Dehradun is Uttarakhand's capital and a beautiful gateway city. Robber's Cave (Guchhupani) is a natural cave formation with a stream running through it. Sahastradhara (thousand-fold spring) has sulphur springs. Tapkeshwar Temple is a beautiful Shiva temple inside a cave. Forest Research Institute is a UNESCO-listed colonial building with beautiful grounds. Malsi Deer Park is a family-friendly wildlife spot. Mindrolling Monastery is a stunning Tibetan Buddhist centre. Just 30 km away, Mussoorie is easily combined with a Dehradun visit. EZPZ Taxi offers Dehradun trips from Delhi β call +91-9871121217.
1 Answer
Dehradun is often overlooked as just a transit point β but the city itself has plenty to offer, and its location makes it the ideal base for a wider Uttarakhand itinerary.
Top Places in Dehradun
1. Robber's Cave (Gucchupani) β 8 km from city
A 600m natural cave through which a stream flows β you walk through ankle-deep water in the cave. Very popular with families. Entry: βΉ35 Indian, βΉ100 foreign. Allow 1.5β2 hours.
2. Sahastradhara β 14 km from city
Sulphur springs, waterfalls, and a ropeway over the valley (βΉ130 return). The pools have a mild sulphur smell but locals swear by their therapeutic properties. Good for families.
3. Forest Research Institute (FRI)
One of India's most beautiful colonial buildings β built in 1929, the FRI campus is like a small university. Free to walk the grounds. The FRI Museum has exhibits on Indian forestry, timber, and ecology. Worth 2 hours.
4. Mindrolling Monastery
One of the largest Buddhist centres in India β built by Tibetan Buddhist monks. The Great Stupa (58m) is ornately painted and illuminated at night. Free entry. Peaceful and photogenic.
5. Clock Tower & Paltan Bazaar
The old city's commercial heart β good for street food, local snacks (the famous Dehradun basmati rice is sold here), and browsing. The Clock Tower area is atmospheric in the evenings.
Dehradun as Day-Trip Base
From Dehradun by EZPZ Taxi:
- Mussoorie: 35 km, 45 min β hill station day trip
- Rishikesh: 45 km, 1 hr β rafting, yoga
- Haridwar: 55 km, 1 hr β Ganga Aarti
- Lachhiwala: 22 km β nature park with streams, picnic spot
π Full Dehradun destination guide π Book Delhi to Dehradun taxi β Sedan from βΉ4,100 | +91-9871121217
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