Dehradun – the capital city of Uttaranchal is an internationally renowned tourism place welcoming thousands of groups of tourists to explore this boon of nature. Nestled in the majestic Himalayan hills, this ancient city is known for its divine beauty, gushing streams, deep ravines, lustrous valleys, delectable cuisine followed by heart-soaking outdoor activities.
The beautiful town is referred as the gateway to Mussoorie and Garhwal interior. Prouding one of the oldest cities in the country and was ruled in turns by the Sikhs, Mughals and Gurkhas before coming under the reigns of the British. Dehradun is a world known education hub hosting some of the prestigious institutions like the Forest Research Institute, Doon School and Welham Schools, ONGC, Indian Military Academy, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Studies, Survey of India and Botanical Survey of India etc.
A sprawling city, speckled with magical places, steeped in history is an ideal spot for those who want risk in their life. Try hands in adventures like paragliding, skiing, angling and river rafting. Being a host of large Cantonment area, the city is a popular retirement spot. It is also famous for aromatic long grain rice - Basmati Chawal (Rice) and delicious Litchies.
Dehradun District Stats
- District Headquarters: Dehradun
- Area: 3088 sq km
- Total Population: 16,95,860
- Literacy Rate: 77%
- Altitude: 682 m
- Language: Hindi, English
- Best Season: Throughout the year
Places to Visit in Dehradun
- Assan Barrage (40 kms): The wet land near the confluence of rivers Assan and Yamuna attracts large number of migratory birds and is an 'ornithologist's paradise'.
- Mussoorie: Mussoorie, the 'Queen of Hills' perched at a height of 2000 metres is one of the most popular hill resort of the country. It was set up in 1823, by Captain Young during the British era and is 34 kms from Dehradun.
- Tiger View Jungle Camp: Nothing can be better than this in district for a true wildlife lover finding opportunities fo Jungle Camping and Tiger spotting in nearby Goolar Khalla Village.
- Gun Hill: This second highest peak of Mussoorie had a gun mounted over it, which was fired to herald mid-day. Travelling by the 400 m ropeway connecting the Mall to Gun Hill is quite exciting.
- Sahastradhara: A lovely waterfall with thousands of fold springs is popular for astonishing beauty. The Baldi River and Caves are added charm to location.
- Nag Devta Temple: The ancient temple on Cart Road is 6 kms from the town and is popular among devout followers, who believe that wishes are fulfiled here.
- Robber’s Cave: Popularly known as Gucchipani or Guchu Pani, Cave is a scenic location bounded by majestic hills in suburban areas. The cave follows about a km trek and pristine streams after that.
- Bhadraj Temple (15 kms): It is dedicated to Lord Balbhadra, brother of Shri Krishna. Panoramic view of the Doon Valley and Chakrata ranges.
- Surkhanda Devi (35 kms): The temple of Surkanda Devi is located 8 kms from Dhanolti. The temple commands a majestic view.
- Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill) (9 kms): The shrine amidst lush forest affords a fine view of the Himalayan peaks, Doon valley and. Yamuna valley.
- Rishikesh: Rishikesh, the 'place of sages' is an important pilgrim and spiritual centre on the right bank of holy Ganga. It is surrounded by Shivalik ranges on three sides and is the starting point for the Char Dham pilgrimage.
How to Reach Dehradun
- By Air: Nearest airport for Dehradun is Jolly Grant (24 kms). Public Transport and Private Cabs are available from Airport to Dehradun anytime.
- By Rail: Dehradun is well connected by rail network to other important towns of the country. Some of the main trains from Dehradun are Mussoorie Exp (To Delhi), Doon Exp(To Calcutta), Ghy Rajdhani(Varanasi), Dehradun Exp(Mumbai).
- By Road: It is connected by good network of roads and highways. Lucknow - the city of Nawabs is 544 km from Dehradun while Delhi is 245 km.