per mythology, Dronacharya, the guru of Kaurav and Pandav brothers, used to reside here, earning it the alternative name of Drona cave.

The Tapkeshwar Temple in Dehradun is housed within a cave by the banks of the Nandi river. Inside the cave, water trickles down naturally right on top of the Shiva lingam from the cave ceiling. This very concept of dripping water is where the name Tapkeshwar is derived from. The Shiva Ling at Tapkeshwar Temple is believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees.

Pilgrims take a bath in cool sulphuric water springs before entering the sanctum sanctorum. Young tourists come here for a picnic while religious devotees are attracted by the religion and lore associated with Tapkeshwar Temple, making it one of the top places to visit in Dehradun, In fact, Tapkeshwar Temple is one of the most visited temples in the Garhwal region.

  • Tickets: No entry fee
  • Timings: 6:00 am to 07:00 pm.
  • How to Reach: Tapkeshwar is located 6.5 kilometers from Dehradun city. Tourists can board a bus or take public auto rickshaws to get here, or alternatively take a taxi.
  • Address: Tapkeshwar Colony, Garhi Cantt., Dehradun
  • Best Time to Visit: Shivratri season

Mindrolling Monastery (Buddha Temple Complex)

Mindrolling Monastery, Dehradun

Khochhen Rinpoche established Buddha Temple Complex in 1965 at Clement Town, Dehradun, even though the structure was first established in 1676. It is one of the largest Buddhist centers, lying in the foothills of the Himalayas.

The Mindroalling Monastery at Buddha Temple Complex is one of the six major monasteries of the Tibetan Nyingma School. The Ngagyur Nyingma College at the complex is a center of advanced Buddhist studies for monks to pass on traditional knowledge to the upcoming generations. At present, it is imparting education to 300 monks.

Beautiful gardens, a wide open and scenic university complex and the tallest Stupa in Asia located here make the complex an architectural masterpiece. It is recommended as one of the top places to visit in Dehradun in one day. The magnificent campus also houses a towering statue of Lord Buddha, several shrine rooms, Tibetan art forms, and murals that ornament the entire campus and the various structures on it. The charm and beauty of the campus is surely hard to deny amongst tourists visiting the spot.

  • Tickets: No entry ticket
  • Timings: Summers: 08:00 am – 12:00 pm, 02:00 pm – 07:00 pm
  • Winters: 09:00 am – 12:00 pm, 01:30 pm – 06:00 pm
  • How to Reach: The Mindrolling Monastery is around 9 kilometers from Dehradun railway station and 4 kilometers from ISBT Dehradun. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or board a local bus from either of those locations to reach the monastery.
  • Address: Delhi-Saharanpur Road, Dehradun
  • Best Time to Visit: April to June is the best time to visit Dehradun for the Buddha Temple complex, as it boasts of pleasant weather in Dehradun and calm ambiance at the Buddha Temple complex during this time.

Tapovan Temple

Tapovan Temple, Dehradun

Tapovan is a holy place in Dehradun city. Tap means Tapasya or rigor, and van means forest, and this explains well the gist of Tapovan.

Devotees frequent here in search of inner peace, and Hindu rituals are often performed at the ashram. You can even choose to enroll in yoga courses here during your visit. In fact, the calming sense brought about by the natural surroundings and pleasant weather of Tapovan makes it ideal for meditation and Yoga. Visitors are able to release their stress here and attain a sense of satisfaction.

Guru Dronacharya, the teacher of the Kauravas and Pandavas in the Mahabharata epic, is said to have undergone forfeit here. For this reason, Tapovan is amongst the famous places to visit in Dehradun where people come to find solace and seek redemption for their wrongdoings.

  • Tickets: Free
  • Timings: 06:00 am to 08:00 pm
  • How to Reach: Tapovan is located about 5 kilometers from Dehradun city. You can get here by bus, auto rickshaw or taxi.
  • Best Time to Visit: April – July

Ram Rai Gurudwara

Ram Rai Gurudwara, Dehradun

Probably one of the most famous Gurudwaras in Dehradun, Ram Rai Gurudwara was constructed back in the 17th century by Ram Rai, the eldest son of the seventh Guru of the Sikhs, Sri Har Rai Ji. It is regarded as a sacred pilgrimage center among the Sikh community.

