Dehradun Tourism

Nestled in the serene foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun is not just a city—it’s a beautiful blend of adventure, culture, and calm. The mornings here are wrapped in mist, the air carries the fragrance of pine, and the mountains often hide behind drifting clouds, creating a picture-perfect escape.

For those who crave adventure, Dehradun opens doors to endless possibilities. Hike through lush green trails, chase sparkling waterfalls tucked away in forests, or feel the thrill of paragliding over sweeping valleys. Every path seems to lead to a new discovery.

If peace is what you seek, Dehradun offers it in abundance. Riverside picnics, lazy strolls through mango orchards, or quiet moments under tall sal and teak trees—it’s a place where time slows down and nature becomes your companion.

The city is also a living canvas of heritage and modern charm. From ancient temples and colonial-era buildings to vibrant bazaars and stylish cafés, Dehradun effortlessly balances the old with the new. Its culture is warm, welcoming, and steeped in stories.

And then comes the taste. The valley is a treat for food lovers—local Garhwali cuisine, piping hot street snacks, and of course, the world-famous Dehradun basmati rice.

Top Attractions

Why visit Dehradun?

Gateway to the Himalayas – Dehradun serves as an ideal launchpad for your journey into the hills, from the allure of Mussoorie to the excitement of Rishikesh and the spirituality of Haridwar.
Nature’s Paradise – With its undulating valleys, cascading waterfalls, and fragrant pine air, the city provides the tranquility of the mountains alongside urban comforts.
Adventure Awaits – Whether it’s trekking, paragliding, exploring caves, or simply enjoying breathtaking sunsets—Dehradun offers a wealth of activities for adventure enthusiasts.
Cultural Richness – Featuring landmarks like the historic Clock Tower and the Forest Research Institute, along with lively temples and Tibetan monasteries, the city harmoniously fuses tradition with contemporary life.
Culinary Delights – From authentic Garhwali dishes and street food to charming cafés, Dehradun’s food scene is as inviting as the cool mountain breeze.
Ideal for Everyone – Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a tranquility lover, a culture buff, or a foodie—Dehradun warmly embraces all with its inviting charm.

Epic Things to do in Dehradun

For the Adventure Seeker

Trekking: Dehradun is a gateway to some of the most stunning treks in the Himalayas. You can find trails for all skill levels, from the easy Nag Tibba Trek to the more challenging, multi-day Har Ki Dun Trek. The Bhadraj Hill Trek and the old Kipling Trail to Mussoorie are also popular options.
Paragliding & Ziplining: Soar high above the Doon Valley and get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape. You can find paragliding opportunities in and around Mussoorie.
Mountain Biking: The Shivalik Hills surrounding Dehradun offer an extensive network of trails perfect for mountain biking. It’s a great way to explore the region’s natural beauty and get your heart pumping.
Rock Climbing & Rappelling: The rugged terrain and cliffs at places like Sahastradhara provide an ideal setting for rock climbing and rappelling.

Unique Nature and Cultural Experiences

Robber’s Cave (Gucchu Pani): This natural river cave is a unique and popular spot. You can walk through the cool stream that flows inside the cave, which mysteriously disappears and reappears at different points. It’s an ideal place for a picnic and a refreshing escape from the city heat.
Mindrolling Monastery: For a sense of peace and tranquility, visit this large Tibetan Buddhist monastery. It’s known for its stunning Tibetan architecture, peaceful gardens, and a five-story stupa adorned with intricate murals.
Sahastradhara: Meaning “Thousandfold Springs,” this natural spring is famous for its medicinal sulfur-rich water and breathtaking views. Take a dip in the pools or ride the ropeway to the top for a panoramic view of the valley.
Tapkeshwar Temple: This sacred cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its unique feature is the continuous dripping of water from the cave ceiling onto the Shiva Lingam, creating a mesmerising sight.

Iconic Landmarks

Forest Research Institute (FRI): Known for its grand colonial architecture, the FRI is a premier institution for forestry research. The sprawling campus and six museums are a sight to behold and have been featured in several Bollywood films.
Paltan Bazaar: For a taste of local life and a shopping experience, visit this bustling market. You can find everything from local handicrafts and books to unique regional wares and delicious street food.

Must try eats in Dehradun

Local Delicacies and Street Food

Bun Tikki: This is Dehradun’s version of a local burger. It’s a popular street food snack featuring a potato patty (tikki) and chana dal (lentil patty) placed between a soft bun, topped with a mix of sweet and savory chutneys, yogurt, and onions. You can find this at various street-side stalls, with a popular spot being on E.C. Road near Dwarka Store Chowk.
Momos: Given its proximity to Tibet, Dehradun has an incredible momo scene. Steamed or fried, with various fillings like vegetable, paneer, chicken, or mutton, momos here are an absolute must-have. You’ll find excellent momos at Kalsang Friends Corner on Rajpur Road, which is famous for its Tibetan and Chinese cuisine.
Chole Puri: For a classic North Indian breakfast, head to Chetan Poori Wala at Hanuman Chowk. This legendary eatery is famous for its delicious and crispy puris served with an unlimited supply of flavorful chickpea curry (chole), along with a sweet pumpkin curry.
Katlambe: This is a unique dish that originated from Pakistan and is a local favorite. It’s a large, fried, bread-like dish served with spicy chole. It’s a truly authentic local experience that you should seek out at a traditional eatery.
Pahadi Thali: To get a real taste of Uttarakhand’s local cuisine, try a Pahadi Thali. This wholesome meal includes traditional dishes like Kafuli (a thick green gravy made from spinach and fenugreek), Chainsoo (a protein-rich lentil dish), and Gahat Ke Paranthe (parathas stuffed with a local brown lentil), all served with local rice and a fiery chutney. For an authentic experience, look for a specialized local restaurant like Dindyaali.

Bakeries and Sweet Treats

Ellora’s Melting Moments: A Dehradun institution, this bakery has been around since before independence. It’s a must-visit for its delicious pastries, cookies, and other baked goods. Don’t miss their famous rusks and stick jaws (a unique toffee).
Kumar Sweet Shop: Located near the Clock Tower, this is one of the most trusted names for traditional Indian sweets. They are known for their high-quality, mouth-watering sweets and desserts.

Cafes and Restaurants

Kalsang Friends Corner: Beyond momos, this is the go-to place for authentic Tibetan and Thai food in the city. The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is cozy, making it a favorite among locals and tourists.
Black Pepper Restaurant: A popular multi-cuisine restaurant, Black Pepper is known for its Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. It’s a local favorite for family dining.
Town Table: If you’re looking for a great ambiance and scenic views, head to Town Table. This rooftop restaurant offers a diverse menu with North Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine, and is known for its great vibe.
Cafe De Piccolo: For a more relaxed, European-style cafe experience, visit Cafe De Piccolo. They are known for their coffee, desserts, and beautiful garden seating.

Plan to Visit

Weather

Summer Season (March to June)

17°C - 35°C

Monsoon Season (July to September)

25°C - 35°C

Autumn Season (October to November)

14°C - 28°C

Winter Season (December to February)

6°C - 20°C

How to Reach

By Air

Jolly Grant Airport (25-30 km) - Regular Flights from Delhi and Mumbai.

By Train

Dehradun Railway Station (DDN): Regular trains from Delhi

By Road

NH 709B - Regular bus services available