WEEKEND GATEWAYS FROM DELHI: Dehradun(Uttarakhand)

“Home of the Valley – Dehradun”: Dehradun Tourism

Overview:

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 on Dehradun Tourism. 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.

“Dehradun Tourism is the Best place for you Visit in Weekend Gateway in Dehradun”

Places to Visit:

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 GuchhuPani and also believe that it is home to Lord Shiva. Tourists can explore this 600 meters 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. In Dehradun, Robber’s Cave can be the best place to visit for an excursion.

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 the 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.

 

3. 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. It is the Best Picnic Destination in Uttarakhand Tourism. You can stay over at picturesque cottages and hotels.

4. 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 hotel, 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.

5. 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 TapkeshwarTemple.Coolsulphur 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.

6. Zonal Museum:

The zonal museum is popular for its collection of artifacts relating to the origin, development, and sustenance of 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.

7. Forest Research Institute:

Established in the year 1906, the Forest Research Institute is spread over 4.5 square kilometers and has 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, DulhanEkRaat Ki, RehnaHaiTereDil 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. It is the best place to visit.

 

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.

 

8. 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.

9. Others:

• Mindrolling Monastery
• Har Ki Dun
• Tapovan Temple
• Paltan Bazar
• Rajaji National Park
• Ram RaiGurudwara

“These are the best places for you to Visit in Weekend Getaway in Dehradun”.

Events in Dehradun:

Shivaratri, Tapkeshwar Temple

4th March

In the forest, this Shiva temple is situated inside a cave. Water droplets trickle down from the ceiling over the Shivalinga creating an interesting spectacle. On Shivratri, a large festival is held here, and people from all over the country can be seen relaxing on the hills around.

Rajaji National Park

15th November-15th June

Having more than 400 species of birds, the beautiful locale and rich biodiversity serve as major attractions for Rajaji National Park. This park is home to the Asiatic Elephant as well as predators like Tigers and Leopards. The park is closed during monsoon, so you can only visit it between 15th November and 15th June.

Jhanda Fair at Ram RaiGurudwara

5th – 8th March

The origin of the name ‘Dehradun‘ can be traced to Sri Guru Ram RaiJi, the eldest son of the 7th Sikh Guru, Sri HarRaiJi, as he set up his ‘Dera'(camp) in ‘Dun'(Valley) in 1676. In memory of Guru Ram Rai, on the Fifth Day of Holi, the Jhanda Fair or flag hoisting ceremony is celebrated every year, attracting a large number of visitors.

“These are the Best Events for you to enjoy in Weekend Gateway in Dehradun if you are coming in between of these days”.

 

Best time to visit Dehradun:

• April to June is a good time to Visit in Dehradun in Summer
• July to October is a good time to Visit in Dehradun in Monsoon
• November to March is a good time to Visit in Dehradun in Winter.

 

How to Reach:

How to Reach Dehradun by Flight

Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport that serves the city of Dehradun. 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.

Nearest Airport: Dehradun

 

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 from the city of Dehradun, the most famous among them being Dehradun Jan Shatabdi Express, which operates from New Delhi railway station.