Things to Do in Dehradun – A Complete Travel Guide

Tucked away between the Ganga and Yamuna Rivers and framed by the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand, where colonial charm, forested escapes and cultural rhythm coexist. From its old-world institutions and sacred shrines to vibrant cafes and scenic treks, Dehradun offers a little something for every kind of traveller. It is cradled in the undulating Doon Valley, embraced by soaring peaks offering several wonderful sightseeing opportunities to the visitors.  

Planning a trip to Dehradun? This is your complete guide to exploring Dehradun – covering top attractions, hidden gems, and nearby escapes – and everything in between.

Dehradun- The Gateway to the Hills

Dehradun leaves you awestruck with its gushing waterfalls, verdant Sal forests, enigmatic caves, and enchanting spots perfect for picnics, making it a charming tourist spot that opens the gateway to the other amazing places of the state. Its strategic location between Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Kedarnath, and Chakrata, makes it an ideal launchpad for treks, temple trails and scenic escapes. The weather of the city remains pleasant throughout the year, and its breathtaking surroundings will make you want to extend your stay indefinitely. Dehradun welcomes you with the warmth of old souls and the calmness of mountain mists.

Dehradun is home to some of India’s renowned schools and educational institutions, which makes it one of the educational hubs. It also offers a wonderful blend of quaint cafes, heritage monuments and bustling bazaars. Apart from that, the city also serves as the base for numerous exhilarating treks such as Kempty Falls Trek, Dhanaulti Trek and Bag Tibba Trek and other thrilling activities such as paragliding, skydiving, rafting, and bungee jumping. One of the best ways to cover all such things in Dehradun is to hire cabs in Dehradun. Several taxi services in Dehradun offer affordable and convenient travel.

Dehradun Itinerary

Nestled amid the lush green hills, Dehradun is a beautiful city that offers a perfect fusion of natural beauty, cultural heritage and adventure activities. It is a multifaceted destination that offers several thrilling trekking trails, rich historical temples, beautiful colonial-era architecture, and world-class educational institutions, savory local cuisines and vibrant bazaars. Dehradun is the city to explore its natural wonders, cultural treasures, and spiritual sanctuaries, leaving travellers with lasting memories of its charm and diversity. Some of the best sites are as follows:

1.Visit Forest Research Institute (FRI)
It is one of the architectural landmarks of Dehradun city. Boasting an Indo-Gothic architecture and sprawling botanical gardens, it is perfect for photography and peaceful walks.

2. Explore Robber’s Cave (Gucchupani)
It is a natural wonder that features a river flowing right through the natural cave, forming a beautiful waterfall. It is ideal for a short hike and a splash of adventure in the cool water.

3. Seek blessings at Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

It is a captivating cave shrine dedicated to lord Shiva. This temple is a spiritual and scenic marvel, where water trickles from the limestone ceiling continuously on the Shiva Linga.

4. Stroll through Mindrolling Monastery
It is one of India’s largest Buddhist centers that is known for its tranquil gardens, prayer wheels, and a towering stupa. It has an awe-inspiring 35-meter-high statue of Lord Buddha in its massive prayer hall, where devotees offer pray or meditate.

5. Picnic at Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara, meaning ‘a thousand springs’, is a natural Sulphur spring known for its healing properties and cascading beauty. It's perfect for a day out, take a dip in the cool water, or simply soak up the beauty of the surroundings.

6. Catch the sunset at the Mussoorie Road Viewpoints
Take a drive up to George Everest or Maldevta to catch golden-hour magic over the Doon Valley. Enjoy a beautiful sunset there with family and friends.

7. Shop and snack at Paltan Bazaar
Bustling with local life, this market offers everything from momos to silver trinkets and Pahadi pickles. Making it a perfect place to snag unique keepsakes and local treasures.

      For more read Dehradun sightseeing destinations

Dehradun’s Divine Detours

Dehradun is the city of Uttarakhand, that is called Dev Bhoomi (the land of gods), also captures the divine essence of the land and offers a treasure trove of shrines in its beautiful landscape. The divine essence of the city can be felt as it was established by the revered Sikh Guru Baba Ram Rai in 1675, and is believed to be the abode of Guru Dronacharya. The divine tour of the city includes the drive to historical temples, ancient monasteries and several other religious sites. For a comfortable trip you sould take car rental srvices in Dehradun to travel own you pace. Some of the popular sites are:

Also, don’t miss the Chaar Sidh Peeth of the city, which is located in each direction. They are Lakshman Sidh Peeth, Kalu Sidh Peeth, Manak Sidh Peeth and Mandu Sidh Peeth, nestled amid the serene landscape of the city.

