Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is surrounded by natural beauty and cultural diversity. There are many places to visit in Dehradun and it is one of the most popular destinations for tourists.
The weather in the city remains pleasant during summer, which attracts a lot of people from March to June. Winters in Dehradun are chilly.
Dehradun is a gateway to many popular destinations in Uttarakhand like Mussoorie and Landour, and religious cities like Haridwar and Rishikesh. Many Pilgrims also start their chardham yatra from Dehradun.
So if you are looking for a relaxing getaway, here are the top 10 places you must visit during your Dehradun trip.
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1Sahastradhara – Best Place To Visit In Dehradun

Sahastradhara means thousand-fold spring. It is located about 14 km from the city centre and is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.
You’ll find many waterfalls, and caves at this place. The water of Sahastradhara is said to have medicinal properties due to its high sulphur content. It is formed by the erosion of limestone rocks over centuries. You can take a bath in the water, visit the nearby caves and temples or relax sitting on the rocks and admiring the scenery.
There are many street-side restaurants and shops where you can eat and relax. Changing rooms are also present for your convenience. You can shop for souvenirs, spices and handicrafts at the market near the waterfall.
If you want to enjoy the panoramic views of the valley, take a ropeway to the hilltop park nearby. Also, there is a water park in Sahastradhara where you can enjoy with your children.
Things to do at Sahastradhara
- Relax in the flowing water
- Take a ropeway ride to the top
- Eat the Street food around the waterfall
- Visit the nearby caves and Shiv temple
- Enjoy the swings and slides in the water park
Sahastradhara Details
- Timings: Open every day from sunrise to sunset
- Entry Fee: None; You have to pay parking charges
- Still & Video Cameras: Allowed
2Robber’s Cave

Robber’s Cave, also locally known as Guchhupani, is a natural cave with a river flowing inside it. It is located about 8 km from the city centre of Dehradun and is a favourite spot for picnickers and trekkers.
The cave is about 600 meters long and has several narrow passages and waterfalls inside it. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dehradun and very famous among children.
According to a legend, the cave was used by robbers to hide from the British during the colonial era. The cave has many narrow passages and hidden chambers that make it ideal for hiding. You can enjoy walking through the cave while dipping your feet in the cold water.
There are many local eateries serving delicious food near Robber’s Cave. If you are planning to visit Dehradun, make sure you include Robber’s Cave in your itinerary. You will not regret it.
Things to do at Robber’s Cave
- Explore the cave with flowing water
- Eat in the restaurants around the cave
- Enjoy the waterfall inside the cave
Robber’s Cave Details
- Timings: Open every day from 07:00 am to 06:00 pm
- Entry Fee: 35 Rs
- Still & Video Cameras: Allowed
3Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

One of the most famous temples of Uttarakhand, Tapkeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated inside a natural cave that has a dripping water spring on the ceiling. The water drops continuously drip on the Shivling, hence the name Tapkeshwar.
The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere for devotees and tourists, creating a mystical ambience.
Tapkeshwar Mahadev temple is an important pilgrimage site in Dehradun and attracts thousands of devotees during the festival of Shivaratri. If you are looking for a place to experience the spirituality and serenity of nature, then you should definitely visit here.
Things to do at Tapkeshwar Temple
- Worship Lord Shiva and seek his blessings
- Visit the nearby temples and caves that have religious and historical importance
- Take a dip in the nearby river
Tapkeshwar Temple Details
- Timings: Open every day from 06:00 am to 07:00 pm
- Entry Fee: None
- Still & Video Cameras: Allowed
4Forest Research Institute

Forest Research Institute also abbreviated as FRI conducts research and education on forestry, earth, soil and related subjects. It was established in 1906 and is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in India.
The campus is spread across 450 hectares that include the main heritage building, museums, a botanical garden and several laboratories.
The main complex of Forest Research Institute is an architectural marvel that blends colonial and Mughal styles. It has been declared as a National Heritage by the Government of India. There are 5 museums inside the building that display exhibits on various aspects of forestry, such as wood science, entomology, pathology and silviculture. The botanical garden has over 700 species of plants and trees.
In FRI, you can explore and learn about tree species, wildlife conservation, and forest management. Many Bollywood films like Paan Singh Tomar, Student of the Year, and Krishna Cottage were shot here.
Things to do at Forest Research Institute
- Visit the botanical garden
- Explore the architectural marvel, the main FRI building and nearby areas
- Visit the museums inside the building
Forest Research Institute Details
- Timings: Open every day from 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Entry Fee: 15 Rs
- Still & Video Cameras: Allowed but not inside the museums
5Mindrolling Monastery

