Nestled in the Doon Valley, at the foothills of the Garwahal Himalayas, lies Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand. It is an important gateway to the many hill stations in the state. However, it is often skipped by tourists, and it certainly deserves some of your time. Surrounded by the mountains all around, Dehradun perfectly blends nature with urbanity. No matter who you’re travelling with, with the ample tourist places in Dehradun, there is something to do for everyone.
To help plan your next trip, we have prepared a list of the 10 best places to visit in Dehradun.
Established in 1965, Mindrolling Monastery is among the largest centres of Buddhism in India. It attracts a large number of visitors from around the world. Located in Clement Town, the Monastery is an aesthetic masterpiece, built most skillfully with artistic precision. Within the monastery complex, there are blooming gardens and a neat university complex housing resident monks. The two main attractions at the complex are the statue of Lord Buddha and the stupa, which is one of the highest stupas in Asia. Go up to the fourth floor for a 360° view of the Doon Valley, which makes Mindrolling Monastery one of the most beautiful places to visit in Dehradun.
Details:
Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (may vary slightly by season)
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Clement Town, Dehradun
Time Required: 1–2 hours
Visitor tips:
Visit early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience
Maintain silence and respect the prayer areas
Photography is allowed outdoors but may be restricted inside
Wear modest clothing as it is a religious site
2. Robbers Cave
One of the best places to visit in Dehradun, Robbers Cave is 600 metres long. Located around 9 km (30 mins) outside the city centre, it is a must visit in Dehradun. It borrows its name from the age-old lore that the gorge served as a hiding place for bandits. The cave has a variety of different rock formations and a stream running through it. Adventure-seekers can explore the cave’s nooks and corners. Otherwise, take a dip in the water whereas those looking to relax can have a peaceful picnic. The natural wonder of Robbers Cave is certainly one of the best Dehradun tourist places.
Details:
Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 per person (approx.)
Location: Anarwala Village, ~9 km from Dehradun
Time Required: 1–2 hours
Visitor tips:
Wear footwear suitable for walking in water
Carry an extra pair of clothes if you plan to explore deeper
Visit early to avoid crowds
3. Tapkeshwar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Tapkeshwar Temple is perched on the banks of a river. It lies just 20 minutes away from the city. The main attraction is the Shivalinga which remains sheltered inside a cave. Water from the cave’s roof drips slowly onto the Shivalinga, creating both a natural and religious spectacle. There are also a number of sulphur-water hot springs around the temple where you can take a bath before heading to the temple, or simply relax. Tapkeshwar Temple is one of the best places to visit in Dehradun for both devotees and those looking to have a laid-back time in nature.
Details:
Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Garhi Cantt, ~6.5 km from Dehradun
Time Required: 1 hour
Visitor tips:
Visit early morning for a peaceful darshan
Be mindful of steps leading down to the temple
Maintain decorum as it is a place of worship
4. Forest Research Institute
Dehradun is home to the Forest Research Institute, spread over an area of 4.5 square km. Set against the Doon Valley, the FRI comprises a grand colonial structure built in the Greco-Roman style. However, it is as much of a tourist site as an education and research institute. The increasing popularity of this location can be attributed to its having been filmed in Bollywood films like Paan Singh Tomar and Student of the Year. The Institute also comprises a library, printing press, botanical garden, and six museums in Dehradun, including a Botanical Museum that attracts a large number of visitors, making FRI among the popular Dehradun tourist places.
Details:
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Museum)
Entry Fee: ₹40 per person (museum entry)
Location: Chakrata Road, Dehradun
Time Required: 2–3 hours
Visitor tips:
Carry water as the campus is quite large
Ideal for photography and long walks
Allocate enough time to explore the museum sections
5. Tibetan Market
If you are looking to do some shopping during your trip to Dehradun, you have a couple of options. While Paltan Bazaar, located in the heart of the city is Dehradun’s main market, head to the Tibetan Market for a more unique shopping experience. The Tibetan Market is completely run by people from the Tibetan community. From handicrafts to jewellery, hand-knit woollen garments to items for house decor and souvenirs for friends and family, your options are aplenty. While you’re there, indulge in some steaming hot momo, noodles, and salted butter tea.
Details:
Timings: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Near Parade Ground / Paltan Bazaar, Dehradun
Time Required: 1–2 hours
Visitor tips:
Best visited in the evening for a lively atmosphere
Located within the Malsi Forest Reserve, Dehradun Zoo remains one of the popular Dehradun tourist places. It lies slightly outside of the centre at a distance of 10 km and makes for a great spot to leave the bustle of the city behind. The zoo is primarily populated with deer, which wander around the park freely. The Himalayan antelope, nilgais, tigers, and peacocks are among the other animals and birds found at the Zoo. It supports a rich and diverse species of flora and fauna. There are also a host of different games and rides to keep children entertained, making it a great choice for families.
Details:
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person (approx.)
Location: Mussoorie Road, ~10 km from Dehradun
Time Required: 2–3 hours
Visitor tips:
Visit in the morning for a more comfortable experience
Carry water and light snacks
Ideal for families and relaxed outings
7. Rajaji National Park
Nature and wildlife lovers need to head to Rajaji National Park, one of the best places to visit in Dehradun. A national park, located just 50 minutes from the city and sprawling over 1,075 square kilometers, was recently declared a Tiger Reserve. Surrounded by the lower Himalayas, the lush forests of the Reserve are considered to be the lungs of Uttarakhand’s major cities, including Dehradun, supplying clean and fresh air. Set out on a jeep or elephant safari organised by the Forest Department to catch sight of the Asian elephants, tigers, bears, sambar, and wild cats among a host of other animals along the 34 km long jungle track.
