Things to do in Dehradun for an Adventurous cum Leisure Vacay

Robber's cave is a river cave formed in the Himalayas about 8 kilometres from Dehradun in the north-eastern state of Uttarakhand. This river cave is very close to Sahasradhara which are the thousandfold springs in Uttarakhand. It is mostly frequented by tourists seeking the adventure of witnessing this natural formation that has river water flowing from the middle of a cave. Exploring the cave is one of the prime things to do in Dehradun. Tourists need to trek a distance of about 1 kilometre through the Anarwala village to reach this place. It is a perfect location for those seeking adventure and thrill. If you happen to walk a little further through the stream, you can also spot splendid waterfall.

One of the six major monasteries of the Nyingma School in Tibet, the Mindrolling Monastery was established in 1676 by Rigzin Terdak Lingpa which was re-established in Dehradun by Khochhen Rinpoche along with a group of monks in 1965. The monastery is not only a tourist attraction but also a destination where on a daily basis almost hundreds of individuals attain spirituality. Being an architectural masterpiece with several sections, the monastery is no less than a wonder to look at. Numerous beautiful gardens, large areas, and a stupa are all situated within the perimeter of the monastery. Be sure to include this in your top things to do in Dehradun.

Established in the year 1906, the Forest Research Institute is spread over 4.5 square kilometres and has an imposing Colonial and Greco-Roman styles of architecture. This premier institution in the field of forestry research in India is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Nestled in the serene backdrop of the Doon Valley, Forest Research Institute is also a significant tourist attraction of Dehradun. The Institute has been used to film various Bollywood films. Be sure to include this in your bucket list of things to do in Dehradun.

Sahastradhara literally means 'thousand-fold spring'. It is a popular attraction, famous for its ecstatic beauty and therapeutic value since its water contains Sulphur. While the place can be visited any time during the year, you would love the charming beauty of the waterfall during the rainy season when the stream proposes the appearance of a gushing torrent. Sahastradhara is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand and is placed in the picturesque town of Dehradun. Visiting here is one of the topmost things to do in Dehradun.

Rajaji National Park is home to the Tiger, Leopard, Himalayan Bear, Cheetal, hog deer, barking deer, Sambar deer, wild boar, antelopes such as the Nilgai, Goral, Jackal, Hyena, Jungle Cat, Leopard Cat, Civets, Himalayan Yellow-Throated Marten, Sloth Bears, Pythons, King Cobra, Common Krait, Indian Cobra and the Monitor Lizard and above All the Asian Elephant. Going on a jungle safari at the National Park is one of the prime things to do in Dehradun.

Best Time: Mid November to Mid June

Apart from a gorgeous backdrop, the capital of Uttarakhand is also lined up with museums, monuments and temples. However, what remains the most exciting part of Dehradun is its sensational line-up of cafes that offer a cosy and calm vibe to let you unwind and enjoy a satisfying supper with friends and family. Visiting these cafes and tasting the mouth watering food is one of the best things to do in Dehradun.

Trekking has been one of the favorite activities and popular things to do in Dehradun among adventure travelers. Jwala Devi, George Everest, Bhadraj Temple, Shivalik ranges, Doon valley, Dakpather, Asan Barrage are some of the places to be mentioned when we talk about trekking in Uttarakhand. Pachhwadun region is one of the starting point for a lot of treks.

The Chetwoode Hall adjoins the Indian Military Academy and is home to the Indian army's modern artilleries and sophisticated ammunitions along with a wide range of artifacts that detail the splendor of the Indian Armed Forces.

A popular picnic destination, Lacchiwalla is famous for its lush greenery unspoiled by human activity. It is located at a small drive away from Dehradun. You can stay over at picturesque cottages and hotels.

Located at a distance of 6.5 kilometres from the city centre of Dehradun, the Tapkeshwar Temple is a humble cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Simple and charming in its appearance, this revered temple is situated along the banks of a river which imparts it a unique sanctity.  A Shiva Linga is enshrined in the main complex which is believed to grant the wishes of all those who seek the Lord's blessings. Water trickles from the ceiling continuously on the Shivalinga, making it an interesting spectacle to watch. This cave was once resided by the famous guru Dronacharya and hence is also famous as Drona cave.

