Places To Visit in Dehradun | Tourist Site, Water Falls, Temples, Parks, Trekking

1. Robber's Cave

Robber's Cave is a river cave formed in the Himalayas about 8 kilometers from Dehradun in the north-eastern state of Uttarakhand. This river cave is very close to Sahasradhara which are the thousandfold springs in Uttarakhand. It is mostly frequented by tourists seeking the adventure of witnessing this natural formation that has river water flowing from the middle of a cave. 



Tourists need to trek a distance of about 1 kilometer through the Anarwala village to reach this place. It is a perfect location for those seeking adventure and thrill. Locals call it Guchhu Pani and also believe that it is home to Lord Shiva. Tourists can explore this 600 metres long cave that has been divided into two main parts. If you happen to walk a little further through the stream, you can also spot a splendid waterfall.


2. Sahastradhara

Sahastradhara literally means 'thousand-fold spring'. It is a popular attraction, famous for its ecstatic beauty and therapeutic value since its water contains Sulphur. While the place can be visited any time during the year, you would love the charming beauty of the waterfall during the rainy season when the stream proposes the appearance of a gushing torrent. Sahastradhara is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand and is placed in the picturesque town of Dehradun.

3. Mindrolling Monastery

One of the six major monasteries of the Nyingma School in Tibet, the Mindrolling Monastery was established in 1676 by Rigzin Terdak Lingpa which was re-established in Dehradun by Khochhen Rinpoche along with a group of monks in 1965. The monastery is not only a tourist attraction but also a destination where on a daily basis almost hundreds of individuals attain spirituality. Being an architectural masterpiece with several sections, the monastery is no less than a wonder to look at. Numerous beautiful gardens, large areas, and a stupa are all situated within the perimeter of the monastery. The Ngagyur Nyingma College is also present within the premises offering advanced Buddhist studies to monks who can pass on the knowledge to the upcoming generations.

4. Lacchiwalla 

A popular picnic destination, Lacchiwalla is famous for its lush greenery unspoiled by human activity. It is located at a small drive away from Dehradun. You can stay over at picturesque cottages and hotels.

5. Har ki Dun

Nestled away from the hustle-bustle of the city, Har Ki Dun is a beautiful cradle shaped valley with untouched panoramic beauty. Perched at an elevation of 3,566 mts above the sea level, this place is one of the remotest areas of Uttarakhand offering a plethora of trekking excursions.

6. Tapovan Temple

Tapovan is a holy place which is located at a distance of 5 km from the Dehradun city. Surrounded by greenery visit to this temple is known for releasing the tension and providing a sense of satisfaction as well as peace of mind to the visitors. It is a very famous place to go for meditation and to escalate one's spirit.


7. Paltan Bazar

Paltan Bazar in Dehradun in another great option in Dehradun for shopping. You can pick spices, edibles and great artifacts from this market. Being one of the crowded markets Paltan Bazar gives a glimpse of rustic life.


8. Fun Valley


Fun Valley's reputation as a fully-fledged entertainment venue for families and friends to spend a cheery and exhilarated day is unshakeable. Located at almost equidistant measures from Uttarakhand's Golden Triangle between Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh, the amusement park is the perfect arena for a bonding experience with your loved ones. Housing a vast interior complex, multi-cuisine restaurant and kiosks, thrilling rides that include an exciting water park, deluxe rooms, and a motel, Fun Valley has seen an influx of tourists and holiday goers in the recent past.


9. Tiger View Jungle Camp,

Situated in the village Goolar Khalla, Tiger View Jungle camp shelters the endangered Indian Tiger. You can take the jungle safari, and enjoy the rare facility of camping in the wilderness.

10. Dehradun Zoo (Malsi Deer Park) 

Located at the base of the Shivalik range, Malsi Deer Park is a zoological garden, and it is home to two horned Deer, Tiger, Neelgai, Peacock and many other animals. Heaven for all the nature lovers out there, the beauty of the place is worth spending time at. Rich in flora and fauna, the park is a great point to unwind and break away from the busy life of the city. 


It is a small zoological park with a picturesque location and vibrant wildlife which makes it an amazing place for photographers. The park is blessed with natural and serene surroundings and an attractive environment perfect for sightseeing and picnic.



