1. Dehradun
Dehradun , also spelled Dera Doon, is the capital of Uttarakhand, a state in India. Located in the Garhwal region, it lies 236 kilometers (147 mi) north of India's capital New Delhi and 168 kilometers (104 mi) from Chandigarh. It is one of the "Counter Magnets" of the National Capital Region (NCR) being developed as an alternative center of growth to help ease the migration and population explosion in the Delhi metropolitan area and to establish a smart city at Dehradun. During the days of British Raj, the official name of the town was Dehra.
Dehradun is located in the Doon Valley on the foothills of the Himalayas nestled between the river Ganges on the east and the river Yamuna on the west. The city is famous for its picturesque landscape and slightly milder climate and provides a gateway to the surrounding region. It is well connected and in proximity to Himalayan tourist destinations such as Mussoorie, and Auli and the Hindu holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh along with the Himalayan pilgrimage circuit of Chota Char Dham.
Dehradun Municipal Corporation is locally known as Nagar Nigam Dehradun. Other urban entities involved in civic services and city governance and management include Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA), Special Area Development Authority (SADA), Jal Sansthan, and Jal Nigam among others. Dehradun is also known for its Basmati rice and bakery products.
Dehradun is made up of two words: Dehra is derived from the word Dera, meaning camp or temporary settlement. Dun or Doon in Garhwali language refers to a valley that lies between the middle Himalayas and the "Shivaliks". Other prominent Doon valleys are Kotli Doon, Patli Doon, and Pinjore Doon. When Guru Ram Rai, son of Guru Har Rai, came to this region with his followers, he established a camp here for them. Around this time, the modern city of Dehradun started to develop. This is when the word Dehra was linked to Dun, and thus the city was named Dehradun. In Skanda Purana, Dun is mentioned as a part of the region called Kedar Khand, the abode of Shiva. In ancient India during the Mahabharata epic era, Dronacharya the great teacher of Kauravas and Pandavas, lived here hence the name, "Dronanagari" (lit. city of Drona). Some historians believe that the word Dehra can be regarded as a term for camping
History
Ancient history
In Skanda Purana, Dun is mentioned as a part of the region called Kedar Khand, the abode of Shiva. In ancient India during the Mahabharata epic era, Dronacharya the great teacher of Kauravas and Pandavas lived here hence the name, "Dronanagari".
A rock edict of Ashoka, the legendary Mauryan King, who ruled between 273 BC to 232 BC, was discovered at Kalsi, 56 km. from Dehradun by John Forest, in 1860.
According to the history of Dehradun, it has been part of Garhwal Kingdom except for the brief interlude of rohillas. The present town of Dehradun was named after 'Guru Ram Rai', the elder son of seventh Sikh Guru, Guru Har Rai, who was part of the Udasi sect of Sikh Asceticism, who came here in 1675, and first settled in village 'Dhamawala', which even today hosts the annual 'Jhanda Fair' on the fifth day after Holi in his memory. Thus the name refers to his Dera or settlement in the valley, around which the present town gradually developed, and marking this settlement is a Gurudwara called 'Guru Ram Rai Darbar', built-in 1699 with the help of Raja of Garhwal, Fateh Shah, who was succeeded by his grandson in the same year, Pratap Shah, and modeled on the tomb of Mughal Emperor Jehangir.
Dehradun was a part of Tehri Garhwal Kingdom, then after it was a part of the Gorkha Kingdom for 12 years. Gurkhas lost Dehradun to England when India was colonized by England. Historically, Dehradun has remained part of the Garhwal Kingdom also known as 'Kedarkhand', which was founded by Ajai Pal, around 1400, by capturing all the minor principalities of the Garhwal region, under his own sway, and thereafter, he and his descendants ruled over Garhwal and the adjacent state of Tehri-Garhwal, in an uninterrupted line till 1803, when Gurkhas invaded Kumaon and Garhwal.
In between, until Najib-ul-Daula, the governor of Saharanpur, who later founded city of Najibabad, invaded the city with his army of Rohillas in 1757, and ruled here, leading to its widespread development, though after his death in 1770, it was successively annexed by surrounding tribes of Rajputs, Gujjars, Sikhs and Gurkhas who ruled the region in quick succession, and lead to its steady downfall.
Finally, in 1803, it was annexed by the Gurkhas, who made the king of Garhwal, Pradyuman Shah, flee to Saharanpur, leaving the region to be ruled by an iron fist by the Gurkha general 'BAL BHADRA KUNWAR'. Later, King Pradyumna Shah and his sons Kuwar Parakrama Shah and Kuwar Pritam Shah, and a 12,000 strong army fought with the Gorkhas at Khurhbure, where the king was killed.
In the same year, the British had already taken over Saharanpur, which led to continuous skirmishes between the two armies, leading to the Gurkha War (1814–1816), also known as the Anglo-Nepalese War, when eventually the Gurkhas were ousted after the siege of the fort of Nalapani.
The Sugauli Treaty signed on 2 December 1815 and ratified by 4 March 1816, between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal, ending the second British invasion of the Himalayan kingdom during the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–1816). The signatory for Nepal was Raj Guru Gajaraj Mishra aided by Chandra Sekher Upadhyaya and Lieutenant-Colonel Paris Bradshaw signed for the Company.
The treaty led to the annexation of the Dehradun and the east Garhwal Kingdom into the British Empire, and they became part of the Garhwal District, in the Kumaon Division of the United Provinces, and had an area of 5629 sq. mi and that is when it slowly started regaining its lost glory. Meanwhile, the west Garhwal was reinstituted to the Garhwal Kingdom, and Sudarshan Shah, son of the slain king, was made the king of Tehri Garhwal, who made Tehri his capital.
'Dehra Dun' municipality was established in 1867, and in 1900 railways made its way to Dehradun via Haridwar, which was earlier connected in 1886.
In 1901, Dehradun had a population of 24,039, and was a district of British India, in the Meerut division of the United Provinces, while the neighboring town of Rajpur, which lay en route to the hill-station of Mussourie, and from where pure-drinking water was supplied to the city through pipes, had a population of 2,900.
During the Second World War, the Dehra Dun Central Internment Camp was a major prison camp for detained German, Austrian and Italians who were living in or visiting British colonies in Asia at the start of the war. Its most famous inmate was perhaps Heinrich Harrer, who after several attempts finally escaped in 1944 with Peter Aufschnaiter and slipped over the mountains into neutral Tibet. He recounted his time at the camp in Seven Years in Tibet (Rupert Hart-Davis, 1953) and Beyond seven years in Tibet: my life before, during and after. (Labyrinth Press, 2007). Several German Buddhist monks, including Nyanatiloka, also stayed here. The camp was divided into different sections, one for Germans loyal to the Nazi government, one for German communists and others who rejected the Nazi government, one for Italians, and one section for Italian Catholic clergy.
History of Dehradun
The history of the city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun (nicknamed "Doon Valley") is linked to the story of Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is believed that after the battle between Ravana and Lord Rama, Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana visited this site. Dronacharya, also known as ‘Dronanagari’ on the name of legendary Royal guru to the Kauravas and Pandavas in the epic Mahabharata, is believed to have been born and resided in Dehradun. Evidences such as ancient temples and idols have been found in the areas surrounding Dehradun which have been linked to the mythology of Ramayana and Mahabharata. These relics and ruins are believed to be around 2000 years old. Furthermore, the location, the local traditions and the literature reflect this region's links with the events of Mahabharata and Ramayana. Even after the battle of Mahabharata, the Pandavas had an influence on this region as the rulers of Hastinapura with the descendants of Subahu ruled the region as subsidiaries. Likewise, Rishikesh is mentioned in the pages of history when Lord Vishnu answered the prayers of the saints, slaughtered the demons and handed the land to the saints. The adjoining place called Chakrata has its historical impression during the time of Mahabharata.
In the seventh century, this area was known as Sudhanagara and was described by the Chinese traveler Huen Tsang. Sudhanagara later came to be recognized as the name of Kalsi. Edicts of Ashoka have been found in the region along the banks of river Yamuna in Kalsi indicating the wealth and importance of the region in ancient India. In the neighboring region of Haripur, ruins were discovered from the time of King Rasala which also reflect the region's prosperity. Before the name of Dehradun was used, the place is shown on old maps as Gurudwara (a map by Webb, 1808) or Gooroodwara (a map by Gerard, 1818). Gerard's map names the place as "Dehra or Gooroodwara". Surrounding this original Sikh temple were many small villages that are now the names of parts of the modern city.
Dehradun itself derives its name from the historical fact that Ram Rai, the eldest son of the Seventh Sikh Guru Har Rai, set up his "Dera" (camp) in "dun" (valley) in 1676. This 'Dera Dun' later on became Dehradun.
The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb was highly impressed by the miraculous powers of charismatic Ram Rai. He asked the contemporary Maharaja of Garhwal, Fateh Shah, to extend all possible help to Ram Rai. Initially, a Gurudwara (temple) was built in Dhamawala. The construction of the present building of Darbar Shri Guru Ram Rai Ji Maharaj was completed in 1707. There are portraits of gods, goddesses, saints, sages and religious stories on the walls. There are pictures of flowers and leaves, animals and birds, trees, similar faces with pointed noses and big eyes on the arches which are the symbol of the color scheme of Kangra-Guler art and Mughal art. High minarets and round pinnacles are the models of Muslim architecture. The huge pond in the front measuring 230 x 80 feet had dried up for want of water over the years. People had been dumping rubbish; it has been renovated and revived.
Dehradun was invaded by Mahmud of Ghazni during his campaigns into India followed by Timur in 1368, Rohilla chief Najib ad-Dawlah in 1757 and Ghulam Qadir in 1785. In 1806 Nepalese King Prithvi Narayan Shah united many of the Indian territories that now fell under places such as Almora, Pathankot, Kumaon, Garhwal, Sirmur, Shimla, Kangra, and Dehradun.
On the western front Garhwal and parts of Himachal Pradesh up to Punjab and on the eastern front the state of Sikkim up to Darjeeling became parts of Nepal for a brief period until the British East India Company went on the war from 1814 to 1816. The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Sugowli where almost a third was ceded to British East India company. The British got Dehradun in 1816 and colonized Landour and Mussoorie in 1827–1828.
Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first prime minister, was quite fond of the city and often visited. He spent his last few days here before passing away in Delhi in 1964. Another leader from the independence movement, Rash Behari Bose, who was one of the key organizers of the Ghadar conspiracy and, later, the Indian National Army was based in Dehradun in his early days before he was forced to move to Japan in 1915 to continue the freedom struggle.
Post-independence Dehradun and other parts of Garhwal and Kumaon were merged with United Provinces which was later renamed the state of Uttar Pradesh. In 2000, Uttarakhand state (earlier called Uttaranchal) was created from the northwestern districts of Uttar Pradesh under the Uttar Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2000. Dehradun was made its interim capital.
Afghan Connection
Dehradun's Afghan connection dated back to the First Anglo-Afghan War, after which the Afghan Emir Dost Mohammad Khan (Emir of Afghanistan) was exiled by the British to Dehra Dun. He stayed in Mussoorie for over 6 years. The Balahissar ward under the Mussoorie municipality has been named after the palace of Dost Mohammad. The famous Dehradooni Basmati was brought along by him from Kunar Province in Afghanistan and it continues to be counted as a delicacy of the valley. Forty years later, after the Second Anglo-Afghan War, his grandson, Mohammad Yaqub Khan, was sent to exile to India in 1879. Just like his grandfather, he chooses Doon valley as his abode. Yakoob became the first Afghan to formally settle in Dehradun. The present Mangla Devi Inter College was once the Kabul Palace where Yakoob spent a few years of his life. The extended family and servants of the King were also relocated to Dehradun.
The Afghan royal family maintained a presence in Dehra Dun. It was the birthplace of the second to last King of Afghanistan, Mohammed Nadir Shah. Two quaint palaces — the Kabul Place in Dehradun and Balahissar Palace in Mussoorie — stand testimony to this connection with Afghanistan. They were built by these Afghan rulers in exile in India in the early part of the 20th Century and are palaces are a miniature replica of the palatial structures owned by the kings in Afghanistan. The Balahissar Palace has now been turned into Mussoorie's Wynberg Allen School. Doon-based heritage enthusiast Ghanshyam told the Times of India, "The police station at Karanpur used to be the royal guard room of Yakoob way back in 1879. The electrical office located at the Survey Chowk was the royal servant quarters."
Today the descendants of the former royalty, Yakub Khan and his grandson Sardar Azim Khan's family have integrated with the mainstream of Dehra Dun life. The Doon connection was revived when Zahir Shah, the last king of Afghanistan while undergoing treatment in New Delhi during the last years of his life expressed a desire to meet his Doon cousins but the meeting could not take place as the family members were away. Ashraf Ghani, the current President of Afghanistan has mentioned that his grandmother grew up in Dehra Dun. "I speak of Tagore because I was raised on Tagore by my grandmother who lived in Dehradun...," Dr. Ghani said while talking about India's vision and the remarkable transformation. Dehra Dun is also being selected to be the second "home" ground of the Afghan cricket team.
Country India
State Uttarakhand
District Dehradun
Founded 1676
Municipality 1867
Government
• Type Mayor-Council
• Body Dehradun Municipal Corporation
• Mayor Sunil Uniyal 'Gama' (BJP)
• Municipal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey,[1] IAS
Area
• City 300 km2 (100 sq mi)
Elevation 447 m (1,467 ft)
• Density 1,900/km2 (5,000/sq mi)
• Metro[3] 714,223
Languages
• Official Hindi[4]
• Regional Garhwali, English
PIN
248001
Telephone code +91-135
Vehicle registration UK-07
Website nagarnigamdehradun.in
dehradun.nic.in
Geography
The city of Dehradun mainly lies in Doon Valley and is at a varying height from 410 m in Clement Town to above 700 m at Malsi which is 15 km from the city. However, the average elevation is 450 m above sea level. Malsi is the starting point of Lesser Himalayan Range that extends to Mussoorie and beyond. Jaunsar-Bawar hills in Dehradun district rises to 3700m above sea level. The hilly region of Mussoorie goes up to a height of 1870–2017 meters above sea level.
The Doon valley contains the settlements including Raiwala, Rishikesh, Doiwala, Harrawala, Dehradun, Herbertpur, Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Selaqui, Subhash Nagar and Clement Town. The district contains Rajaji National Park which is home to several elephants, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary at Mussoorie & Asan Conservation Reserve (Asan Barrage). The Doon Valley has the Terai and Bhabar forests within it as well as the Shivalik hills and Lesser Himalayan Range containing hill stations such as Mussoorie and Chakrata. The district is bordered by the Himalayas in the north, Rajaji Range of the Sivalik Hills to the south, the river Ganges to the east, and the Yamuna river to the west. Towns in the foothills of the mountain ranges include Sahastradhara, Lakhamandal, Gautam Kund, Chandrabani, Kalsi and Dakpathar.
This district is divided into two major parts: the main city Dehradun surrounded by Shivalik and the Jaunsar-Bawar, which is in the foothills of Himalayas. In the north and northwest it borders on the district of Uttarkashi and Tehri Garhwal, in the east and southeast by Pauri Garhwal and Ganges river, in the west, it is bordered by Shimla and Sirmaur districts of Himachal Pradesh, Yamunanagar district of Haryana and the Tons and Yamuna rivers. To the south are Haridwar and Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur district.
