Nag Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand

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

Situated amidst the Garhwal Himalayas, Har Ki Dun is a charming valley that is admired for its natural surroundings and hiking opportunities. Blanketed by milky-white snow and lush grasslands, it provides a fascinating haven for adventurous travellers looking for peace amidst majestic peaks and pristine landscapes.

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

The Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun, is an important organisation known for its pioneering research in forestry and allied sciences. Established in 1906, its large campus of grand colonial architecture amidst lush vegetation attracts researchers, students, and tourists alike. Explore its museums, botanical gardens, and educational exhibits for a fascinating look at India's forestry history.

Tucked away in a quaint corner of Dehradun, Shikhar Falls is one of the most fascinating places to see in Dehradun. Although hidden, it is one of the most popular tourist places in the city that sees plenty of adventure lovers regularly. Surrounded by woodlands and mountainous terrain, the falls takes visitors through a short yet strenuous hike across a shallow pool to reach the main waterfall. Once at the summit, the mind-blowing views and the refreshing breeze make up for all the extra effort.Due to its rich vegetation and plush greenery, the waterfall is home to several birds and butterflies species. Additionally, there are several small and big waterfalls on the way to the top of Shikhar Falls. There are a few hawkers and snacks stalls at the summit for refreshment.Location: Kairwaan Gaon, Dumal Gaon, Uttarakhand 24800Timings: AnytimeBest Time to visit: October to June Entry Fee: No Entry Fee

One of the most significant religious places to see in Dehradun is the Shiv Mandir on Mussoorie Road. Also known as Shri Prakasheshwar Mahadev Mandir, the temple is dedicated to Hindu deity, Lord Shiva, and is situated amidst the lush green valleys of Dehradun. The temple is not only visited by devotees from nearby cities but also from all over the country. The primary attraction of the temple is the sphatik Shivlinga.During special occasions such as Shivratri and Saawan (monsoons), the temple is literally flooded by worshippers from everywhere. During a visit to the temple, visitors must cherish the free Bhandara that is held every day where devotees are distributed prasad. There is also a small gem and jewellery shop within the temple premises for buying precious birthstones and other jewellery or souvenirs. An intriguing fact about the temple is that it is the only private temple of its kind which has an anonymous owner.Location: Mussoorie Rd, Salan Gaon, Bhagwant Pur, Khala Gaon, Uttarakhand 248009Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:30 PMEntry Fee: No Entry Fee

This popular market in Dehradun is completely run by the Tibetan Community. One of the top places to visit in Dehradun, you can buy handicrafts, wooden showcases, art pieces, handbags, Garhwali jewellery pieces, and wind chimes. Apart from the above items, you can also shop for beautiful souvenirs for your friends and family.This place is also known for delicious snacks such as momos, noodles, hot noodles soup with extra butter. Just a pro tip for anyone who visits this market is to definitely buy the hand-knitted woollen garments. You can buy multi-coloured sweaters for yourself and your family. The busy street of Tibet Market is accentuated by a whiff of scrumptious Himalayan food and spices, and it is vibrant with a good ambience and great vibes all the time.Highlights: Handwoven woollen garments, momos, noodle soup, colourful clothes, etc.Location: Opposite Parade Ground, Dehradun, Uttarakhand - 248001Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM.Entry Fee: There is no Entry Fee.

Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib is a 17th-century Sikh temple in the middle of Dehradun. It was built by Baba Ram Rai, the son of Guru Har Rai, with help from the rulers of Aurangzeb and Garhwal. The Darbar is different from other Sikh shrines because it has Indo-Islamic elements like domes, minarets, archways, and Mughal gardens. It looks more like a mosque-style tomb than a Sikh shrine.Step through the "Darshani Deori" into a courtyard with about 500 murals on its walls. These murals show Sikh gurus, Puranic myths, and Garhwali history, and they were made over three centuries with influences from Mughal, Rajasthani, Kangra, and European cultures. The central shrine (1699–1706), which is based on Jahangir's tomb, is a peaceful place to pray, sing kirtan, and eat langar with over 1,000 people every day. It is open from 5 AM to 9 PM and is free to enter.Visit during Jhanda Mela, a lively flag-raising festival that takes place five days after Holi. It features a 90–100 ft ceremonial flag wrapped in devotional cloths. People from all faiths come to celebrate. This living heritage site is a must-see spiritual and historical landmark because it combines sacred architecture, artistic legacy, and cultural vitality.