11. Tapkeshwar Temple

Located at a distance of 6.5 kilometers from the city center of Dehradun, the Tapkeshwar Temple is a humble cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Simple and charming in its appearance, this revered temple is situated along the banks of a river which imparts it a unique sanctity.  A Shiva Linga is enshrined in the main complex which is believed to grant the wishes of all those who seek the Lord's blessings. Water trickles from the ceiling continuously on the Shivalinga, making it an interesting spectacle to watch. This cave was once resided by the famous guru Dronacharya and hence is also famous as Drona cave.



12. Zonal Museum

The zonal museum is popular for its collection of artifacts relating to the origin, development, and sustenance of the mankind on earth, and stands witness to the ancient living conditions and customs of its people.

The Museum situated on Hardwar Road was founded in the year 1971. Zonal Museum opens for the public from 10 am to 5 pm except on holidays, second Saturdays and Sundays.



13. Forest Research Institute

Established in the year 1906, the Forest Research Institute is spread over 4.5 square kilometers and has an imposing Colonial and Greco-Roman styles of architecture. This premier institution in the field of forestry research in India is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Nestled in the serene backdrop of the Doon Valley, Forest Research Institute is also a significant tourist attraction of Dehradun. The beautiful sprawling campus of Forest Research Institute has been drawing a lot of media as well. The Institute has been used to film various Bollywood films. Some of these famous productions are- Krishna Cottage, Dulhan Ek Raat Ki, Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein, Paan Singh Tomar, Kamra No. 404, Dilli Khabar, Yaara, Dear Daddy and Student of the Year. A lot of TV commercials and albums have also been shot here. The beauty of this institute is further enhanced by the presence of Tons River on its Western Boundary.


14. Trekking in Dehradun

Trekking has been one of the favorite activities among adventure travelers coming to Dehradun. Jwala Devi, George Everest, Bhadraj Temple, Shivalik ranges, Doon valley, Dakpather, Asan Barrage are some of the places to be mentioned when we talk about trekking in Uttarakhand. Pachhwadun region is one of the starting points for a lot of treks.


15. Bali Pass

One of the least explored treks in the Indian Himalayan region that connects the Har Ki Dun Valley with Yamunotri, the Bali Pass Trek is a beautiful journey that one should try at least once in a lifetime.


16. Assan Barrage

An amazing place bustling with life, the richness of nature and beauty, Assan Barrage is a bird lover's paradise and a naturalists' heaven with its artificial lake attracting thousands of birds of varied species. Assan Barrage was formed due to the confluence of two great rivers of Uttarakhand _ã_ Assan and Yamuna River. The area created by their confluence is today a place full of life, biodiversity and the most unique bird population in the world.

17 Chitwood Hall

The Chetwoode Hall adjoins the Indian Military Academy and is home to the Indian army's modern artilleries and sophisticated ammunitions along with a wide range of artifacts that detail the splendor of the Indian Armed Forces.

18. Clock tower

The clock tower, also known as "ghanta Ghar" is a very famous tourist attraction. It was started in the year 1948 and got completed in 1953. The much-respected Lal Bahadur Shastri inaugurated the monument. It was a renowned landmark of the city and was built by the British before India got its independence. The clock does not tick at present, but it is said that years ago when it was built, the peak of it was such that a person on the other end of the city could hear it as well.


19. Kalinga War Memorial

Located along the Sahastradhara road, Kalinga War Memorial was erected by the British to honor the Gurkhas. The only war memorial of its kind which was built was Britishers to honor their foe, Kalinga War Memorial is a symbol of pride for Gurkha community.

20. Ram Rai Gurudwara

Established by 'Ram Rai', the eldest son of the seventh Guru of the Sikhs, Sri Har Rai ji in 17th Century, Ram Rai Gurudwara in Dehradun is one of the oldest Gurudwara and a popular pilgrimage center of the Sikh religion.



An annual fair is held every year on the 5th day after Holi, the festival of colors.



21. Rafting in Tiuni

If you have experience and courage then get ready to raft on India’s one of the wildest river Ton and get on a nerve-wracking ride of your life.

Rafting is an adrenaline gushing roller coaster journey on the white water of River Ton flowing through the western part of Himalayas. Considered as one of the most untamed and technical rivers of India, it gives you a lifetime experience of hardcore rafting amid the wilderness of Tons Valley. Beginning from Lunagad, it goes on till Tiuni including a drop of 78 km just prior to Tiuni and then further, with the only middle and lower section of Ton river applicable for the expedition. The rapids descend at an average rate of 32 ft. per kilometer at the middle ton, making it quite an exhaustive yet exhilarating affair. Rafting on one of the biggest tributaries of Yamuna River is definitely not for the first-timers or novice.