It is between latitudes 29 °58' N and 31°2'N and longitudes 77° 34' E and 78° 18'E. This district consists of six tehsils — Dehradun, Chakrata, Vikasnagar, Kalsi, Tiuni and Rishikesh — six community development blocks — Vis, Chakrata, Kalsi, Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Rajpur, and Doiwala — 17 towns and 764 villages. Out of these 746 villages are inhabited; 18 are uninhabited.
The climate of Dehradun is humid subtropical.
Summer temperatures can reach up to 44 °C for a few days and a hot wind called Loo blows over North India. Winter temperatures are usually between 1 and 20 °C and fog is quite common in winters like plains. Although the temperature in Dehradun can reach below freezing during severe cold snaps,[22] this is not common. During the monsoon season, there is often heavy and protracted rainfall. Dehradun and other plains areas of Uttarakhand see almost as much rainfall as coastal Maharashtra and more than Assam. Agriculture benefits from fertile alluvial soil, adequate drainage, and plentiful rain.
Demographics
As per provisional reports of Census India, the population of Dehradun in 2011 was 578,420; male and female are 303,411 and 275,009 respectively. The sex ratio of the city is 906 per 1000 males. The number of literates in Dehradun city is 463,791, of which 251,832 are males and 211,959 are females. Average literacy rate of Dehradun city is 89.32 percent, whereas male literacy and female literacy rates are 92.65 and 85.66 percent, respectively. The number of children of age under six in Dehradun city is 59,180 as per figure from Census India report on 2011. There are 31,600 boys and 27,580 are girls. The child sex ratio of girls is 873 per 1000 boys.
Languages
Major languages spoken in Dehradun district according to census 2011 are Hindi (including Garhwali 80.83%).[28] Hindi is the primary and official language, other languages spoken in the region are English, Bengali, Punjabi, Nepali, Tibeto-Burman.
Places of interest
There are a number of small towns and tourist sites in Dehradun District.
Khalanga Memorial
The Battle of Nalapani was the first battle of the Anglo-Nepalese War of 1814–1816, fought between the forces of the British East India Company and Nepal, then ruled by the House of Gorkha. The battle took place around the Nalapani fort, near Dehradun, which was placed under siege by the British between 31 October and 30 November 1814.
Maa Bala Sundari Mandir
There are various temples of Maa Bala Sundari Devi situated in India and this is one such temple. The main temple is in Trilokpur, Himachal Pradesh. This Mata Temple has situated approximately 3 km South-West Direction of Sudhowala. This great temple is situated inside a forest. Gaur Brahmin of sudhowala are Pandits (Brahman) of this temple.
Dehradun International Cricket Stadium
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Dehradun is a multi-purpose stadium in the Raipur area of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is the first international-level stadium in the state.
Robbers Cave
Robber's Cave (locally known as Guchhupani), is a river cave formation in Himalaya, located approximately 8 km from the center of Dehradun City in the Uttarakhand state of India. Believed to be the hideout of the famous Sultana Daku and his band of dacoits. The cave formation has thus been named Robber's Cave.
The cave is about 600 meters long, divided into two main parts. The cave has the highest fall of about 10 meters. In the central part, there is a fort wall structure which is now broken. It consists of an extremely narrow gorge formed in a conglomerate limestone area on Doon Valley's Dehra plateau.
It is a natural cave formation where rivers flow inside the cave. The place is a tourist site and is maintained by Uttarakhand State. Local bus services are available up to Anarwala village, from where it is a kilometer's trek away.
Lacchiwala Picnic Spot
It is a popular tourist destination especially during summers. It is well known for its forest scenic beauty, man-made water pools, and bird watching. It is now known as Nature Park.
Tapkeshwar Temple
It is a temple of Lord Shiva. It is situated beside a forest on the bank of the Asan river and the main deity (Shivalinga) is housed in a natural cave. According to the holy epic Mahabharata, Guru Drona is said to have resided in this cave for a period of time. The temple's natural cave is named Drona cave after him. Water trickles down the ceiling of the cave and drops on the Shivalinga creating a magnificent image.
Dehradun Zoo
Formerly known as Malsi Deer Park, the main objectives of Dehradun Zoo are conservation of wild animals, developing an education center and a rescue center for wild animals. It is located on the foothills of Shivalik Range on the Mussoorie Road. It is about 10 km away from Dehradun and 23 km from Mussoorie.
Forest Research Institute
Forest Research Institute or ‘FRI’ is an institution in the field of forest research in India. The institute is one of the oldest and biggest forest-based training institutes in India. The institute is known for its research work and wonderful architecture that dates to British Raj. FRI is affiliated to the Forest Research Institute University and is approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The aim of the institution is to accomplish the needs of the Indo-Gangetic plains of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh, as well as the U.P. Himalayas.
Regional Science Center
Regional Science Center (RSC) is located within the campus of Uttarakhand Council of Science and Technology (UCOST) at Vigyan Dham, Suddhowala on the outskirts of Dehradun. The Uttarakhand Regional Science Center is developed by the National Council for Science Museum (NCSM) in collaboration with the UCOST. The Regional Science Center is a popular destination for school educational tours and hosts a science museum, planetarium, a 3D theatre, science gallery, and scientific law based interactive exhibits.
Higher Education
Premier research institute based in Dehradun are the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun Institute Of Technology (DIT), Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Indian Institute of Petroleum, Himgiri Zee University, Wildlife Institute of India, Instruments Research and Development Establishment and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. Colleges and Universities located in Dehradun are Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Uttarakhand Medical Education University, Law College, Dehradun, Doon University, Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India University, Dehradun, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Uttaranchal University, Graphic Era University and Uttarakhand Technical University.
The Forest Research Institute campus hosts the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA), the staff college that trains officers selected for the Indian Forest Service (IFS). Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate change, Government of India which carries out wildlife research.
Dehradun also has good medical facilities being a host of two medical colleges. Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical & Health Sciences affiliated to Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Uttarakhand Medical Education University and Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences affiliated to Swami Rama Himalayan University caters to the population of Dehradun and nearby hilly areas.
National Institute for Empowerment of People with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) plays a key role in helping blind people. It is the first such institute in India and the first press for Braille script in the country which provides education and service to the blind children.
Dehradun houses organizations like the Latika Roy Foundation for people with disabilities to access education, employment, and full inclusion in the community. The ASK Foundation, an educational charity, is also located in Dehradun
Tourism
Tourist destinations include the Dehradun Zoo, Kalanga Monument, Chandrabani, Himalayan Gallary cum Regional Science Centre Guchhupani, Forest Research Institute, Tapovan, Lakshman Siddha Peeth, Tapkeshwar Temple, Santala Devi Temple, Mindrolling Monastery, Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple, Sai Mandir, Central Braille Press and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology.
The tourist destinations can be divided into four or five areas: nature, sports, sanctuary, museums and institutions. The nearby hill stations are well known for their natural environment, temples for its faith dimensions, a sanctuary for animal and bird lovers. Hill stations include Mussoorie, Sahasradhara, Chakrata, and Dakpathar. Famous temples Tapkeshwar, Lakhamandal and Santala Devi are here.
In sports tourism, the Doon Ice Rink at Maharana Pratap Sports Complex, Raipur is the first full-sized ice arena in India. It has hosted ice skating competitions and ice hockey tournaments, including the IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia.
Maa Bala Sundari Mandir is a Hindu temple located in Sudhowala near Dehradun. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Maa Bala Sundari, also known as Bal Roop of Maa Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of the Hindu Mother Goddess Mahalakshmi. The words "maa" and "mata" are commonly used in India for "mother", and thus are often used in connection with Maa Bala Sundari. The temple or Bhawan is 3.5 km from Sudhowala and various modes of transportation are available from Sudhowala, including ponies, electric vehicles and palkis operated by 2 or 4 persons. Many pilgrims visit from the northern Indian states to get the blessings of Mahmaya Bala Sundari. A trust is also run by Mandir Maa Bala Sundari Trust, Sudhowala.
Transport
Transport options include:
By air: There are daily flights from Delhi and a daily hopping flight (stop at Delhi) from Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram (via Bangalore and Delhi). There are direct flight from Mumbai and Srinagar and a direct 50 minute flight from Lucknow to Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport 25 km from the valley of Dehradun.
Railways: Dehradun railway station has services to major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Trivandrum, Vadodara and Varanasi. Fast trains running to and from Dehradun include the Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi Express and Nanda Devi Express. Dehradun will get a metro rail in the near future, The project is in the designing phase.
Culture
After becoming the capital, there has been continuous growth in education, communication and transport. As the state capital, Dehradun is home to many government institutions. Dehradun is renowned all over India for its educational institutions.
Buses are identified with blue bars. There are autorickshaws which are often used for transportation but blamed for pollution and noise. The evening buzz of Rajpur road is an attraction. After becoming the capital of Uttarakhand, due to the continues migration of people from hill districts of Garhwal the city has become overcrowded and turned into an urban mess with poor infrastructure and unplanned development. The city centre is easily recognised by the Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), a structure with six functioning clocks. The statue of San Dijen placed in Shanti Niketan contributes to the beauty of the city. Dehradun has been home to artists and writers including Stephen Alter, Nayantara Sahgal, Allan Sealy, Ruskin Bond and also to country singer Bobby Cash.
Dehradun was home to freedom fighters whose names are engraved in gold on the Clock Tower. It was called "The Gray City" in the initial days because ex-Army officers and VIPs considered this place ideal for residence after retirement.
Woolen blankets are typical of this region and worn by people living at high altitudes. Women wear saris with full-sleeve blouses along with angora jackets. Girls wear full skirts with scarfs covering their head and shoulders; more recently, they have adopted modern wear like salwar suits. In villages and to a lesser extent in towns, men wear the traditional dhoti, angarakha, and langoti. The way dhotis are worn represents backgrounds and castes: short dhotis represent low status whereas long dhotis represent high. It is more common in urban areas for men to wear shirts and trousers, jeans and kurta-pajamas. In winter, men usually dress in jackets, hats, and overcoats. Hemp is grown in great quantities in this region, so its yarn is frequently used as lining.
There are fairs (melas) throughout the year. Notable fairs include Magh Mela, held on 14 January and Jhanda Mela in March, a fair for the Hindu community, that attracts Hindus from all over India and abroad.
"Home of the Valley - Dehradun"
Dehradun Tourism
Nestled amidst the Doon Valley in the state of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is a very popular hill station that beckons solo travelers, families and couples alike. Proudly boasting of a scenic backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas, Dehradun is located at an altitude of 1400 feet above sea level and has a pleasant climate all year round. Regardless of whether you want to explore family-friendly tourist spots, try thrilling adventure activities with your friends, or watch a mesmerizing sunset with your partner amidst the mountains, Dehradun is the answer.
As you would expect from a city located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun abounds in caves, waterfalls, and natural springs. One such extremely popular spot is Robber's Cave, which is a natural cave surrounded by hills. Dip your feet in the ice-cold water or walk through it - travelers are free to take their pick, making Robber's Cave one of the most popular picnics and excursion spots in the city. Another popular spot for nature lovers is Lacchiwala, where you can sit and enjoy a relaxing sunset around the man-made lake and the lush greenery around it. Lacchiwala also has arrangements for trekking and birdwatching, if you're up for it.
PLACES TO VISIT IN DEHRADUN
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.
Robber's Cave is basically a narrow gorge formed in the conglomerate limestone. The location is sure to make you feel you are a part of a mystery movie with its dark limestone, streams gushing into the cave and the sounds echoing inside the formation. If not this, then it will at least gives a sense of belongingness as Mother Nature will make you slow down and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the location. The cave has some extraordinary cold water springs in the underground which help cool down the super hot summer afternoon temperature. It is a perfect picnic spot amidst the natural beauty of Uttarakhand and must be visited at least once.
One of the most excellent features of Robber's Cave is that it has a waterfall which is about 10m high. The water in the cave appears and then vanishes underground all of a sudden. The water appears again on the surface a few yards away. The cave has elegant interiors.
It is also said that the cave got its name from the British after they found out that robbers kept stolen belongings in the cave. Shops too are present around the cave where one can enjoy delicious snacks alongside the scenic beauty.
Things To Do at Robber's Cave
Robber's Cave is a fabulous location to have a picnic with friends and family. After a walk inside the 600-meter long cave to explore the region from the inside with your loved ones, you may walk to the waterfall near the cave for a picnic. You can enter the waterfall and capture memorable moments for life. What fun it is to chit-chat about everything under the sun with your loved ones as you rest or grab a bite near the splendid water body. If you are lucky, you might see a beautiful rainbow in the sky over the falls.
As they say, to travel is to see and to see is to experience. You may also visit the Tibetan Buddhist Temple, the Takpeshwar Temple, the Ramakrishna Ashram Temple, and the Dehradun Zoo; each barely 2 to 4 kilometers away from Robber's Cave.
Best Time To Visit Robber's Cave
The best time to visit the place is from April to October. The place is a getaway from the heat of the sun.
Tips For Visiting Robber's Cave
1. Wear footwear that provides enough support and grip while exploring the stream.
2. The water could get knee-high for adults. Be careful while exploring the cave.
3. Rubber flip flops/ chappals are rented outside the entry.
4. Local eateries are available to grab a quick bite of some local snacks.
5. Carry enough water and snacks (optional) as walking through the cave could be exhausting.
5. Visitors may want to book their transport to and fro well in advance to avoid spending time for the local transport.
How To Reach Robber's Cave
Robber's Cave is situated at a distance of 8 km from the city of Dehradun. It is convenient to take a bus up till Vijaypur followed by a trek of 1 km. Dehradun railway station is easily accessible from the cave.
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.
The place exhibits true scenic beauty, where water drips from limestone stalactites, making the water Sulphur-rich and thus it is also known as Sulphur Springs. The water is fresh and sweet, and the area is a warehouse of the exquisite beauty of caves, waterfalls and steppe farming by locals. Sahastradhara is situated at about 11 km from the city of Dehradun, near the Robber's Cave. The temperature of the water here is a little lower than its surroundings. Its picturesque beauty attracts a lot of travelers from faraway places. One can even enjoy a stunning view of the surroundings while enjoying a fun ropeway ride here. These ropeways provide airy trips to these gorgeous mountain tops.
Sahastradhara is located on the banks of river Badli, thus attracting a lot of travelers that come here to explore the waterfall and caves. It takes about 2-3 hours to explore the area properly. The entrance here is free of cost. Sahastradhara has a number of water pools, which are formed as a result of dripping water from the lime Stalactites. The water in these pools is considered to have medicinal properties and therapeutic value. The area has widespread serenity and tranquillity, with rich Himalayan vegetation. A dip in the Sulphur-rich water here feels cold and refreshing but is believed to have remarkable medicinal advantages. The water here has a fall of around 9 meters. Since this region has been accumulating various sediments of Lime and Sulphur since its formation, one can spot a plethora of brownish-orange element in the form of caves.
Attractions Near Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara is a widely known weekend getaway in Dehradun, but apart from its scenic beauty, it is also known for the ancient Shiva temple located nearby. Some spiritual attractions near Sahastradhara are Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple along with Guru Dronacharya's cave, which is known as Drona Guha. This spot also attracts a lot of travelers who have a keen interest in the mythological aspect of this place. There is a manmade water park located nearby as well. Joyland is a famous amusement park which has various swings and water slides, making it a favorite picnic spot for families and children.
The area has a lot of accommodation options and restaurants as well. These restaurants offer fresh food along with the picturesque view of nature around. The nearby villages have beautifully done terrace farming on their slopes. These attractions nestled in the lap of nature are a visual treat in itself.
