Situated in the Doon Valley with a backdrop of the Shivalik and Lesser Himalayas, Dehradun is one of the quaint cities offering scenic delight. There are many amazing places to visit in Dehradun for travellers who want to enjoy a slice of this peaceful haven. So get ready as this article is going to take you on a virtual ride where mesmerising Dehradun tourist places are on display with location, images, entry fee & timing information.
Best Places to Visit in Dehradun in 2024:
With comfortable hotels in Dehradun offering incredible views of the soaring mountains, the place attracts tourists from across the country for a getaway. Here is a list of Dehradun tourist places that ensure a memorable experience for tourists
1. Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara | #1 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Sahastradhara, also known as ‘Thousand Fold Spring’, is a beautiful place surrounded by caves and the Baldi River. Known for its high sulfur content, the spring water is said to have medicinal value. Other than this, the lime content in the spring water has given way to limestone outcrops and ridges. During the monsoon season, the water comes thundering down the rocks, offering a magnificent view.
- Location: Timilimansingh, Dehradun
- Timing: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Dehradun
Fab Tip: Take a ropeway to the top of the mountain for a bird’s-eye view of the entire place.
2. Robber’s Cave
Robber’s Cave | #2 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Also known as Guchu Pani, Robber’s Cave is a 600m-long cave with small waterfalls and a river flowing inside it. It is said that during the British times, robbers used to treat this cave as a hideout, and hence, the name. It is among the top 10 places to visit in Dehradun
- Location: Anarwala Rd, Garhi Cantt, Dehradun
- Timing: 7 AM – 6 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹25
Trivia: The river in the cave abruptly disappears at one spot and reappears from a point few meters away.
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3. Tiger Falls
Tiger Falls | #3 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Tiger Falls, situated in the beautiful forests of Chakrata, offers pristine views of Mother Nature. With an elevation of 312 m, this is one of the highest direct waterfalls in India. The waterfall culminates into a beautiful pond, enabling tourists to have a good time with friends and family. Travelers can also choose to trek around the area. Besides, tourists can also go canoeing, rappelling, and rafting in the waters.
- Location: Kanaser Range, Dehradun
- Timing: 7 AM – 7 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
Fab Tip: It’s advisable to visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
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4. Tapkeshawar Temple
Tapkeshawar Temple | #4 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Situated on the banks of the Asan River, Tapkeshwar Temple is popular as the oldest Shiva temple in Uttarakhand. The lingam inside this charming temple continuously receives water droplets from the ceiling making it a beautiful spectacle. Further, the never-ending holy chants and ringing of bells make the whole aura extremely devotional.
- Location: Tapkeshwar Colony, Dehradun
- Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
Trivia: The cave temple was once resided by the great sage, Guru Dronacharya.
5. Tapovan
Tapovan | #5 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
With beautiful green surroundings and the River Ganga flowing through it, Tapovan is an ideal location to rest, meditate and seek spiritual strength. It is said that Guru Dronacharya did his penance at the Tapovan temple here. Tourists can trek to the temple and immerse themselves in holy chants and ringing bells. Undisputedly, Tapovan is among the famous tourist places in Dehradun and ideal for those who come looking for peace and calmness in the mountains.
- Location: Ladpur, Dehradun
- Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Tapovan
Fab Tip: Indulge in meditation and yoga for a serene experience.
6. Lachhiwala
Lacchiwalla | #6 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Now known as Nature Park, Lachhiwala is a collection of man-made pools where you can have a good time with your friends and family. Flanked by Sal trees, it has a pleasant atmosphere like a forest; adding to the charm of the place. Tourists can also indulge in trekking and bird-watching in the area. The water in these pools is sourced from the Suswa River, flowing nearby.
- Location: Lachhiwala Range, Dehradun
- Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry fee: ₹60 for adults and ₹30 for children
Trivia: Lachhiwala got its name from the lac (lacquer) trees that were once abundantly found in the area. These trees were known for their sticky sap, which was used for making lacquer and other products.