If you have experience and courage then get ready to raft on India’s one of the wildest river Ton and get on a nerve wrecking ride of your life. Rafting is an adrenaline gushing roller coaster journey on the white water of River Ton flowing through the western part of Himalayas. Considered as one of the most untamed and technical rivers of India, it gives you a lifetime experience of hard core rafting amid the wilderness of Tons Valley. If you are an adventurist, this should definitely be there on your top things to do in Dehradun.

Paltan Bazar in Dehradun in another great option in Dehradun for shopping. You can pick spices, edibles and great artifacts from this market. Being one of the crowded markets Paltan Bazar gives a glimpse of rustic life.

Located at the base of the Shivalik range, Malsi Deer Park is a zoological garden, and it is home to two horned Deer, Tiger, Neelgai, Peacock and many other animals. Heaven for all the nature lovers out there, the beauty of the place is worth spending time at. Rich in flora and fauna, the park is a great point to unwind and break away from the busy life of the city. It is a small zoological park with a picturesque location and vibrant wildlife which makes it an amazing place for the photographers. Along with several other exciting things to do in Dehradun, this one is equally popular.

One of the least explored treks in the Indian Himalayan region that connects the Har Ki Dun Valley with Yamunotri, the Bali Pass Trek is a beautiful journey that one should try at least once in a lifetime. The trail crossing the Govind National Park, which houses several colourful orchards and species of animals and birds, pens and clicks the trekker's diary and lenses with enrapturing moments. If you are an adventure enthusiast, you should definitely put this in your top things to do in Dehradun.

An amazing place bustling with life, the richness of nature and beauty, Assan Barrage is a bird lover's paradise and a naturalists' heaven with its artificial lake attracting thousands of birds of varied species. Assan Barrage was formed due to the confluence of two great rivers of Uttarakhand - Assan and Yamuna River. The area created by their confluence is today a place full of life, biodiversity and the most unique bird population in the world.

Nestled away from the hustle bustle of the city, Har Ki dun is a beautiful cradle shaped valley with untouched panoramic beauty. Perched at an elevation of 3,566 mts above the sea level, this place is one of the remotest areas of Uttarakhand offering a plethora of trekking excursions. Also referred to as “Valley of Gods”, in Har Ki Dun you will find yourself surrounded by thick Pine forests and scintillating mountain peaks. This beautiful trail will take you to some of the most unexplored areas of Garhwal Himalayan region and visiting here is one of the prime things to do in Dehradun.

Situated in the lap of mountains of the Tons River Valley, Kedarkanth is a stunning place offering an easy, classic trek. It is a lovely ridge peak accessible throughout the year with plethora of rewarding adventures. The trek to this peak also gives you an opportunity to explore the exotic flora and fauna of the protected area of Govind National Park. You should definitely try this activity and include it in your list of top things to do in Dehradun.

Situated in the village Goolar Khalla, Tiger View Jungle camp shelters the endangered Indian Tiger. You can take the jungle safari, and enjoy the rare facility of camping in the wilderness. This is one of the most popular attractions in the city and experiencing a safari is one of the top things to do in Darjeeling.

Tapovan is a holy place which is located at a distance of 5 km from the Dehradun city. It is a very famous place to go for meditation and to escalate one's spirit. It is situated on the bank of the river Ganga. Interestingly, not many know this, but the word "Tapovan" has been derived from two words- Tapasya which means rigour and van which means forest. Because of its human-friendly weather, the place is visited by tourists all year and is one of the popular things to do in Dehradun.

Perched at an altitude of 4600m, Rupin Pass is a place adorned with stunning beauty offering an adventurous thrill to its trekkers. Situated in the lap of surreal Himalayan mountain range, the trek holds several surprises for you. Several cascading waterfalls, slippery snow bridges, the rustic villages, magnificent lush green meadows scatter with yellow marigolds and the icy blue rivulets snaking around the glacial valley is a treat to the eyes.

The zonal museum is popular for its collection of artifacts relating to the origin, development and sustenance of the mankind on earth, and stands witness to the ancient living conditions and customs of its people. The Museum situated on Haridwar Road was founded in the year 1971. Zonal Museum opens for the public from 10 am to 5 pm except on holidays, second Saturdays and Sundays. Visiting here is one of the touristy things to do in Dehradun.