Devotees celebrate an annual fair, which is the festival of colors, on the 5th day after Holi at the Ram Rai Gurdwara, transforming the whole area into a happening and lively hotspot. Even though it is one of the religious and tourist places to visit in Dehradun city itself, the vibes at Ram Rai Gurudwara make it stand out as one of the top tourist attractions in Dehradun.

  • How to Reach: You can board a bus, use a public auto rickshaw or hire a taxi from anywhere in Dehradun to reach here.
  • Address: Dehradun city
  • Best Time to Visit: All round the year, but the Gurudwara hosts a popular fair on the 5th day after Holi.

Sai Darbar Temple

Sai Darbar Temple, Dehradun

Sai Darbar Temple is a famous temple in Dehradun dedicated to Sai Baba. Pilgrims flock to the temple and pay homage to Sai Baba in large numbers every single day. Devotees sing hymns in God’s praise during the evening prayers at Sai Darbar Temple.

The grace and elegance associated with Sai Darbar Temple shows in the marble stones it is built with, and several beautiful paintings that adorn the interiors of this temple. The temple is situated by the side of a small cliff, and the outdoor sections of the temple provide a view into the cliffs and valleys in the surroundings. The perfect ambience of the temple both indoors and outdoors allows you to make a direct connection with the divine at the Sai Darbar Temple..

  • Timings: 09:00 am to 12:00 pm and 05:00 pm to 09:30 pm
  • How to Reach: Sai Darbar temple is located 8 kilometers from the Clock Tower. You can board a bus, take an auto rickshaw or hire a cab to get to the the temple
  • Address: 109, Rajpur Rd, IAS Officers Colony, Hathibarkala-Salwala, Dehradun

Laxman Siddh Temple

Laxman Siddh Temple, Dehradun

The cremation site of the renowned Saint Swami Laxman Siddh, the temple is one of the most famous places to visit in Dehradun on account of its scenic beauty. It is also the very place where Laxman underwent penance for killing the demon king Ravana. Another story associated with the Laxman Siddh Temple relates to Rishi Dattatreya during the Vedic period. Therefore, due to its beauty, significance and context, pilgrims visit this place in large numbers. Laxman Siddh Temple holds an important spot amongst the most popular tourist places near Dehradun within 100 km of the city.

  • How to Reach: You can board a bus or hire a cab to reach here. The temple is located 12 kilometers away from Dehradun city.
  • Address: Lachhiwala Range near Dehradun

Chandrabani Temple

Chandrabani Temple, Dehradun

Chandrabani Temple is one of the famous religious places to visit in Dehradun. Devotees love taking a dip in the holy waters of the popular Gautam Kund located here. As per mythology, the temple is the former abode of Maharishi Gautam, his wife Anjan and their daughter. In addition, it is believed that Maa Ganga manifested herself on this very spot.

  • Timings: 06:00 am to 07:00 pm.
  • Entry Fee: Free entry
  • How to Reach: You can board a bus, take an auto rickshaw or hire a taxi from anywhere in the city.
  • Address: Near ISBT, Dehradun

Gurudwara Nanaksar

Sant Baba Gurudev ji built Nanaksar Gurudwara in 1973. It is a pilgrimage site for the Sikh community.

Gurudwara celebrates Pooranmashi and Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti. Jagran and Ardhas charge devotees with spirituality. Katha and Kirtan follow the evening bhog of Sri Sampat Akhnad Path of Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

  • How to Reach: You can board a city bus or hire a cab to reach here. It is 10.7 kilometers away from Dehradun ISBT.
  • Address: Shivlok Colony, Rajpur Road, Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

Daat Kali Temple

Daat Kali Temple, Dehradun

Daat Kali is one of the famous religious places to visit in Dehradun, and devotees come in droves here to obtain Goddess Kali’s blessings.

Lore goes that Maa Kali appeared in the dream of an engineer, following which the engineer offered an idol of Goddess Kali to Mahant Sukhbir Gusain, in order to facilitate the construction of the temple. This event is said to be dated June 13, 1804, on the occasion of Sashti Asadh.

