Lying on the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Dehradun is the most popular among Uttarakhand tourist places. People who love the hills, must have already planned a trip through the places to visit in Dehradun. Two sacred Indian rivers, Ganga and Yamuna, flow by this scenic district. While there are endless scopes for Dehradun sightseeing, as a busy going professional we understand the time constraints of your Dehradun trip. That is exactly why we bring before you a 48 hours itinerary to visit the best Dehradun tourist places. So, let us start.
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Day-1 (Dehradun Side trips)
#1: Tapkeshwar Temple
6 AM: Seek Blessings
This revered Shiva temple is about 19 KM away from Sahastrashara and would be the ideal next stopover. The ancient temple sits on the banks of Asan River and inside the Drona Cave. One of the main attractions of the place is its Shivalinga, which is continuously bathed by the trickling waters coming from the cave’s ceiling. The cave, within which Tapkeshwar Temple is situated, sits amidst beautiful hills making it a nature lover’s ideal destination. Shivaratri is celebrated with much pomp and show at this temple.
- Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
#2: Robber’s Cave
7:30 AM: Explore the caverns
Wake up at 6:30 AM and visit the Robber’s Cave. Popularly known as Guchhupani, these caves are about 8 KM away from the main city and situated near the small village of Anarwala. When the first rays of the sun reflect on the outer walls of the cave, it amplifies the beauty of Robber’s Cave.
The cave is 600 m long and is divided into two parts. The central part of this cave has a tall fort like structure, while else where you can find 10 metres high waterfall! While inside the cave you can view many strange occurrences. You might sight a stream appearing all of a sudden and then vanishing underground again. There is also a narrow gorge inside the cave, which offers a thrilling bare foot walking experience.
- Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
- Trivia: During the British rule, these caves were the secret hideouts for robbers, and thus the place got its name.
9:30 AM: Breakfast at Chetan Puriwala
After you have explored the mysterious Robber’s Cave, head straight to Hanuman Chowk for a sumptuous breakfast at Chetan Puriwala. A typical day for Doonites starts with deep-fried Puris, Channas and Aaloo curry with Boondi raita all washed down with hot Gulab jamuns and a cup of hot tea. And Chetan Puriwala has been serving the yummiest Puris for two generations now.
- Address: Hanuman Chowk, Moti Bazar Road (near Hanuman Mandir)
#3: Sahastradhara
10:30 AM: Take a Healing bath
Once you are done licking your fingers after the delicious breakfast, visit Sahastradhara. Situated 11 KM from Dehradun city, water of this scenic waterfall is known for its medicinal properties. Once at the waterfall you will find an assortment of Sulphur springs formed by water dripping from limestone stalactites.
A dip in this waterfall is known to cure many long term skin ailments. After you have taken a refreshing bath, just sit on a rock and enjoy the beauty of Sahastrashara. The waterfall is surrounded by a cave and the Baldi River gently flows by. There is also a ropeway nearby which can take you to the hill top. From this vantage point you can get panoramic views of the surroundings.
- Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
1:30 PM: Lunch at Café Hi Life
Café Hi Life is situated at an hour’s drive from the temple, at Rajpur Road. It offers the best of European cuisine. If you want a gastronomic treat before proceeding with your trip then this would be a good pit-stop. Their Pizzas are simply un-put-down-able. Apart from their food, the café will win your hearts with their old European style interiors. What’s more, there is a special books and video viewing area specially made for the kids, which will come in handy in case your kid is getting too bored.
- Address: Kairwaan Gaon, Rajpur
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#4: Mindrolling Monastery
2:30 PM: View Asia’s Largest Stupa
Post lunch tour the Mindrolling Monastery, which is situated in Clement town (9 KM away from Dehradun). The present day structure was constructed in 1965 by Khochhen Rinpoche in 1965. The monastery is one of the finest specimens of Tibetan architecture in India.
The monastery was built by more than 50 expert artists and it took three years to complete. The walls of this monastery are decorated with paintings depicting various phases in Lord Buddha’s life. There is also a 220 feet high and 100 sq. feet wide Stupa inside this monastery. Known as the Great Stupa, it is supposed to be the largest Stupa in Asia. You would be awestruck at the enormity of this stupa.
- Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
#5: Paltan Bazaar
6 PM: Shop to your fill
The hot cup of tea and the yummy snacks at Sardarji Pakodewala would have refreshed you some bit. So, head straight to Paltan Bazar, which is the shopping Mecca of Dehradun. The bazar is ever buzzing with enthusiastic shoppers. It has every type of shop from clothes, footwear, handicrafts, brassware and gift shops.
Woolen clothes sold at Paltan Bazar in Dehradun are especially popular. While meandering through this market you would come across the six-faced Clock Tower. This was built during the British period and is an important landmark of Dehradun. Quite close to the Clock Tower is the English Book Depot, where you can pick up a book or two for your journey ahead. End the day’s touring by taking a somber stroll to the Mall Road. On the way you will come across the famous Doon School.
