DEHRADUN
Have you ever felt like you're trapped in a concrete jungle and desperately need a breather? Do you constantly dream about escaping the city chaos and losing yourself in the serenity of nature? Well, my friend, I have just the place for you - Dehradun!
Dehradun, also known as the "Gateway to Mussoorie," is a beautiful city situated in the lap of the Himalayas. It's a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. From lush green forests to majestic mountain ranges, Dehradun has it all!
If you're a foodie, then let me tell you that Dehradun is famous for its mouth-watering chaat, lassi, and momos. And if you're an adventure junkie, then don't miss out on thrilling activities like trekking, river rafting, and paragliding.
But that's not all! Dehradun is also home to some of the best educational institutes in India, including the prestigious Doon School and Forest Research Institute. So if you're a student or an academic enthusiast, this city has something for you too.
And let's not forget about the climate! With pleasant weather all year round, Dehradun is an ideal destination for your next vacation. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the tranquility of this beautiful city!
Trust me; once you visit Dehradun, it will become your go-to destination whenever you need a break from reality.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Dehradun
- How to Reach and getting around Dehradun
- Weather of Dehradun
- Places to Visit in Dehradun
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Dehradun
- Best areas for Accommodation in Dehradun
- Shopping in Dehradun
- Nightlife in Dehradun
- Festivals and Events in Dehradun
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Dehradun
- FAQs
History and Culture of Dehradun
Dehradun is a city located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It has a rich history and is known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture.
Legend has it that Dehradun was established by Guru Dronacharya, the teacher of the Pandavas in the epic Mahabharata. According to this story, he chose Dehradun as his abode after being exiled from Hastinapur.
Dehradun is also famous for its Basmati rice, which is considered to be some of the best in the world. It's so good that even the royals used to import it.
The city has played an important role in India's struggle for independence. During British rule, Dehradun was home to many freedom fighters like Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi.
Nowadays, Dehradun is known for its prestigious schools like Doon School and Welham Girls' School. These schools have produced some of India's finest minds and leaders.
But perhaps the most interesting thing about Dehradun is its unique culture. The people here are warm and friendly, and they love their food! From momos to chhole bhature, you'll find all kinds of delicious dishes here.
In fact, there's even a street in Dehradun called Paltan Bazaar where you can find some of the best street food in all of India!
All in all, Dehradun is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture that's just waiting to be explored. So why not plan a trip there today?
How to Reach and getting around Dehradun
Dehradun is a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand, known for its scenic beauty and tranquil surroundings. If you're wondering how to reach Dehradun, there are several options available to you.
By Air: The nearest airport to Dehradun is the Jolly Grant Airport, located about 25 km away. There are regular flights connecting Dehradun to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
By Train: The Dehradun Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. There are several daily trains that run between these cities and Dehradun.
By Road: Dehradun is well-connected by road to major cities in North India like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Haridwar. There are several buses that run between these cities and Dehradun. You can also hire a taxi or drive your own car if you prefer.
By Bike: If you're an adventure enthusiast, you can also consider reaching Dehradun on a bike. The roads leading up to the city are scenic and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
By Trekking: For those who love trekking, there are several trails that lead up to Dehradun from nearby towns like Mussoorie and Rishikesh. These treks offer a unique experience of the Himalayan terrain and wildlife.
No matter which mode of transport you choose to reach Dehradun, make sure you plan your journey in advance for a hassle-free trip.
Weather of Dehradun
Extreme WintersMild WintersHot + Dry
Hot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantDehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is known for its pleasant weather throughout the year. The climate of Dehradun can be classified as sub-tropical with temperatures ranging from 2 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius.
The summer season in Dehradun starts from March and lasts till June. During this time, the temperature ranges between 20 to 35 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect time for trekking and sightseeing. The monsoon season starts in July and lasts till September, bringing heavy rainfall to the region.
The best time to visit Dehradun is during the months of October to February when the temperature ranges between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. The winter season in Dehradun is mild with occasional snowfall in higher elevations. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities like camping, trekking, and skiing.
Dehradun is also known for its lush greenery and scenic beauty during the monsoon season, but it is advisable to avoid traveling during this time due to landslides and roadblocks.
