15 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun

Published on April 01, 2025

Dehradun is more than just a gateway to Mussoorie. Surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand’s capital offers a mix of natural attractions, temples, heritage landmarks, markets and peaceful outdoor spaces.

Whether you are planning a family holiday, a couple’s trip or a short weekend break, there are plenty of places to visit in Dehradun for different types of travellers.

From walking through the flowing stream at Robber’s Cave to exploring the historic Forest Research Institute, here are some of the best places to visit in Dehradun.

Quick List of the Best Places to Visit in Dehradun

Place	Best For
Robber’s Cave	Nature & families
Sahastradhara	Waterfalls & scenery
Forest Research Institute	History & architecture
Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple	Spiritual visit
Mindrolling Monastery	Peace & culture
Dehradun Zoo	Families & children
Paltan Bazaar	Shopping & local experience
Clock Tower	City landmark
Lachhiwala Nature Park	Picnic & nature
Maldevta	Riverside scenery
Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib	Heritage & spirituality
Khalanga War Memorial	History
Regional Science Centre	Families & students
Asan Barrage	Birdwatching & nature
Rajaji National Park	Wildlife

1. Robber’s Cave – Guchhupani

Robber’s Cave, locally known as Guchhupani, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dehradun. A stream flows between narrow rock formations, allowing visitors to walk through shallow water while exploring the natural gorge.

The cool surroundings make it especially popular during warmer months.

Best for: Families, couples, friends and photography
Things to do: Walk through the stream, photography and short nature walks
Travel Tip: Wear footwear suitable for walking in water.

2. Sahastradhara

Sahastradhara, meaning “thousand-fold springs”, is another popular natural attraction around Dehradun. Surrounded by limestone formations and greenery, the area is known for flowing water, scenic surroundings and picnic spots.

It can become crowded on weekends and holidays, so visiting earlier in the day is usually more comfortable.

Best for: Families, couples and nature lovers
Things to do: Enjoy the surroundings, photography and relaxation
Travel Tip: Check local weather conditions during the monsoon before visiting.

3. Forest Research Institute – FRI

The Forest Research Institute (FRI) is one of Dehradun’s most recognisable landmarks. Its impressive architecture, expansive grounds and forestry museums make it an interesting stop for travellers interested in history, architecture, nature and photography.

The campus is also one of the most photographed locations in the city.

Best for: History lovers, families and photographers
Things to do: Explore the museum, architecture and campus
Travel Tip: Check current visitor timings before planning your visit.

4. Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the best-known religious places in Dehradun. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is situated in a cave-like natural setting near a stream.

The combination of spiritual importance and peaceful surroundings makes it popular among both devotees and tourists.

Best for: Pilgrims, families and spiritual travellers
Things to do: Temple visit, prayer and explore the surroundings
Travel Tip: Early morning is generally a peaceful time to visit.

5. Mindrolling Monastery

Located in Clement Town, Mindrolling Monastery is one of Dehradun’s most peaceful attractions.

The monastery complex is known for Buddhist architecture, landscaped surroundings, prayer areas and its calm atmosphere. It is a good place to spend a few quiet hours away from busy tourist areas.

Best for: Culture, photography and peaceful outings
Things to do: Explore the monastery complex and Buddhist architecture
Travel Tip: Maintain silence and follow visitor guidelines inside religious areas.

6. Dehradun Zoo

Dehradun Zoo, located in the Malsi area, is a popular family attraction on the Dehradun-Mussoorie route.

The landscaped setting and wildlife-related exhibits make it particularly suitable for families travelling with children.

Best for: Families and children
Things to do: Wildlife viewing, walking and family outing
Travel Tip: Combine it with other attractions located towards the Mussoorie side of Dehradun.

7. Paltan Bazaar

If you want to experience the everyday side of Dehradun, visit Paltan Bazaar.

Located near the Clock Tower, this busy market is filled with clothing stores, footwear, local products, street-food outlets and small shops.

It is a good stop for travellers interested in shopping and experiencing the city beyond its sightseeing attractions.

Best for: Shopping, food and local experiences
Things to do: Shop for souvenirs, explore local stores and try snacks
Travel Tip: Evenings and weekends can be busy.

