Places To Visit In Dehradun

By Author: Pragati Chauhan
Total Articles: 4
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In the northern part of India lies a picturesque city called Dehradun with it's enchanting environs and salubrious weather the city is an epitome of beauty. It is idyllically located in the Garhwal region which is bestowed with natural abundance. The city is located 236 kilometers north of India's capital New Delhi. Being located on the foothills of the Himalayas the city holds a large number of inhabitants of Garhwal region who migrated to Dehradun in search of jobs, education and for a better standard of living.

One can find the richness of Garhwali, Kumauni, Nepali, Jaunsari and various other cultures which are bonded with a thread of love by this city. In the past few years Dehradun has emerged as a major tourist hub as it is located close to some of the popular tourist destinations such as "The Queen of Hills" Mussoorie, "The Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas" Rishikesh and the pious city of Haridwar.

Dehradun which is also nicked named as Doon Valley became the capital of Uttarakhand state in 2000 which lead to rapid development of the city. Earlier the city which was far away from modernization, ...
... now proudly showcases its towering buildings, great infrastructure and prestigious institutions. Dehradun is progressing as a major IT sector and its roots are also spreading in the field of publishing.

Dehradun is a home to renowned educational institutions and government departments of India such as Indian Military Academy, the Ordnance Factory Dehradun, Survey of India, Wildlife Institute of India, Forest Research Institute, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Oil and Gas Corporation, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies and many more.

Major attractions of Doon Valley -:

Doon Valley is blessed with quintessence of nature and has various scenic spots which are visited by tourists all over the world. The famous tourists attractions have been mentioned below -:

1) Lachhiwala - Lachhiwala is an ideal picnic spot to head in summers which is located at a distance of 17 kilometers from Dehradun city on Haridwar-Rishikesh road. The place is surrounded by verdant forests; far away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. One can feel rejuvenated at the man-made pools which are safe for everybody. The lavish environs of Lachhiwala offer recreational activities like bird watching and trekking. The picnic spot enjoys the attention of a large number of tourists who visit this place frequently. One can take accommodation in the Forest Rest House which offers comfort as well as luxury to its guests. The best time to visit Lachhiwala is during summers.

2) Buddha Temple or Mind Rolling Monastery - Buddha templeor Mind Rolling Monastery is one of the most visited places in Dehradun. The monastery was built in 1965 to promote religious and cultural teachings of Buddhism. It is located at Clement Town which proudly displays 103 feet tall statue of Lord Buddha. The aesthetically designed temple showcases skillful Japanese architecture. The intricate wall paintings, marvelous architecture, sculpted idols and the lively paintings which depicts the life cycle of Lord Buddha are the major attraction of this place. These paintings were painted in pure gold color by 50 skillful artists which took three years of hard work and dedication to bring out the beauty.

One can have an enchanting view of the lustrous Doon Valley from the terrace area and feel the fresh breeze gently touching your cheeks. Visitors can also enjoy shopping at the tiny shops which are present in the temple complex and few eateries are also available to savor your jaded palates. It’s a place which can be visited all around the year.

3) Robbers Cave – Robbers Cave is one of the best places to explore in Dehradun. This place was named Robbers Cave by the Britishers as robbers used to take refuge in these caves. The place is also referred as Gucchu Pani which is located at Anarwala village about 8 kilometers from Dehradun city. Many people come here to explore the cold springs and have a splash in the cold water on a sultry afternoon. When you go inside the cave it’s like a quest, people fold their trousers and roll up their sleeves to avoid getting wet yet nobody escapes from the splash of water. One should avoid visiting this place in monsoon season and it is advised to carry an extra pair of clothing and some food.

4) Asan Barrage - Asan Barrage is located near Dhalipur village which lies at the confluence of two rivers namely Asan and Yamuna. One can spot a large number of migratory birds and threatened bird species which have been listed in the Red Data Book. The barrage is 287.5 meters long and the river bed is 389.0 meters above sea level. The minimum water level is recorded as 402.4 meters above sea level and maximum being 403.3 meters above sea level.

If you are a nature lover this place will be a treat to your eyes. The tranquil winds, the lush green surroundings and the melodious voice of the playful birds will make your heart skip a beat. The best time to visit this place is in the month of October and November and in late February and March. This place is truly a bird watchers paradise with birds such as mallard coot, cormorant, egrets, wagtails, pond heron, marsh harrier, greater spotted eagle, osprey and steppe eagle visit this area. If you are searching for peace and tranquility in the lap of nature this place will help you to do so.

5) Forest Research Institute - Forest Research Institute was established in the year 1906 which displays authentic Greek and Roman styled architecture by C.G Bloomfield. One cannot marvel but admire the colonial style architecture which is a National Heritage. The Forest Research Institute sprawls over 2,000 acres of lavish vistas and lush green fields. Many visitors like to have a walk through the trails, take photographs of the museum and some people come here for solitude and mental peace.

There are six museums in FRI which are based on social forestry, pathology, silviculture, timber, non-wood forest products and entomology. You will be asked to pay an entry fees of Rs. 10/- and guide services will be available at Rs. 50/-. The timings to visit the museum are from 9:00 am to 5:30 am. The museum is closed on gazette holidays. You can visit this place in any month but don’t forget to carry a camera along with you as the well manicured gardens and the picturesque landscape around the institute will allure you to click some photographs.

6) Clock Tower – Clock Tower which is a prominent landmark of the city is also known as Ghanta Ghar by the local residents. Ghanta which means ‘bell’ and ‘ghar’ means home in Hindi. Clock Tower is encircled by various commercial centres such as Grand Post Office, shops, eateries, shopping complex, Paltan Market and Indira Market. The Clock Tower has been standing tall much before Independence. Many people come here for shopping spree as it is close to the local market area. This place notices political gatherings and campaigns from time to time as the local political groups are able to gather attention of the people who visit the market area.