The divine flame at Daat Kali Temple has been burning continuously since 1921. People revert this sacred flame and give offerings of oil, ghee and flour to the deity. A popular tradition is for people to perform puja (prayer ceremonies) for their newly bought vehicle at the Daat Kali Temple.

  • How to Reach: The temple is located about 14 kilometers from Dehradun. You will easily be able to board a bus or hire a taxi to reach the temple.
  • Address: NH 72A, Ashkrodi, Saharanpur Road, Dehradun

Shiv Mandir

Shiv Mandir, Dehradun

Shiv Mandir is a famous Shiva temple for Lord Shiva in Dehradun on the way to Mussoorie. The temple is distinctly renowned for not accepting donations. Tourists famously and fondly buy gemstone available at the shops on temple premises. People stop by the temple for snacks and tea while on their way to Mussoorie.

  • Timings: 09:00 am to 09:00 pm
  • How to Reach: The temple is located at a distance of 11 kilometers from ISBT Dehradun. You can get here in a bus or hired taxi while on your way to Mussoorie.
  • Address: Dehradun-Mussoorie Road

FAQs

What are the most famous places to visit in Dehradun?
Ans:
Buddha Temple Complex, Sahastradhara, Tapkeshwar Temple, Robber’s Cave, Forest Research Institute and Asan Barrage are some of the popular places to visit in Dehradun. These places will offer you insights into the natural beauty and architectural beauty of Dehradun.

What are the places to visit in Dehradun famous for?
Ans: Dehradun is famous for its several sightseeing opportunities. The tourist places in Dehradun are situated amidst forests, hills and riversides, and the pleasant weather in Dehradun adds to the reverie of Doon Valley amongst tourists coming to the place. Dehradun is also famous for its chill cafe culture, offering local delicacies in ambient and beautiful settings and also its street food.

What are the best places to visit in Dehradun for couples?
Ans: Robber’s Cave, Tapkeshwar Temple, Sahastradhara and Shikhar Falls are some of the most romantic places to visit in Dehradun. In case you wish to enjoy a quiet picnic in lush green grass and scenic surroundings then Lachhiwala and Forest Research Institute are ideal spots to go to with your partner.

What are the best places to visit in Dehradun at night?
Ans: Restaurants like The Terrace, bars like Opal Lounge, shopping areas like Rajpur Road and tourist attractions like Lachhiwala are some of the places ideal for enjoying nightlife in Dehradun.

What are some good places to eat in Dehradun?
Ans: Dehradun is famous for its culture of cute and cozy cafes, most notably Razzmatazz, Kalsang AMA Cafe and Waffles and Crepes, Eltham Bakery, Rising Dough, Orchard and Y Cafe. You will also find a number of street food options throughout Dehradun, such as momos, spring rolls and chow mein.

What are the best places to visit in Dehradun for sightseeing?
Ans: Sahastradhara is one of the ideal places to visit in Dehradun for sightseeing purposes. You can even ride the ropeway at Sahastradhara and enjoy panoramic views from the mountain top. Other places to visit in Dehradun for sightseeing include Tapkeshwar Temple, Shikhar Falls and various tourist sites in Kalasi village such as Asan Barrage.

What are some historical places to visit in Dehradun?
Ans: Kalinga War Memorial, the only war memorial built by the British in honor of their foes, the ancient Ram Rai Gurudwara and the Ashokan Rock Edict at Kalsi with names of 5 ancient Greek rulers inscribed on it are some of the best historical sites located in Dehradun.

What are the places to visit in Dehradun in one day?
Ans: Buddha Temple Complex, Forest Research Academy, Tapkeshwar Temple, Sahastradhara and Crossroads Mall are some of the best tourist spots in Dehradun you can check out if you are visiting for only one day. It is also recommended to try out the food at the various cafes located throughout the city.

How many days are needed for the places to visit in Dehradun?
Ans: A stay of 3 days is enough in order to visit all of the major tourist places in Dehradun. However, in case you wish to explore any specific area like Kalsi further beyond the surface beauty of it, or go to Mussoorie hill station located about 30 km from Dehradun, then it is advised that you extend the duration of your stay to 5 days.

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