The capital of the picturesque Garhwal (Uttarakhand) is a beautiful city nestled between the holy Ganges and Yamuna. The place being close to Delhi makes it a perfect destination for weekend getaways. Dehradun has always been the place where you get the best of the educational institutes in India. But apart from that it has a lot to offer to its visitors. From wildlife to river canals to adventure to spiritual binding. Here are the 5 best places that you must add to your bucket list on your visit to Dehradun.
For adventure –
1. The Robbers Cave
Known by the name Guchhupani by the locals, is a 600 meters long natural cave. Explore the cave barefoot with legs dipped in the freezing water and take a shower in the waterfall. The more deep you go the better it gets. You can take a sip of the amazing tea and deliciously cooked Maggie at the café just in front of the cave.
There is no entry fee and closes at 6 pm.
For Spirituality –
2. Tapkeshwar Temple
Tapkeshwar temple is situated on the banks of river Asan. This temple has the oldest Shivling (Shiva lingam) placed in the cave. The cave was formed of limestone. The continuous dripping of water over the lingam is considered as a miraculous and for which the temple was given the name Tapkeshwar (which means continuous drops of water). Every year thousands of devotees come here to pay respect to the lord on Shivratri. Lastly don’t forget to explore the Drona caves and a hot spring dip to refresh your soul.
There is no entry fee and closes at 7 pm.
3. Mindrolling Monastery
Mindrolling monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist temple built in Japanese architectural style. The complex is surrounded by beautiful gardens a stupa, a 103 feet statue of Lord Buddha, shops selling art and craft and eateries selling Tibetan food. From the top most floor you can get the 360 degree view of the Doon Valley.
The complex remains open 7 days a week but the temple only opens on Sunday for public. There is No entry fee.
For photography and picturesque view –
4. Sahatradhara
Known for its medicinal and therapeutic charms, Sahastradhara is a popular place among the tourists. There are sulphur springs formed by the water dripping from the limestone stalactites. Walk around and explore the steppe farming, caves and small waterfalls. Take a ropeway ride to the mountaintop and witness the 360 degree view of the place.
For Architectural feast –
5. Forest Research Institute.
Popularly known as FRI is an institute of forestry established in 1906. A national heritage of India, is a must visit place in Dehradun. It has Greeko Roman architecture and six museums to see all in all. It takes good 2 to 3 hours to see the whole campus and it’s best to take a guide for better understanding.
Entry free 25 INR per person and closes at 5 pm.
Apart from these places you can also explore the Paltan Market, this place is located at the heart of the city near the old clock tower and is shopper’s delight. So get indulge in the Garhwal’s cultural hub and Keep Tripping!