- Must taste: Gaylord’s ice cream and Kumar’s Kulfi
9 PM: Dinner at Orchard
When it comes to tasting authentic Tibetan cuisine at its very best, nothing can beat Orchard. The restaurant has outdoor seating arrangement which suits ideally with the pleasant weather of Dehradun. While at Orchard do care to taste their specialties such as Thenthuk, momos, spring rolls, garlic noodles and red velvet cake.
- Address: 230, Rajpur Road, Kairwaan Gaon.
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Day-2 (Trip to Mussoorie)
7 AM: Enjoy a scenic road trip to Mussoorie
Wake up and start your journey to Mussoorie by 7 AM. It is a beautiful drive up to Mussoorie. You will pass through scenic villages, valleys and streams. After a couple of hours’ drive you will be welcomed to Mussoorie by the mist and cotton clouds.
9 AM: Breakfast at Casa Mia Bakery
You would be wanting a fulsome breakfast after such a long journey. So start the day by tasting some of the best croissants, muffins, pies and breads at this bakery. Of course you must definitely try out the Fresh fruit cream and the Danish pastry while at Casa Mia. You may also pack some snacks and fresh baked biscuits from this bakery.
- Address: Mall Road
#6: Lal Tibba
10 AM: A Selfie with the Himalayas
Head to Lal Tibba, to start your Mussoorie sightseeing, as soon as you are done with your breakfast treats. Located in Landour area, Lal Tibba offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayas as well as the valleys below. This sleepy little place was once the summer capital of the state, under British rule. But today it is flocked by tourists who wish to feast their eyes on the best mountain views.
Lal Tibba is the highest point in the area and offers splendid views of the snow clad peaks on a clear day. There is also an observation deck built at the viewpoint which has a telescope installed. Once you are done clicking pictures of the Himalayan peaks and a few selfies too, it is time to hit the road again. You will pass by the old colonial buildings and beautiful gardens.
- Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
#7: Camel’s Back
11 AM: Hit the Nature Trail
Haven’t had enough of the Himalayan views? Okay, you can fulfill the quota at Camel’s Back. Situated some 4 KM from Lal Tibba, Camel’s Back is another scenic viewpoint. Your cab will drop you at the Library Point, from there on you can walk ahead or enjoy a bit of Pony ride.
The track you would tread was first constructed in 1845 and all through the road you will find many scenic vantage points. Hawa Ghar is the most scenic viewpoint along this track. You can breathe in the fresh mountain air, enjoy the panoramic views of the Doon valley or watch the small streams snaking through their journey. There is a mid-nineteenth century European graveyard which also deserves a visit.
#8: Kellogg Memorial Church
12 PM: View a British splendor
About 4 KM ahead lies the splendid Kellogg Memorial Church in Landour. This church was built in 1903 and housed the Landour Language School. This school had a special purpose for it was here that British officers were taught Hindi language that helped them communicate with their Indian subordinates. The church has beautiful Gothic architecture and there are stained glasses decorating the interiors.
- Timings: 10 AM – 1 PM
1 PM: Lunch at Fortune the Savoy
If you like good food and good literature then this is the perfect place to refresh after a tiring first half of Day-2. Nostradamus Writers’ Bar for a delicious meal and you will also get a chance to read some of the bestsellers while having your lunch. The restro-bar is decorated with plaques bearing the names of writers who have visited Nostradamus Writers’ Bar.
- Address: Library Bazar, Gandhi Chowk
#9: Park Estate
2 PM: Visit the house of an eminent personality
Ever wondered after whom Mount Everest was named? Well you answer lies with a visit to the beautiful Park Estate. About 30 minutes’ drive after lunch will land you to the George Everest’s house. As an honor, the British government named Mount Everest after him in 1865. George Everest lived in Mussoorie for 30 years and spent many years in this cliff side house. The estate is covered with misty clouds and crisp greens. From the right vantage points, you can get a panoramic view of the Doon Valley as well as the Himalayan ranges.
- Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
3 PM: Drive back to Dehradun
With some daylight still left, now is the return back to your base. On the way, you can make a small stop at Forest Research Institute. Built in 1906, this is one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the area. The Forest Research Institute building spans across 450 hectares and is even bigger in area than the Buckingham Palace! The lush greenery and beautiful architecture would take you back to the colonial era.
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8 PM: Dinner at Mussoorie Lights
Finish off your Dehradun trip with a sumptuous dinner at Mussoorie Lights. This rooftop restaurant at famous Rajpur road, not only serves lip-smacking delicacies but also offers you a final chance to be amazed with mountain views from Dehradun. Mussoorie Lights is best known for its Afghani, Continental, Indian, Italian, and Mexican dishes.
- Address: Hotel Park View Rajpur Road, Astley Hall, Chukkuwala.
As you can see, a lot can be explored within a couple of days at Dehradun. If you are planning a travel soon, do care to use RailYatri’s outstation cab booking, hotel booking and other associated services.