Best Time To Visit Sahastradhara
Although Sahastradhara can be visited throughout the year; the primary season is from October to March in winter. During these months, the water has its natural flow, and the area is flocked by many travelers. To enjoy the best view of the waterfall, travelers are advised to visit Sahastradhara during the rainy season and post-monsoon months.
Tips For Visiting Sahastradhara
1. Carry your camera, torchlight and make sure to wear appropriate clothing and comfortable and waterproof footwear.
2. Carry your towel and a few munchies, beverages and water along to keep yourself fueled throughout your visit here.
How To Reach Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara is located at a small distance of 14 km from Dehradun city at Sahastradhara Road. It is well connected to the central city via all means of transport. Bus services are quite prominent. All the transport facility like buses, taxi, autos or cabs are available to get to Sahastradhara. The closest railway station is the Dehradun railway station, located at about 14 km. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant railway station located at about 36 km.
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.
The monastery is an unnatural beauty owing to its gardens, university complex and the tallest Stupa in Asia surrounded by greenery. It also has numerous shrine rooms, Tibetan art forms, and murals. However, what catches the attention of every tourist is the presence of the tall statue of Lord Buddha. Situated in the middle of the serene foothills of the Himalayas, the Mindrolling Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist centers in India which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country as well as abroad. This beautiful place should definitely be visited if you are planning a trip to Dehradun.
History of Mindrolling Monastery
The Mindrolling Monastery was constructed by Rigzin Tendak Lingpa in 1676. It was later re-established by Khochhen Rinpoche in 1965 with the help of few other monks to protect the religious and cultural understanding of Buddhism. Around 50 artists were involved in the design and construction of the monastery which took almost three years to complete. The Buddha temple complex was built as one of the four schools of the Tibetan religion. It is also known as Nyingma while the others are known as Sakya, Kagyu, and Gelak.
The architecture of Mindrolling Monastery
Also known as Tibetan Monastery, the Mindrolling Monastery is well-known for its exquisite architecture. The monastery has wall paintings inside which showcase the life of Lord Buddha. It has been built in the Japanese style of architecture with the Stupa, also known as the Great Stupa which was inaugurated in 2002, is one of its major attractions. It has a height of 220 feet and a width of 100 square feet. Being the largest stupa in Asia, it also has greenery spread all over it. The beautiful monastery has five floors with statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava. There are ornate gold color wall paintings present on the first three floors and an open platform offering a huge 360-degree view of the Dehradun Valley on the fourth floor.
Visitors are allowed to go on the upper floor on Sundays only. Another distinguishing factor of the monastery is the 130 feet tall statue of Lord Buddha inside. There is a beautiful garden along with a bookstore stocked with Tibetan books too inside the complex. One of the largest Buddhist Institutes known as Nagyur Nyingma College too is a part of the monastery where the monks are trained to preserve the teachings and pass them to the generations to come. At present, 300 monks are given education in the monastery.
Best Time To Visit Mindrolling Monastery
The perfect time to visit the monastery is from April to June which is considered to be the peak time for tourism in Dehradun. Since the climate is pleasant with a lovely and calm ambiance, one is definitely going to have a fantastic and enjoyable time here.
Tips For Visiting Mindrolling Monastery
1. You should carry a camera along to capture the scenic beauty of the place.
2. Though the temperature during the day is hot, the evenings become chilly. So, it is advisable to carry a light shawl to avoid catching a cold.
3. The garden and shops of the monastery remain open on all days of the week.
4. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the main hall of the monastery.
How To Reach Mindrolling Monastery
The Mindrolling Monastery is situated on the Delhi-Saharanpur Road at a distance of 4 km from ISBT Dehradun. One can easily reach the monastery by hiring a local auto or via the local bus. Dehradun railway station is the nearest station situated at a distance of 9 km from the monastery, and Jolly Grant airport is situated 31 km from the monastery.
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.
Also referred to as “Valley of Gods”, in Har Ki Dun you will find yourself surrounded by thick Pine forests and scintillating mountain peaks. This beautiful trail will take you to some of the most unexplored areas of Garhwal Himalayan region where the simplicity and rustic lifestyle of the residents of hills is still untouched by the time. The beautifully carved houses along the way add to the charm of this trek. Visit this splendid place if peaceful nature and adventure is what you are looking for.
Food Availability
You will get simple Dhaba food at Sankri, Gangad, Taluka, and Seema. For the rest of the trek pack the essential food. You wonÕt get any food at the higher altitudes of trek, so the best option is the stock up the consumable items at the Dhaba at Sonamarg. Carry enough packed food to get you through the trip.
Camping/Shelter
Although guest houses are available at Seema, trekkers likes to camp along the way especially amid the natural beauty of the place.
The place is best known for its trekking and thus most of the visitors like to camp. You wonÕt find any guesthouses during your seven-day trekking in the region.
Water Availability
Water availability at the guest house is adequate. You will also have an option of clean water from River Supin along the way. It is suggested to well stock up water whenever the refilling option is available. Packed water is available at the beginning of the trek at a Dhaba in Sonamarg. However, after that, you will get several freshwater rivers and streams to refill your stock of water. It will be recommended to stock up enough amount of water at the start to avoid dehydration and till you get a chance to restock.
General tips and tricks
1. Make sure you carry warm clothes irrespective of the fact that what season you are traveling in. 2. Carry your own trekking gear and equipments and be always prepared. 3. Carry a medical aid kit and your usual medicines for the way. 4. A good pair of trekking shoes is a must. 5. Carry raingear no matter if you are traveling during monsoon season. 6. Make sure you obtain all the permits well in advance required for trekking in the region. 7. Make sure you carry spare batteries and film roll for the camera as there will be no electricity supply. 8. A well informed and trained guide is very important and does make sure to seek out all trivial things well in advance to avoid misunderstanding.
How to reach Har ki Dun
Rail: Jammu serves as the nearest railway station to Srinagar, situated at a distance of about 290 km. The station is well connected to all the major cities of the country through regular trains. There are also direct trains to the place from the cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Trivandrum.
Road: National Highway 1A links Srinagar to the rest of the country. Once you reached Jammu, regular bus services apply from there under J & K state government till Srinagar. The journey takes about 10 hours.
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.
It is situated on the bank of the river Ganga. Interestingly, not many know this, but the word "Tapovan" has been derived from two words- Tapasya which means rigor and van which means forest. Due to the history of the Ashram, devotees flock to the place frequently in the quest to find inner peace. All sorts of Indian rituals are performed at the ashram. Because of its human-friendly weather, the place is visited by tourists all year. The ashram also conducts yoga courses for the interested ones.
History of Tapovan
Tapovan as a place holds a lot of spiritual importance because according to Hindu mythology, Guru Dronacharya who was the teacher of the Kauravas and Pandavas in Mahabharat underwent his forfeit here. People visiting the place are thus curious about the incidents which happened there in ancient time. Due to this belief which persists till date, the ashram is used as a place to worship so as to find solitude and apology for wrongdoing
Tips For Visiting Tapovan Temple
The best time to visit the place is from April to July. One can visit Dehradun during the winter season as well to enjoy the snow if it does not become cold! Also, one must take care of the belongings on the move.
How To Reach Tapovan Temple
Tapovan is situated at a distance of 5 km from the Dehradun city. It is also 7 km away from the railway station. It is easy to commute via local transport such as a bus or a taxi.
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.
Amenities and facilities such as conference rooms, party halls, and luxurious cottages are subject to availability. Now a popular tourist destination, Fun Valley is situated amidst lush greenery at the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas. Reasonable prices complement the great entertainment value the expansive park provides and makes it an ideal place to unwind during the weekends or your leisure time from the hubbub of daily life.
Fun Valley Rides
Fun Valley offers a plethora of thrilling and adrenaline rushing rides that are bound to keep you busy with your family or friends. The integrated resort cum amusement park boasts of a water park, go-karting, and shopping complexes. It is the largest amusement and water park in North India. 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. The waterpark offers Kiddies' Pool and Lazy River, rides that are hugely popular amongst children and young adults. Similarly, the amusement park offers the Baby Train, Octopus Ride, the Fress Bee, and the Dragon Coaster!
Facilities offered to the visitors
The fun valley has a lot more to it rather than just being an amusement park. The bright side of the place becomes ten times brighter with the kind of facilities it offers including comfy cottages and rooms for one to relax, a shop which provides delicious dishes covering all cuisines at nominal prices and a shopping complex for the ladies to drool over. Swimsuits are given on rent, and the washrooms are pretty clean with lockers and their respective keys assigned to the visitors.
Amenities at Fun Valley
Extremely convenient facilities such as a multi-cuisine restaurant, a highway motel, cloakrooms, swimwear and satisfying accommodation such as luxurious cottages and boarding rooms make it a holiday goer's paradise. Accommodation facilities include Deluxe Room at INR 2490, Super Deluxe Room at INR 3490 and Dome at INR 2490 respectively. The tariffs apply on a general basis and are subject to availability and season rates. The extensive park offers 21 exciting rides to choose from, out of which four are found only here in all of the continent. Fun Valley amusement park stands right to its name, offering world-class entertainment to adults and children alike.
Best Time to Visit
Although you can visit the amusement park and resort at any time of the year, it would serve better not to head over during the monsoon as it can turn out to be pretty clammy.
Summer months between March and June are the best times to visit Fun Valley as the skies are clear and sunny, perfect for a cold dip! The temperature during these months varies from 18 degrees Celcius to 35 degrees Celcius.
Tips
1. Be sure to take care of your belongings and valuables before commencing on a ride frenzy. One solution would be to check in your luggage or belongings beforehand by checking in to a lodging room or a cottage!
2. Special rates apply for group bookings such as for a group of 50 people and above, corporate outings and social groups. Months: April (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM), May (9:00 AM - 6:30 PM), June (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
How To Reach Fun Valley
Fun Valley amusement park is located at a distance of approximately 30 kilometers from Dehradun and Haridwar on the Dehradun-Haridwar highway (National Highway 72). Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world, is 20 kilometers from Fun Valley. It is easily accessible by road from the three cities. The routes are incredibly scenic as the location is set in the foothills of the magnificent Himalayan mountain range, bound to enthrall you all along the journey.
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. 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.
Though the park is mainly famous for deer, the tourists there can also spot peacock, nilgais, rabbits, and tigers to name a few. The park is home to Himalayan beauties such as nilgais and antelopes which draw children and animal lovers from all over the world to the place. The park is a part of the Malsi Forest Reserve and is the second-best wildlife attraction in Dehradun following Rajaji National Park. Dehradun along with its charm is a paradise for all the tourists, and Malsi Deer Park is a wild pasture in this paradise. If you are planning on going out with your family and friends to a relaxing place full of natural beauty, this is the place to go.
Things To Do at Malsi Deer Park
Malsi Deer Park is a perfect picnic spot in Dehradun for a getaway from your busy life to experience the Himalayan picnic experience. There are refreshments and food items too available in the park along with swings and slides for the kids to enjoy. One can sit there and admire the natural beauty around along with watching a variety of birds flying around in the sky. One can also admire the leopard lazing around under the sun and the deer munching on fresh grass with the owls perched upon the high branches of the trees. You can relax while your kids are out there enjoying themselves in the kid's area while you capture the natural beauty around on your camera or hog on all the tasty dishes being served in the canteen.
Best Time To Visit Malsi Deer Park
Though it can be visited throughout the year, the ideal time to visit Malsi Deer Park is from April to July when the weather is pleasant in the hills. Summers and monsoon season are both very soothing and attract most people to the hill town.
Tips For Visiting Malsi Deer Park
1. The tourists are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes since the park is spread over a large area and needs to be explored on foot.
2. Carry water bottles and packaged food to keep yourself hydrated and well-fed.
3. Pets are not allowed inside the park.
4. Do not let kids cross the fences into the animal region and hold their hands.
5. To protect yourself from the heatstroke, carry a cap, and sunglasses.
6. Store your belonging in the lockers and keep them safe if not allowed inside the park.
How To Reach Malsi Deer Park
The park is situated on the Mussoorie Road between Dehradun and Mussoorie. It is situated at a distance of 10 km from Dehradun and can be reached via a bus or an auto-rickshaw within 25 to 30 minutes.
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.
One of the popular destinations in Dehradun, Tapkeshwar Temple is one of the most visited temples in the region. Residing in the lap of gentle green mountains, this destination is thronged by young travelers as an unlikely but ideal picnic spot as well. After taking a short trek through the forest, you are confronted by the simple yet inspiring edifice of the Tapkeshwar Temple. Cool sulfur water springs here are available for pilgrims to take a bath in before they enter the main temple. Once you enter the main complex, you are confronted by the magnificence of Lord Tapkeshwar, who is called so owing to the constant dripping of holy waters from the ceiling and onto the deity's head. Holy chants and the ringing of temple bells will transport you into a world of the divine where you can sit back and introspect. Visit the Tapkeshwar Temple to rediscover your bond with the Supreme Almighty.
Legend of Tapkeshwar temple
A widespread legend is popular about the emergence of the Tapkeshwar Temple. It is said that Ashwathama, the son of Dhronacharya, was born inside the cave. However, his mother did not have enough milk to be able to feed her newborn. Ashwathama was wise beyond his years, and he prayed to Lord Shiva to grant him some milk to satiate his hunger. Being the generous God he is, Lord Shiva granted the wish of the newborn for milk to suffice his hunger. Since then, a Shiva Linga has been established there which is said to grant the wishes of all those who visit this temple seeking the Lord's blessings.
Architecture of Tapkeshwar temple
The Tapkeshwar Temple is a gentle amalgam of manmade and natural design. It is situated between two gentle hills, while the main sanctum is contained within the bounds of a naturally occurring cave. The architecture itself pertains to a typical Hindu style and is a humble edifice with a simple and small facade. The most amazing sight of this temple can be seen inside the cave, where the Shiva Linga is continuously drenched by water droplets that fall inside the cave. Interestingly, the water droplets vanish from sight and can be seen a few yards away from the temple premises. This and many other supernatural occurrences make Tapkeshwar Temple the land of many miracles.
Things to do at Tapkeshwar
In addition to being an important place of worship, there are a number of other activities that you can pursue at the site of the Tapkeshwar Temple. The temple is located beside a forest and the nearby river adds up to the captivating aura of the temple. Trekking is one of the must-do here, with the natural beauty of their destination playing the perfect host as well. If hunger pangs strike you at odd times, you can snack on some delicious local street food at the nearby food stalls as well.
Mahashivratri at Tapkeshwar Temple
One of the best times to visit the Tapkeshwar Temple is during Shivratri, which is an earthly celebration of Lord Shiva's wedding to Goddess Parvati. A large-scale festival is organized to mark the occasion when pilgrims participate in large numbers to attend the celestial union of the two deities. Elaborate prayer services are held in the midst of holy invocations of ' Har Har Mahadev', and pilgrims offer Lord Shiva's favorite eatables to him on the day.
How To Reach Tapkeshwar Temple
The Tapkeshwar temple is located only 6.5 kilometers away from the city center, and you can reach the temple by hopping aboard the local bus or hiring the local autos called Vikram.
Photography
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Dehradun is located in the Doon Valley on the foothills of the Himalayas nestled between the river Ganges on the east and the river Yamuna on the west. The city is famous for its picturesque landscape and slightly milder climate and provides a gateway to the surrounding region. It is well connected and in proximity to Himalayan tourist destinations such as Mussoorie, and Auli and the Hindu holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh along with the Himalayan pilgrimage circuit of Chota Char Dham.
Dehradun Municipal Corporation is locally known as Nagar Nigam Dehradun. Other urban entities involved in civic services and city governance and management include Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA), Special Area Development Authority (SADA), Jal Sansthan, and Jal Nigam among others. Dehradun is also known for its Basmati rice and bakery products.