Thrills and Trails in Dehradun

While Dehradun is known for its laid-back charm, it is also an absolute paradise for the thrill-seeker. You can set off on scenic treks to spots like the George Everest Base or the lush trails of Maldevta – both offer sweeping views of the mountains and the valley. For a dose of adrenaline, try paragliding in Maldevta, or explore cycling trails through pine-lined roads. If you prefer slow exploration, go birdwatching in Malsi or plan an overnight camp under the stars near Lachhiwala, where you would wake up only to birdsong and a breeze.

Plan Your Perfect Adventure Day in Dehradun—Activities, Timings & Pro Tips

Hidden Spots and Local Secrets

Beyond its popular attractions, Dehradun also offers a range of offbeat sites around it that give you a deeper glimpse into the city’s charm and culture. Start your journey with a relaxing dip at Sahastradhara Springs. It is known for its natural Sulphur water that’s believed to have healing properties. Nearby, there is a vibrant Tibetan Market. Here, you can shop for handicrafts, woollens, and quirky souvenirs while sipping on authentic momos and thukpa.

For nature lovers, Lachhiwala is a peaceful riverside picnic spot on the route from Dehradun to Haridwar or Rishikesh. It is surrounded by Sal forests and is ideal for a lazy afternoon with friends or family, making it a perfect weekend destination for locals. For history buffs, the city has several interesting places to visit, such as the Khalanga War Memorial, which honours Gurkha soldiers and offers beautiful panoramic views of the valley. If you are a

Wildlife and photography enthusiasts, spending your time at Malsi Deer Park is the best option. It is a quiet zoo-park hybrid that’s great for children and bird watchers alike.

Also, while exploring the city, don’t miss out on its amazing and authentic local food trails. From its iconic bakeries on Rajpur Road to hidden street food joints serving kachoris, chhole-puris, and bun-tikkis on the local streets, enjoy its traditional Pahadi cuisine and classic colonial-era recipes. Whether you’re exploring quiet forest trails or trying out local snacks, these offbeat experiences in Dehradun add a rich and refreshing layer to your trip.

Places to Visit in Dehradun

Dehradun is a captivating destination for travellers who are seeking a harmonious blend of nature and culture. There are several sightseeing places in Dehradun that you can easily cover by taking a cab service in Dehradun. That makes your travelling an easy and comfortable experience. Some of the must-visit places in Dehradun are as follows:

Short Escapes from Dehradun

Renowned as a tourist gem of Uttarakhand, Dehradun also serves as the gateway to various destinations of its region that cater to the diverse interests of the tourists. It is an excellent starting point for the trips, including Char Dham, Haridwar, Mussoorie, etc. Each destination offers a unique experience to travellers. These are the popular nearby escapes from Dehradun:

To make your short trip from Dehradun a comfortable and memorable experience take our cab service.

How to Plan a Trip to Dehradun

A trip to Dehradun is full of diverse experiences, thrills and spiritual solace. Planning a trip to Dehradun is a simple task: just collect some key information about the weather, and book your accommodation and cab in advance to avoid last-minute inconvenience.  An ideal duration for a trip to Dehradun is about  2–3 days. It is enough to explore the city's top attractions, indulge in local food, and enjoy nearby nature trails.

But if you want to combine your Dehradun trip with nearby hill stations like Mussoorie (1-hour drive), Rishikesh, or even Chakrata for an extended and scenic getaway. The days will extend as per traveller preference and travelling interest. These spots add a mountain vibe to your trip and are well-connected by road. You can easily go there by hiring a car service from Dehradun.

Planning also includes packing. When it comes to packing, bring casual clothes, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket or woollen, especially if you're visiting between October and February. In summer, don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.

Dehradun is suitable for all types of travellers—

• Dehradun has several beautiful parks, temples, and safe sightseeing spots that are perfect to visit with family.
• If you are a solo traveller, explore its beautiful cafes, vibrant markets, monasteries and several adventure sites at your own pace.
• For senior citizens, Dehradun has well-managed spiritual sites, retro-style colonial-era institutions, and the city's relaxed pace that gives them wonderful experiences.

Whether you're looking for peace, adventure, or local flavours, Dehradun makes for a well-rounded and enjoyable trip.

How to Reach Dehradun

Reaching Dehradun is an easy task. Dehradun is well-connected to the rest of the world by all means of transport, including rail, road and air.

By Air

Dehradun has its airport, making air travel easy and comfortable. The Jolly Grant Airport or Dehradun Airport is the city airport located only 30 Km away from the city centre. It is well-connected with the major cities of India for travel convenience. A traveller can easily travel to and from the airport by taking a taxi service in Dehradun.

By Train

Indian Railways is a budget-friendly option for travellers to reach Dehradun from any corner of India. Dehradun railway station is one of the major railway stations and has a well-connected railway network. There are many train lines, offer direct trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and more. It's centrally located and well-serviced.

By Road

Dehradun is also well-connected with the rest of the world by road. Travellers often travel to Dehradun from Delhi, Haridwar or Rishikesh by road by hiring outstation cabs. It is a popular route for road-trippers and is well-connected by national highways. Book a cab from Delhi to Dehradun, and you would reach your destination in 5-7 hours.

