History of Dehradun sightseeing

Dehradun sightseeing travel is deeply connected to the region’s ancient history. The city finds mentions in epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata and later became an important centre during the British era. From archaeological sites to historical monuments, Dehradun sightseeing offers a glimpse into centuries-old heritage.

Culture of Dehradun sightseeing

Dehradun sightseeing also reflects the rich Garhwali culture blended with Tibetan, Kumaoni, and North Indian influences. Tourists enjoy traditional folk dances, temples, handicrafts, street food, and local markets.

Festivals Celebrated in Dehradun sightseeing

Jhanda Mela – Held at Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib
Basant Panchami – Celebrated with cultural events
Diwali & Holi – Vibrant celebrations across the city
Monsoon Festival – Ideal time for Dehradun sightseeing travel Dehradun, the enchanting capital city of Uttarakhand, is one of the most scenic, culturally rich, and historically significant destinations in North India. Nestled in the foothills of the grand Himalayas, surrounded by lush Sal forests, ancient caves, waterfalls, temples, markets, and peaceful monasteries, the city attracts travellers from all across India and abroad. Whether you are a backpacker, a family traveller, a nature lover, a photographer, a spiritual seeker, or an adventure enthusiast, Dehradun sightseeing sightseeing travel offers a complete travel experience.

This 3000-word mega guide covers the 30 best tourist places in Dehradun, hidden gems, itinerary suggestions, food spots, nearby attractions, internal links, dofollow external resources, and an expanded FAQ section to help you fully plan your trip.

To explore more about Uttarakhand tourism, refer to these trusted sources (DoFollow):

Uttarakhand Tourism: https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in
Incredible India: https://incredibleindia.org

Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is one of North India’s most scenic, peaceful, and culturally rich destinations. Surrounded by Himalayan foothills, lush forests, waterfalls, rivers, ancient temples, markets, and monasteries, Dehradun sightseeing offers a wholesome travel experience for families, solo travellers, backpackers, photographers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers.

This complete guide covers the history, culture, top 60 places to visit, hidden gems, a 3-day itinerary, travel tips, how to reach, accommodation, food recommendations, nearby attractions, internal links, dofollow external links, and FAQs.

History of Dehradun Sightseeing

Dehradun’s history dates back to ancient times and is mentioned in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Later, Guru Ram Rai established his “Dehra” (camp) here in the 17th century, giving the city its name—Dehradun. During the British era, Dehradun became a major educational and administrative centre. Today, it is known for its natural beauty, colonial architecture, cultural diversity, and spiritual importance.

Culture of Dehradun Sightseeing

Dehradun’s culture is a blend of Garhwali heritage mixed with Tibetan, Kumaoni, and North Indian influences. The city is known for its folk music, traditional cuisine, handicrafts, temples, monasteries, bakeries, street food, and friendly people. The laid-back lifestyle makes it a favourite among tourists.

Festivals Celebrated in Dehradun

Jhanda Mela – At Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib
Basant Panchami – Cultural celebrations
Diwali & Holi – City-wide festive joy
Monsoon Festival – Seasonal events and cultural shows

Top 60 Places to Visit in Dehradun Sightseeing (Complete Details)

Below is the FULL detailed list of all sixty places.

1. Robber’s Cave (Gucchu Pani)

A natural limestone cave with a chilly water stream flowing through narrow pathways. Ideal for adventure walks and photography.

2. Sahastradhara

Known for its sulphur springs, ropeway rides, waterfalls, and medicinal properties.

3. Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Ancient cave temple of Lord Shiva where water drips naturally on the Shivling.

4. Forest Research Institute (FRI)

A British-era architectural marvel with museums, vast lawns, and forest trails.

5. Mindrolling Monastery

A major Tibetan monastery featuring a giant stupa, murals, gardens, and prayer halls.

6. Shikhar Falls

A hidden waterfall requiring a short trek. Perfect for nature lovers.

7. Malsi Deer Park

A small zoo located on Mussoorie Road, great for families.

8. Paltan Bazaar

Dehradun’s main shopping hub for woollens, spices, sweets, clothes, and gifts.

9. Maldevta

A riverside paradise featuring clear water, mountain views, and cafés.

10. Lachhiwala Nature Park

Forest area with man-made pools, picnics, and adventure activities.

11. Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar)

Historical landmark and a central point of the city.

12. Pathar Nala

A calm water stream with rocks—perfect for photoshoots and picnics.

13. Asan Barrage

A birdwatching hotspot where migratory birds arrive in winter.

14. Rajaji National Park

A wildlife sanctuary home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and 300+ birds.

15. Buddha Temple (Clement Town)

A peaceful Tibetan complex with tall stupas and beautiful art.

16. Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology

A museum showcasing fossils, rocks, and Himalayan geology.

