Now that summer is here, who isn’t on the lookout for that perfect getaway? Set amidst the Himalayas, Shivaliks, Ganges and Yamuna, and charming one and all who visit, is the dream destination, Dehradun.

Within this district lies the ‘Queen of hills’ Mussoorie, the town of ‘rishis’, sages and the white water rafting destination…Rishikesh, a part of the Rajaji National Park, and the renowned sulphur springs at Sahastradhara. One of India’s most developed cities; Dehra Dun is also the entry point for campers, mountaineers and trekkers heading to towards the Garhwal Himalayas.

Ready to add a bit of adventure, spiritualism and tranquility to your holiday?… Then read up about some of the amazing attractions Dehradun has to offer!

Named after Guru Dronacharya, a great teacher in Mahabharat epic, Dehradun is an exhilarating experience for many, one of India’s hottest destinations especially during summers, offering some of nature’s most scenic attractions.

Rejuvenating body, soul and mind is Sahastradhara, a destination that literally translates to ‘thousand fold spring’, a place of immense beauty, attracting tourists from far and wide. The waters from the sulfur springs here being of very low temperatures, are known for their remarkable medicinal value.

Apart from scenic beauty, Dehradun is home to some interesting temples. Here are some of its must visits:

The Chandrabani temple is one such temple with a deep religious significance. Set in the midst of the Shivalik hills, according to ancient mythology, the place around the temple was believed to be the residence of Maharishi Gautam, his mate and daughter Anjani. Pilgrims believe that Chandrabani is the spot where ‘Maa Ganga’, the daughter of the heaven, manifested herself. Popularly known as the Gautam Kund, every year thousands of devotees come here to take a dip in the holy Kund (pool). Not only is it significant for religious purposes, but also known for its amazing and breath taking views of the stunning countryside.

The Dehradun Tapkeshwar Temple set on the bank of a seasonal river in a damp cave is a significant  cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva . The constant dripping of water from the ceiling on a Shiv Linga, gives this temple its name. The water drops over the shrine then vanishes underground only to reappear after a few yards in the form of stream. Cool sulphur springs around the temple make this place an excellent bathing spot for pilgrims visiting the temple.

A 2km trek which is an unforgettable experience will take you to one of India’s most famous shrines. Santhla Devi is a symbol of faith to the people in and around Dehradun. According to an interesting myth, Santhla Devi and her brother, on realizing that they were not be able to cope up with the Mughal Army, abandoned their weapons and started to pray. Moments later a light flashed and they were turned into stone images.

Lying in the middle of thick forests, the Laxman Sidh Temple, the cremation site of the Saint-Swami Laxman Sidh, is a place noted for its solitude, where one can find nothing but virgin nature.
Taking you back, as early as the fifth century A.D., is the Lakha Mandal, a site rich with ancient remains of temples, sculptures and inscriptions. It is situated on a hill slope along the bank of the Yamuna in the district of Dehradun.

A wonderful example of Indian secular fabric, the Sai Darbar Temple is open to all kinds of devotees irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Known for the serene atmosphere around it, it is a perfect background for devotees to conduct their spiritual requirements

Also known as ‘Devbhumi’, Harkidun ‘The Valley of the Gods’ was believed to be the ultimate destination of the great sages who came here to meditate. A photographer’s delight for its lush greenery, wonderful views of the glistening snow clad Swargarohini Mountains, views of pine forests, deodar and conifer forests and beautiful meadows, not only is this a favorite amongst trekkers, but also with research botanists, nature lovers, and bird watchers for the exotic Himalayan wildlife found here.

One of the oldest Gurudwaras and a popular pilgrimage centre in Dehradun here, is the Ram Rai Gurudwara, established by the 7th Sikh Guru, ‘Ram Rai’, after he settled down here for being cast away for becoming a Sikh. It was built in the olden days with the active support of the then ruler of Dehradun.

A great spot for picnics also known for its breathtaking trekking trails and absolute silence all over, is the Robber’s Cave, also known as Guchhipani or Guchu Pani situated only 8 km away from the Dehradun Bus Stand.

Another interesting picnic spot is the Asan Barrage or Dhalipur Lake, famous for its water sports resort by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam. A fun place meant for the entire family this water resort has all type of facilities and services.

Built before independence, the Clock Tower is the most aesthetic structure in the city and can be seen from a distance. A unique structure of its kind, it is the largest non-chiming six faced clock today.

Wildlife enthusiasts, try the Malsi Deer Park approximately 10km from Dehradun for its wide varities of deer. This beautifully developed mini-zoological park that lies at the foothills of the Shivalik range is a delight for both adults and children, and is an ideal sight-seeing cum picnic spot.

Another must visit for its exotic wildlife; that includes the Himalayan yellow throated martin, the Elephant Leopard, Indian langur, King cobra, Jungle cat, Tiger,Monitor lizard and many more is the Rajaji National Park – a park formed by combining three sanctuaries of Dehradun namely Rajaji, Motichur and Chillaand. This sanctuary is said to be home to around 23 species of mammals, and over 400 species of birds.

Other attractions here include the Botanical Survey of India, an important center for research in plant systematic and taxonomy in North India, and The Zoological Survey of India an important research center, keeping track of the faunal resources of the country.

The Karuna Vihar or the ‘Garden of Compassion’ is another institute worth visiting. An institute that renders services specifically to children and young adults with disabilities, it firmly believes that education is a child’s birth right. Children with disabilities are taught under the able guidance of trained, creative and caring teachers.

From mountaineering to trekking, river rafting in the boisterous Ganges or para gliding and para sailing… Dehradun is an ideal spot where one can enjoy all these adventure sports and more! Just the perfect spot recommended for tourists this summer, if they are longing for serenity and tranquility and an experience to remember for a lifetime!