8. Clock Tower – Ghanta Ghar

The Clock Tower, locally called Ghanta Ghar, is one of Dehradun’s most recognisable city landmarks.

Its central location makes it easy to combine with Paltan Bazaar and nearby shopping areas.

You may not need much time specifically for the Clock Tower, but it works well as part of an evening city walk.

Best for: City exploration and photography
Nearby: Paltan Bazaar and central Dehradun

9. Lachhiwala Nature Park

Lachhiwala is a popular green escape near Dehradun, particularly among families and travellers looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.

Surrounded by forested landscapes, it is commonly visited for picnics and short nature breaks.

Best for: Families, picnics and nature
Things to do: Relaxation, walking and outdoor activities
Travel Tip: Visit during daylight hours and check current entry conditions before travelling.

10. Maldevta

Maldevta is popular among locals for its river, mountain surroundings and relatively peaceful environment.

It works particularly well for travellers who want to spend a few hours outside the city without committing to a long-distance excursion.

The landscape also makes it a good location for photography and relaxed group outings.

Best for: Couples, friends and nature lovers
Things to do: Riverside relaxation, photography and scenic drives
Travel Tip: Avoid entering fast-moving water, particularly during or after heavy rainfall.

11. Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib

Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib is an important historic and religious landmark in Dehradun.

Its architecture, murals and connection with the history of the city make it particularly valuable for travellers interested in heritage and spirituality.

Best for: Heritage, history and spiritual tourism
Things to do: Explore the architecture and religious complex
Travel Tip: Dress respectfully while visiting.

12. Khalanga War Memorial

Khalanga War Memorial is a quieter attraction for travellers interested in military history.

The memorial commemorates the historic Battle of Nalapani and offers an alternative to Dehradun’s more crowded sightseeing spots.

Best for: History enthusiasts
Things to do: Learn about local military history and enjoy the peaceful surroundings

13. Regional Science Centre

The Regional Science Centre is a useful addition to a Dehradun itinerary, particularly for families travelling with school-age children.

Interactive exhibits and science-focused displays make it more educational than a conventional sightseeing attraction.

Best for: Families, students and educational trips
Travel Tip: Check opening days and timings before travelling.

14. Asan Barrage

Asan Barrage is one of the better options near Dehradun for travellers interested in birdwatching and quieter natural surroundings.

The wetland environment attracts resident and migratory birds, making it particularly interesting during the cooler months.

Best for: Birdwatchers, photographers and nature lovers
Things to do: Birdwatching and nature photography
Travel Tip: Carry binoculars if birdwatching is your main purpose.

15. Rajaji National Park

For travellers looking for a wildlife experience near Dehradun, Rajaji National Park can be considered as a separate excursion.

The protected landscape is associated with elephants, diverse birdlife and other wildlife. Safari access, tourism zones and operating periods can vary, so this attraction requires more advance planning than regular city sightseeing.

Best for: Wildlife lovers and photographers
Things to do: Wildlife safari where officially available
Travel Tip: Verify current safari availability, permits and entry rules before travelling.

Best Places to Visit in Dehradun for Families

Travelling with children or senior family members? Consider:

• Dehradun Zoo
• Forest Research Institute
• Sahastradhara
• Robber’s Cave
• Lachhiwala
• Regional Science Centre
• Mindrolling Monastery

Robber’s Cave involves walking through water and uneven surfaces, so families travelling with elderly members should plan accordingly.

Best Places to Visit in Dehradun for Couples

Couples looking for scenic and peaceful places can include:

• Maldevta
• Sahastradhara
• Robber’s Cave
• Mindrolling Monastery
• Forest Research Institute
• Asan Barrage

For a more relaxed experience, visit popular attractions on weekdays or earlier in the day.

Places to Visit in Dehradun in One Day

If you have only one day, focus on attractions that can be combined efficiently.

Suggested 1-Day Route

Morning:
Robber’s Cave → Sahastradhara

Afternoon:
Forest Research Institute → Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Evening:
Clock Tower → Paltan Bazaar

Trying to include too many distant attractions in one day can make the trip rushed.

Places to Visit in Dehradun in 2 Days

With two days, you can explore the city at a more comfortable pace.