17. Khalanga War Memorial

A memorial dedicated to the Gorkhas for bravery during the Anglo-Nepal War.

18. MDDA Park

A clean and calm park for morning walks and relaxation.

19. Shri Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple

A well-known temple surrounded by peaceful greenery.

20. Tapovan

Famous for yoga centres, ashrams, and meditation spaces.

21. Pacific Mall

Dehradun’s biggest mall with brands, cafés, and cinema.

22. Doon Valley Cable Car (Upcoming)

A major ropeway project expected to become a top attraction.

23. Tiger Falls (Chakrata)

A stunning waterfall near Chakrata, great for trekking and picnics.

24. Dhanaulti Eco Park

Eco-friendly forest park offering nature trails and adventure activities.

25. Mussoorie

Nearby hill station known for Mall Road, viewpoints, waterfalls, and cafés.

26. George Everest Peak

A viewpoint offering a 360° view of the Himalayas and Doon Valley.

27. Kalsi Ashokan Rock Edict

Historical Ashokan inscriptions from the 3rd century BCE.

28. Rispana Riverfront (Upcoming)

A future riverfront project with walkways, green zones, and cafés.

29. Buddha Garden

A peaceful garden perfect for relaxation and meditation.

30. Robber’s Cave Inner Waterfall

A hidden waterfall located deeper inside Gucchu Pani.

31. Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib

A beautiful Mughal-style temple built in the 17th century.

32. Mothronwala Wildlife Sanctuary

A small sanctuary ideal for birdwatching and nature walks.

33. Zonal Anthropological Museum

A museum highlighting Himalayan tribal life, culture, and traditions.

34. Regional Science Centre (Science City)

Features science exhibits, models, and a planetarium.

35. Fun Valley Water Park

A water and adventure park located between Dehradun and Haridwar.

36. Malhan Forest

An offbeat forest trail perfect for long walks and photography.

37. Kuthal Gate Viewpoint

A calm viewpoint offering beautiful sunrise and sunset views.

38. Indira Market

A youth-favourite shopping market for clothes, bags, shoes, and food.

39. Doon Ghats

Small riverside locations where locals relax close to nature.

40. Kedarpur Village

A Garhwali village offering local culture, homestays, and farm views.

41. Sahastradhara Ropeway Top View

The ropeway’s top station offering panoramic mountain scenery.

42. FRI Forest Trails (Backside)

Nature-rich forest trails used for jogging, cycling, and photography.

43. Aman Vihar Hilltop

A quiet sunset viewpoint with natural beauty.

44. Thano Village

Famous for dense forests, birdwatching, and peaceful homestays.

45. Doodh Ganga Stream

A clear-water hidden stream perfect for summer visits.

46. Ananda Bhawan

One of the oldest South Indian food outlets in Dehradun.

47. BakeMasters

A popular bakery known for cakes, pastries, and snacks.

48. Kumar Sweets

Famous for traditional sweets like Bal Mithai and Singodi.

49. Y Café & Mughal Museum

A heritage café with a library-like ambience.

50. Mirabilia Restaurant (Old Rajpur)

Mountain-view dining with great food and ambiance.

51. Old Rajpur Cobblestone Streets

European-style lanes with heritage architecture and cafés.

52. FRI Back Lawns

A large open space ideal for photoshoots and picnics.

53. Mindrolling Monastery Prayer Halls

Requires permission but offers breathtaking Tibetan artwork.

54. Paragliding (Dehradun–Mussoorie)

Aerial views of the valley for adventure lovers.

55. River Rafting (Near Rishikesh)

Dehradun tourists often combine rafting at nearby Rishikesh.

56. Cycling Trails (Maldevta & Raipur)

Green cycling routes perfect for morning exercise.

57. Camping at George Everest

A scenic camping spot with stargazing views.

58. Old Dehradun Bakeries

Historic bakeries known for buns, plum cakes, and rusks.

59. Karanpur Market

Student-favourite market for street food and affordable shopping.

60. Curio Cottage Stores (Rajpur)

Known for handmade candles, soaps, chocolates, and gifts.

Hidden Gems in Dehradun Sightseeing You Shouldn’t Miss

Kyar Kuli Bhatta nature walk
Local street food stalls near Rajpur Road
Raipur village cafés
Pathar Nala viewpoints
Maldevta to Raipur forest drive
Jakhan cafés and high-view restaurants

3-Day Dehradun Sightseeing Itinerary

Day 1 – Nature & Heritage

Sahastradhara
Robber’s Cave
Tapkeshwar Temple
FRI Campus
Paltan Bazaar
Clock Tower

Day 2 – Culture & Waterfalls

Mindrolling Monastery
Shikhar Falls
Maldevta
Lachhiwala Nature Park
Buddha Temple (Clement Town)

Day 3 – Wildlife, Lakes & Adventure

Rajaji National Park Safari
Asan Barrage
Khalanga War Memorial
Pacific Mall
Tapovan Ashrams

Best Time to Visit Dehradun Sightseeing

Summer (Mar–Jun)

Perfect for sightseeing.