Mindrolling Monastery is one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries in India.
The Monastery was founded in 1965. It is one of the six major monasteries of the Tibetan Nyingma School and a centre of learning and practice of Dzogchen, the highest form of meditation. It is also known for its vast collection of scriptures, art and relics.
Situated in the beautiful foothills of the Himalayas, Mindrolling Monastery is one of the most visited places in Dehradun.
Inside the Monastery complex, there is a 35-metre-high statue of Lord Buddha, along with statues of Guru Padmasambhava and Amitabha Buddha. It also has several stupas that contain relics of Terdak Lingpa and other masters. The monastery also has a library that contains many books and manuscripts on Buddhism.
The monastery is also known for its World Peace Stupa, the largest stupa in the world. It was inaugurated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2002. The stupa is 185 ft high and has four levels that depict the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
You will also find a meditation hall and a museum that displays various artefacts related to Buddhism.
6Malsi Deer Park – Dehradun Zoo

Malsi Deer Park (also called Dehradun Zoo) was established in 1976 and is spread across an area of 25 hectares. The main attraction of the park is the deer enclosure, where you can see spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer and hog deer.
You can enjoy a leisurely walk amidst the picturesque surroundings or spot different bird species. There is a small reptile house, cactus garden and aquarium on the Dehradun Zoo campus.
The park also has other animals, such as leopards, peacocks, rabbits, crocodiles and tortoises. This is the place to be if you want to spend some time with animals.
7Lachhiwala

Lachhiwala is a picnic spot that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Dehradun City. It is located on the Haridwar-Rishikesh highway, about 22 km from the city.
This is the perfect place for people who want to spend some time in the lap of nature. The place is surrounded by lush greenery and has a variety of birds and butterflies.
8Rajaji National Park

One of the many wildlife sanctuaries in India, Rajaji National Park covers an area of 820 square kilometres. It is spread across three districts of Uttarakhand: Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri Garhwal.
You can enjoy a leopard jungle safari in the park. There are options for jeep safaris or elephant safaris in the designated zones within the park.
Rajaji National Park has many animals including tigers, leopards, elephants, himalayan black bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, barking deer, monkeys and langur. It is also known for a large population of wild elephants, which migrate between Rajaji and Corbett Tiger Reserve.
Rajaji National Park remains open from 15th November to 15th June. It is closed during the rainy season.
Things to do at Rajaji National Park
- Take a forest safari in a jeep or elephant
- Stay in the forest rest houses inside the park
- Watch the animals and birds in their natural habitat
Rajaji National Park Details
- Timings: Open every day from 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Entry Fee: 150 Rs for Indians & 600 for Foreigners. Safari charges are extra
- Still & Video Cameras: Allowed
- Guide: Available
9Tiger Falls

Tiger Falls is a majestic waterfall located in the hilly terrains of Chakrata, about an hour’s drive from Dehradun. Situated at an elevation of 312 ft, it is considered the highest direct waterfall in India.
When the water falls down it resembles the roar of a tiger, hence the name Tiger Falls. You can enjoy taking a dip and relaxing in the pond formed by the waterfall.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests that provide a serene and scenic backdrop to the waterfall. You can reach here by completing a small trek that takes you through beautiful landscapes and villages.
10Tibetan Market

The Tibetan Market in Dehradun is a shopping bazaar that offers a wide range of Tibetan handicrafts, clothing, and accessories. The market is a treasure trove for those seeking unique souvenirs and traditional Tibetan artefacts. Visitors can browse through the colourful stalls, bargain for the best prices, and immerse themselves in the lively ambience.
These were the top 10 places To visit in Dehradun. You can cover many more places during your trip to Dehradun like Clock Tower(Ghanta Ghar), Tapovan, Asan Barrage, Khalanga War Memorial and Guru Ram Rai Gurudwara.
Dehradun is a perfect place to explore, relax and have fun. Make sure to include these top 10 places in your itinerary and enjoy the rich culture and hospitality of the Garhwal region. Also, if you have more time you can visit the nearby hill stations like Mussoorie and Landour.
Dehradun Tourist Places Video – Yatri Central
People also ask about Dehradun
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How to reach Dehradun?
Dehradun is well connected by road, railways and air. You can drive a car or take a bus to Dehradun city. The railway station is near the city centre and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant which is around 20 kilometres from the centre.
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What is the best time to visit Dehradun?
Dehradun has a pleasant climate throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Dehradun is from March to June and from September to December. If you want to experience snowfall in Mussoorie, plan your Dehradun trip in December or January.
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What are some other places to visit near Dehradun?
Some of the places to visit near Dehradun are Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dhanaulti, Chakrata, Mussoorie and Landour.
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How far is Mussoorie from Dehradun?
Mussoorie is located at a distance of 33 kilometres from Dehradun.
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How many days are enough for Dehradun tour?
Dehradun can be easily covered in 1 night and 2 days trip. If you are visiting some nearby places then you can also keep a day for Dehradun and proceed towards your next destination on the second day.
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How to reach Dehradun from Delhi?
Dehradun is situated at a distance of 250 kilometres from Delhi. You can take a cab, bus, train or a flight from Delhi. You can also drive to Dehradun.
More Uttarakhand Attractions