22. Kalsi

A small village in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, Kalsi is known as the gateway to the Jaunsar-Bawar tribal region of the Dehradun District. It is located between Dehradun and Chakrata hill station along the banks of the river Yamuna and is the confluence of the rivers, Yamuna and Tons. Inhabited by the people from the Khils, Bhutis and Mundar communities, Kalsi is a place that offers a domestic and homely experience. Surrounded by lush green oak and sal trees and a vast green valley, this little retreat offers you an enchanting view of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges.


23. Fun 'n' Food Kingdom

Fun 'n' Food Kingdom is a huge and gorgeous situated near Prem Nagar in Dehradun. Owing to its themed decor, immaculate clean pools and an array of thrilling adventurous riders, the park experiences a huge influx of localities and tourists alike.


24. Joy Land Water & Amusement Park 

Joy Land Water & Amusement Park is situated in Sahastradhara in Dehradun. With picture-perfect scenery and hills in the backdrop, the ambiance of the water park looks still better. Owing to its thrill rides and adventure activities, the water park experiences a large tourist influx, especially in summers.


25. The Earth Lounge

If you are looking for places to visit in Dehradun in night, then head to the cafes and pubs here. Nights in Dehradun can be as happening as the days. With a wide range of clubs, lounges, and bars, the night scenes in Dehradun are full of possibilities and can help one kickback and unwind. Some of these places offer lovely mountain views too. Have a great time here and enjoy your evenings. Kick back, put your feet up, take the glass of martini or mocktail (whichever you prefer) in your hand and gaze at the extraordinary views.

Opening hours: 10 AM to 11 PM


26. Wildlife Institute Of India

The Wildlife Institute Of India carries out wildlife research in areas of study like Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Wildlife Policy, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Forensics, Spatial Modeling, Ecodevelopment, Habitat Ecology, and Climate Change. It has a research facility that includes Forensics, Remote Sensing and GIS, Laboratory, Herbarium, and a Library.

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

Distance from ISBT Dehradun: 3.3 km


27. Shiv Mandir

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Shiv Mandir is a famous temple of Dehradun. It is situated on the way to Mussoorie. Located on the beautiful route of Dehradun Mussoorie, the environs around the temple are beautiful. Head here during the evening or stop on your way to Mussoorie from Dehradun or during the way back for half an hour. It is one of those temples which has no donation box present. One can buy gemstones at the shop in the temple premises. There is a snack and tea stall present too.
Opening hours: 9 AM – 9 PM

Distance from ISBT Dehradun: 11 km


28. Maldevta

Maldevta is another picnic spot in Dehradun. The environs are pretty peaceful. There is a river flowing by the green meadows here and one can take a half-day trip to this place. There is a famous temple too here by the same name. One can enjoy a picnic by the river here. There are no proper restaurants close by so it is advised to carry one’s own food. One might find a few small shops for chips or tea here.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours

Distance from ISBT Dehradun: 22 km


29. Tiger Falls 

The Tiger Falls are located at Chakrata, which is at a distance of 87 kilometers from Dehradun (an hour’s drive depending upon traffic). One of the hidden gems of the region, the Chakrata Falls cascade down a height of 50 meters and are truly a sight to behold. The Tiger Falls are a popular picnic spot and can be reached by trekking for 5 kilometers from Chakrata. The trekking route is dotted by lush greenery and forests rich with oak and rhododendron trees. The falling water collects in a little pond at the base of the falls and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature at its best and most beautiful. Chakrata is also a great place for nature lovers, bird watchers and families with children.

30. Sai Darbar Temple 

The Sai Darbar Tempel is one of the most colorful and popular temples in Dehradun. Located on Rajpur Road, 8 kilometers from the Clock Tower, the Sai Darbar Temple is a calm and peaceful temple, located away from the hustle and bustle of Dehradun. Dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba, the temple is visited by many devotees across different faiths. The Sai Darbar Temple is constructed out of marble and the idol of Sai Baba is placed in the middle of the temple. There is a large hall in the temple where prayers are held every evening.