7. Mindrolling Monastery
Mindrolling Monastery | #7 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
The Buddha Temple, also known as Mindrolling Monastery, was founded in 1965 by His Eminence Kochen Rinpoche and a small group of other monks in Tibet to preserve and spread Buddhist teachings and culture. The Buddha Temple complex, one of the four Tibetan religious schools, was built in the Japanese architectural style and has a 103-foot-tall statue of the Lord Buddha. Nyingma is the name of the temple complex, whereas Kagyu, Sakya, and Geluk are the names of the schools housed there. There are statues of Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava on all five of the temple’s levels, which rise to a height of approximately 220 feet. It is one of the best places to see in Dehradun to experience and learn about Tibetan Culture. To get a panoramic view of Doon Valley, climb the wooden stairs to the fourth story and stand on the open circular observation platform. The temple is open all 7 days of the week.
- Location: Clement Town, Dehradun
- Timings: Summer and Winter Visiting Hours Vary
- Entry Fee: Free
Trivia: This monastery has over 60m tall Great Stupa, which is believed to be one of the world’s tallest stupa and contains a series of shrine rooms displaying relics, murals, and Tibetan art.
8. Malsi Deer Park
Malsi Deer Park | #8 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Among the most popular Dehradun places to visit, Malsi Deer Park is a haven for wildlife lovers. This peaceful home to herds of deer is a favorite spot for family outings and school picnics. Besides the sleek spotted creatures, visitors can also capture several species of birds at Malsi Park.
- Location: Mussoorie Road
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
Trivia: Apart from the majestic Deer population, the park has two-horned deer and Neelgai (Indian Antelope) as well.
9. Forest Research Institute
Forest Research Institute | #9 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Are you interested in plants, birds, animals and other areas of forestry? Then make sure you visit Dehradun’s Forest Research Institute. This popular institute in the field of forestry research was established in 1906 and is known for its eye-catching colonial and Greco-Roman styles of architecture. Although an educational institution, it is open to visitors as well. It houses 6 museums, displaying the research on different areas in forestry. Surrounded by natural beauty, the institute attracts many nature lovers and picnickers as well.
- Location: Chakarata Road, Indian Military Academy, Dehradun
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM; Monday to Friday (Closed on Saturday and Sunday)
- Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
Trivia: The building of FRI was once listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest purely brick structure in the world
10. Daat Kali Mandir
Daat Kali Mandir | #10 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, Daat Kali Mandir is counted among the most important religious places in Dehradun. It is believed that the flame in the temple has been burning continuously since 1921. The temple witnesses a significant footfall throughout the year and is particularly visited by those starting a new chapter in their lives. Apart from seeking blessings, you can also offer oil, ghee, flour and other things to the Goddess.
- Location: NH 72A, Dehradun-Shanranpur Highway, Ashkrodi, Uttarakhand
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Trivia: It is said that the Daat Kali Temple houses an idol of the Goddess that was put there during the early 1800s when it was constructed.
11. Shree Prakasheshwar Mahadev Mandir
Shree Prakasheshwar Mahadev Mandir | #11 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Frequented by the devotees of Lord Shiva, Shree Prakasheshwar Mahadev Mandir is one of the most significant places of worship in the city. The main attraction of the temple is the beautiful Shivalinga which is made of sphatik or crystal. And after offering prayers, you can also relish free food at the Bhandara, which is organised here every day. Nestled amidst the verdant valleys of Dehradun, the divine vibe of this temple is beyond compare.
- Location: Mussoorie Road, Salan Gaon, Bhagwant Pur, Khala Goan, Uttarakhand
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Trivia: No offerings or donations are accepted at the temple, making it stand out from other temples in India.
12. Guru Ram Rai Gurudwara
Guru Ram Rai Gurudwara | #12 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
A popular attraction among devotees and tourists, Guru Ram Rai Gurudwara is visited by people from all states and religions. This illustrious holy place is also the oldest of its kind in Dehradun. The Gurudwara showcases a stunning blend of Indo-Islamic architecture with domes, minarets and murals adding a distinctive charm to it. When you step inside, you can see many religious inscriptions as well as murals and portraits of gods, goddesses, saints and sages on the walls. The Gurudwara premises has a huge pond as well.