Details:
Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM & 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Safari timings vary by zone)
Entry Fee: ₹150–₹300 (approx. per person; safari extra)
Location: ~20–25 km from Dehradun
Time Required: Half to full day
Visitor tips:
Book safari in advance, especially during peak season
Early morning safaris offer better chances of wildlife sightings
Carry ID and follow forest department guidelines
8. Shikhar Falls
To reach the picturesque Shikhar Falls, you have to travel 13km from Dehradun to Kairwaan village and then hike through another kilometre. Despite some difficulty in reaching there, Shikhar Falls remains one of the most popular Dehradun tourist places. Mountains and forests teeming with birds and butterflies surround it. On the way to Shikhar Falls, you will come across a number of smaller waterfalls, before crossing a small pool to access the main site. Wear comfortable shoes for the adventure up to Shikhar Falls, and once you’re up there, enjoy a quiet picnic by the water.
Details:
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Kairwaan Village, ~13 km from Dehradun
Time Required: 2–3 hours
Visitor tips:
Wear comfortable shoes for the short trek
Avoid visiting during heavy rains due to slippery paths
Carry water and light snacks
9. Maldevta
Lying 18 km (40 minutes) away from Dehradun’s centre, Maldevta is a quiet hamlet, away from the noise of the city and throngs of tourists. It lies nestled on the banks of the River Song that snakes its way close by, and the untouched natural landscape offers uninterrupted views of the mountains all around. Maldevta beckons you to cycle its paths, watch birds flit through the trees, swim in its refreshing waters, and most importantly, camp! Gather your friends and pitch your tents under the vast, starry sky.Maldeva is truly a nature lover’s paradise and one of the best places to visit in Dehradun.
Details:
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
Location: ~18 km from Dehradun
Time Required: Half day
Visitor tips:
Ideal for picnics and day outings with friends or family
Carry essentials as facilities are limited
Avoid late evenings as the area is relatively secluded
10. Kalsi
Kalsi village lies on Dehradun’s periphery and is best known for the awe-inspiring views it offers of the Garwahal Himalayas. The village perches at a height of 780 meters where the Yamuna and Tons rivers meet. Visit Kalsi for a homestay experience with one of the many local family hosts. The village also holds great historic value, due to the presence of the Ashokan Rock Edic that dates back to 253 BC. Spend your time in Kalsi, one of the most peaceful Dehradun tourist places by having a little picnic, going for a quick swim, boating, trekking, or camping in the area.
Details:
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (for Ashokan Rock Edict site)
Entry Fee: Free
Location: ~40 km from Dehradun
Time Required: Half day
Visitor tips:
Combine with a scenic drive for a relaxed day trip
Visit the Ashokan Rock Edict early to avoid crowds
Carry water and plan stops, as options are limited nearby
Dehradun should definitely be on your itinerary the next time you plan your travels up north. From delicious food at local markets, and beautifully constructed monasteries and universities, to spending abundant time in nature, trekking to waterfalls, camping under the stars or swimming in its many rivers, there are so many places to visit in Dehradun!
Take your trip to Dehradun a notch higher by choosing a Lohono villa in Dehradun. Beautifully furnished rooms with luxury amenities and top-notch service by our hospitality team, come stay with Lohono for a holiday above par.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the best places to visit in Dehradun?
Dehradun offers a mix of nature and cultural spots, including Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Forest Research Institute, Tapkeshwar Temple, and Mindrolling Monastery.
Q2. How many days are enough for Dehradun?
A 2 to 3-day trip is usually enough to explore the main attractions in Dehradun and also include a short visit to nearby places like Mussoorie.
Q3. What is the best time to visit Dehradun?
The best time to visit Dehradun is from March to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Q4. Is Dehradun worth visiting for a short trip?
Yes, Dehradun is ideal for a short getaway, especially for travellers looking for a mix of nature, temples, and easy access to nearby hill stations.
Q5. Can Dehradun and Mussoorie be covered in one trip?
Yes, many travellers combine Dehradun and Mussoorie in a single trip as they are just about 1–1.5 hours apart by road.
Q6. How far is Mussoorie from Dehradun?
Mussoorie is approximately 35 km from Dehradun and can be reached in about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Q7. What are some places to visit near Dehradun?
Popular places near Dehradun include Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dhanaulti, each offering different experiences from spirituality to nature and adventure.
Q8. Is Dehradun suitable for family trips?
Yes, Dehradun is a family-friendly destination with a mix of relaxed sightseeing spots, parks, temples, and easy travel options.
Q9. What kind of stay options are available in and around Dehradun?
Dehradun offers a range of stay options, from hotels to private homes. Lohono Stays also features a villa in Dehradun for those looking for a more private and comfortable stay, while nearby Mussoorie offers additional hillside villa options with scenic views.
Q10. How do I reach Dehradun?
Dehradun is well connected by air, rail, and road. The Jolly Grant Airport connects it to major cities, while trains and highways make it easily accessible.