31. Indian Military Academy

The Indian Military Academy (IMA) is an army officer training academy, which was set up in 1932 to train officers of the Indian Army. The academy is renowned for producing brave army officers who have shown valor in the face of grave peril. Located 8 kilometers from Dehradun, the campus of the IMA is spread over a rambling 1400 acres and is located on NH 72. The IMA is fully equipped with lecture halls, computer labs, a library with over 100,000 books and periodicals from around the world, a café and an auditorium with a seating capacity of 2000 people.

Movie Connect
A few scenes of the Hrithik Roshan and Preity Zinta starer, Lakshya were shot on the Indian Military Academy Campus.

32. Lakshman Sidh Temple

Located 12 kilometers from Dehradun, on the way to Rishikesh is the Laksham Sidh Temple. Popular for its scenic beauty, the temple is visited by numerous devotees on a regular basis. The Lakshman Sidh Temple is located in the heart of a dense forest and is the cremation site of Swami Lakshman Sidh, a renowned saint. In the middle of the wilderness and away from the chaos of Dehradun, the Lakshman Sidh Temple is famous for the peace and tranquility it offers visitors. A temple is also a great place for bird watchers, as the temple and its surrounding area is flocked by many birds across different species.

Opening Closing Time
6 am to 7 pm
Entrance Fee
Entry is free and open to all

33. MDDA Park 

Located on Rajpur Road, MDDA Park is a beautiful, lush green park which is a great place to sit and relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The MDDA Park also has an aquarium, parking facilities, a canteen from where you can grab a bite and ample seating space.

Opening Closing Time
10 am to 9 pm
Entrance Fee
Rs.10 per person

34. Jhanda Fair 

This is one of the most popular festivals celebrated in Dehradun and is celebrated five days after Holi every year. Commemorated in honor of the Sikh Guru Ram Rai who came to Dehradun in 1699 and constructed a Gurudwara named the Guru Ram Rai Darbar. Guru Ram Rai hosted a flag in the Gurudwara and since then the Guru’s followers unfurl a flag in the Gurudwara every year to honor his memory.


Dates: Five days after Holi annually

35. The Ashokan Rock Edict

One of the major sites to visit when in Kalsi due to its vast historical importance. Here lies a pear-shaped quartz rock onto which the fourteenth edict of King Ashoka is inscribed. The Pali language and the Brahmi script is used in these edicts which reflect upon the humane nature of Ashoka as a king and his concern for the welfare of his subjects. The names of five great Greek kings can be found engraved on the edict which conclusively dates it back to 253 BC.

36. Dakpathar

The ideal spot for enjoying picnics when traveling with friends and family to Kalsi, Dakpathar is a place frequented by tourists. Other than being a great picnic spot, many recreational water sports and activities including boating, canoeing, sailing, river rafting, water skiing and even the use of hovercrafts are available here to soothe the adventure devil inside you. Here the Yamuna river is completely unpolluted and safe. For those who take a fancy to fishing or angling, a few resorts specifically arrange them for their guests in the periods of September to October and March to April. 

37. Chakrata Hills

A hill station located around 43 km from Kalsi, Chakrata offers you views of the towering Chakrata hills and ravishing waterfalls to reinvigorate the weary traveler's soul in you. Here you can take treks along the Chakrata Pass which winds along some of the waterfalls, including the very famous and beautiful Tiger Pass. Chakrata also offers adventure sports like mountaineering, rock climbing, parasailing, rappelling among others to satisfy the adventure freak inside you.  

38. Vikasnagar

Located very close to Kalsi, Vikasnagar offers a very vibrant environment and serves as a great shopping destination. A variety of foreign goods are available which can be taken as souvenirs. Local specialties like salwar kameez will definitely excite the traditionalists. Other unique specialties, like handcrafted brass and copper trumpets, the local Jaunsari drums are available for very reasonable prices and are definitely worth checking out.  


39. Timli Pass

If you are looking to soak in a bit of history along with the scenery, then Timli Pass is a place worth visiting. This place is regarded to be historically significant as it is believed to have bore witness to the battle between the British army led by Major General Ochterlony and the Gorkhas.

Whether with friends, family or by yourself, Kalsi is a retreat that you should definitely consider visiting. Blessed with fantastic weather all year round, beautiful trails, scenery and a bevy of outdoor activities to choose from, Kalsi is a place that always has something for anyone who visits.


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