In conclusion, Dehradun's climate offers something for everyone throughout the year. However, if you are looking for a peaceful vacation amidst nature's lap without any disturbance from rains or extreme heat then visiting Dehradun between October and February would be perfect!
Places to Visit in Dehradun
Robber's Cave: Located about 8 km from Dehradun, Robber's Cave is a natural cave formation that attracts tourists with its unique geological features. The cave is formed by a stream of water disappearing underground and reappearing again after a few meters. Tourists can walk through the narrow passages of the cave and enjoy the cool breeze that flows through it.
Sahastradhara: Sahastradhara is a beautiful waterfall located at a distance of 14 km from Dehradun. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers breathtaking views to tourists. The water of the waterfall contains high amounts of sulfur and is believed to have medicinal properties.
Tapkeshwar Temple: Tapkeshwar Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 6 km from Dehradun. The temple is situated inside a natural cave and has a small stream flowing over the Shiva lingam, which makes it unique.
Mindrolling Monastery: Mindrolling Monastery is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India, located in Clement Town, about 8 km from Dehradun. The monastery has beautiful gardens and intricate murals depicting Buddhist teachings.
Forest Research Institute: The Forest Research Institute is a premier institute for forestry research in India, located on Kaulagarh Road in Dehradun. It has an impressive campus with colonial-style buildings and beautiful gardens.
Malsi Deer Park: Malsi Deer Park is a wildlife park located at the foothills of Shivalik ranges, about 10 km from Dehradun. The park houses various species of deer along with other animals like peacocks and rabbits.
Rajaji National Park: Rajaji National Park is spread over an area of 820 sq km and encompasses parts of three districts- Haridwar, Pauri Garhwal, and Dehradun district. It offers an opportunity to explore wildlife like tigers, leopards, elephants, deer etc.
Tapovan Temple: Tapovan Temple is another ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located on the banks of river Ganga near Rishikesh (about 25 km from Dehradun). It offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges along with spiritual vibes.
Lacchiwala Picnic Spot: Lacchiwala Picnic Spot is situated on Haridwar-Dehradun road around 22 km from Dehradun city center amidst dense forests offering peace & tranquility away from city life along with fresh air & natural beauty.
10.Sai Darbar Temple: Sai Darbar Temple also known as Sai Durbar Ashram or Sai Dham situated at Rajpur Road in Dehradun draws devotees for its serene surrounding & peaceful environment along with holy chants making it perfect place for spirituality seekers .
Adventures Activities
Romantic Places
Relaxing Retreats
Hilly Regions
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Dehradun
Best areas for accommodation in Dehradun
Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and pleasant weather. It is surrounded by the Himalayas and has several beautiful places to explore. If you are planning to visit Dehradun, it is essential to choose the right area for accommodation to ensure a comfortable stay. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Dehradun:
Rajpur Road: Rajpur Road is one of the most popular areas in Dehradun and is well-connected to major tourist attractions. It has several luxury hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers.
Mussoorie Road: Mussoorie Road is another excellent area for accommodation in Dehradun. It has several budget-friendly hotels and resorts that offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Sahastradhara Road: Sahastradhara Road is an upcoming area in Dehradun that offers a peaceful stay away from the hustle-bustle of the city. It has several resorts that offer Ayurvedic treatments and spa facilities.
Here are some of the best properties for accommodation in Dehradun:
Luxury: Jaypee Residency Manor - This luxurious resort offers stunning views of the Himalayas and has several amenities like a spa, gym, indoor pool, and restaurants.
Budget: Hotel JSR Continental - This budget-friendly hotel is located on Rajpur Road and offers comfortable rooms with all basic amenities at an affordable price.
Hostel: Zostel Dehradun - This hostel is ideal for backpackers and solo travelers looking for affordable accommodation. It offers dormitory-style rooms with all necessary amenities like free Wi-Fi, lockers, etc.
In conclusion, choosing the right area for accommodation will make your stay in Dehradun more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you're looking for luxury or budget-friendly options or backpacker hostels, you'll find something that suits your needs in these recommended areas mentioned above.
Shopping in Dehradun
Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is a shopper's paradise. The city offers a variety of products including traditional handicrafts, clothes, jewelry, and much more. Many markets in the city are worth visiting for shopping enthusiasts. However, there are certain things to avoid while shopping in Dehradun.