- Location: Tilak Road, Jhanda Bazar, Jhanda Mohalla, Dehradun
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Ideal Duration: 2 hours
Trivia: Guru Ram Rai Gurudwara was built in the early 17th century. It is the oldest Gurudwara in Dehradun.
13. Chetwoode Hall
Chetwoode Hall | #13 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Set up in 1932, Chetwoode Hall is an important landmark of the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun. The significance of the building is such that it is depicted on the mementos of the IMA and serves as a backdrop for the Passing Out Parade. Apart from housing the administrative headquarters of IMA, the hall has a museum, computer labs, lecture halls and a café.
- Location: Indian Military Academy, Dehradun
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Fab Tip: Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the beautiful architectural details of Chetewood Hall.
14. Khalanga War Memorial
Khalanga War Memorial | #14 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Built by the British in 1814, Khalanga War Memorial is a symbol of pride for Gorkhas. During the battle of Nalapani, the first Anglo-Nepalese War, the British were highly impressed by the bravery of the Gorkha army. This is when they built Khalanga War Memorial to honour their enemy. This heritage monument is one of its kind in the country; it is probably one of the world’s first memorials built for the opponent.
- Location: Tibbanala Pani, Dehradun
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Ideal Duration: 30-45 minutes
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Dehradun
15. Shikhar Falls
Shikhar Falls | #15 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Frequented by nature lovers and adventure seekers, Shikhar Falls is one of the most beautiful attractions in Dehradun. The waterfall is surrounded by mountainous terrain, so you need to go for a strenuous hike of about 1 km to reach the falls. And during this short hike, you will come across many wildflowers, shallow pools, pretty birds, and butterflies, which add to the beauty of the area. If you are a shutterbug, do remember to click some amazing photos here. And if you are a nature lover, you can simply sit back and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the surroundings.
- Location: Kairwaan Gaon, Dumal Gaon, Uttarakhand
- Timings: 24×7
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Fab Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as you may need to trek to reach the waterfall.
16. Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park | #16 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Nestled amidst the majestic Shivalik ranges, Rajaji National Park is a picturesque destination for wildlife buffs and nature lovers. The national park is spread over an area of 820.20 square kilometres and known for housing over 50 species of mammals and 300 species of birds. You can take a jeep or elephant safari here and spot a range of fauna, including some endangered ones, such as the Asian elephant, tiger, Himalayan black bear, wild cats and sloth bear. If you love birdwatching, keep your binoculars and cameras handy for some rare sightings.
- Location: Motichur Range, Uttarakhand
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM; 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Park remains open from 15th November to 15th June)
- Entry Fee:
- Indians: INR 150 per person
- Foreigners: INR 600 per person
- Extra charges for vehicles and cameras
- Ideal Duration: 3 hours
Trivia: Rajaji National Park was established in 1983 and covers an area of approximately 820 square kilometres. The park is named after C. Rajagopalachari, a freedom fighter and the last Governor-General of India.
17. Tiger View Jungle Camp
Tiger View Jungle Camp| #17 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Around 10 km from Dehradun and situated in Goolar Khalla village, Tiger View Jungle Camp is yet another popular attraction among wildlife enthusiasts. It is particularly known for protecting the endangered Indian tiger. Besides camping in the wilderness, you can go for a jungle safari here to spot a variety of flora and fauna. The natural beauty of the place will transport you to a different world, away from the urban hustle-bustle. Spotting majestic tigers in their natural habitat will make for a unique experience altogether.
- Location: Goolar Khalla, Dehradun
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: Jeep charges for jungle safari
- Ideal Duration: 3 hours
Fab Tip: You can take the jungle safari to view flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
18. Maldevta
Maldevta | #18 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
The outskirts of Dehradun boast some wonderful attractions too, and Maldevta is one of them. It is situated in Raipur district and is about 18 km from the main city. Maldevta is known for its abundant natural beauty and perfect for you if you are looking to unwind and enjoy different recreational activities, like swimming, biking, sightseeing, birdwatching, camping and photography. While the mighty Himalayas serve as the perfect backdrop, the meandering Song River and abundant flora add to the beauty of the landscape.