Dehradun is made up of two words: Dehra is derived from the word Dera, meaning camp or temporary settlement. Dun or Doon in Garhwali language refers to a valley that lies between the middle Himalayas and the "Shivaliks". Other prominent Doon valleys are Kotli Doon, Patli Doon, and Pinjore Doon. When Guru Ram Rai, son of Guru Har Rai, came to this region with his followers, he established a camp here for them. Around this time, the modern city of Dehradun started to develop. This is when the word Dehra was linked to Dun, and thus the city was named Dehradun. In Skanda Purana, Dun is mentioned as a part of the region called Kedar Khand, the abode of Shiva. In ancient India during the Mahabharata epic era, Dronacharya the great teacher of Kauravas and Pandavas, lived here hence the name, "Dronanagari" (lit. city of Drona). Some historians believe that the word Dehra can be regarded as a term for camping
History
Ancient history
In Skanda Purana, Dun is mentioned as a part of the region called Kedar Khand, the abode of Shiva. In ancient India during the Mahabharata epic era, Dronacharya the great teacher of Kauravas and Pandavas lived here hence the name, "Dronanagari".
A rock edict of Ashoka, the legendary Mauryan King, who ruled between 273 BC to 232 BC, was discovered at Kalsi, 56 km. from Dehradun by John Forest, in 1860.
According to the history of Dehradun, it has been part of Garhwal Kingdom except for the brief interlude of rohillas. The present town of Dehradun was named after 'Guru Ram Rai', the elder son of seventh Sikh Guru, Guru Har Rai, who was part of the Udasi sect of Sikh Asceticism, who came here in 1675, and first settled in village 'Dhamawala', which even today hosts the annual 'Jhanda Fair' on the fifth day after Holi in his memory. Thus the name refers to his Dera or settlement in the valley, around which the present town gradually developed, and marking this settlement is a Gurudwara called 'Guru Ram Rai Darbar', built-in 1699 with the help of Raja of Garhwal, Fateh Shah, who was succeeded by his grandson in the same year, Pratap Shah, and modeled on the tomb of Mughal Emperor Jehangir.
Dehradun was a part of Tehri Garhwal Kingdom, then after it was a part of the Gorkha Kingdom for 12 years. Gurkhas lost Dehradun to England when India was colonized by England. Historically, Dehradun has remained part of the Garhwal Kingdom also known as 'Kedarkhand', which was founded by Ajai Pal, around 1400, by capturing all the minor principalities of the Garhwal region, under his own sway, and thereafter, he and his descendants ruled over Garhwal and the adjacent state of Tehri-Garhwal, in an uninterrupted line till 1803, when Gurkhas invaded Kumaon and Garhwal.
In between, until Najib-ul-Daula, the governor of Saharanpur, who later founded city of Najibabad, invaded the city with his army of Rohillas in 1757, and ruled here, leading to its widespread development, though after his death in 1770, it was successively annexed by surrounding tribes of Rajputs, Gujjars, Sikhs and Gurkhas who ruled the region in quick succession, and lead to its steady downfall.
Finally, in 1803, it was annexed by the Gurkhas, who made the king of Garhwal, Pradyuman Shah, flee to Saharanpur, leaving the region to be ruled by an iron fist by the Gurkha general 'BAL BHADRA KUNWAR'. Later, King Pradyumna Shah and his sons Kuwar Parakrama Shah and Kuwar Pritam Shah, and a 12,000 strong army fought with the Gorkhas at Khurhbure, where the king was killed.
In the same year, the British had already taken over Saharanpur, which led to continuous skirmishes between the two armies, leading to the Gurkha War (1814–1816), also known as the Anglo-Nepalese War, when eventually the Gurkhas were ousted after the siege of the fort of Nalapani.
The Sugauli Treaty signed on 2 December 1815 and ratified by 4 March 1816, between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal, ending the second British invasion of the Himalayan kingdom during the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–1816). The signatory for Nepal was Raj Guru Gajaraj Mishra aided by Chandra Sekher Upadhyaya and Lieutenant-Colonel Paris Bradshaw signed for the Company.
The treaty led to the annexation of the Dehradun and the east Garhwal Kingdom into the British Empire, and they became part of the Garhwal District, in the Kumaon Division of the United Provinces, and had an area of 5629 sq. mi and that is when it slowly started regaining its lost glory. Meanwhile, the west Garhwal was reinstituted to the Garhwal Kingdom, and Sudarshan Shah, son of the slain king, was made the king of Tehri Garhwal, who made Tehri his capital.
'Dehra Dun' municipality was established in 1867, and in 1900 railways made its way to Dehradun via Haridwar, which was earlier connected in 1886.
In 1901, Dehradun had a population of 24,039, and was a district of British India, in the Meerut division of the United Provinces, while the neighboring town of Rajpur, which lay en route to the hill-station of Mussourie, and from where pure-drinking water was supplied to the city through pipes, had a population of 2,900.
During the Second World War, the Dehra Dun Central Internment Camp was a major prison camp for detained German, Austrian and Italians who were living in or visiting British colonies in Asia at the start of the war. Its most famous inmate was perhaps Heinrich Harrer, who after several attempts finally escaped in 1944 with Peter Aufschnaiter and slipped over the mountains into neutral Tibet. He recounted his time at the camp in Seven Years in Tibet (Rupert Hart-Davis, 1953) and Beyond seven years in Tibet: my life before, during and after. (Labyrinth Press, 2007). Several German Buddhist monks, including Nyanatiloka, also stayed here. The camp was divided into different sections, one for Germans loyal to the Nazi government, one for German communists and others who rejected the Nazi government, one for Italians, and one section for Italian Catholic clergy.
History of Dehradun
The history of the city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun (nicknamed "Doon Valley") is linked to the story of Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is believed that after the battle between Ravana and Lord Rama, Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana visited this site. Dronacharya, also known as ‘Dronanagari’ on the name of legendary Royal guru to the Kauravas and Pandavas in the epic Mahabharata, is believed to have been born and resided in Dehradun. Evidences such as ancient temples and idols have been found in the areas surrounding Dehradun which have been linked to the mythology of Ramayana and Mahabharata. These relics and ruins are believed to be around 2000 years old. Furthermore, the location, the local traditions and the literature reflect this region's links with the events of Mahabharata and Ramayana. Even after the battle of Mahabharata, the Pandavas had an influence on this region as the rulers of Hastinapura with the descendants of Subahu ruled the region as subsidiaries. Likewise, Rishikesh is mentioned in the pages of history when Lord Vishnu answered the prayers of the saints, slaughtered the demons and handed the land to the saints. The adjoining place called Chakrata has its historical impression during the time of Mahabharata.
In the seventh century, this area was known as Sudhanagara and was described by the Chinese traveler Huen Tsang. Sudhanagara later came to be recognized as the name of Kalsi. Edicts of Ashoka have been found in the region along the banks of river Yamuna in Kalsi indicating the wealth and importance of the region in ancient India. In the neighboring region of Haripur, ruins were discovered from the time of King Rasala which also reflect the region's prosperity. Before the name of Dehradun was used, the place is shown on old maps as Gurudwara (a map by Webb, 1808) or Gooroodwara (a map by Gerard, 1818). Gerard's map names the place as "Dehra or Gooroodwara". Surrounding this original Sikh temple were many small villages that are now the names of parts of the modern city.
Dehradun itself derives its name from the historical fact that Ram Rai, the eldest son of the Seventh Sikh Guru Har Rai, set up his "Dera" (camp) in "dun" (valley) in 1676. This 'Dera Dun' later on became Dehradun.
The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb was highly impressed by the miraculous powers of charismatic Ram Rai. He asked the contemporary Maharaja of Garhwal, Fateh Shah, to extend all possible help to Ram Rai. Initially, a Gurudwara (temple) was built in Dhamawala. The construction of the present building of Darbar Shri Guru Ram Rai Ji Maharaj was completed in 1707. There are portraits of gods, goddesses, saints, sages and religious stories on the walls. There are pictures of flowers and leaves, animals and birds, trees, similar faces with pointed noses and big eyes on the arches which are the symbol of the color scheme of Kangra-Guler art and Mughal art. High minarets and round pinnacles are the models of Muslim architecture. The huge pond in the front measuring 230 x 80 feet had dried up for want of water over the years. People had been dumping rubbish; it has been renovated and revived.
Dehradun was invaded by Mahmud of Ghazni during his campaigns into India followed by Timur in 1368, Rohilla chief Najib ad-Dawlah in 1757 and Ghulam Qadir in 1785. In 1806 Nepalese King Prithvi Narayan Shah united many of the Indian territories that now fell under places such as Almora, Pathankot, Kumaon, Garhwal, Sirmur, Shimla, Kangra, and Dehradun.
On the western front Garhwal and parts of Himachal Pradesh up to Punjab and on the eastern front the state of Sikkim up to Darjeeling became parts of Nepal for a brief period until the British East India Company went on the war from 1814 to 1816. The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Sugowli where almost a third was ceded to British East India company. The British got Dehradun in 1816 and colonized Landour and Mussoorie in 1827–1828.
Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first prime minister, was quite fond of the city and often visited. He spent his last few days here before passing away in Delhi in 1964. Another leader from the independence movement, Rash Behari Bose, who was one of the key organizers of the Ghadar conspiracy and, later, the Indian National Army was based in Dehradun in his early days before he was forced to move to Japan in 1915 to continue the freedom struggle.
Post-independence Dehradun and other parts of Garhwal and Kumaon were merged with United Provinces which was later renamed the state of Uttar Pradesh. In 2000, Uttarakhand state (earlier called Uttaranchal) was created from the northwestern districts of Uttar Pradesh under the Uttar Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2000. Dehradun was made its interim capital.
Afghan Connection
Dehradun's Afghan connection dated back to the First Anglo-Afghan War, after which the Afghan Emir Dost Mohammad Khan (Emir of Afghanistan) was exiled by the British to Dehra Dun. He stayed in Mussoorie for over 6 years. The Balahissar ward under the Mussoorie municipality has been named after the palace of Dost Mohammad. The famous Dehradooni Basmati was brought along by him from Kunar Province in Afghanistan and it continues to be counted as a delicacy of the valley. Forty years later, after the Second Anglo-Afghan War, his grandson, Mohammad Yaqub Khan, was sent to exile to India in 1879. Just like his grandfather, he chooses Doon valley as his abode. Yakoob became the first Afghan to formally settle in Dehradun. The present Mangla Devi Inter College was once the Kabul Palace where Yakoob spent a few years of his life. The extended family and servants of the King were also relocated to Dehradun.
The Afghan royal family maintained a presence in Dehra Dun. It was the birthplace of the second to last King of Afghanistan, Mohammed Nadir Shah. Two quaint palaces — the Kabul Place in Dehradun and Balahissar Palace in Mussoorie — stand testimony to this connection with Afghanistan. They were built by these Afghan rulers in exile in India in the early part of the 20th Century and are palaces are a miniature replica of the palatial structures owned by the kings in Afghanistan. The Balahissar Palace has now been turned into Mussoorie's Wynberg Allen School. Doon-based heritage enthusiast Ghanshyam told the Times of India, "The police station at Karanpur used to be the royal guard room of Yakoob way back in 1879. The electrical office located at the Survey Chowk was the royal servant quarters."
Today the descendants of the former royalty, Yakub Khan and his grandson Sardar Azim Khan's family have integrated with the mainstream of Dehra Dun life. The Doon connection was revived when Zahir Shah, the last king of Afghanistan while undergoing treatment in New Delhi during the last years of his life expressed a desire to meet his Doon cousins but the meeting could not take place as the family members were away. Ashraf Ghani, the current President of Afghanistan has mentioned that his grandmother grew up in Dehra Dun. "I speak of Tagore because I was raised on Tagore by my grandmother who lived in Dehradun...," Dr. Ghani said while talking about India's vision and the remarkable transformation. Dehra Dun is also being selected to be the second "home" ground of the Afghan cricket team.
Country India
State Uttarakhand
District Dehradun
Founded 1676
Municipality 1867
Government
• Type Mayor-Council
• Body Dehradun Municipal Corporation
• Mayor Sunil Uniyal 'Gama' (BJP)
• Municipal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey,[1] IAS
Area
• City 300 km2 (100 sq mi)
Elevation 447 m (1,467 ft)
• Density 1,900/km2 (5,000/sq mi)
• Metro[3] 714,223
Languages
• Official Hindi[4]
• Regional Garhwali, English
PIN
248001
Telephone code +91-135
Vehicle registration UK-07
Website nagarnigamdehradun.in
dehradun.nic.in
Geography
The city of Dehradun mainly lies in Doon Valley and is at a varying height from 410 m in Clement Town to above 700 m at Malsi which is 15 km from the city. However, the average elevation is 450 m above sea level. Malsi is the starting point of Lesser Himalayan Range that extends to Mussoorie and beyond. Jaunsar-Bawar hills in Dehradun district rises to 3700m above sea level. The hilly region of Mussoorie goes up to a height of 1870–2017 meters above sea level.
The Doon valley contains the settlements including Raiwala, Rishikesh, Doiwala, Harrawala, Dehradun, Herbertpur, Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Selaqui, Subhash Nagar and Clement Town. The district contains Rajaji National Park which is home to several elephants, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary at Mussoorie & Asan Conservation Reserve (Asan Barrage). The Doon Valley has the Terai and Bhabar forests within it as well as the Shivalik hills and Lesser Himalayan Range containing hill stations such as Mussoorie and Chakrata. The district is bordered by the Himalayas in the north, Rajaji Range of the Sivalik Hills to the south, the river Ganges to the east, and the Yamuna river to the west. Towns in the foothills of the mountain ranges include Sahastradhara, Lakhamandal, Gautam Kund, Chandrabani, Kalsi and Dakpathar.
This district is divided into two major parts: the main city Dehradun surrounded by Shivalik and the Jaunsar-Bawar, which is in the foothills of Himalayas. In the north and northwest it borders on the district of Uttarkashi and Tehri Garhwal, in the east and southeast by Pauri Garhwal and Ganges river, in the west, it is bordered by Shimla and Sirmaur districts of Himachal Pradesh, Yamunanagar district of Haryana and the Tons and Yamuna rivers. To the south are Haridwar and Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur district.
It is between latitudes 29 °58' N and 31°2'N and longitudes 77° 34' E and 78° 18'E. This district consists of six tehsils — Dehradun, Chakrata, Vikasnagar, Kalsi, Tiuni and Rishikesh — six community development blocks — Vis, Chakrata, Kalsi, Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Rajpur, and Doiwala — 17 towns and 764 villages. Out of these 746 villages are inhabited; 18 are uninhabited.
The climate of Dehradun is humid subtropical.
Summer temperatures can reach up to 44 °C for a few days and a hot wind called Loo blows over North India. Winter temperatures are usually between 1 and 20 °C and fog is quite common in winters like plains. Although the temperature in Dehradun can reach below freezing during severe cold snaps,[22] this is not common. During the monsoon season, there is often heavy and protracted rainfall. Dehradun and other plains areas of Uttarakhand see almost as much rainfall as coastal Maharashtra and more than Assam. Agriculture benefits from fertile alluvial soil, adequate drainage, and plentiful rain.
