Things To Do In Dehradun

Dehradun’s present name comes from a decision Shri Guru Ram Rai made, during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. After being dismissed from the royal court, the humble saint decided to set up his ‘dera’ or camp in the ‘dun’(valley). Hence, the construction of the Darbar Shri Guru Ram Rai, is considered an important mile stone in the history of this city.

Dehradun - home to literary greats like Nayantara Sahgal, Ruskin Bond and Irwin Allan Sealy, and a popular holiday destination among young lovers and Hindu pilgrims, has a pleasant climate all year round, making it an ideal spot to relax, unwind and gather one's thoughts. While the summer months are ideal for adventure sports and sightseeing, honeymooners prefer to visit during winters, from the month of December to February. No matter what time you visit, here are 5 things you must do while in Dehradun.

Also known as Gucchu Paani, this is an intriguing place, as you can see a stream that flows in between 2 hills which form a cave. People can easily walk through the water into the cave, to reach a small waterfall. However, it is advisable to visit this place in the summer if you’re accompanied by kids, as the depth of the stream at that time will reach at most till your knees, ensuring it's safe for children to wade around unaccompanied. 

A family outing to this magnificent step-waterfall, guarantees a fun-filled day for everyone. However, it is recommended that you reach early to avoid crowds. Apart from the cool gushing streams, the sulphur springs are said to possess therapeutic properties that cure a variety of skin ailments. There is also a cable-car ride to reach the top of the hill, several eateries, an amusement park for kids, besides a revered Shiva Temple inside a cave. Clearly, there's plenty to do.

A short and steep drive away from the road to Mussoorie, Bhatta Falls is a little known gem which promises all the water-splashing fun without the tedious crowds of tourists. On the flipside, there aren’t many options for eateries, just a spot to get Maggi noodles. Shouldn't stop the nature lovers!

Dehradun’s Tibetan Market is frequented by the locals often. Here you’ll find woolen apparels woven by local Tibetan women. The Paltan Bazaar is another crowded shopping avenue, where customers are presented with an assortment of items to pick from – baked goods, momos with spicy chilli sauce, clothes and accessories. Shopping in local bazaars is a great way to collect good souvenirs.

Apart from being the first of its kind, this institute’s outstanding architecture – heavily influenced by the Roman and ancient Greek architecture – have drawn quite a few filmmakers to the location. The building’s magnanimous structure and open grounds surrounded by trees, makes this a picturesque setting.

There's also a museum of forestry within, with several displays showing the medicinal benefits of trees. There's also a cross section of a 700-year-old Deodar tree! Come here for the selfies and some fine strolling.