• Explore One of the Popular Hill Stations: Dehradun

    Posted on May 15, 2023 by in Road Trip

    Dehradun is a popular hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated in the Himalayas’football and is popular for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Here are some key points about Dehradun:

    • Location: Dehradun is located in the Doon Valley, at an elevation of approximately 435 meters (1,427 feet) above sea level.
    • Capital of Uttarakhand: Dehradun serves as the capital city of the state of Uttarakhand.
    • Natural Beauty: The hill station is surrounded by lush greenery, forests, and the Shivalik mountain range. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, rivers, and waterfalls.
    • Climate: Dehradun has a temperate climate with mild summers and cold winters. The summer months (March to June) are pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). Winter (November to February) can be chilly, with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C (37°F).
    • Educational Hub: Dehradun is renowned for its prestigious educational institutions, including the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Forest Research Institute (FRI), and several boarding schools.
    • Cultural Significance: Dehradun has a rich cultural heritage with influences from Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Tibetan traditions. Festivals like Basant Panchami, Holi, and Diwali are celebrated with great enthusiasm.

    Dehradun’s Connectivity

    Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand in India, has good connectivity options.

    • By Air: Dehradun has its domestic airport called Jolly Grant Airport, located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. It offers regular flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore.
    • By Rail: Dehradun is well connected to other parts of India by rail. Dehradun Railway Station is the main railhead in the city and is linked to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Amritsar through regular train services.
    • By Road: Dehradun is well connected by road with a network of national highways and state highways. The city is easily accessible from neighboring cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Shimla. State-run buses, as well as private buses, and cabs operate regular services to and from Dehradun.

    Dehradun offers convenient connectivity options, making it easily accessible by air, rail, road, and even through the Delhi Metro network.

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    Favorable Visit Time

    The favorable time to visit Dehradun is from March to June and September to November. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

    • Spring (March to June): This is a popular time to visit Dehradun as the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The days are warm, and the evenings are cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
    • Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another excellent time to visit Dehradun. The weather remains pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The foliage starts to change color, creating a scenic beauty. It is a great time for nature walks and exploring the nearby attractions.
    • Winter (December to February): Dehradun experiences cold winters with temperatures dropping to as low as 3°C (37°F). While the city does not receive heavy snowfall, nearby hill stations like Mussoorie may have snow-covered landscapes. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like skiing in nearby areas.

    At last, the best time to visit Dehradun is during spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed comfortably.

    Places to Explore

    Dehradun offers several interesting places to explore. Here are some popular attractions in the city:

    • Robber’s Cave: Also known as Gucchupani, Robber’s Cave is a natural cave formation around 8 kilometers from Dehradun city center. It is famous for its cold springs, narrow tunnels, and beautiful waterfall, making it a popular picnic spot.
    • Mindrolling Monastery: It is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India and a major landmark in Dehradun. The monastery showcases exquisite Tibetan architecture, stunning murals, and a 220-foot-high stupa. Visitors can explore the peaceful surroundings and learn about Tibetan Buddhism.
    • Sahastradhara: Sahastradhara, meaning “Thousandfold Spring,” is a famous attraction located approximately 14 kilometers from Dehradun. It is known for its natural beauty, therapeutic sulfur springs, and captivating waterfalls. The area is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a refreshing retreat.
    • Tapkeshwar Temple: Located on the banks of the seasonal river Tons, Tapkeshwar Temple is a revered Shiva temple. It is known for its unique location inside a cave where water droplets continuously fall on the Shivling, giving it the name ”Tapkeshwar.” The temple attracts devotees and tourists alike.

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    To-Do List

    Here is a suggested to-do list for Dehradun:

    • Visit Forest Research Institute (FRI): Explore the picturesque campus, admire the colonial-style buildings, and visit the museum to learn about forestry and the region’s flora and fauna
    • Shop at the Tibetan Market: Indulge in some shopping at the bustling Tibetan Market, where you can find a variety of handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and local artifacts.
    • Enjoy a picnic at Malsi Deer Park: Spend a leisurely day amidst nature, observe the deer, and take a relaxing walk in this picturesque park.
    • Take a day trip to Rajaji National Park: Embark on a wildlife safari or nature trail in this nearby national park known for its diverse flora and fauna
    • Trek to Tiger Falls: Embark on a trek to the picturesque Tiger Falls, located near Chakrata. Enjoy the scenic beauty and take a refreshing dip in the waterfall.
    • Discover the Rajpur Road: Stroll along Rajpur Road, the central commercial hub of Dehradun. Enjoy shopping, try local street food, and visit trendy cafes and restaurants.
    • Enjoy a picnic at Lacchiwala: Head to Lacchiwala, a popular picnic spot on the outskirts of Dehradun. Relax by the river, enjoy a picnic lunch, and enjoy nature walks.

