Things to do in Dehradun
All things said and done, there are many things to do in Dehradun that you may find surprising! If you’re jotting down you’re itinerary for Dehradun trip, consider adding these things to do in Dehradun. Being situated in the foothills of Himalayas, Dehradun is like playground that offers so many opportunities be it fun, adventurous or even peaceful.
If you’re visiting Dehradun in December, which is also the peak season, then are plenty of things to do in Dehradun that you can pick from. If you’re the adventurous kind, explore the wildlife at Malsi Deer Park also known as the Dehradun Zoo. The zoo also has an educational centre and a research centre that lets the visitors a deep dive into wildlife of Uttarakhand. Being close to Rishikesh, one of the best places in India for adventure sports, there are many adventurous things to do in Dehradun.
Paragliding in Dehradun is the most sought after things to do and be can be done at Hawk’s Fly Adventure. Being high up in the mountains, it is a must-recommended thing to do in Dehradun. Considering you’re in Uttarakhand, seeking peace and spirituality is one of the top reasons to visit Dehradun. Tapkeshwar Temple is the most-visited pilgrimage site in Dehradun. Being close to Rishikesh, Haridwar and many such places, Dehradun is easily one of the best places in Uttarakhand to start your Char Dham Yatra in 2024.
Ready for more? Let’s look around for more such famous things to do in Dehradun.
In this Blog
Tibetan Market
Located near the Parade Ground, shopping at Tibetan Market in Dehradun must be added to your list of things to do in Dehradun. Lit with charming lines and lanes filled with happiness, Tibetan Market is the perfect spot for shopping in Dehradun. The narrow lanes have a story to tell, perfectly visible in the artefacts and souvenirs sold over there. Similar to Paltan Bazaar, this is another hot shopping destination in Dehradun.
Visit the Forest Research Institute
The Forest Research Institute in Dehradun (FRI) is a beautiful colonial era place that speaks beyond its walls. Used as a shooting location for many movies such as Student of the Year, the vast botanical gardens and lush greenery itself makes it a must visit tourist attraction in Dehradun. Explore the museum of Forest Research Institute that has many fossils, minerals and exhibit that will perfectly capture its essence.
Trekking in Dehradun
Being in Dehradun, the city serves as a host to many trekking spots in Uttarakhand. There are many trekking spots in Uttarakhand that you can cover during your trip to Dehradun. The Lal Tibba Trek in Landour is located a mere 34 km from Dehradun and can be an easy weekend trek near Dehradun. The 9 km trail of the Kipling trail is an exciting thing to do in Dehradun. Fun fact – This route was once used to travel from Dehradun to Mussoorie. Last but not the least, the 13 k stretch of the Bhadraj Hill Trek is a decent weekend trekking spot in Dehradun.
Photography in Dehradun
There are many serene and photographic spots in Dehradun. Make sure to grab your camera when you visit the tourist attractions of Dehradun in December such as the Clement Town, Pindari Glacier, and Tapkeshwar Temple. When going to a viewpoint up in the mountains, don’t miss out an opportunity for photography in Dehradun.
Exploring the monasteries of Dehradun
Dehradun is home to many Buddhists and Tibetans from around the world. The calming winds of the mountains and soothing rustling of the trees, make it a perfect place for the saints and monks for meditation. Visit the monasteries such as the Clement Town, Mindrolling Monastery and Tibetan Monastery in Dehradun to understand the history and significance of the monasteries in Dehradun.
Hot springs in Dehradun
While being up in the mountains, you should definitely experience the hot springs in Dehradun. There are many hot springs in and around Dehradun where you can dip your toes (or even your body) and is a must do thing in Dehradun. Some of the famous things to do in Dehradun are the Sahastradhara and Sulphur hot springs in Dehradun.
Family Staycation at a Homestay in Dehradun
Dehradun in December or the months around it offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy great weather in the outdoors. What’s great about staying in a homestay in Dehradun is the possibility to embrace amazing weather and food with your family without the overbearing pressure of planning an extensive trip. You have your privacy, doorstep service as well as the sheer joy of being in the outdoors during these months in complete solitude. Now that’s a great way to have your cake and eat it too!
FAQs about Things to do in Dehradun
How can I spend my day in Dehradun?
There are many popular places to visit and things to do in Dehradun in December. For starters, visit the Forest Research Institute in the mornings, followed by a breakfast at Paltan Bazaar. Enjoy a short weekend trek in Dehradun around the trekking spots around Dehradun. Take a plunge in the hot springs of Dehradun and soothe your muscles. Make sure to stay at a beautiful homestay in Dehradun so that you can visit all these places in Dehradun conveniently.
Are 2 days enough for Dehradun?
Absolutely! Whether you’re planning for a pitstop during a roadtrip or want to visit the Char Dham in 2024, Dehradun is the perfect destination. In 2 days, you can easily cover the museums and famous tourist attractions of Dehradun.
What is famous to eat in Dehradun?
There are many restaurants and hotels in Dehradun where you can enjoying the lip-smacking North Indian cuisine. Enjoy delicacies such as Aloo ke Gutke and Kachmauli, a roasted lamb specialty. Don’t miss out on the iconic Bal Mithai, a sweet made of caramelized khoya and sugar balls.
What are some adventure activities in Dehradun?
There are a variety of thrilling adventure activities and things to do in Dehradun for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go trekking in Dehradun through the scenic trails of George Everest Peak and Robber’s Cave. Paragliding over the lush Doon Valley is another popular adventurous things to do in Dehradun.
Which month is best to visit Dehradun?
The best time to visit Dehradun is during the months of April to June or October to December. This is the peak season to visit Dehradun and the Dehradun Zoo will be in full splendour. Ideally one can travel from Dehradun to Mussoorie for some more exploring.