Day 1

• Robber’s Cave
• Sahastradhara
• Tapkeshwar Temple
• Paltan Bazaar

Day 2

• Forest Research Institute
• Mindrolling Monastery
• Dehradun Zoo
• Maldevta or Lachhiwala

For a more detailed schedule, follow our Dehradun weekend itinerary.

Places to Visit Near Dehradun

Dehradun is also a convenient base for exploring several destinations in Uttarakhand.

Mussoorie

Mussoorie is one of the most popular hill stations near Dehradun and can be covered as a day trip or overnight stay.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is known for its ghats, temples, yoga centres and adventure activities.

Chakrata

Chakrata is suitable for travellers looking for forests, mountain scenery and a quieter hill destination.

Kanatal

Kanatal offers peaceful mountain surroundings and works well for travellers looking for a short hill escape.

These destinations should ideally be planned separately rather than trying to include all of them in a single Dehradun sightseeing day.

Best Time to Visit Dehradun

Dehradun can be visited throughout much of the year, but the experience changes with the season.

March to June

Popular for sightseeing and short family holidays. Days can become warmer, while mornings and evenings are generally more comfortable.

July to September

The monsoon brings greener landscapes but can also result in heavy rainfall. Check weather and road conditions before visiting waterfalls, rivers and outdoor attractions.

October to December

One of the most comfortable periods for city sightseeing, outdoor attractions and nearby hill trips.

January to February

Good for travellers who enjoy colder weather. Carry suitable winter clothing, particularly if combining Dehradun with Mussoorie.

For broader planning information, read our complete Dehradun travel guide.

How Many Days Are Enough for Dehradun?

2 days are generally enough for travellers who only want to cover the main attractions within Dehradun.

Plan 3 to 4 days if you also want to:

• Travel at a relaxed pace

• Visit wildlife or nature attractions outside the city

• Add Mussoorie

• Explore local markets and cafés

• Include nearby destinations

Travellers interested primarily in trekking and outdoor experiences can also explore our guide to adventure activities and trekking options in Dehradun.

Dehradun Travel Tips

• Start sightseeing early to avoid traffic and crowds.

• Group nearby attractions together rather than travelling across the city repeatedly.

• Carry comfortable walking shoes.

• Keep rain protection during the monsoon.

• Check official timings and entry rules before visiting museums, parks and wildlife areas.

• Avoid entering rivers or streams during heavy rainfall.

• Keep some time for local markets and food rather than filling the entire trip with sightseeing.

• Allow additional travel time on weekends and peak holiday dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which are the best places to visit in Dehradun?

Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Forest Research Institute, Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Mindrolling Monastery, Dehradun Zoo and Paltan Bazaar are among the most popular places to visit in Dehradun.

2. What are the best places to visit in Dehradun with family?

Dehradun Zoo, FRI, Sahastradhara, Regional Science Centre, Lachhiwala and Mindrolling Monastery are suitable options for family trips.

3. What can I cover in Dehradun in one day?

A practical one-day itinerary can include Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Forest Research Institute, Tapkeshwar Temple and Paltan Bazaar.

4. Are 2 days enough for Dehradun?

Yes. Two days are sufficient for most major city attractions. Add another one or two days if you want to include Mussoorie or nearby destinations.

5. Which places in Dehradun are good for couples?

Maldevta, Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Mindrolling Monastery, FRI and Asan Barrage are good options for couples looking for scenic or peaceful places.

6. What is Dehradun famous for?

Dehradun is known for the Doon Valley, educational and research institutions, natural attractions, temples, markets and its location as a gateway to Mussoorie and other Uttarakhand destinations.

7. Is Dehradun worth visiting?

Yes. Dehradun works particularly well for short holidays because it combines nature, heritage, spiritual attractions, shopping and easy access to nearby hill destinations.

8. What is the best time to visit Dehradun?

March to June and October to December are popular periods for sightseeing. Travellers visiting during the monsoon should monitor rainfall and local road conditions.

Planning a Dehradun Trip?

If you prefer accommodation, transfers and sightseeing to be arranged together, explore the Dehradun Tour Package from Delhi.

The package combines Dehradun sightseeing with a Mussoorie excursion and can be planned according to your travel dates and requirements.