Dehradun is an amalgamation of ‘Dehra’ meaning ‘settlement’ and ‘dun’ meaning ‘valley.’ It is known as ‘India’s school capital’ because of the numerous elite colleges and boarding schools located in the city. It has the Ganga river flowing in the East and the Yamuna flowing in the West.

Dehradun tourist places will make a traveler experience adventure, history, nature, religion, and scenic beauty. DiscoverMyTravel invites all globetrotters to book a Dehradun tour package and have the time of their lives.

9 Best Places To Include While Booking Dehradun Tour Packages

Dehradun offers a plethora of tourist attractions to explore. Therefore, these Dehradun vacation packages include extensive sightseeing tours which cover major places such as Rajaji National Park, Robber’s Cave, Tapkeshwar Temple, Malsi Deer Park, Buddha Temple, Lachhiwala, Dehradun Zoo, Timber Museum, and Sahastradhara. There are various places to explore around such as Mussoorie, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Chakrata which can also be included within these packages.

1. Robbers Cave (Gucchupani)

What’s Special: Natural beauty, Natural cave and river

Nearby Attractions: Malsi Deer Park, Sai Deva Ashthan, Prachin Shiv Mandir, Sai Mandir, The Kalinga War Memorial

Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM, Daily

Transportation Option: Taxi, auto-rickshaw, bus

Robbers Cave has a historical past attached to it. During the British era, the robbers used to hide their loot from the Britishers in the cave. This 600-meter-long natural cave has a crystal clear river flowing through it. One has to walk in flat slippers because of the slippery walkthrough.

A river cave formed in the Himalayas, this attraction is very close to Sahastradhara. If you are up for some thrill and adventure then this is the best attraction for you. Also a popular picnic spot, you can enjoy the delicious food and the tea while dipping your feet in the cold water of the stream. The Robber’s Cave is a 600 meters long cave through which a low stream flows. Being a little adventurous, you can climb through the rocks and go further into the caves. With dark limestones and stream, the scene looks the part of a mystery movie. You can also click some amazing pictures while visiting this popular attraction.

2. Sahastradhara

What’s Special: Scenery, Beauty, Photography, Sulphur springs, Picnic spot

Nearby Attractions: The Kalinga War Memorial, Nag Devta Mandir, Prachin Shiv Mandir, Shiv Mandir

Timings: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Daily

Transportation Option: Bus, taxi, auto-rickshaw

A popular attraction famous for its therapeutic value, due to its sulphur water, Sahastradhara literally means ‘thousand-fold spring’. As a popular picnic spot, many tourists visit this place to take a relaxing dip into the water. The picturesque beauty of the surroundings also attracts people from all around the world. The temperature of the water is less than the surrounding area and one takes a relaxing dip into the cool waters while soaking up the natural beauty of the place. You can also enjoy a ropeway ride as the ropeways provide airy trips to these gorgeous mountain tops.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Dehradun, Sahastradhara (thousandfold spring), is known for its sulphur springs. People come here to take a dip as the sulphur in the springs is said to cure skin and stomach diseases. Many caves surround the spring. Upon arrival at the hilltop in Sahastradhara, which can be reached through a ropeway, one can spot an artificial park, Sai Temple, and some food joints.

3. Forest Research Institute

What’s Special: Natural beauty, Research Center and Museum

Nearby Attractions: Tapkeshwar Temple, Lakshman Park, Prachin Shri Hanuman Mandir

Timings: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM

Transportation Option: Taxi, bus, auto-rickshaw

Yet another popular attraction in the city, FRI was built in 1878 by the Britishers to encourage research about the different types of Indian forests. It comprises six museums and a 700-year-old cross-section Deodar tree. You have to book your slot through an online visitor registration, available on the official website.

Student Of The Year, a famous Bollywood movie, was shot on this campus. if you wish to recreate the movie Student Of The Year, this is the place to be. With a popular museum in the area that houses some of the rarest species of animal and bird structures. The area has a beautiful and large garden and is rich in biodiversity and various species of flora and fauna. You can take evening walks in the beautiful garden or enjoy the day basking in the sun and soaking up the warmth. Dipped in greenery and natural beauty, here you will feel completely relaxed and rejuvenated after a tiring day.