    Stay At Dehradun

    Dehradun offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular types of accommodations you can consider for your stay:

    • Hotels: Dehradun has a variety of hotels ranging from budget to luxury options. You can choose from renowned hotel chains, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly accommodations. The city center and Rajpur Road are popular areas for finding hotels with easy access to major attractions.
    • Resorts: Several resorts in and around Dehradun offer a serene and luxurious stay amidst nature. Some resorts are located in the outskirts or nearby hill stations, providing a tranquil retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
    • Guesthouses and Homestays: If you prefer a more personalized and homely experience, guesthouses and homestays are a great option. You can find comfortable and affordable accommodations hosted by locals, giving you a chance to experience the local culture and hospitality.
    • Service Apartments: Service apartments provide a home-like atmosphere with the added convenience of hotel-like services. These are well-equipped apartments with amenities like a kitchenette, and living area, and often offer housekeeping services.
    • Ashrams and Spiritual Retreats: Dehradun and its surrounding areas are known for various ashrams and spiritual retreats. These accommodations offer a peaceful environment for meditation, yoga, and spiritual practices. They usually provide simple rooms and vegetarian meals.

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    Food To Try

    Dehradun offers a variety of delectable food options. Here are some local dishes and specialties that you should try during your visit:

    • Garhwali Cuisine: Garhwali cuisine is the traditional food of the Garhwal region in Uttarakhand. Some popular Garhwali dishes include Kafuli (a spinach-based curry), Phanu (a lentil dish), Chainsoo (black gram curry), and GahatkeParanthe (parathas stuffed with horse gram).
    • Kumaoni Cuisine: Kumaoni cuisine is the traditional food of the Kumaon region, which includes dishes like Bhatt kiChurkani (black bean curry), AlooKeGutke (spiced potatoes), Baadi (dried lentil dumplings), Singodi (a sweet made with grated coconut and jaggery).
    • Ruskin Bond’s Favorite ChholeBhature: Visit the famous ChetanPuri Wale on Rajpur Road, known for serving delicious cholebhature. This place was a favorite of renowned author Ruskin Bond.
    • Momos: Dehradun has a thriving street food culture, and momos (dumplings) are a popular choice. You can find a variety of momos, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, served with spicy chutneys.
    • Tibetan Food: The Tibetan Market in Dehradun is a great place to savor Tibetan cuisine. Try dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup), Momos, Tingmo (steamed bread), and Tibetan Butter Tea.
    • Bal Mithai: Bal Mithai is a famous sweet delicacy of Dehradun. It is made with khoya (milk solids), coated with sugar balls, and is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
    • Street Food: Dehradun is known for its street food scene. Don’t miss out on trying popular street snacks like AlooTikki, Kachoris, Pakoras, and Chaat (savory snacks) from the local street vendors.
    • Local Bakeries: Dehradun has some old and famous bakeries where you can enjoy freshly baked goodies like biscuits, cakes, and pastries. Ellora’s Melting Moments and Kwality Bakery are well-known establishments.

    Conclusion

    Exploring Dehradun by road travel can be a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the city and its surroundings. Chiku Cab can help you to plan your itinerary and decide which attractions and places you want to visit in and around Dehradun. This will help you optimize your time and make the most of your journey. Chiku Cab provides its cab services all over India. Reserve a cab of your choice from us to explore Dehradun in a relaxed way. We offer the best deals for our tour packages. You can book a cab from your current location to Dehradun, either for a one-way trip or a round trip. It’s advisable to book in advance to ensure availability.

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    FAQs

    What is the best time to visit Dehradun?

    The best time to visit Dehradun is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

    How can I reach Dehradun?

    Dehradun is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The city has its domestic airport (Jolly Grant Airport), and a railway station (Dehradun Railway Station), and is accessible by road from major cities in India.

    What are the popular attractions near Dehradun?

    Some popular attractions near Dehradun include Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dhanaulti, and Rajaji National Park. These destinations offer scenic beauty, adventure activities, and spiritual experiences.

    What are the must-try local dishes in Dehradun?

    Some must-try local dishes in Dehradun include Garhwali cuisine (Kafuli, Phanu, etc.), Kumaoni cuisine (Bhatt kiChurkani, AlooKeGutke, etc.), momos, Bal Mithai, and Pahadi sweets.

    Is it necessary to book accommodations in advance?

    It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or if you have specific preferences. Dehradun offers a range of hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and service apartments to suit different budgets and preferences.

    What are some popular activities in Dehradun?

    Some popular activities in Dehradun include visiting attractions like Robber’s Cave and Mindrolling Monastery, exploring local markets and shopping areas, enjoying nature walks, and indulging in adventure activities like trekking and river rafting.

    Are there any precautions to take while visiting Dehradun?

    It is advisable to carry necessary medications, maintain personal hygiene, follow COVID-19 guidelines (if applicable), drink bottled water, and be cautious of street food hygiene. Also, check weather conditions and plan activities accordingly.