Things to buy
- Handicrafts - Dehradun is famous for its traditional handicrafts like wooden toys, hand-carved furniture, and brass items.
- Basmati Rice - Dehradun is known for its high-quality basmati rice which has a unique aroma and taste.
- Woolen Clothes - The city offers a wide range of woolen clothes like shawls, sweaters, and jackets.
- Organic Products - Visitors can also buy organic products like honey, tea, and spices.
Markets to visit
- Paltan Bazaar - It is one of the oldest markets in Dehradun which offers a variety of products including clothes, shoes, jewelry as well as street food.
- Tibetan Market - This market is famous for its Tibetan handicrafts like prayer flags, singing bowls, and thangka paintings.
- Rajpur Road - It is one of the busiest shopping streets in Dehradun which offers everything from clothing to electronics.
What to avoid
- Street Vendors Selling Fake Products - Visitors should avoid buying from street vendors selling fake products as they might be of low quality.
- Overpriced Items in Tourist Shops - Tourist shops often sell their products at high prices. It's better to explore local markets for better deals.
- Unlicensed Shops - Visitors should avoid shopping from unlicensed shops as they might not provide genuine products or proper receipts.
- Bargaining Too Much - While bargaining is common in local markets in India but visitors should avoid bargaining too much which might offend the shopkeepers.
In conclusion, shopping in Dehradun can be an enjoyable experience if visitors know what to buy and where to buy from. Visitors should explore local markets for better deals instead of tourist shops selling overpriced items. Avoiding fake products and unlicensed shops would lead visitors towards genuine products while bargaining should be done within limits.
Nightlife in Dehradun
Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is not only famous for its scenic beauty but also for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a plethora of pubs, lounges, bars and nightclubs to cater to the needs of party-goers. The nightlife in Dehradun is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. One can enjoy the nightlife in Dehradun with family, friends or even solo.
Here are three places with activities for spending the night in Dehradun:
Warehouse Cafe: This place is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food. It has an open terrace area where one can enjoy live music performances while sipping on their favourite drink. They also have a pool table and foosball table for entertainment.
Solan The Late Night Bar: As the name suggests, this bar stays open till late hours of the night. They have an extensive collection of cocktails and mocktails along with lip-smacking snacks. They also have a dance floor where one can groove to the beats of DJ.
The Terrace: This rooftop lounge offers a picturesque view of Dehradun's skyline. It has a well-stocked bar and serves scrumptious food. They also organize live music events and stand-up comedy shows.
Apart from these places, one can also visit Mosaic-The Resto Lounge, Unplugged Courtyard or Café Cibo for spending the night in Dehradun.
In conclusion, nightlife in Dehradun has something to offer for everyone. From casual hangouts to dance clubs, the city's nightlife scene is thriving and constantly evolving. So go ahead and experience it for yourself!
Outdoor Activities in Dehradun
Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is not just known for its vibrant nightlife but also for its thrilling outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by lush green hills and offers numerous options for adventure enthusiasts. From trekking to camping, river rafting to paragliding, Dehradun has something for everyone.
Trekking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Dehradun. The city is surrounded by numerous treks that offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Some of the famous treks include Nag Tibba, Har Ki Dun, and Kedarkantha.
River Rafting is another exciting activity that can be enjoyed in Dehradun. The city is located near the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, which offer various rapids for rafting enthusiasts. The most popular rafting route is from Shivpuri to Rishikesh.
Paragliding is a relatively new adventure sport in Dehradun but has gained popularity in recent years. Bir Billing, located near Dehradun, is considered one of the best paragliding sites in India.
Apart from these activities, one can also indulge in camping, rock climbing, and mountain biking in and around Dehradun. With so many options available, it's no surprise that Dehradun has become a popular destination for adventure seekers from all over the country.
Festivals and Events in Dehradun
Festivals and events play a significant role in the culture and tradition of Dehradun. They are celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal, promoting a sense of community and togetherness among the locals. These events showcase the rich heritage of Dehradun, providing an excellent opportunity for tourists to experience the city’s unique traditions.
Here are some of the major festivals and events celebrated in Dehradun:
Magh Mela (January/February): Held every year during the auspicious month of Magh, this festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges river to cleanse their sins and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
Bikhauti Mela (March/April): This festival is celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Shiva over demon Bhasmasur. It is a grand affair where people dress up as gods and goddesses and participate in processions.