Monsoon (Jul–Sep)

Lush greenery, but avoid water points during heavy rains.

Winter (Oct–Feb)

Cold, clear, and ideal for long outdoor days.

Detailed Travel Tips-Dehradun Sightseeing

Wear trekking shoes for waterfalls and caves.
Start early to avoid crowds.
Try local bakeries for fresh products.
Use public transport or hire a cab.
Carry warm clothes in winter.
Avoid risky areas during monsoon.

Must-Try Food in Dehradun Sightseeing

Tibetan Momo at Kalsang
Butter Chicken at Doon Darbar
Bakery items at Rising Dough
Roadside Maggi at Mussoorie Road
Tibetan thukpa in Clement Town
Local sweets at Paltan Bazaar

Internal Links for Relevant Tour Packages

How to Reach Dehradun

Dehradun is easily accessible from major cities of India through multiple transport options.

By Road

Dehradun sightseeing travel becomes easier due to well-connected highways such as NH7 and NH307.

Delhi to Dehradun: 240 km (5–6 hours)
Chandigarh to Dehradun: 170 km Regular buses are available from ISBT Delhi Kashmiri Gate.

By Train

Dehradun Railway Station is well connected with major cities:

Dehradun Express
Nanda Devi AC Superfast
Mussoorie Express

By Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, 30 km from the city. Taxis and buses are available for transfer.

Weather & Climate of Dehradun

Understanding the weather helps in planning perfect Dehradun sightseeing travel.

Summer (March–June)

Temperature: 20°C–35°C
Best for sightseeing, waterfalls, nature walks

Monsoon (July–September)

Temperature: 22°C–30°C
Green landscapes but slippery paths at caves/waterfalls

Winter (October–February)

Temperature: 5°C–20°C
Perfect for travellers seeking cool weather

Accommodation Guide for Dehradun

From budget to luxury, Dehradun offers many stay options.

Budget Hotels

Hotel Ashrey
Hotel Doon Castle

Mid-range Hotels

LP Residency
Lemon Tree Hotel

Luxury Stays

Hyatt Regency Dehradun
Royal Orchid Fort Resort

Camping Options

Maldevta Riverside Camps
Sahastradhara Valley Camps

Local Transportation in Dehradun

Dehradun sightseeing travel is easy with multiple transport choices.

Auto rickshaw: Best for short distances
E-rickshaw: Eco-friendly and budget-friendly
Local buses: Cheapest option
Private taxi: Best for full-day sightseeing
Rental bikes: Ideal for young travellers

Best Shopping Spots in Dehradun

Apart from Paltan Bazaar, explore:

Tibetan Market

Perfect for Tibetan handicrafts, jackets, sweaters, jewellery.

Rajpur Road Boutiques

Trendy clothing, cafés, bookshops.

Astley Hall Market

Famous for woollens, candles, and wooden handicrafts.

Pacific Mall

Multiplex, branded stores, food court.

🌄 Top Nearby Getaways from Dehradun

1. Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills

Distance: 35 km | Travel Time: 1 hour
Mussoorie is the most popular hill getaway from Dehradun. Known for its colonial charm, snow-capped views, ropeway rides, and vibrant Mall Road, it is perfect for weekend holidays.

Top Attractions:

Company Garden
Mussoorie Lake
Gun Hill Cable Car
Kempty Falls
Camel’s Back Road
George Everest Peak

Best For: Couples, families, café lovers, photographers.

2. Dhanaulti – Scenic & Peaceful Retreat

Distance: 60 km | Travel Time: 2 hours
A quiet alternative to Mussoorie, Dhanaulti offers peace, tall deodar forests, and mountain serenity.

Things to Do:

Eco Park
Kanatal adventure activities
Skywalk and zipline
Sunrise viewpoints

Best For: Nature lovers, campers, meditation groups.

3. Kanatal – Adventure & Mountain Camping

Distance: 78 km | Travel Time: 3 hours
Kanatal is known for premium campsites, valley views, and outdoor adventure experiences.

Top Things to Do:

Jungle safari
Bonfire camps
Valley zipline
Kaudia Forest

Best For: Adventure seekers, camping groups, couples.

4. Rishikesh – Yoga, Adventure & Ganga Aarti

Distance: 45 km | Travel Time: 1.5 hours
One of the most loved spiritual and adventure hubs in India.

