Dehradun Travel Guide: Top Places to Visit & Things to Do
Overview of Dehradun
Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand. It sits at the base of the great Himalayan mountains. This city is in a beautiful green place called the Doon Valley.
People love the cool and fresh air here. The city is not too big or too noisy. It is a calm and peaceful place for a trip.
Many famous schools are found in Dehradun. It is a hub for learning and knowledge. The city is also a door to other hill towns. This makes it a great starting point for travel.
Entry Details and Timing for Dehradun
Most shops in Dehradun open around 10 in the morning. They usually close by 9 at night. The main markets get busy in the evening.
Food stalls and small cafes may stay open later. This is good for a late dinner or snack. Plan your shopping during the main hours.
To see the city well, you need about three days. This gives you time to visit all the main spots. You can also relax and enjoy the city's slow pace. A longer trip of four to five days is even better.
What To Expect at Dehradun?
You can expect very nice weather in Dehradun. The air is clean and the sun is not too hot. The city is full of green trees and parks. This makes it a great place to walk around.
The streets are a mix of old and new. You will see old shops and new cafes. The people are friendly and helpful to visitors. You can try tasty local food like momos and sweets.
There are many things to do here. You can visit old temples and famous buildings. You can also go on nature walks in the hills. It is a good place to just sit and relax.
You will find many tourist attractions. These places show the city's past and nature. They are great for taking photos and making memories. Your trip will be full of fun and peace.
History of Dehradun
The history of Dehradun is very old. Its name comes from a story about a great teacher. His name was Guru Dronacharya. It is said he lived here long ago.
Later, the city was ruled by many kings. The Gurkhas from Nepal ruled here for a time. Then the British came and made it a town. They loved its cool climate and green hills.
The British built many fine buildings. They also started famous schools here. After India got its freedom, the city grew more. Now, it is the proud capital of its state.
Why Dehradun is Known For
- Dehradun is known for its top schools and research centers. Many students come here from all over the country to study.
- The city is a key part of Uttarakhand tourism. It acts as a base for trips to holy places like Rishikesh and Haridwar.
- It is famous as a gateway Dehradun hill station for travelers. People stop here before going up to the colder mountains.
- The area is also known for its tasty Basmati rice. The rice grows well in the green fields around the city.
More About Dehradun Scenery
The scenery in Dehradun is full of natural beauty. The city is hugged by the Shivalik hills. These hills look green and full of life. You can see tall trees and small rivers.
In the morning, a soft mist covers the town. The air feels fresh and cool. When the sun sets, the sky turns orange and red. The view of the hills at this time is very lovely.
You will find many parks and forests around Dehradun. These places are quiet and full of birds. They are perfect for a long walk or a small picnic. The natural world is very close to the city here.
Architecture and Style of Dehradun
The buildings in Dehradun show its rich past. You can see many old buildings from the British time. These buildings have a classic style with big pillars and sloped roofs. The Forest Research Institute is a great example of this style.
The city also has new modern buildings. You will see new homes, shops, and hotels. They have a simple and clean look. The mix of old and new styles is very interesting.
The local markets have their own charm. The shops are small and colorful. The streets in the old part of the town are narrow. They give you a feel of the city's history.
Best Time to Visit Dehradun
The best time to visit Dehradun is from March to June. The weather is very pleasant during these months. It is warm but not too hot. It is a great time for sightseeing and outdoor fun.
Another good time is from September to November. The monsoon rains have stopped. The air is clean and the hills look very green. The weather is cool and perfect for exploring.
Winters are cold from December to February. But some people love the chilly air. Try to visit on weekdays to avoid big crowds. This will make your trip more peaceful.
How to Reach Dehradun
You can reach Dehradun by air. The Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport. It is about 25 kilometers from the city center. You can get a taxi from the airport.
The city has its own railway station. The Dehradun Railway Station is well linked to major cities. Many trains from Delhi and other places arrive here. The station is right in the heart of the city.
You can also travel by road. Buses run all day from Delhi, and other nearby towns. The roads are good and the bus journey is scenic. Driving your own car is also a good option.
Travel Tips for Visiting Dehradun
- Wear shoes that are good for walking.
- Always carry a bottle of water with you.
- Follow the local rules and be polite.
- Stay safe and be aware of your things.
- Respect the Dehradun culture and its people.
- Bring warm clothes if you visit in winter.
- Do not bring plastic bags as they are banned.
- Ask for help if you are lost.
Top Attractions In or Near Dehradun
There are many great places to visit in Dehradun. These spots offer fun for everyone. Here are some of the top choices for your trip. This Dehradun travel guide lists the best spots.
- Robber's Cave: This spot is in Dehradun and has a river flowing through a cave. You can walk through the cool water here.
- Sahastradhara: This spot is near Dehradun and has many waterfalls. The water is said to have healing powers.
- Forest Research Institute: This spot is in Dehradun and has amazing British style buildings. It also has large museums inside.
- Tapkeshwar Temple: This spot is in Dehradun and has a temple inside a cave. It is a holy place for many people.
- Mindrolling Monastery: This spot is in Dehradun and has a grand Buddhist temple. It is very peaceful and beautiful.
- Mussoorie: This spot is near Dehradun and has great views of the Himalayas. It is known as the "Queen of Hills".