Demographics
As per provisional reports of Census India, the population of Dehradun in 2011 was 578,420; male and female are 303,411 and 275,009 respectively. The sex ratio of the city is 906 per 1000 males. The number of literates in Dehradun city is 463,791, of which 251,832 are males and 211,959 are females. Average literacy rate of Dehradun city is 89.32 percent, whereas male literacy and female literacy rates are 92.65 and 85.66 percent, respectively. The number of children of age under six in Dehradun city is 59,180 as per figure from Census India report on 2011. There are 31,600 boys and 27,580 are girls. The child sex ratio of girls is 873 per 1000 boys.
Languages
Major languages spoken in Dehradun district according to census 2011 are Hindi (including Garhwali 80.83%).[28] Hindi is the primary and official language, other languages spoken in the region are English, Bengali, Punjabi, Nepali, Tibeto-Burman.
Places of interest
There are a number of small towns and tourist sites in Dehradun District.
Khalanga Memorial
The Battle of Nalapani was the first battle of the Anglo-Nepalese War of 1814–1816, fought between the forces of the British East India Company and Nepal, then ruled by the House of Gorkha. The battle took place around the Nalapani fort, near Dehradun, which was placed under siege by the British between 31 October and 30 November 1814.
Maa Bala Sundari Mandir
There are various temples of Maa Bala Sundari Devi situated in India and this is one such temple. The main temple is in Trilokpur, Himachal Pradesh. This Mata Temple has situated approximately 3 km South-West Direction of Sudhowala. This great temple is situated inside a forest. Gaur Brahmin of sudhowala are Pandits (Brahman) of this temple.
Dehradun International Cricket Stadium
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Dehradun is a multi-purpose stadium in the Raipur area of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is the first international-level stadium in the state.
Robbers Cave
Robber's Cave (locally known as Guchhupani), is a river cave formation in Himalaya, located approximately 8 km from the center of Dehradun City in the Uttarakhand state of India. Believed to be the hideout of the famous Sultana Daku and his band of dacoits. The cave formation has thus been named Robber's Cave.
The cave is about 600 meters long, divided into two main parts. The cave has the highest fall of about 10 meters. In the central part, there is a fort wall structure which is now broken. It consists of an extremely narrow gorge formed in a conglomerate limestone area on Doon Valley's Dehra plateau.
It is a natural cave formation where rivers flow inside the cave. The place is a tourist site and is maintained by Uttarakhand State. Local bus services are available up to Anarwala village, from where it is a kilometer's trek away.
Lacchiwala Picnic Spot
It is a popular tourist destination especially during summers. It is well known for its forest scenic beauty, man-made water pools, and bird watching. It is now known as Nature Park.
Tapkeshwar Temple
It is a temple of Lord Shiva. It is situated beside a forest on the bank of the Asan river and the main deity (Shivalinga) is housed in a natural cave. According to the holy epic Mahabharata, Guru Drona is said to have resided in this cave for a period of time. The temple's natural cave is named Drona cave after him. Water trickles down the ceiling of the cave and drops on the Shivalinga creating a magnificent image.
Dehradun Zoo
Formerly known as Malsi Deer Park, the main objectives of Dehradun Zoo are conservation of wild animals, developing an education center and a rescue center for wild animals. It is located on the foothills of Shivalik Range on the Mussoorie Road. It is about 10 km away from Dehradun and 23 km from Mussoorie.
Forest Research Institute
Forest Research Institute or ‘FRI’ is an institution in the field of forest research in India. The institute is one of the oldest and biggest forest-based training institutes in India. The institute is known for its research work and wonderful architecture that dates to British Raj. FRI is affiliated to the Forest Research Institute University and is approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The aim of the institution is to accomplish the needs of the Indo-Gangetic plains of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh, as well as the U.P. Himalayas.
Regional Science Center
Regional Science Center (RSC) is located within the campus of Uttarakhand Council of Science and Technology (UCOST) at Vigyan Dham, Suddhowala on the outskirts of Dehradun. The Uttarakhand Regional Science Center is developed by the National Council for Science Museum (NCSM) in collaboration with the UCOST. The Regional Science Center is a popular destination for school educational tours and hosts a science museum, planetarium, a 3D theatre, science gallery, and scientific law based interactive exhibits.
Higher Education
Premier research institute based in Dehradun are the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun Institute Of Technology (DIT), Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Indian Institute of Petroleum, Himgiri Zee University, Wildlife Institute of India, Instruments Research and Development Establishment and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. Colleges and Universities located in Dehradun are Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Uttarakhand Medical Education University, Law College, Dehradun, Doon University, Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India University, Dehradun, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Uttaranchal University, Graphic Era University and Uttarakhand Technical University.
The Forest Research Institute campus hosts the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA), the staff college that trains officers selected for the Indian Forest Service (IFS). Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate change, Government of India which carries out wildlife research.
Dehradun also has good medical facilities being a host of two medical colleges. Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical & Health Sciences affiliated to Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Uttarakhand Medical Education University and Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences affiliated to Swami Rama Himalayan University caters to the population of Dehradun and nearby hilly areas.
National Institute for Empowerment of People with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) plays a key role in helping blind people. It is the first such institute in India and the first press for Braille script in the country which provides education and service to the blind children.
Dehradun houses organizations like the Latika Roy Foundation for people with disabilities to access education, employment, and full inclusion in the community. The ASK Foundation, an educational charity, is also located in Dehradun
Tourism
Tourist destinations include the Dehradun Zoo, Kalanga Monument, Chandrabani, Himalayan Gallary cum Regional Science Centre Guchhupani, Forest Research Institute, Tapovan, Lakshman Siddha Peeth, Tapkeshwar Temple, Santala Devi Temple, Mindrolling Monastery, Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple, Sai Mandir, Central Braille Press and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology.
The tourist destinations can be divided into four or five areas: nature, sports, sanctuary, museums and institutions. The nearby hill stations are well known for their natural environment, temples for its faith dimensions, a sanctuary for animal and bird lovers. Hill stations include Mussoorie, Sahasradhara, Chakrata, and Dakpathar. Famous temples Tapkeshwar, Lakhamandal and Santala Devi are here.
In sports tourism, the Doon Ice Rink at Maharana Pratap Sports Complex, Raipur is the first full-sized ice arena in India. It has hosted ice skating competitions and ice hockey tournaments, including the IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia.
Maa Bala Sundari Mandir is a Hindu temple located in Sudhowala near Dehradun. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Maa Bala Sundari, also known as Bal Roop of Maa Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of the Hindu Mother Goddess Mahalakshmi. The words "maa" and "mata" are commonly used in India for "mother", and thus are often used in connection with Maa Bala Sundari. The temple or Bhawan is 3.5 km from Sudhowala and various modes of transportation are available from Sudhowala, including ponies, electric vehicles and palkis operated by 2 or 4 persons. Many pilgrims visit from the northern Indian states to get the blessings of Mahmaya Bala Sundari. A trust is also run by Mandir Maa Bala Sundari Trust, Sudhowala.
Transport
Transport options include:
By air: There are daily flights from Delhi and a daily hopping flight (stop at Delhi) from Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram (via Bangalore and Delhi). There are direct flight from Mumbai and Srinagar and a direct 50 minute flight from Lucknow to Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport 25 km from the valley of Dehradun.
Railways: Dehradun railway station has services to major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Trivandrum, Vadodara and Varanasi. Fast trains running to and from Dehradun include the Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi Express and Nanda Devi Express. Dehradun will get a metro rail in the near future, The project is in the designing phase.
Culture
After becoming the capital, there has been continuous growth in education, communication and transport. As the state capital, Dehradun is home to many government institutions. Dehradun is renowned all over India for its educational institutions.
Buses are identified with blue bars. There are autorickshaws which are often used for transportation but blamed for pollution and noise. The evening buzz of Rajpur road is an attraction. After becoming the capital of Uttarakhand, due to the continues migration of people from hill districts of Garhwal the city has become overcrowded and turned into an urban mess with poor infrastructure and unplanned development. The city centre is easily recognised by the Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), a structure with six functioning clocks. The statue of San Dijen placed in Shanti Niketan contributes to the beauty of the city. Dehradun has been home to artists and writers including Stephen Alter, Nayantara Sahgal, Allan Sealy, Ruskin Bond and also to country singer Bobby Cash.
Dehradun was home to freedom fighters whose names are engraved in gold on the Clock Tower. It was called "The Gray City" in the initial days because ex-Army officers and VIPs considered this place ideal for residence after retirement.
Woolen blankets are typical of this region and worn by people living at high altitudes. Women wear saris with full-sleeve blouses along with angora jackets. Girls wear full skirts with scarfs covering their head and shoulders; more recently, they have adopted modern wear like salwar suits. In villages and to a lesser extent in towns, men wear the traditional dhoti, angarakha, and langoti. The way dhotis are worn represents backgrounds and castes: short dhotis represent low status whereas long dhotis represent high. It is more common in urban areas for men to wear shirts and trousers, jeans and kurta-pajamas. In winter, men usually dress in jackets, hats, and overcoats. Hemp is grown in great quantities in this region, so its yarn is frequently used as lining.
There are fairs (melas) throughout the year. Notable fairs include Magh Mela, held on 14 January and Jhanda Mela in March, a fair for the Hindu community, that attracts Hindus from all over India and abroad.
"Home of the Valley - Dehradun"
Dehradun Tourism
Nestled amidst the Doon Valley in the state of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is a very popular hill station that beckons solo travelers, families and couples alike. Proudly boasting of a scenic backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas, Dehradun is located at an altitude of 1400 feet above sea level and has a pleasant climate all year round. Regardless of whether you want to explore family-friendly tourist spots, try thrilling adventure activities with your friends, or watch a mesmerizing sunset with your partner amidst the mountains, Dehradun is the answer.
As you would expect from a city located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun abounds in caves, waterfalls, and natural springs. One such extremely popular spot is Robber's Cave, which is a natural cave surrounded by hills. Dip your feet in the ice-cold water or walk through it - travelers are free to take their pick, making Robber's Cave one of the most popular picnics and excursion spots in the city. Another popular spot for nature lovers is Lacchiwala, where you can sit and enjoy a relaxing sunset around the man-made lake and the lush greenery around it. Lacchiwala also has arrangements for trekking and birdwatching, if you're up for it.
PLACES TO VISIT IN DEHRADUN
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.
Robber's Cave is basically a narrow gorge formed in the conglomerate limestone. The location is sure to make you feel you are a part of a mystery movie with its dark limestone, streams gushing into the cave and the sounds echoing inside the formation. If not this, then it will at least gives a sense of belongingness as Mother Nature will make you slow down and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the location. The cave has some extraordinary cold water springs in the underground which help cool down the super hot summer afternoon temperature. It is a perfect picnic spot amidst the natural beauty of Uttarakhand and must be visited at least once.
One of the most excellent features of Robber's Cave is that it has a waterfall which is about 10m high. The water in the cave appears and then vanishes underground all of a sudden. The water appears again on the surface a few yards away. The cave has elegant interiors.
It is also said that the cave got its name from the British after they found out that robbers kept stolen belongings in the cave. Shops too are present around the cave where one can enjoy delicious snacks alongside the scenic beauty.
Things To Do at Robber's Cave
Robber's Cave is a fabulous location to have a picnic with friends and family. After a walk inside the 600-meter long cave to explore the region from the inside with your loved ones, you may walk to the waterfall near the cave for a picnic. You can enter the waterfall and capture memorable moments for life. What fun it is to chit-chat about everything under the sun with your loved ones as you rest or grab a bite near the splendid water body. If you are lucky, you might see a beautiful rainbow in the sky over the falls.
As they say, to travel is to see and to see is to experience. You may also visit the Tibetan Buddhist Temple, the Takpeshwar Temple, the Ramakrishna Ashram Temple, and the Dehradun Zoo; each barely 2 to 4 kilometers away from Robber's Cave.
Best Time To Visit Robber's Cave
The best time to visit the place is from April to October. The place is a getaway from the heat of the sun.
Tips For Visiting Robber's Cave
1. Wear footwear that provides enough support and grip while exploring the stream.
2. The water could get knee-high for adults. Be careful while exploring the cave.
3. Rubber flip flops/ chappals are rented outside the entry.
4. Local eateries are available to grab a quick bite of some local snacks.
5. Carry enough water and snacks (optional) as walking through the cave could be exhausting.
5. Visitors may want to book their transport to and fro well in advance to avoid spending time for the local transport.
How To Reach Robber's Cave
Robber's Cave is situated at a distance of 8 km from the city of Dehradun. It is convenient to take a bus up till Vijaypur followed by a trek of 1 km. Dehradun railway station is easily accessible from the cave.
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.
The place exhibits true scenic beauty, where water drips from limestone stalactites, making the water Sulphur-rich and thus it is also known as Sulphur Springs. The water is fresh and sweet, and the area is a warehouse of the exquisite beauty of caves, waterfalls and steppe farming by locals. Sahastradhara is situated at about 11 km from the city of Dehradun, near the Robber's Cave. The temperature of the water here is a little lower than its surroundings. Its picturesque beauty attracts a lot of travelers from faraway places. One can even enjoy a stunning view of the surroundings while enjoying a fun ropeway ride here. These ropeways provide airy trips to these gorgeous mountain tops.
Sahastradhara is located on the banks of river Badli, thus attracting a lot of travelers that come here to explore the waterfall and caves. It takes about 2-3 hours to explore the area properly. The entrance here is free of cost. Sahastradhara has a number of water pools, which are formed as a result of dripping water from the lime Stalactites. The water in these pools is considered to have medicinal properties and therapeutic value. The area has widespread serenity and tranquillity, with rich Himalayan vegetation. A dip in the Sulphur-rich water here feels cold and refreshing but is believed to have remarkable medicinal advantages. The water here has a fall of around 9 meters. Since this region has been accumulating various sediments of Lime and Sulphur since its formation, one can spot a plethora of brownish-orange element in the form of caves.
Attractions Near Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara is a widely known weekend getaway in Dehradun, but apart from its scenic beauty, it is also known for the ancient Shiva temple located nearby. Some spiritual attractions near Sahastradhara are Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple along with Guru Dronacharya's cave, which is known as Drona Guha. This spot also attracts a lot of travelers who have a keen interest in the mythological aspect of this place. There is a manmade water park located nearby as well. Joyland is a famous amusement park which has various swings and water slides, making it a favorite picnic spot for families and children.
The area has a lot of accommodation options and restaurants as well. These restaurants offer fresh food along with the picturesque view of nature around. The nearby villages have beautifully done terrace farming on their slopes. These attractions nestled in the lap of nature are a visual treat in itself.
Best Time To Visit Sahastradhara
Although Sahastradhara can be visited throughout the year; the primary season is from October to March in winter. During these months, the water has its natural flow, and the area is flocked by many travelers. To enjoy the best view of the waterfall, travelers are advised to visit Sahastradhara during the rainy season and post-monsoon months.
Tips For Visiting Sahastradhara
1. Carry your camera, torchlight and make sure to wear appropriate clothing and comfortable and waterproof footwear.
2. Carry your towel and a few munchies, beverages and water along to keep yourself fueled throughout your visit here.
How To Reach Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara is located at a small distance of 14 km from Dehradun city at Sahastradhara Road. It is well connected to the central city via all means of transport. Bus services are quite prominent. All the transport facility like buses, taxi, autos or cabs are available to get to Sahastradhara. The closest railway station is the Dehradun railway station, located at about 14 km. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant railway station located at about 36 km.
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.
The monastery is an unnatural beauty owing to its gardens, university complex and the tallest Stupa in Asia surrounded by greenery. It also has numerous shrine rooms, Tibetan art forms, and murals. However, what catches the attention of every tourist is the presence of the tall statue of Lord Buddha. Situated in the middle of the serene foothills of the Himalayas, the Mindrolling Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist centers in India which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country as well as abroad. This beautiful place should definitely be visited if you are planning a trip to Dehradun.