Top Attractions:

Ram Jhula & Laxman Jhula
Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
River rafting
Beatles Ashram
Waterfalls (Neer Garh & Patna)

Best For: Yoga lovers, adventure enthusiasts, spiritual travellers.

5. Haridwar – Spiritual Getaway

Distance: 52 km | Travel Time: 1.5 hours
A holy city known for its ghats, temples, and divine Ganga Aarti.

Major Spots:

Har Ki Pauri
Mansa Devi
Chandi Devi
Bharat Mata Mandir

Best For: Pilgrims, families, cultural explorers.

6. Chakrata – Offbeat Mountain Escape

Distance: 85 km | Travel Time: 3 hours
A military cantonment town known for its untouched natural beauty.

Best Places to Visit:

Tiger Falls
Budher Caves
Chilmiri Neck
Deoban Forest

Best For: Offbeat travellers, bikers, nature photographers.

7. Auli – Skiing & Snow Getaway

Distance: 310 km | Travel Time: 8–9 hours
Auli is India’s top skiing destination with breathtaking Himalayan views.

Top Attractions:

Auli Ropeway
Ski slopes
Gorson Bugyal trek
Snow activities

Best For: Winter lovers, ski enthusiasts, honeymooners.

8. Tehri Lake – Water Adventure Destination

Distance: 95 km | Travel Time: 3 hours
Famous for Asia’s highest dam and thrilling water sports.

Activities:

Jet skiing
Banana ride
Kayaking
Boating
Floating huts

Best For: Adventure lovers, groups, families.

9. Landour – Peaceful British Heritage Town

Distance: 40 km | Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Located above Mussoorie, Landour feels like a European village.

Must-Visit:

Lal Tibba
Char Dukan
Rokeby Manor
Landour Bakehouse

Best For: Writers, couples, peace seekers.

10. New Tehri – Mountain City with Lake Views

Distance: 100 km | Travel Time: 3.5 hours
Known for Tehri Dam and panoramic views of the lake.

Things to Explore:

Tehri Dam viewpoint
Adventure sports
Mountain cafés

11. Rajaji National Park – Jungle Safari

Distance: 20–40 km (depending on gate)
A wildlife sanctuary home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 300 bird species.

Best Activities:

Jeep safari
Bird watching
Nature walks

12. Kalsi – Ashoka Rock Edict

Distance: 45 km
A historical site featuring ancient inscriptions dating back to Emperor Ashoka.

Best For: History lovers, archaeology students.

13. Maldevta – Riverside Picnic Spot

Distance: 12 km
Known for riverside locations, food stalls, and forest surroundings.

Ideal For: Family picnics, casual outings, photography.

14. George Everest Peak (Near Mussoorie)

Distance: 40 km
A short trek offering stunning Himalayan views.

Best For: Beginners, sunset lovers, photographers.

15. Surkanda Devi Temple

Distance: 82 km
A powerful Shakti Peeth located on a hilltop offering panoramic Himalayan views.

Trek: 2 km moderate climb
Best For: Spiritual travellers, trekkers.

16. Tiger View Jungle Camp (Raipur Area)

Distance: 14 km
A nature campsite known for wildlife sightings, especially tigers and deer.

17. Kempty Falls (Mussoorie)

Distance: 45 km
A classic waterfall destination popular among families.

18. Deoban (Chakrata)

Distance: 90 km
A dense forest region with one of the best Himalayan viewpoints in Uttarakhand.

19. Mori – Riverside Camping Getaway

Distance: 160 km
Located along the Tons River, famous for rafting and peaceful nature stays.

20. Nag Tibba Trek

Distance: 75 km
One of the best weekend treks near Dehradun with a 360° view of the Himalayas.

Photography Spots in Dehradun

Robber’s Cave (inside stream)
FRI campus buildings
Mindrolling Monastery gardens
George Everest viewpoint (near Mussoorie)
Maldevta riverside

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)-Dehradun Sightseeing

1. What is the best time for Dehradun sightseeing?

October to June is ideal due to pleasant weather.

2. How many days are enough for Dehradun?

2–3 days for a comfortable sightseeing experience.

3. Is Dehradun safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, it is one of the safest cities in Uttarakhand.

4. Does Dehradun get snowfall?

The city doesn’t, but nearby Mussoorie does.

5. What are the most famous attractions?

Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, FRI, Tapkeshwar Temple, and Mindrolling Monastery.

6. Can I cover Dehradun in one day?

Yes, but only 6–8 major places.

7. What is Dehradun famous for shopping?

Woollens, spices, handicrafts, and bakery items.

8. How far is Rishikesh from Dehradun?

About 45 km (1.5 hours).

9. Are there trekking spots near Dehradun?

Yes, including George Everest, Shikhar Falls trail, and Mussoorie viewpoints.

10. Which place is best for peace and relaxation?

Mindrolling Monastery and Maldevta.