19 Best Things to Do in Dehradun

After some relaxation in the valleys, get ready for a simple yet exciting activity of cycling along the Mussoorie road. Probably, one of the most beautiful things to do in Dehradun, this slow-motion trip will expose through the distinct terrains, mountain passes while you catch the routes like Rajpur, Sasasthradhara, Maaldevta or Purkul.

Location: Routes like Rajpur, Sasasthradhara, Maaldevta, Purkul, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar and Ponta Sahib.

What could be more amazing than making a joyful picnic in midst of flora and fauna? Well, just hop into Malsi deer park where you can find soothing greenery, happy deer and they all are capable of making every visitor cheerful. And not only deer but you also get to see exotic birds, parrots, neelgai, 2-horned deer and much more.

This wildlife picnic spot is also loaded with waterbodies, slides for kids and canteen for healthy eatables. Do not miss a chance to spend some quality time with your family and kids, while in Dehradun.

Location: Dehradun zoo which is 10 km from Rajpur road

Timings: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM

Distance from bus stand: 16.5 km

Let some fun take you high on the rides with Fun n food village! This first Amusement and Water Park of Dehradun encompasses 13 high tech rides, awesome Picnic Area, Boat Club, Water Slides, Wave Pool, Rain Dance, Kids Pool, water activities and all.

And moreover, it is studded with lush green lawns and fountains, lets one gaze at them for unlimited time. This place is just perfect for a family visit or a group of friends who wish to spend a day at leisure and fun.

Location: Village Kohlupani, Nanda Ki Chawki, Near Prem Nagar

Timings: It is open for all between 9.00 AM to 5.00 PM

Those who love to explore nature through treks and hikes, they have a brilliant option of Kedarkantha trek. Dehradun acts as its gateway from where one needs to travel to Sankri via Mussoorie. The trek takes up high at an altitude of 9100 feet, experience heavy snow in winters and lush greenery in summers.

So do not wait, pack bags, wear jackets and hit the place while savoring natural beauty all through the way.

Location: Dehradun to Sankri is 7 to 8 hours by road, from where one hikes above to reach the peak.

A trip without shopping is not a trip complete! And when you have Paltan Bazaar in your destination, the wish can be fulfilled where a bunch of coffee shops, food joints and bakeries wait to get explored.

One can pass through famed school crowd in the lanes and help yourself in buying antiques, local jewelry, budget fashion wear, limited edition books and much more to calm the pleasure of shopping distinct items. The huge clock tower in the middle is another major attraction for all the guests within the city crowd.

Timings: The shops and cafe keep on glittering in between 10.00 AM to 10.00 PM

Distance from bus stand: 8.8 km

Settled in the abode of Himalayas, Mindrolling monastery offers a serene and peaceful environment and is one of the largest Buddhist centers in India. Visiting the monastery is surely one of the essential things to do in Dehradun which is known for its grandness, architecture, beautiful Buddha statue and the walls that explain Buddha's life in detail.

Fill your heart in spiritual tone and dive into the new world with Mindrolling monastery.

Location: Mindrolling Monastery, Clement Town, Dehradun

Timings: Open for all, all Days- 9:00am to 7:00pm

Entry Fees: Nothing! Seek peace without paying any cost!

Distance From bus stand: 9 km

The temple is located on the river banks of Tons Nadi river and one of the very ancient space to offer prayers. Hosting a fair on every Shivratri, it attracts hundreds of devotees and let them relish in the peace. The major shrine is lying within the cave where water drips on the Shivling, giving the name of Tapkeshawar Mahadev.

The cool sulfur water springs are an additional feature the temple where the devotees love to take a bath before they enter inside the temple.

Entry fees: None!

Timings: 9 am to 1 pm and 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm all days of the week.

Location: Garhi Cantt, Birpur, Dehradun

Distance From bus stand: 6.5 km

Tiger falls are boasting the surrounding natural beauty and are lying comfortably in Chakrata. A hidden gem of Dehradun’s proximity is cascading form 50m and also a major picnic spot to the young hearts. One needs to trek down a good 5 km to be here within which the trail is loaded with calm greenery.

Moreover, the pool that forms beneath is an amazing place to dip in own feet, relax, click pictures and embrace it all. Not just this, those chirping birds and tiny animals will be a part of your fun, making the day most exciting than ever.

Entry fees: None!

Distance From bus stand: 88 km by the drive to its base, after which you need to trek for another 5 km

While you are in Dehradun and those snowy peaks catch your attention, just step on and fix a plan to reach Har ki Dun. This trek lets you pass through green meadows, allows to camp in calmness, give you an instant freshness and make one fall in love with it. Though a little tough on one side, new energy picks up every morning as the peak is near and you grab the altitudes easy.

 A splendid view of sprawling wild orchids will be along the trail, and if lucky, encounter the wilderness of the Himalayas like Barking Deer, Bores, Leopards and the likes. At those heights, spend the night under the star clad sky and enjoy the lovely aura. 

Location: Dehradun to Sankri is 7 to 8 hours by road, from where one hikes above to reach the peak.