4. Buddha Temple

What’s Special: Buddha Statue, Natural beauty, Spiritual significance

Nearby Attractions: Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara, Lacchiwalla, Tapovan Temple

Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Transportation Option: Taxi, bus, auto-rickshaw

To preserve and protect the Tibetan culture this beautiful structure is one of the largest Bhuddist centres in India. The temple has an inhouse healthcare clinic, primary and secondary schools, guest houses and a community prayer hall. Popular for its marvelous architecture, beautiful interiors and a community prayer hall, this temple also houses a huge stupa of Buddha in the garden area which was built in 2002. The place is enraptured in peace and sanctity and you can enjoy a peaceful evening amidst the lush green surroundings. While visiting this temple, just beware of the monkeys in the area, for they might snatch food items or other things from you.

The main temple and monastery are closed to the public because of COVID restrictions, but the accessible area provides a calm and soothing environment. The 103 feet statue of Lord Buddha, Mane Chakkar (Prayer Wheel), park, and cafeteria are accessible to the public.

5. Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib

What’s Special: Sacred shrine

Timings: Monday-Sunday, 24/7

Transportation Option: Auto-rickshaw, bus, taxi

Structured in an Indo-Islamic architectural style, this place of worship is dedicated to Baba Ram Rai, the eldest son of Guru Har Rai (7th Sikh Guru). Baba Ram Rai established a religious camp -‘dera’ meaning ‘camp’ and ‘doon’ meaning ‘valley.’ That is where Dehradun got its name. Every year, a Jhanda Mela (Flag fair) takes place five days after Holi and continues till Ram Navami.

6. Dehradun Zoo

What’s Special: Intriguing fauna and avifauna, Adventure activities

Timings: 9 am- 5 pm, Closed on Mondays

Transportation Option: Bus, taxi, auto-rickshaw

Dehradun Zoo was earlier known as Malsi Deer Park. Apart from deer, one can spot different species of birds like Cockatiel, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Lady Amherst’s Pheasant, and many more. There is a Snake house, Cactus Garden & Succulent Garden, and an Aquarium with separate entry charges, inside the Zoo. Additionally, you can partake in adventure activities like Zip line, Commando net, Burma Bridge, etc., at an additional cost.

7. Lachhiwala Nature Park

What’s Special: Natural beauty, Museum, Musical Fountain show, Activities

Nearby Attractions: Shri Lacheshwar Shiv Mandir, Arya Samaj Mandir, Shri Ram Kuti Ashram, Sri Laxman Sidh Peeth

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Transportation Option: Auto-rickshaw, bus, taxi

A little on the outskirts of Dehradun city, Lachhiwala is a popular picnic spot and zoo in Dehradun. Surrounded by lush green gardens and a picnic area, the spot is best for children to enjoy and have fun on their vacation. There is a deer park attached to the spot where you can spot animals like elephants, deers and also a variety of birds. Further inside the area, you will find a swimming pool where you can take a relaxing dip and enjoy the serenity of the place. There are a lot of swings that are available for children to play in the park.

Considered one of the best picnic spots in Dehradun, Lachhiwala has lush greenery. Among a few streams, only one is accessible for swimming. People can also enjoy boating, bungee jumping, musical fountain, etc., at an additional cost.

8. Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

What’s Special: Limestone caves, Religious belief

Nearby Attractions: Forest Research Institute, Santala Devi Temple, Central Methodist Church

Timings: 7 am- 7 pm, Everyday

Transportation Option: Auto-rickshaw, taxi, bus

The entire temple is inside a cave, through which water droplets fall, hence the name ‘Tapkeshwar.’ According to beliefs, Lord Shiva (Mahadev) was so impressed by Guru Dronacharya’s worship that he gave him his auspicious sight (darshan).