History of Mindrolling Monastery
The Mindrolling Monastery was constructed by Rigzin Tendak Lingpa in 1676. It was later re-established by Khochhen Rinpoche in 1965 with the help of few other monks to protect the religious and cultural understanding of Buddhism. Around 50 artists were involved in the design and construction of the monastery which took almost three years to complete. The Buddha temple complex was built as one of the four schools of the Tibetan religion. It is also known as Nyingma while the others are known as Sakya, Kagyu, and Gelak.
The architecture of Mindrolling Monastery
Also known as Tibetan Monastery, the Mindrolling Monastery is well-known for its exquisite architecture. The monastery has wall paintings inside which showcase the life of Lord Buddha. It has been built in the Japanese style of architecture with the Stupa, also known as the Great Stupa which was inaugurated in 2002, is one of its major attractions. It has a height of 220 feet and a width of 100 square feet. Being the largest stupa in Asia, it also has greenery spread all over it. The beautiful monastery has five floors with statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava. There are ornate gold color wall paintings present on the first three floors and an open platform offering a huge 360-degree view of the Dehradun Valley on the fourth floor.
Visitors are allowed to go on the upper floor on Sundays only. Another distinguishing factor of the monastery is the 130 feet tall statue of Lord Buddha inside. There is a beautiful garden along with a bookstore stocked with Tibetan books too inside the complex. One of the largest Buddhist Institutes known as Nagyur Nyingma College too is a part of the monastery where the monks are trained to preserve the teachings and pass them to the generations to come. At present, 300 monks are given education in the monastery.
Best Time To Visit Mindrolling Monastery
The perfect time to visit the monastery is from April to June which is considered to be the peak time for tourism in Dehradun. Since the climate is pleasant with a lovely and calm ambiance, one is definitely going to have a fantastic and enjoyable time here.
Tips For Visiting Mindrolling Monastery
1. You should carry a camera along to capture the scenic beauty of the place.
2. Though the temperature during the day is hot, the evenings become chilly. So, it is advisable to carry a light shawl to avoid catching a cold.
3. The garden and shops of the monastery remain open on all days of the week.
4. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the main hall of the monastery.
How To Reach Mindrolling Monastery
The Mindrolling Monastery is situated on the Delhi-Saharanpur Road at a distance of 4 km from ISBT Dehradun. One can easily reach the monastery by hiring a local auto or via the local bus. Dehradun railway station is the nearest station situated at a distance of 9 km from the monastery, and Jolly Grant airport is situated 31 km from the monastery.
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.
Also referred to as “Valley of Gods”, in Har Ki Dun you will find yourself surrounded by thick Pine forests and scintillating mountain peaks. This beautiful trail will take you to some of the most unexplored areas of Garhwal Himalayan region where the simplicity and rustic lifestyle of the residents of hills is still untouched by the time. The beautifully carved houses along the way add to the charm of this trek. Visit this splendid place if peaceful nature and adventure is what you are looking for.
Food Availability
You will get simple Dhaba food at Sankri, Gangad, Taluka, and Seema. For the rest of the trek pack the essential food. You wonÕt get any food at the higher altitudes of trek, so the best option is the stock up the consumable items at the Dhaba at Sonamarg. Carry enough packed food to get you through the trip.
Camping/Shelter
Although guest houses are available at Seema, trekkers likes to camp along the way especially amid the natural beauty of the place.
The place is best known for its trekking and thus most of the visitors like to camp. You wonÕt find any guesthouses during your seven-day trekking in the region.
Water Availability
Water availability at the guest house is adequate. You will also have an option of clean water from River Supin along the way. It is suggested to well stock up water whenever the refilling option is available. Packed water is available at the beginning of the trek at a Dhaba in Sonamarg. However, after that, you will get several freshwater rivers and streams to refill your stock of water. It will be recommended to stock up enough amount of water at the start to avoid dehydration and till you get a chance to restock.
General tips and tricks
1. Make sure you carry warm clothes irrespective of the fact that what season you are traveling in. 2. Carry your own trekking gear and equipments and be always prepared. 3. Carry a medical aid kit and your usual medicines for the way. 4. A good pair of trekking shoes is a must. 5. Carry raingear no matter if you are traveling during monsoon season. 6. Make sure you obtain all the permits well in advance required for trekking in the region. 7. Make sure you carry spare batteries and film roll for the camera as there will be no electricity supply. 8. A well informed and trained guide is very important and does make sure to seek out all trivial things well in advance to avoid misunderstanding.
How to reach Har ki Dun
Rail: Jammu serves as the nearest railway station to Srinagar, situated at a distance of about 290 km. The station is well connected to all the major cities of the country through regular trains. There are also direct trains to the place from the cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Trivandrum.
Road: National Highway 1A links Srinagar to the rest of the country. Once you reached Jammu, regular bus services apply from there under J & K state government till Srinagar. The journey takes about 10 hours.
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.
It is situated on the bank of the river Ganga. Interestingly, not many know this, but the word "Tapovan" has been derived from two words- Tapasya which means rigor and van which means forest. Due to the history of the Ashram, devotees flock to the place frequently in the quest to find inner peace. All sorts of Indian rituals are performed at the ashram. Because of its human-friendly weather, the place is visited by tourists all year. The ashram also conducts yoga courses for the interested ones.
History of Tapovan
Tapovan as a place holds a lot of spiritual importance because according to Hindu mythology, Guru Dronacharya who was the teacher of the Kauravas and Pandavas in Mahabharat underwent his forfeit here. People visiting the place are thus curious about the incidents which happened there in ancient time. Due to this belief which persists till date, the ashram is used as a place to worship so as to find solitude and apology for wrongdoing
Tips For Visiting Tapovan Temple
The best time to visit the place is from April to July. One can visit Dehradun during the winter season as well to enjoy the snow if it does not become cold! Also, one must take care of the belongings on the move.
How To Reach Tapovan Temple
Tapovan is situated at a distance of 5 km from the Dehradun city. It is also 7 km away from the railway station. It is easy to commute via local transport such as a bus or a taxi.
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.
Amenities and facilities such as conference rooms, party halls, and luxurious cottages are subject to availability. Now a popular tourist destination, Fun Valley is situated amidst lush greenery at the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas. Reasonable prices complement the great entertainment value the expansive park provides and makes it an ideal place to unwind during the weekends or your leisure time from the hubbub of daily life.
Fun Valley Rides
Fun Valley offers a plethora of thrilling and adrenaline rushing rides that are bound to keep you busy with your family or friends. The integrated resort cum amusement park boasts of a water park, go-karting, and shopping complexes. It is the largest amusement and water park in North India. 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. The waterpark offers Kiddies' Pool and Lazy River, rides that are hugely popular amongst children and young adults. Similarly, the amusement park offers the Baby Train, Octopus Ride, the Fress Bee, and the Dragon Coaster!
Facilities offered to the visitors
The fun valley has a lot more to it rather than just being an amusement park. The bright side of the place becomes ten times brighter with the kind of facilities it offers including comfy cottages and rooms for one to relax, a shop which provides delicious dishes covering all cuisines at nominal prices and a shopping complex for the ladies to drool over. Swimsuits are given on rent, and the washrooms are pretty clean with lockers and their respective keys assigned to the visitors.
Amenities at Fun Valley
Extremely convenient facilities such as a multi-cuisine restaurant, a highway motel, cloakrooms, swimwear and satisfying accommodation such as luxurious cottages and boarding rooms make it a holiday goer's paradise. Accommodation facilities include Deluxe Room at INR 2490, Super Deluxe Room at INR 3490 and Dome at INR 2490 respectively. The tariffs apply on a general basis and are subject to availability and season rates. The extensive park offers 21 exciting rides to choose from, out of which four are found only here in all of the continent. Fun Valley amusement park stands right to its name, offering world-class entertainment to adults and children alike.
Best Time to Visit
Although you can visit the amusement park and resort at any time of the year, it would serve better not to head over during the monsoon as it can turn out to be pretty clammy.
Summer months between March and June are the best times to visit Fun Valley as the skies are clear and sunny, perfect for a cold dip! The temperature during these months varies from 18 degrees Celcius to 35 degrees Celcius.
Tips
1. Be sure to take care of your belongings and valuables before commencing on a ride frenzy. One solution would be to check in your luggage or belongings beforehand by checking in to a lodging room or a cottage!
2. Special rates apply for group bookings such as for a group of 50 people and above, corporate outings and social groups. Months: April (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM), May (9:00 AM - 6:30 PM), June (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
How To Reach Fun Valley
Fun Valley amusement park is located at a distance of approximately 30 kilometers from Dehradun and Haridwar on the Dehradun-Haridwar highway (National Highway 72). Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world, is 20 kilometers from Fun Valley. It is easily accessible by road from the three cities. The routes are incredibly scenic as the location is set in the foothills of the magnificent Himalayan mountain range, bound to enthrall you all along the journey.
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. 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.
Though the park is mainly famous for deer, the tourists there can also spot peacock, nilgais, rabbits, and tigers to name a few. The park is home to Himalayan beauties such as nilgais and antelopes which draw children and animal lovers from all over the world to the place. The park is a part of the Malsi Forest Reserve and is the second-best wildlife attraction in Dehradun following Rajaji National Park. Dehradun along with its charm is a paradise for all the tourists, and Malsi Deer Park is a wild pasture in this paradise. If you are planning on going out with your family and friends to a relaxing place full of natural beauty, this is the place to go.
Things To Do at Malsi Deer Park
Malsi Deer Park is a perfect picnic spot in Dehradun for a getaway from your busy life to experience the Himalayan picnic experience. There are refreshments and food items too available in the park along with swings and slides for the kids to enjoy. One can sit there and admire the natural beauty around along with watching a variety of birds flying around in the sky. One can also admire the leopard lazing around under the sun and the deer munching on fresh grass with the owls perched upon the high branches of the trees. You can relax while your kids are out there enjoying themselves in the kid's area while you capture the natural beauty around on your camera or hog on all the tasty dishes being served in the canteen.
Best Time To Visit Malsi Deer Park
Though it can be visited throughout the year, the ideal time to visit Malsi Deer Park is from April to July when the weather is pleasant in the hills. Summers and monsoon season are both very soothing and attract most people to the hill town.
Tips For Visiting Malsi Deer Park
1. The tourists are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes since the park is spread over a large area and needs to be explored on foot.
2. Carry water bottles and packaged food to keep yourself hydrated and well-fed.
3. Pets are not allowed inside the park.
4. Do not let kids cross the fences into the animal region and hold their hands.
5. To protect yourself from the heatstroke, carry a cap, and sunglasses.
6. Store your belonging in the lockers and keep them safe if not allowed inside the park.
How To Reach Malsi Deer Park
The park is situated on the Mussoorie Road between Dehradun and Mussoorie. It is situated at a distance of 10 km from Dehradun and can be reached via a bus or an auto-rickshaw within 25 to 30 minutes.
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.
One of the popular destinations in Dehradun, Tapkeshwar Temple is one of the most visited temples in the region. Residing in the lap of gentle green mountains, this destination is thronged by young travelers as an unlikely but ideal picnic spot as well. After taking a short trek through the forest, you are confronted by the simple yet inspiring edifice of the Tapkeshwar Temple. Cool sulfur water springs here are available for pilgrims to take a bath in before they enter the main temple. Once you enter the main complex, you are confronted by the magnificence of Lord Tapkeshwar, who is called so owing to the constant dripping of holy waters from the ceiling and onto the deity's head. Holy chants and the ringing of temple bells will transport you into a world of the divine where you can sit back and introspect. Visit the Tapkeshwar Temple to rediscover your bond with the Supreme Almighty.
Legend of Tapkeshwar temple
A widespread legend is popular about the emergence of the Tapkeshwar Temple. It is said that Ashwathama, the son of Dhronacharya, was born inside the cave. However, his mother did not have enough milk to be able to feed her newborn. Ashwathama was wise beyond his years, and he prayed to Lord Shiva to grant him some milk to satiate his hunger. Being the generous God he is, Lord Shiva granted the wish of the newborn for milk to suffice his hunger. Since then, a Shiva Linga has been established there which is said to grant the wishes of all those who visit this temple seeking the Lord's blessings.
Architecture of Tapkeshwar temple
The Tapkeshwar Temple is a gentle amalgam of manmade and natural design. It is situated between two gentle hills, while the main sanctum is contained within the bounds of a naturally occurring cave. The architecture itself pertains to a typical Hindu style and is a humble edifice with a simple and small facade. The most amazing sight of this temple can be seen inside the cave, where the Shiva Linga is continuously drenched by water droplets that fall inside the cave. Interestingly, the water droplets vanish from sight and can be seen a few yards away from the temple premises. This and many other supernatural occurrences make Tapkeshwar Temple the land of many miracles.
Things to do at Tapkeshwar
In addition to being an important place of worship, there are a number of other activities that you can pursue at the site of the Tapkeshwar Temple. The temple is located beside a forest and the nearby river adds up to the captivating aura of the temple. Trekking is one of the must-do here, with the natural beauty of their destination playing the perfect host as well. If hunger pangs strike you at odd times, you can snack on some delicious local street food at the nearby food stalls as well.
Mahashivratri at Tapkeshwar Temple
One of the best times to visit the Tapkeshwar Temple is during Shivratri, which is an earthly celebration of Lord Shiva's wedding to Goddess Parvati. A large-scale festival is organized to mark the occasion when pilgrims participate in large numbers to attend the celestial union of the two deities. Elaborate prayer services are held in the midst of holy invocations of ' Har Har Mahadev', and pilgrims offer Lord Shiva's favorite eatables to him on the day.
How To Reach Tapkeshwar Temple
The Tapkeshwar temple is located only 6.5 kilometers away from the city center, and you can reach the temple by hopping aboard the local bus or hiring the local autos called Vikram.
Photography
allowed
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.
A widely known and deemed University, this institution houses six museums dedicated to Forestry and Research. The Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy and the head office of the Indian Council of Forestry Research are also housed in its premises. FRI is an institute of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education and was granted the status of a deemed university by UGC in the year 1991. It is one of the oldest institutes and was established to lead forestry research in India. This organization has led to the evolution of scientific forestry not only in our country but the entire Indian Subcontinent. This prestigious institute is also responsible for training the forest officers and forest rangers of our country.
This institute has been internationally acclaimed due to its developed infrastructure and various notable courses offered here. The infrastructure is fully equipped with amenities like laboratories, library, herbarium, printing press, arboreta and multiple areas for conducting forestry research. The massive Botanical Museum in the institute has also been attracting a lot of tourists throughout the years.
History of Forest Research Institute
This institute was initially founded in 1878 by Dietrich Brandis, who was a German-British botanist and forestry academic who worked in the colonial India for about 30 years. The institute was initially named as the British Imperial Forest School. Further, in 1906, the institute was re-established as the Imperial Forest Research Institute, under the British Imperial Forestry Service.
The architecture of Forest Research Institute
The Institute is built on a lush landscape stretched over an area of 450 hectares. Its pristine backdrop is formed by the majestic outer Himalayas. The present building is a beautiful blend of Greco-Roman and Colonial styles of architecture. The Forest Research Institute was first located at Chandbagh in 1906. The current location was acquired by the institute in around 1923, which further led to the initiation of the construction of the present campus. The architecture was designed and supervised by C.G. Blomfield. Its construction took around six years, and the building was inaugurated in 1929 by the then viceroy, Willingdon. The building has been declared as a national heritage site and hence has been attracting a lot of tourists. It was even listed in the Guinness Book of Records, as it was the most massive purely brick structure in the world.