Getting around Dehradun is also convenient – auto-rickshaws are common for short distances, and shared Vikrams (local mini-rickshaws) run on fixed routes at budget-friendly rates. For more comfort, avail the local taxis or online cab services in Dehradun. City buses and e-rickshaws are also good for commuting between popular spots.

Best Time to Visit Dehradun

Travellers visit Dehradun year-round. It is one of the most favourite destinations, which is the base for several other wonderful places nearby. But each season in Dehradun offers a unique experience to visitors. Here's a seasonal breakdown to help you plan better:

March to June (Spring–Summer)

If you love doing outdoor activities and want to enjoy the best sightseeing views. This is the best time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures like trekking, zip-lining, and exploring nature trails. The weather is pleasant, with clear skies and blooming landscapes. Ideal for family trips and first-time visitors.

July to September (Monsoon)

Travellers often avoid the monsoon season to travel in the hill regions such as Dehradun. Because frequent rains may disrupt outdoor plans, some trails can become slippery, but the whole region turns into lush greenery, making it a visual treat. This time is great for those who enjoy peaceful surroundings and fewer crowds.

October to February (Autumn–Winter)

With crisp air and clear skies, this is the perfect season for winter travel. Daytime is pleasant, but nights can get cold. However, during winter, you might miss the adventure and sightseeing, but this time is excellent for spiritual retreats, photography, and exploring markets.

Where to Stay in Dehradun

From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly stays, Dehradun has several accommodation options suited to individual needs. Whether you are a solo traveller, honeymoon couple or family, Dehradun offers everything from colonial-style guesthouses to boutique hill-view stays to enhance your overall travel experience. Locations such as Rajur Road, Jakhan, and Clement Town are favourites for a combination of comfort and convenience, along with cafes, shopping and tourist attractions. To get away from the hustle, serene resorts on Mussoorie Road or surrounding Maldevta provide a more nature-enfolded experience.

For a more comfortable stay, Lemon Tree Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton offer well-furnished stays with full leisure facilities such as gyms, swimming pools and conference facilities. However, there are good budget-friendly options like Hotel Ashreya and Hotel Madhuban. Most of the properties are well-maintained in terms of cleanliness and safety, particularly in areas visited by tourists. Solo travellers and families will find Dehradun to be a safe and friendly city.

Summer and winter months are the peak tourist seasons for the city, with an influx of tourists, largely those visiting Mussoorie or the Char Dham. To escape last-minute troubles, booking your accommodations in advance is recommended, especially if you want to stay at popular resorts or on weekends.

Travel Tips for Dehradun

Dehradun is one of the most visited hill stations of North India. Tourists often travel there during the scorching summer season and vacation time. Travelling to Dehradun is really a great experience for tourists. But before heading on a trip, preparation is essential for ensuring a smooth journey. To make your trip memorable, follow the given tips:

• However, it is a hill station, but summers are sunny, so keep themselves hydrated, bring sunscreen and a hat.
• In monsoons, don't miss an umbrella or a light rain jacket. Winters can be cold in the evening, so bring a layer even if the day is pleasant.
• Be careful of the monkeys! Tourist places such as Tapkeshwar Temple and Robber's Cave tend to have monkeys, so keep your valuables tight.  And avoid carrying open food and be cautious with bags and cameras.
• Aside from street food, Dehradun boasts traditional bakeries and small Tibetan restaurants. Do not miss trying momos, thukpa, and pastry at restaurants such as Ellora's and the Kalsang Cafe.
• Dehradun becomes crowded during extended weekends and school holidays, particularly if you are going to be doing it in combination with a Mussoorie visit. Booking ahead for stays and transportation is always advisable.
• Be aware of local wildlife and exercise caution when hiking and trekking in the nature reserves or parks.

FAQs

1. What is Dehradun famous for?
Dehradun is known for its colonial charm, prestigious schools, Forest Research Institute, and its role as a gateway to Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and the Char Dham Yatra.

2. How far is Dehradun from Mussoorie?
Mussoorie is about 35 km from Dehradun and takes roughly 1.5–2 hours by road, depending on traffic and weather.

3. Is Dehradun a good family destination?
Yes, it’s perfect for families, offering nature walks, museums, picnic spots, temples, and nearby hill escapes suitable for all age groups.

4. Where to go shopping in Dehradun?
Head to Paltan Bazaar for local shopping, Indira Market for trendy finds, and Rajpur Road for cafés, bookshops, and branded outlets.

5. Are taxis easily available in Dehradun?
Yes, you’ll find auto-rickshaws, local taxis, and app-based services like Ola/CabBazar throughout the city for easy commuting.

6. Is Dehradun safe for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Dehradun is considered safe, clean, and friendly, especially in central areas — just follow general precautions when exploring solo.