Weekend Treks in Dehradun

Chopta Tungnath trek is a relatively unexplored trekking destination, which is known for its mesmerizing scenic beauty. The trek towards Tungnath, the 3 from Tungnath takes you to Chandrashila, which is situated at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level.Chopta is blessed with rich flora and fauna as it is located in the midst of dense forests, with a beautiful floor of rhododendrons, interspersed by deodar and pine trees. During the first one and half kilometers, you will pass through a sea of brightly coloured rhododendrons and silver oak forests. Following this the vista opens to green alpine meadows which take you to the Tungnath temple.According to folklore, the arms of Lord Shiva are believed to have emerged here. On trekking a kilometer further ahead, you will reach the Chandrashila peak from where you get spectacular views of the snow capped peaks of the Himalayas glistening in the sun rays. The grassy meadows of the region make it an ideal spot for camping too.Chopta is well-connected by roadways connecting Guptakashi and Gopeshwar. The weather is lovely and the views are simply breathtaking.Best season: May to June and August to SeptemberDuration: 3 DaysAltitude: 3680 m

Also known as Maha Rudreshwar Shiv Mandir, Tapovan Temple is one of the most popular religious attractions in Dehradun. Located 5 kilometres away from the main city, the temple is nestled on the banks of the Holy Ganges. As the story goes, Tapovan Temple is where Guru Dronacharya stayed for his atonement. Attracting hundreds and thousands of devotees from all across the country each year, the temple surrounding is known to provide tranquillity and peace to the troubled mind. Nature lovers would love the hike among the forest engulfing the temple.Upon entry to the temple, visitors are greeted with a huge statue of Lord Shiva. A Shivalinga rests in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple while stone sculptures of several other Hindu deities can be seen around the temple, including but not limited to Lord Hanuman, Goddess Kali, and Goddess Durga. Yoga enthusiasts would benefit from the many yoga and meditation events held regularly within the temple premises. Furthermore, there are several dedicated green spaces and temple areas which are suitable to sit down and practice meditation.Location: 9, Lane-2, Raipur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248008Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PMEntry Fee: No Entry Fee

Set amidst the lush green of the beautiful town of Dehradun, Forest Research Institute is an education and tourist spot. It is known for its natural diversity, spectacular beauty and magnificent architecture, this institute is one of the top places to see in Dehradun. The institute offers education and research in different areas of forestry—plants, climate, topography, animals, and birds of the Himalayan forests.Built on the lines of Greco-roman architecture, the edifice covers an area of 5 km. The campus was established by the British in 1906. The place has 6 museums that exhibit the research on areas related to forestry. The prestigious Indian Council of Forest Research is also a part of this institute. Tourists can enjoy this place because of its scenic views, rich architecture, picnic area and fresh environment.Highlights: Picnic area, lush green campus, rich architecture, scenic views, 6 museums, and peaceful ambiance.Location: Forest Research Institute (Deemed University) P.O.IPE, Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun - 248195Timings: Monday to Friday –9 AM to 5 PM.Entry Fee: INR 10 per person.