Jhanda Fair (May/June): Also known as Guru Ram Rai Jayanti, this fair commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Ram Rai, founder of Dehradun. A grand procession carrying his flag is taken out across the city.
Dehradun International Film Festival (September/October): This festival showcases independent films from around the world, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their talent.
Tapkeshwar Fair (October/November): This fair is held at Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located inside a cave, adding to its spiritual significance.
Lohri Festival (January): Celebrated on 13th January every year, this festival marks the end of winter solstice. People light bonfires and dance around them while enjoying traditional food.
Overall, these festivals provide visitors with an excellent opportunity to experience local traditions and customs while exploring Dehradun's stunning natural beauty.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Dehradun
- Plan your trip around the festivals and events in Dehradun to get the most out of your visit. The city hosts a range of cultural and religious festivals, such as the Jhanda Fair, Tapkeshwar Mela, and Lohri, which offer a glimpse into the local customs and traditions.
- Pack light as Dehradun is a hilly area with steep roads and uneven terrain. A heavy luggage can be difficult to carry around, especially if you plan to explore the city on foot or take public transportation.
- Carry comfortable walking shoes as Dehradun has several hiking trails and nature walks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. If you plan to hike to places like Robber's Cave or Rajaji National Park, make sure you have sturdy shoes with good grip.
- Stay hydrated as Dehradun can get quite hot during summers. Carry a water bottle with you at all times and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. You can also try refreshing drinks like lassi or nimbu pani available at local shops and stalls.
- Respect the local culture by dressing appropriately in public places, especially if you plan to visit temples or other religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothes or shorts/skirts above knee-length. Also, refrain from littering or damaging the environment while exploring natural attractions like waterfalls or forests.
Overall, Dehradun is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do for travelers of all ages. By following these tips, you can make your trip more enjoyable and memorable while experiencing the best that this charming city has to offer.
FAQs
What is Dehradun famous for?
Dehradun is famous for its picturesque landscapes, pleasant climate, and rich history. It is also known as the "Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas" and serves as a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and spirituality seekers. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Dehradun include Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara Waterfalls, Tapkeshwar Temple, Mindrolling Monastery, and Forest Research Institute.
How to reach Dehradun?
Dehradun can be easily reached by air, train or road. The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. The city also has a railway station that connects it with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc. Dehradun can also be reached via road from nearby cities like Delhi (245 km), Haridwar (54 km), Rishikesh (45 km), etc.
What is the best time to visit Dehradun?
The best time to visit Dehradun is from March to June and September to November when the weather remains pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July-August) may hinder outdoor activities due to heavy rainfall that causes landslides and floods. The winter months (December-February) are also good for sightseeing but may not be suitable for adventure sports due to extremely chilly weather.
What are some budget-friendly accommodations in Dehradun?
Dehradun has a variety of budget-friendly accommodations ranging from guesthouses to hotels that offer comfortable stay options at affordable prices. Some popular budget-friendly accommodations in Dehradun include Hotel Doon Regency, Hotel Aketa, Hotel Rajpur Heights, Hotel Sun Park Inn, etc.
What are some popular food items in Dehradun?
Dehradun offers a wide range of cuisine options ranging from local Garhwali cuisine to North Indian cuisine. Some popular food items in Dehradun include Kumaoni Raita (curd-based dish), Aloo ke Gutke (spicy potato dish), Bal Mithai (sweet dish made with milk solids), Rusks (baked bread slices), etc.
What are some popular adventure activities in Dehradun?
Dehradun offers various adventure activities that attract adventure enthusiasts from all over the country. Some popular adventure activities in Dehradun include trekking/hiking in nearby hills/mountains like Mussoorie and Chakrata; river rafting/kayaking on Ganges River; camping/bonfire at scenic locations; paragliding/hot air ballooning at nearby locations like Rishikesh.
Is it safe for solo female travelers to travel to Dehradun?
Yes, it is safe for solo female travelers to travel to Dehradun as the city has a low crime rate compared to other Indian cities. However, it is always advisable for solo travelers of any gender to take necessary precautions while traveling alone such as avoiding secluded places at night or traveling alone after dark.