Forest Research Institute Museum
The building of Forest Research Institute, Dehradun also houses a Botanical Museum based on forestry. The museum allows visitors to take a glance at all the sections here which are entirely based on the botanical aspects of science. The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fee is INR 40 per person, along with some nominal vehicle fees if you are commuting by your car or scooter. The significant sections of this museum are-
Pathology Museum
Social Forestry Museum
Silviculture Museum
Timber Museum
Non-Wood Forest Products Museum
Entomology Museum
Training at Forest Research Institute
The campus of Forest Research Institute also hosts Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, which is an organization headed by the Indian Ministry of Environment and Forests. It also hosts other academies, namely the Central Academy for State Forest Services and the Wildlife Institute of India. Out of these, the Wildlife Institute of India has now moved to Chandrabani and has become an independent organization. The FRI runs widely known master and diploma courses, which are opted by various research scholars every year. These courses are-
M.Sc. in Cellulose and Paper Technology
M.Sc. in Environment Management
M.Sc. in Forestry Management
M.Sc. in Wood Science Technology
PG Diploma in Natural Resource Management
PG Diploma in Aroma Technology
Forest Research Institute Timing and Entry Fee
The FRI is open on all days of the week accepts the gazetted holidays from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
The guided tour operates from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
The ticket is nominally priced at INR 15 per person, with the addition of INR 50 if you opt for a guide for your visit here. There is a nominal parking fee as well.
Best Time To Visit Forest Research Institute
The best time to visit Dehradun is from March to June since the weather is pleasant and the skies are mostly clear. The temperature ranges from 17 degrees Celcius to 35 degrees Celcius.
How To Reach Forest Research Institute
Forest Research Institute and the college area are located in a census town, which is situated between Kaulagarh and Indian Military Academy. It is located about 7 km from the famous Clock Tower on the Dehradun-Chakrata motorable Road. It can be easily accessed via cabs, autos (Vikram no. 6 from Connaught place) or buses from all the parts of the Dehradun City. Dehradun Railway Station is located at 6 km, and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, located at about 31 km.
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.
Bali Pass, which is set at an elevation of about 4,800 meters and located in the heights of Garhwal Himalayan region, is an exhilarating getaway where from you can capture the majestic trio of Kalanag at 6,387 meters, Bander Poonch 6,316 meters and Swargarohini group of peaks at a maximum elevation of 6,252 meters. The trail crossing the Govind National Park, which houses several colorful orchards and species of animals and birds, pens and clicks the trekker's diary and lenses with enrapturing moments.
Food Availability
Dhaba food is available up until Sankri, Gangad, Taluka, and Seema. You can pack essential food for the rest of the climb.
General tips and tricks
1) Make sure you carry warm clothes along with you no matter during whichever season you are traveling in.
2) Be always prepared with your trekking gear and equipment.
3) Carrying your own medication and a good pair of shoes is a must. 4) Make sure you obtain all the permits well in advance required for trekking in the region.
5) Also, carry raingear along as weather at higher altitude changes at every moment.
6) Choose a well-qualified and professional guide and fix the rates in order to avoid any misunderstanding.
7) Carry spare batteries and film roll for the camera as there will be no electricity supply.
January - Lot of snow, trek not recommended
February - Lot of snow, trek not recommended
March - Lot of snow, trek not recommended
April - Late April onwards
May - Great time for trekking for nature lovers
June - Great time for trekking for nature lovers
July - Monsoon (Not Advised)
August - Monsoon (Not Advised)
September - Amazing time for trekking for adventure enthusiasts
October - Amazing time for trekking for adventure enthusiasts
November - Lot of snow, trek not recommended
December - Lot of snow, trek not recommended
Best Time To Visit Bali Pass
Late April - June ; September - October
How to reach Bali Pass
Rail: Take an overnight train to Dehradun from Delhi. New Delhi-Dehradun A/C special train from New Delhi station is the best option. The train reaches Dehradun at 5.40 am. Dehradun to Sankri is 185 km and takes about 5 hours to reach. There is transport available for the same.
Road: Delhi to Sankri is 440 km by road and takes 9 hours to reach. You can also drive to Sankri from Dehradun.
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.
Assan Barrage attracts thousands of birds of hundreds of species every year to its waters among which are some of the rarest and endangered bird species in the world. Located 32 km west of the city of Dehradun, Assan barrage is a wonderful place to be one with nature and bask in its infinite glory. The place buzzes with life and as such is a paradise for all the bird lovers out there. It is also popularly known as Dhaulipur Lake and is thronged by tourists and students alike who come to marvel at its beauty and birdlife.
Best Time To Visit Assan Barrage
Except for the monsoons (August-September), the place is fit for traveling all year round. The weather is very pleasant in this region allowing one to comfortably enjoy one's exploration and sightseeing. If traveling during winters then you will have to protect yourself with some layers of woolens as the temperatures drop down pretty low in this part of the country. The Doon Valley of which Assan barrage is a part looks marvelous all year round.
Stay Near Assan Barrage
Dehradun should be the preferred location for staying. The city has great accommodation options suiting all budget sizes.
Activities At Assan Barrage
Travel to Assan Barrage for one of the best experiences for photography and wildlife.
Shopping At Assan Barrage
One can buy beautiful handmade woolen clothing items such as pashminas, shawls, stoles, scarves, and throws in the city's most popular market Paltan bazaar.
Food At Assan Barrage
Try out some amazing Garhwali and Kumauni cuisines such as aloo ke gutke, gahat, chainsoo and kappa.
Restaurants Near Assan Barrage
Nanking Restaurant, Moti Mahal, Lhasa, and The Orchid.
Sample Itinerary For Assan Barrage
Once you reach Dehradun, head to the Assan Barrage. There isn't much of an itinerary that you need to stick to here, except to enjoy an unparallel bird watching experience.
Tips For Visiting Assan Barrage
Leave early in the morning for the Barrage from Dehradun to encounter some rare birdlife as well as to avoid traffic.
How to reach Assan Barrage
Air: Dehradun has its own airport which connects it to the rest of the country. Flights come in daily from all the major cities in the country. One can easily get a cab for Assan barrage or catch a bus from the airport.
Rail: The city has its railhead which connects it to the country. Trains from all parts of the country terminate at Dehradun. Cabs are easily available for Assan Barrage outside the railway station.
Road: Assan Barrage lies 32 km west of Dehradun and is well connected by a highway that goes towards Paonta Sahib. Public and private buses ply regularly connecting Dehradun to Assan Barrage.
17 Chetwoode 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,
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.
The clock tower is situated on the Rajpur Road and is surrounded by numerous business centers. The tower has a gold plate on top of it which has all the names of the freedom fighters who fought for the independence of the country and helped it break free from the chains of British slavery.
Originally, the tower was named "Balbir tower" and was built to mark the independence of India as a sign of celebration. Sarojini Naidu, the then Governor of Uttar Pradesh, laid the base of the monument in the year 1948. It is 85m tall and has an exclusive architecture with six faces. It has been adding a lot of heritage value to the country.
Best Time To Visit Clock tower
The best time to visit the clock tower in Dehradun is during winters. People are likely to enjoy more in this weather.
How To Reach Clock tower
Clock Tower is situated in the heart of Dehradun near Patlan Market, surrounded by shops and markets. It is very much accessible by the local transport. Auto-rickshaws, as well as cabs, can be hired so as to reach the destination. The tower is located at a distance of 2 km from the railway station of Dehradun.
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.
Availability of Clean Water
Yes, but it is advisable to ensure the availability of clean drinking water in your custom package.
Availability of camping/shelter
The best way to fully enjoy this adventurous expedition is by camping. Almost all tour operators offer camps at the rafting site.
Safety Tips
Carry a compact first-aid kit just for safety. Stretch before you go in for the activity, and always plan the raft distance in your package carefully. If you are traveling with older people or children, find a suitable rafting stretch for them.
Things to carry
1) A compact first aid kit including medicines of importance.
2) Quick refreshments - energy drinks, energy bars
3) Bathing suits, shorts, river sandals, flip-flops, old sneakers
4) Waterproof camera bag, fresh batteries, waterproof lens
5) Plastic bags for carrying wet clothes
General Tips and Tricks
The best time to raft in Tiuni is from March to June and September to November. Avoid visiting during the months of heavy rainfall i.e. July and August. Make sure you pay attention to all the instructions carefully given by the guide. Also prefer to go for the activity in groups of 4, 6 or 8 as per the operator you choose. Non-swimmers are not allowed on the trip usually. Also, make sure you have prior rafting experience before you indulge in the activity here.
How to reach Rafting in Tiuni
Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun serves as the nearest airbase to the site of activity. It is connected to Delhi by daily flights and one can easily hire a cab from outside the airport to reach the base.
Rail: Rishikesh and Dehradun both serve as an option of the nearest railway station to the Ton Valley. One can take either Mussoorie Express or Shatabdi to reach the destination.
Road: Bus services are easily available to Dehradun from Delhi and other neighboring states. The distance from Delhi is about 200 km and it takes around 5-7 hours to reach. From here, one can hire a cab or a bus for a hilly ride of 5-6 hours to reach the first point of rafting.
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.
Sites and places to visit in and around Kalsi
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Best Time To Visit Kalsi
Summertime is arguably the best period to visit Kalsi as the weather is much nicer and suitable for outdoor activities. Morning hours in the summer season are the best time for taking trails. The bright afternoon sun coupled with the mild temperature is the perfect complement when you go out on picnics and indulge yourself in some of the adventure sports. On the other hand, the periods of October to November and February to March is usually when you will see the migratory birds gather at Asan Barrage. So there never really is a bad time to visit Kalsi.
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
How to Reach Dehradun
The nearest railway station is the Dehradun junction, which is well connected to major cities in northern India, primarily New Delhi. Jolly Grant Airport serves Dehradun domestically, with regular flights coming in from places like Delhi & Mumbai, to begin with. Regular bus services also prevail to and fro Dehradun, through an excellent roadways network.
Route Name Distance Time
Haridwar to Dehradun 52.9 km 1 hour 33 mins
Chandigarh to Dehradun 163 km 4 hours 1 min
Delhi to Dehradun 245 km 5 hours 35 mins
Hyderabad to Dehradun 1,767 km 1 day 4 hours
Kolkata to Dehradun 1,689 km 1 day 3 hours
Chennai to Dehradun 2,392 km 1 day 13 hours
Bangalore to Dehradun 2,356 km 1 day 11 hours
Jaipur to Dehradun 540 km 9 hours 32 mins
Mumbai to Dehradun 1,674 km 1 day 3 hours
Agra to Dehradun 435 km 7 hours 44 mins
Varanasi to Dehradun 1,018 km 15 hours 53 mins
Amritsar to Dehradun 395 km 7 hours 29 mins
Gurgaon to Dehradun 283 km 6 hours 9 mins
Ahmedabad to Dehradun 1,205 km 19 hours 1 min
Pune to Dehradun 1,724 km 1 day 5 hours
Manali to Dehradun 443 km 11 hours 23 mins
Goa to Dehradun 2,141 km 1 day 12 hours
Udaipur to Dehradun 922 km 14 hours 58 mins
Jodhpur to Dehradun 864 km 14 hours 25 mins
Srinagar to Dehradun 785 km 15 hours 35 mins
How to reach Dehradun by flight
Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport that serves the city of Dehradun. Regular flights from cities like New Delhi and Mumbai via this airport. This is 29.4 km. away from the main city of Dehradun. Once you touch down at the airport, you can always avail a prepaid taxi for the city.
How to reach Dehradun by road
Regular bus services ply to and fro the city of Dehradun. They operate on a daily basis, whether day or night. You can also take shared taxis or cabs for the same route.
How to reach Dehradun by train
Dehradun railway station connects Dehradun to the rest of India by railways. Regular rail services operate to and fro the city of Dehradun, the most famous among them being Dehradun Jan Shatabdi Express, which operates from New Delhi railway station, and cruises at a maximum speed of 120 km./ hr.
Local transport in Dehradun
Shared autos and auto-rickshaws are some of the easiest modes of transport around the city.
What is the best time to visit Dehradun?
Lying in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun is a soothing retreat that can be visited at any time of the year. The destination is located in the state of Uttarakhand and is one of the top hill stations to visit in India. An ideal season for a trip to Dehradun is the summer season when the climate is pleasant. Monsoon and autumn season are also worth visiting, but winters are not exactly the season advisable for a visit unless you love the snow.
March to June: This is the time when most people flock to Dehradun since the weather is pleasant and clear and it is best to enjoy the sights and indulge in adventure activities. The maximum temperature during this time is 35 degrees Celsius and the minimum is 17 degrees Celsius. Carry light cotton clothes and enjoy a pleasant summer in Dehradun.
July to September: This is when the monsoon kicks in and Dehradun looks beautiful and lush green in its rain-washed splendor. Dehradun looks very inviting during this time of the year and use this opportunity to relax and enjoy Dehradun at your own pace.
October to February: October marks the beginning of autumn in Dehradun and this is when the weather begins to cool down a bit. Winter in Dehradun arrives in December and the temperatures drop down to 3 degrees Celsius, owing to snowfall in nearby hill stations, such as Mussoorie. The maximum temperature during this time is 22 degrees Celsius. This is a nice time to explore Dehradun as one can explore the sights while soaking in the winter sunshine. It is advised to carry woolen clothing, since it gets very cold during this time, especially during the evenings and nights.
Dehradun in Summer (April - June)
The summer season is the peak season for tourism and also an ideal time to visit the hill station. This season lasts from the month of March to June and the temperature ranges from 26 degrees Celsius to 35 degree Celsius. The climate is pleasant, the ambiance is lovely, and the calmness is just right for the peace seekers. The temperature lowers during the night, which is a big relief from the blazing summers, especially in the northern region of India. This weather makes it the best time for tourists to enjoy the various attractions in Dehradun as well as the adventure activities that are a famous past time.
Dehradun in Monsoon & Autumn (July - October)
The monsoon season from July is lovely, especially when it drizzles, making Dehradun a beautiful place to visit. The temperatures range from 27-degree Celcius to 35-degree Celcius. These temperatures are almost similar to the ones felt in the summer. Due to this reason, the weather in Dehradun doesn't seem to change drastically from summer to monsoon. However, being a hilly region, this is not exactly the ideal season for a visit, owing to the risk of landslides and possible floods. The season turns ideal once again from late September, when the clouds subside and the nights turn pleasant, with a certain chill in the air. While many individuals prefer to visit the neighboring town of Mussoorie along with Dehradun, this may not be a good time to visit the two towns together as the road joining the two towns is especially tricky due to the fog and the rain that is omnipresent in this season.
Dehradun in Winter (November - March)
Winter season in Dehradun is a magnificent time to visit the quaint hill station as the temperatures are haltingly cold and drop as low as 3 degrees Celsius. These near frigid temperatures are due to the snowfall that greets the nearby towns and brings in the cold weather. While the days can be moderate to extremely cold, the nights are always cold and freezing. Although the hill station looks extremely beautiful, covered in a shroud of mist, these temperatures may very well be less than ideal for most. Therefore, a lot of individuals prefer to visit the hill station only for short while in the season. However, if you're a snow enthusiast, and are raring to go, then it is advisable that you set off with proper precautions, especially in the case of clothes. You should be packed with woolens for the same.
