10 best places to visit in Dehradun on a family trip

Summer holidays are approaching and people are already planning their vacations with their families. This is the time of the year that sees a sharp rise in footfall in hill stations, with families looking forward to a gala time exploring places and enjoying uninterrupted togetherness. Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and educational prominence. Known for its pleasant climate and picturesque landscapes, Dehradun is adorned with colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and lush greenery. 

Dehradun is a gateway to the popular hill stations of Mussoorie and Chakrata, making it a preferred starting point for Uttarakhand’s mountainous adventures. The city’s culinary scene, featuring local Garhwali cuisine and diverse eateries, caters to varied tastes. Landmarks like the Forest Research Institute, Robber’s Cave, and the iconic Clock Tower reflect its historical charm. The sprawling Tapkeshwar Temple and the serene Sahastradhara, with its rejuvenating sulfur springs, add to the spiritual and natural allure.

Let’s dive to explore prominent places in the city that you all can enjoy with your families. 

1. Robber’s Cave (Guchu Pani):

   

   Explore the intriguing natural formation of Robber’s Cave, a river disappearing underground, creating a cave-like structure. It is ideal for families to trek, splash in the shallow waters, and enjoy a picnic amidst scenic surroundings.

   Opening Hours – 7 am To 6 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – Its 10 kms from the city

   Time Required – 2-3 hrs

   Ticket Price – The ticket price is INR 25 to see the caves

2. Sahastradhara:

   

   Visit Sahastradhara, translating to ‘Thousandfold Spring,’ known for its therapeutic sulfur springs and captivating beauty. Families can take a dip in the natural pools, surrounded by lush greenery, and enjoy the serene ambiance.

   Opening Hours – 9:30 am to 6 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – 15kms from Dehradun

   Time Required – Depends on the activities you are indulging in

   Ticket Price – The ropeway ride is priced at INR 200. No entry fee as such

3. Forest Research Institute (FRI):

   

   Discover the architectural marvel of FRI, a colonial-era institution amidst expansive botanical gardens. The FRI Museum offers insight into forestry and showcases diverse flora, making it an educational yet enjoyable family outing.

   Opening Hours – 9 am to 5:30 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – 7 kms

   Time Required – Visitors typically spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the various attractions within the Forest Research Institute campus, including museums, botanical gardens, and historic buildings.

   Ticket Price – Ranges from INR 50 to INR 250 per person

4. Tapkeshwar Temple:

   

   Seek spiritual blessings at Tapkeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated in a natural cave. Families can participate in the annual Shivratri fair and admire the temple’s tranquil surroundings.

   Opening Hours – 6 am to 8 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – 9 km

   Time Required – 1 to 2 hrs

   Ticket Price – No entry fee

5. Mindrolling Monastery:

   

   Immerse in the spiritual aura of Mindrolling Monastery, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist centers in India. Families can explore the intricately designed Great Stupa, enjoy the peaceful ambiance, and learn about Tibetan culture.

   Opening Hours – 9 am to 6 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – 8 km to city centre Dehradun

   Time Required – 1 to 2 hrs

   Ticket Price – No entry fee

6. Malsi Deer Park:

   

   Delight in the natural beauty of Malsi Deer Park, home to various deer species, peacocks, and birds. Ideal for a family day out with a mini zoo, children’s park, and serene walking trails.

   Opening Hours – 8 am to 6:30 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – 10 km

   Time Required – 1 to 2 hrs

   Ticket Price – INR 10 to INR 20 per person

7. Maldevta Farms:

   

   Experience rural life at Maldevta Farms, offering a glimpse into traditional agriculture and village activities. Families can engage in farming activities, enjoy a tractor ride, and savor locally prepared meals.

   Opening Hours – 9 am to 6 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – 15 Km

   Time Required – 2 to 3 hrs

   Ticket Price – Depends on the activities chosen

8. Paltan Bazaar:

   

   Explore the bustling Paltan Bazaar, a vibrant market offering a mix of traditional and modern shopping experiences. Families can shop for local handicrafts, and textiles, and indulge in street food for a lively and colourful outing.

   Opening Hours – 10 am to 8 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – In the heart of the city

   Time Required – Depends from person to person

   Ticket Price – No entry fee

9. Lachhiwala:

   

   Relax at Lachhiwala, a popular picnic spot with freshwater pools and cascading streams. Families can unwind in the natural setting, swim in the pools, and enjoy a day of leisure and recreation.

   Opening Hours – 8 am to 6 pm

   Distance From City Center Dehradun – 20 km

   Time Required – 3 to 4 hours at Lachhiwala

   Ticket Price – Entry fees vary depending upon the season

10. Clock Tower (Rajiv Gandhi Complex):

    

    Visit the iconic Clock Tower in the heart of the city, part of the Rajiv Gandhi Complex. Families can stroll around the complex, shop at the local markets, and capture the essence of Dehradun’s historical charm.

    Opening Hours – Accessible throughout the day

    Distance From City Center Dehradun – Centrally located

    Time Required – 30 mins to 1 hr

    Ticket Price – No entry fee

Read Also: Beginner’s Guide for a Long Weekend Trip in Mussoorie

So, plan a trip to Dehradun this vacation and enjoy a perfect blend of nature, spirituality, and cultural richness, creating lasting memories for everyone.

FAQs

Q1. Is 2 day enough for Dehradun?

Ans: Two days can provide a decent overview of Dehradun’s main attractions, allowing visitors to explore key landmarks such as Robber’s Cave, Tapkeshwar Temple, Mindrolling Monastery, and the Clock Tower. However, to fully immerse oneself in the city’s culture, enjoy leisurely activities, and explore nearby attractions like Mussoorie, an extended stay would be preferable. Ultimately, the duration depends on individual preferences and the depth of exploration desired.

Q2. When not to visit Dehradun?

Ans: Avoid visiting Dehradun during the monsoon season, typically from July to September, as heavy rainfall can lead to landslides, roadblocks, and disruption of outdoor activities. Additionally, winters from December to February can be quite chilly, especially for those unaccustomed to cold weather. It’s also advisable to check for any local festivals or events that may attract large crowds and affect accommodation availability and transportation.

Q3. In which month snowfall in Dehradun?

Ans: Dehradun does not typically experience snowfall due to its relatively low elevation and temperate climate. However, nearby hill stations like Mussoorie, located about 34 kilometers from Dehradun, may experience snowfall during the winter months, particularly from December to February, when temperatures drop significantly in the region.