- Location: Maldevta Road, Raipur, Uttarakhand
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
Fab Tip: Don’t play loud music as it can harm the ears of the wild animals thriving in and around the area.
19. Tibetan Market
Tibetan Market | #19 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
A delight for shopaholics, Tibetan Market is one of the top shopping places in Dehradun. The market is run by the Tibetan community and the selection of products here will leave you spoilt for choice. From handicrafts, Garhwali jewellery and handbags to clothes, footwear wooden artworks, the options here are endless. Remember to pick up some hand-knitted woolen garments here as you might not find the same quality elsewhere. Once you are done with all the shopping, enjoy
- Location: Opposite Parade Ground, Dehradun
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
Trivia: Tibetan Market is also nicknamed “Bhotia Market”.
20. Paltan Bazaar
Paltan Bazaar| #20 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Whether you are looking to buy something or soak in local sights and sounds, a trip to Paltan Bazaar is a must when you are in Dehradun. This vibrant market stretches for more than 1.5 km near Dehradun Clock Tower and is popular as the main bazaar or shopping area in the city. Apart from apparel, appliances, handicrafts, and artworks, you can find the best local spices and confectionery items here. If you are looking for souvenirs, handwoven woolen garments and authentic Himalayan spices are some popular options.
- Location: Raipur Road, Near Clock Tower, Dehradun
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; 7 days a week
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Clock Tower
Fab Tip: Visit the market before 12 pm to avoid the rush.
21. Santala Devi Temple
Santala Devi Temple | #21 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
Santala Devi Temple is a notable religious landmark in Dehradun that goes by a few different names: Santaula Devi Temple and Santaura Devi Temple. Among the many attractions in Dehradun, this temple is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Sanatala Devi and her brother are both worshipped in the temple. There is a legend that when Santala Devi and her brother saw that they were helpless against the Mughal Army, they threw down their weapons and prayed instead. A divine light suddenly flickered, and they were transformed into stone statues. Soon after the incident, a shrine was constructed inside the fort’s walls. The day they were transformed into stone statues was Saturday (Shaniwaar). Hundreds of worshippers visit the temple to pay homage. Saturdays are revered as Goddess Santala’s day; therefore, the temple’s regular footfall swells on that day.
- Location: Punkal Gaon, Dehradun
- Timings: 8 am to 6 pm all days of the week
- Entry fee: Free
Trivia: It is located at a height of about 2083 meter on the right bank of Nun Nandi.
22. Laxman Siddh Temple
Laksham Sidh Temple | #22 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
One of the four Sidh Piths, the Laksham Sidh Temple on Doiwala Road, may be found 12 kilometres from Dehradun on the road to Rishikesh. Swami Lakshman Sidh, a revered saint, was cremated near the Lakshman Sidh Temple in the middle of a thick forest. The temple is well-known for being an oasis of calm in the midst of the wild, far from the bustle of nearby Dehradun. It is also a popular destination for those interested in bird watching. Located in a gorgeous area surrounded by deep woodland, the temple is said to be the same site where Lord Laxman, brother of Lord Rama, sought redemption after killing the demon king Ravana. Once a year, on the final Sunday of April, the Laxman Siddh Temple hosts the Laxman Siddh Fair. The temple showcases the traditions and rituals of the area’s indigenous communities.
- Location: Haridwar Rd, Lachhiwala Range, Dehradun
- Timings: 9 am to 12 noon; 5 pm to 9.30 pm
- Entry fee: Free
Trivia: It is part of the four Siddhas of Dehradun as well as 84 Sidh Peeths in India.
23. Fun Valley
Fun Valley | #23 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
In the heart of the Golden Triangle of Uttaranchal, the Fun Valley Park is easily accessible from all three of the region’s major cities: Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. It is situated on NH-72, connecting Dehradun and Haridwar. It’s a full-fledged entertainment complex with everything from a theme park to a resort with charming cottages for overnight stays, a highway motel and a multi-cuisine food court in one convenient location. The longest water slide in India and the largest wave pool in Northern India are just a few of the top draws of Fun Valley. The vast park, nestled in the verdant hills at the base of the Garhwal Himalayas, is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and makes for a perfect weekend or free-time destination. The water park, go-kart track, and retail centres are only some of the features of the integrated resort cum entertainment park.