Food of Dehradun
Though Dehradun offers a number of choices, what one must try while here, is the local cuisine. These include Kandalee ka saag, Gahat ki Daal, Aloo ke Gutke, Nimbu, Kaafli, Gulgula as well as some traditional sweets that one just cannot miss such as Bal Mithai, Arsa, Jhangora ki Kheer and more. Other than the local flavors you can also relish North Indian cuisine, South Indian, Chinese, Italian, Thai, Tibetan and Continental cuisines in Dehradun.
Ellora's Melting Moments
INR 250
8 AM to 10 PM
29, Rajpur Road, Chukkuwala, Dehradun, India
With pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, lassi, and sweets galore, Ellora's Melting Moments is the fast-food stop for your family. Known as one of Dehradun's most famous bakeries, Ellora is always buzzing. If the wide range of cakes and pastries doesn't impress you, their Kathi roll sure will.
Moti mahal
INR 1000
10 AM to 11 PM
7, RajpurRoad, Rajpur, Dehradun, India
One of the more popular restaurants of the city, Moti Mahal is frequented for its wide variety of dishes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, which span all the way from North Indian to South Indian cuisine. Chinese food is also worth mentioning. With a classy ambiance and mid-range prices, their chicken biryani is a must-try.
Chetan Puriwallah
INR 40-120
9 AM-4 PM
Hanuman Chowk, Paltan Bazaar
Unlimited thalis served on plates made of leaves, delicious puris and sweet gulab jamuns make Chetan Puriwallah one of the best places if you're looking for an authentic local dining experience.
Kumar's
INR 700
11 AM-10:30 PM
15B, Rajpur Road, Dehradun
If a South Indian food lover is in Dehradun, Kumar's is a place he should not miss. The softest of Vadas and idlis are served under the vision of an expert chef.
Yeti Restaurant
INR 650
10 AM to 11 PM
55 A, Near St. Joseph's Academy, Rajpur Road, Chukkuwala, Dehradun, India
Located in the middle of the hustle-bustle of the famous Rajpur road, Yeti restaurant is great place to walk in and enjoy the authentic Chinese and Thai delicacies. The place is well known for offering tasty tom yum, green curry and stir-fried prawns.
Hotels in Dehradun
Old British House
38.9 km from city center
The Sirmour Villa
2.7 km from city center
Gorayya Homestay
7.5 km from city center
Mahavan
11.2 km from city center
Red Fox Hotel Dehradun
10.1 km from city center
JJR VILLA Dehradun
2.8 km from city center
Tanush Home Stay
0.6 km from city center
10 Spots For Shopping In Dehradun
Are you confused about what to shop for and wherein Dehradun? Don’t fret. We’ve shortlisted some of the best spots for shopping in Dehradun city. Gather your friends and make a beeline for these 10 incredible spots for shopping in Dehradun now:
1. Paltan Bazaar
One of the most economical places in the city, Paltan Bazaar is famous for Basmati rice, which also is one of the most popular things to buy in Dehradun. Take an evening stroll in the narrow, cluttered lanes of Paltan market in Dehradun and you will be able to get your hands on reasonably priced clothes, never-seen-before antiques, second-hand books, and Pahari handicrafts – all without getting broke. You can also head to one of the cafes or food-joints in the neighborhood, marking a sweet end to your day of shopping in Dehradun. It is one of the most famous Sunday market in Dehradun for a reason!
Location: Paltan Bazaar, Dehradun
What to Buy: Reasonably priced clothes
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
2. Tibetan Market
Not many people know this, but Doon also has Buddhist monasteries and a Tibetan settlement in the city. The Tibetan market in Dehradun is famous for its beautiful tribal jewelry, handicraft items, semi-precious stones, and hand-knitted woolens. One big attraction of this place is the local vendors selling mouth-watering Tibetan delicacies like momos, thukpa, and noodles.
Location: Tibetan Market, Pant Road, Race Course, Dehradun
What to Buy: Cool T-Shirts and Tibetan jewelry
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
3. Rajpur Road
Shopping in Dehradun is incomplete without going to Rajpur Road. This market is the heart of the city, located right next to Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar). You will find many branded showrooms here ranging from Nike, Adidas, Levi’s, etc. as well as local vendors selling unique craft items and other economic goods. The market is famous for its cafes and fine dining options, which will serve as the perfect place for an evening date. You will also find many quintessential fast food outlets like Domino’s, McDonald’s, and Cafe Coffee Day here.
Location: Rajpur Road, Irrigation Colony, Karanpur, Dehradun
What to Buy: Branded apparel, Cafes
Timings: 9 AM – 10 PM
4. Astley Hall
This shopping center is right next to Rajpur Road, housing a number of cutesy local stores and food-joints. You will find artificial jewelry, carved wooden items, woolen clothes, cane and bamboo artifacts, and hordes of other local items here. The prices range from moderate to economical here, with the place being a big attraction amongst both tourists and locals.
Location: Astley Hall, Irrigation Colony, Karanpur, Dehradun
What to Buy: Souvenirs, Shawls
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
5. Indira Market
This is a haven for all the fashionistas looking for shopping in Dehradun. The market is at a walking distance from Paltan Market, Dehradun. You will find all the latest designs and fashion trends here being sold as the first copy items. The pieces are reasonably priced but may vary in quality, so we suggest you do a thorough check before buying anything. Make sure to stop by at Indira market in Dehradun for the latest fashion.
Location: Indira Market Road, Race Course, Dehradun
What to Buy: Latest trends in budget prices
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
6. Connaught Place
The city of Dehradun sort of imitates Delhi when it comes to naming places. You will spot a Saket and Defence Colony there amongst others. What fascinates most shoppers is the Connaught Place, fashioning itself after its famous namesake in Delhi. Located on Chakrata Road, this Dehradun main market is one of the busiest places in the city, where you will find retail stores selling local wooden handicraft, Garhwali Paintings, and artificial jewelry. If not shopping, simply grab a cup of cocoa at one of the coffee houses here like most youngsters in the city.
Location: Chakrata Road, Connaught Place, Dehradun
What to Buy: Garhwali Paintings
7. Gandhi Road Market
Known for curios, Gandhi Road Market is another street market in the city. You will find second-hand books, different souvenirs like wooden items and brass statues, jewelry items, shoes, cheap but cool sunglasses, and what not in the hustle and bustle of this market. The place is located near the Clocktower and a walk around here is bound to leave you with lighter pockets.
Location: Gandhi Road, Dehradun
What to Buy: Souvenirs and Artefacts
8. Arhat Bazar
Located near the Saharanpur Chowk, this bazaar is, for sure, the cheapest market in Dehradun. The place is the go-to-market for ration, you will find all kinds of dals, spices, rice, etc. here at reasonable prices. The area is also famous for timber merchants. This is touted to be one of the best shopping places in Dehradun if you’re on the lookout for exotic spices. We highly suggest you make a beeline for this bazar.
Location: Arhat Bazaar, Lakkhi Bagh, Dehradun
What to Buy: Spices, rice, and ration
9. Pacific Mall
Looking for malls in Dehradun city Though the concept of malls is new to this city, there are quite a few of them in and around Dehradun. These malls are perfect for brand-conscious shoppers, who do not want to dig deep into heaps of clothes at street-side vendors. The most popular Dehradun shopping malls are Pacific Mall, Times Square Mall, and Cross Road Mall. Pacific Mall is one of the biggest and most popular malls in the city. You will find almost all the mainstream lifestyle brands here, with a decent food court, a PVR and kids play zone. However, these places are still a novelty, with most locals and tourists favoring the local street markets. It is considered as one of the best shopping malls in Dehradun.
Location: Pacific Mall, Jakhan, Rajpur Road, Dehradun
What to Buy: Branded clothes
Timings: 11 AM – 10 PM
10. Special Mention: Bakery Shops
No shopping spree in Dehradun is complete without paying a visit to its bakeries. The city is famous for its eggless and other products ranging from cookies, plum cakes, pastries, patties, tarts, and fresh cakes. Although the city is home to many bakeries, the butter toffees from Ellora’s are a must-buy from Dehradun. Apart from that, Gaylord, Standard, Sunrise, etc. also have lots of school/college students and tourists pouring in. The milk rusks and eggless cakes of these bakeries are one of the most popular things to buy in Dehradun.
Location: Ellora’s, Chukkuwala, Dehradun
What to Buy: Milk rusk, butter toffee, lemon tarts
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Things to do in Dehradun: Treks and walks
1. Go exploring at Robber’s Cave
This river cave formed in the Himalayas is one of the best attractions Dehradun has to offer. A short trek brings you to a beautiful spot where you can explore a long cave, enjoy the calm stream and take in the views of the waterfall.
Make sure you wear good (waterproof) trekking shoes when visiting. Entry is free and the best time to visit is between 7 am and 6 pm.
2. Trekking at Har Ki Dun
Located away from the chaos of the main city, this beautiful valley is situated at a height of 3,566 meters above sea level. This is one of the most accessible places to trek in Dehradun.
Here you will be treated to the sights of lush pine forests as well as rolling mountain peaks. You can also spot local villages along the way which offer great insight into the culture of the area.
3. Visit The Forest Research Institute
Surrounded by greenery on all sides and stretching across 450 hectares, the Forest Research Institute will give you an educational and recreational experience thanks to the unique information and architecture, as well as its picture-perfect setting.
Guided tours are also available and make sure to carry your camera. The Forest Research Institute is open from 9 am to 5.30 pm.
4. Spot animals at Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park is the place to go to if you are an animal and nature lover. Don’t forget to carry your camera to capture images of the stunning flora and fauna.
The Rajaji National Park is home to a number of animals too such as the tiger, leopard, Himalayan bear, cheetah, barking deer, sloth bears, snakes, elephants and more.
5. Dive into history at the War Memorial
Located 5 kilometers away from Sahastradhara Road, this famous Khalanga War Memorial was built by the Britishers to honor the bravery and history of the Gorkhas.
This is one of the first memorials to honor its opponent. The road leading here is beautiful and it is one of the most educational and awe-inspiring places to visit in Dehradun.
6. Paragliding over Dehradun
If you’re looking to satiate your adventurous streak, then you must try your hand at paragliding while visiting. Here you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of Dehradun, Mussoorie, Chakrata, Tehri, and Rishikesh.
Some of the best places you can book a session include National Adventure Sports Academy and The Great Himalayan Adventures.
7. Eat momos
Dehradun boasts of many tiny restaurants and cafes that serve up steaming hot momos. These popular steamed dumplings are filled with chicken, pork and veggies.
While you can find a lot of places selling these tasty treats, we recommend you check out Café Marigold and Kalsang Friend’s Corner at Rajpur Road for its chicken devil momos. The Orchard at Rajpur Road also offers some delicious pan-fried momos.
A Guide to Street Food in Dehradun
1. Bun Tikki
More popular than burgers, Dehradun’s own dabeli or vada-pav, the Bun Tikki, is an exactly what it claims to be: a Tikki or Patti made with potato and channa dal, flavored with spices, served in a lightly-toasted bun along with tamarind chutney and other condiments.
If you are around EC Road, you can try the best example of this tasty local treat at a stall simply named after the snack.
2. Bread Pakora
Gaining popularity around the country, the bread pakora has come into its own in recent years. A favorite grab-and-go snack of Dehradun locals as well as visitors, it is a vegetarian sandwich, dipped in batter and deep-fried golden, and served hot with chutney.
While available on every street corner, The Buffet snack shop serves one of the best you can get your hands on in Dehradun. Also available here are some great burgers and rolls – all cheap and very tasty.
3. Momos
The momo has always been a popular local roadside snack all over the city and around. Made with all sorts of delicious fillings, both vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, wrapped in a thin sheet of dough, steamed or fried, and served with a spicy dipping sauce, these little dumplings can go down fast!
K.C. Momos a little ahead from Silver City is famous for these scrumptious morsels, as well as their soups. Head here for absolutely the best mutton momos in the city.
4. Chhole Poori
What could be more satisfying than a bowl of piping-hot chhole and crispy pooris? This spicy chickpea gravy, or chhole, is a common sight at many roadside vendors all across the city and as such has become one of the more popular street food dishes to make a mini-meal of on the go.
If you have a craving for some superb chole poori while in Dehradun, then you need to head to Chetan Poori Wala At Hanuman Chowk. It is the best in the city and they have been featured on a few food shows, too.
5. Dosa
South Indian food is very popular, not only in the South of the country but all over. Tiny Udipi carts, serving vegetarian fast food by the roadsides have become commonplace even in Dehradun.
For some excellent dosas, idlis, uttapam and the like, go down to Madrasi Dosa on Chakrata Road. Even the humble dosa is outstanding here and worth visiting for.
6. Chowmein
The proximity of Dehradun to China is probably the main reason there are so many influences and similarities in the food and even culture of the two. Chowmein, a delicious stir-fried Chinese noodle dish, with fresh, crisp vegetables and slivers of meat, is a common sight being tossed up around street corner carts all over.
For some great chowmein in the city, you have to visit the famous Bobby Fast Food Corner. Open only in the evening's post 5 till midnight, they serve many other great Indo-Chinese delights, too.
7. Noodles
Another well-loved noodle dish served all over Dehradun is none other than Maggi. The packet noodles are a hit all over the nation amongst not only the young but all age groups.
Definitely considered comfort food to many, you have got to visit Shivalik Maggi Point on the way to Mussoorie where you can find a variety of combinations of this inexpensive familiar food in beautiful surroundings, making the experience invaluable.
8. Paneer Samosa
Every state, city and even locality seems to have its own version of this deep-fried snack and Dehradun is no exception. The samosa’s flaky pastry, usually stuffed with spicy potato is a hungry travelers delight.
In Dehradun, a little stall near Bindal Bridge has added their own mouthwatering twist to this already delicious delight. The paneer samosas available at Jaina Ke Samose are like nothing you have had, with fresh cottage cheese and light crust, they are a must-try if you are in the city.
9. Tandoori Momos
Usually steamed or fried, the momo is a common snack found all over Dehradun, especially around street corners in busy areas, catering to the general public walking by and look for a quick bite. For an unusual twist to the well known and loved dumpling, Lala Jees Angithi is serving them grilled over a tandoor with a variety of stuffings and dips.
Also available are other tandoori delights but be sure to come here and sample the momos as they are something you have probably not tried before.
10. Pakode
Hot out of the oil, no one can resist a good pakoda with chutney. With so many varieties to choose from, the humble pakoda is just about anything dipped in a gram flour batter then deep-fried crisp and golden.
A great place for this dangerously-delicious delight in the city has got to be Rajpurwale Sardarji Ke Pakode near Rajpur Chowk. Around since 1952, the little kiosk has even been immortalized in stories. Be sure to try the jalebis here, too.
11. Ice-Cream
Though the region is blessed with pleasant weather most of the year, good ice-cream does not need an excuse to be eaten. Evidence of the superb local produce is exhibited in most anything prepared locally and dairy has got to be high up the list.
As such, you can find some excellent local ice-creams with unique flavors in the city. To sample some delicious flavors head to Gaylord Ice Cream Parlor in the city; even in the cold weather, you will not be able to resist.
12. Falooda Kulfi
India’s answer to the Ice-cream sundae, Falooda with Kulfi is a summertime treat all over, especially Northern half of the sub-continent. This milk-based shake, topped with rose syrup, kalonji seeds, vermicelli, and delicious Indian ice-cream, or kulfi as it’s known, has got to be the most popular cold dessert here. Go to Kumar Sweets near the city’s clock tower and sample a spectacular example of this treat as well as their yummy Paanwala mithai, ras malai, rasgulla, barfi and much more.
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