This prominent temple is located around 6.5 km away from the Dehradun city centre and are humble cave shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of a river, this temple has a charming appearance and a Shiv Linga is enshrined in the main complex. Water continuously trickles from the ceiling and it is a sight to witness. Also known as the Drona Cave, the caves were also an abode of Guru Dronacharya. This attraction is one of the most visited temples in the region. Also an ideal picnic spot, you can take a short trek through the forest by the inspiring edifice of Tapkeshwar Temple. Pilgrims can take a bath into the cool water of the spring before entering the temple’s premises.

9. Santala Devi

What’s Special: History

Nearby Attractions: Santaura Devi Mandir, Rikauli Reserve Forest, Robber's Cave, Malsi Deer Park

Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Santala Devi Temple is a focal point of confidence for the lovers. The temple is situated in the middle of thick green backwoods at a distance of 15 km from Dehradun and one can reach the temple by taking a bus service till Jaitunwala and from there drive to Punjabiwala. After Punjabiwala, one has to trek their way to the temple which is approximately 2 km away. The temple has a story which says that Santla Devi and her brother realised that they would not be able to fight the Mughals, and they threw away their weapons and started to pray. Suddenly, a light flickered on both of them, and they turned into stone idols. The temple is thronged by devotees on Saturdays, as it is believed that these days mark the transformation of Santla Devi into a stone statue.

Best Time To Avail Dehradun Packages

The best time to avail Dehradun holiday packages is during the summer season, i.e., from March to May. This is because summers in Dehradun are quite pleasant as compared to other plain areas of North India. Owing to its proximity to the hills, Dehradun is also the gateway to various hill stations. Therefore, the weather remains quite pleasant in Dehradun in summers. It is perfect for sightseeing and indulging in outdoor activities. Winter season, from October to February is also an ideal time to avail Dehradun travel packages.

Summer (April to June)

The summer season is the peak season in Dehradun and many travelers visit the place during this season. The temperature during these months ranges between 26 to 35 degree celsius. The weather during this time is very pleasant and the city has a lovely vibe. The days are sunny whereas the nights are a little cooler. This is the best time to visit Dehradun.

Compared to the other Northern parts of India, the climate of Dehradun is pleasant during the summer months. A lot of tourists visit Dehradun from April to June because it has various water activities to offer.

Monsoon (July to October)

Dehradun transforms into a beautiful paradise during the monsoons and everything turns greener. The lush greenery, the cool winds and little showers make for a great holiday destination. The average temperature during the monsoons does not vary much than summers and stays between 27 to 35 degree celsius though you might experience a little humidity during the early monsoons. If you love the rainy season then visiting Dehradun at this time is an experience in itself.

Dehradun is quite humid during this season due to rainfall. So, till September, it may not be an ideal season to visit. However, tourists enjoy it from mid-September till October end.

Winter (November to March)

The winter season in Dehradun starts in the month of November. The temperature falls as low as 3 degree celsius and the days are warmer than the nights. Neighbouring places like mussoorie, can experience heavy snowfall during the winter season and if you wish to experience some snowfall, then you must-visit this place. If you are traveling to Dehradun during this season then do not forget to carry enough woolen clothes.

The temperature drops low during the winter season in Dehradun, especially at night time. This season is ideal for a short trip to visit some spots of Dehradun as the water activities are not suitable in this season.

How To Reach Dehradun?

By Air

Located at a distance of 25 km southeast of Dehradun, Jolly Grant Airport or Dehradun Airport is a domestic airport. It is well-connected to many cities in India. After that, you can take a taxi to the main town.

By Rail

Depending on the days of their run, 34 trains stop by Dehradun Railway Station. However, if your train doesn’t halt at Dehradun Railway Station, nearby railway stations include Harrawala and Doiwala.

By Road

Dehradun is well-connected to numerous cities by Volvo, Deluxe, semi-deluxe, and Uttarakhand State Transport buses. Dehradun Inter State Bus Terminal (ISBT) near Clement Town offers regular bus services to many cities.