- Location: Haridwar Road, Lal Tappar, Dehradun
- Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
- Entry Fee: Based on Height | Below 3ft – Free, From 3ft to 4ft 6 inches – INR 700, Above 4ft 6 inches – INR 900
Trivia: This amusement park offers 21 exciting rides to choose from, out of which four are found only here in all of the continents. A few of the rides at the park are Dragon Coaster, Water Slides, Dodgem Cars, Go Karting, and Wave Pool which is the largest in any water park in North India.
24. Asan Barrage Bird Sanctuary
Asan Barrage Bird Sanctuary | #24 of 24 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun
The barrage is situated at the point where the Asan River and the Eastern Yamuna Canal meet. Located northwest of Dehradun, the wetland is close to the Uttarakhand-Himachal Border. Numerous waterfowl, including divers and waders, flock to the lake. There are birds in Asan that are categorised as endangered in the IUCN Red Data Book. At an elevation of 389.4 metres above sea level, the river bed is 287.5 metres long. Hundreds of migratory birds stop by the Asan barrage every year, making this a wonderful location for bird watchers, naturalists, and ornithologists. To casual birdwatchers, the winter months may be the most thrilling, but for the avid birder, the months of early May right up to the end of September provide fascinating possibilities to view the open-billed storks, painted storks, night herons, and more.
- Location: Dakpathar, Dehradun
- Timings: 8 am to 6 pm all days of the week
- Entry Fee: Free
Fab Tip: The time period between May to September end is simply perfect to have a wonderful sight of a variety of bird species found here.
With a lot of varied attractions in Dehradun, tourists will definitely have a great time in the Doon Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dehradun:
Q. Are there any direct flights to Dehradun?
A. Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport has daily scheduled operations to and from cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Jammu and Pantnagar.
Q. Which are the important trains operating to Dehradun?
A. Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, Mussoorie Express, Kathgodam Express and Sangam Express are a few of the important trains plying to Dehradun railway station. These connect Dehradun to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Varanasi, Amritsar, Indore, Ujjain, Chennai, Allahabad, Kolkata and Gorakhpur.
Q. Is it a convenient option to travel to Dehradun by road?
A. Yes. Deluxe, Volvo, semi-deluxe and non-AC buses are available for Dehradun on a daily basis from across Uttarakhand and nearby areas like Delhi. You can even hire a taxi or drive by yourself to Dehradun from the capital.
Q. How to get around Dehradun?
A. City buses, auto rickshaws and shared autos are all available to travel within Dehradun. For convenience, you can also choose to rent a car for local travelling.
Q. Where to shop in Dehradun?
A. One of the most popular shopping centres in Dehradun is Paltan Bazaar. Indira Market, Tibetan Market, Rajpur Road, Ashley Hall and Arhat Bazaar are other markets in Dehradun where you can shop for souvenirs.
Q. Which places are popular for a weekend getaway from Dehradun?
A. Mussoorie, Haridwar, and Rishikesh are among the most popular places to visit near Dehradun on a weekend trip.
Q. What to do in Dehradun?
A. Some of the famous things to do in Dehradun are visiting Robber’s Cave, exploring Rajaji National Park, offering prayers at Tapkeshwar Temple, relaxing at Sahastradhara, shopping at Paltan Bazaar.
Q. How much distance from Delhi to Dehradun?
A. The Distance from Delhi to Dehradun is approximately 252 km. There are multiple options available to commute via bus, train or taxi.
Q. Where is Dehradun located in India?
A. Dehradun is located in the state of Uttarakhand, India at an elevation of 640 m above sea level.
Q. How far is Dehradun from Chandigarh?
A. The distance between Chandigarh and Dehradun is around 173 km with an average duration of 5 hours.
This post was last modified on 22-Dec-2023