When one speaks about a family vacation, the first few things that strike one’s mind are green trees, blue skies, chilly weather, great food and a place where you can forget all your woes and calm down. This holiday destination is among those that fall under the category of delivering this experience to its visitors.
Lying at the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun which is the capital of Uttarakhand is known for its beautiful climate and the lovely landscapes it encompasses. One of the most astonishing facts about this place however, is that it is also one of the most important education hubs in the whole of India. How a place so small and petite be able to give a tough competition to other financial sectors of India is truly unimaginable.
Dehradun lies in Doon Valley which is located on a varying height of approximately 410m. The region is especially known for its climate. While one will experience a pleasant cool weather in Dehradun, the city is often times referred to as the ‘Rainy city of India’ due to the continuous rainfalls especially during monsoons.
Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand. In the recent years – there was a sense of construction boom that took place wherein endless residential property emerged in the city. Modern buildings have gradually been constructed making up for the good portions of Dehradun.
Chopta Tungnath trek is a relatively unexplored trekking destination, which is known for its mesmerizing scenic beauty. The trek towards Tungnath, the 3 from Tungnath takes you to Chandrashila, which is situated at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level.
Chopta is blessed with rich flora and fauna as it is located in the midst of dense forests, with a beautiful floor of rhododendrons, interspersed by deodar and pine trees. During the first one and half kilometers, you will pass through a sea of brightly coloured rhododendrons and silver oak forests. Following this the vista opens to green alpine meadows which take you to the Tungnath temple.
According to folklore, the arms of Lord Shiva are believed to have emerged here. On trekking a kilometer further ahead, you will reach the Chandrashila peak from where you get spectacular views of the snow capped peaks of the Himalayas glistening in the sun rays. The grassy meadows of the region make it an ideal spot for camping too.
Chopta is well-connected by roadways connecting Guptakashi and Gopeshwar. The weather is lovely and the views are simply breathtaking.
Best season: May to June and August to September
Duration: 3 Days
Altitude: 3680 m
Unexplored forest trails covered in the scarlet of Rhododendrons kissed by the mesmerising views of the mighty Himalayas—this is Jabarkhet Wildlife Reserve for you. One of the top tourist places in Dehradun, this reserve is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. This reserve is the first privately-owned wildlife sanctuary of Uttarakhand. The reserve sprawls over 100 acres of land and offers majestic Himalayan views on all sides all through the year.
The aim of this reserve is to grow a sustainable and dense forest that would keep sheltering animals such as leopards, gorals, cats, Himalayan Griffon, deer, giraffes, etc. One of the best things to do in this reserve is soaking in the first light of the sun. Wake up early in the morning and hike through the forest to get a view of the majestic Himalayan vista and perhaps, come face-to-face with some of the wildlife in the forest. You will have a great experience in this wildlife reserve, it’s a promise.
Highlights: 4 km hiking trail, bird – watching, wildlife, nature guides, and dense forest.
Location: A 100 acre land on the Mussoorie Dhanaulti road close to Jabarkhet, Dehradun, Uttarakhand – 248122.
Timings: Between the hours of sunrise and sunset.
Entry Fee: INR 350 per adult.
Situated amidst the Garhwal Himalayas, Har Ki Dun is a charming valley that is admired for its natural surroundings and hiking opportunities. Blanketed by milky-white snow and lush grasslands, it provides a fascinating haven for adventurous travellers looking for peace amidst majestic peaks and pristine landscapes.
It may get tiring: If you are the kind that enjoys adventure activities then you’re in the right place. Dehradun especially is among the first ports that remains a primary attraction for timely backpackers. Those who are not use o the tourist trails of the country must avoid getting their grips on rolling into such activities.
Plan well, carry a map: While Dehradun isn’t very expansive by nature, there are tones of must-do experiences sprawling around the space. Although, ensure that you don’t rush into things. Conduct your research well and carry on with travelling through this beautiful city. You will get to do what you want but be alert of any sham packages and guides while you’re hurrying into planning your trip.
Health is wealth: You’re about to enter a place whose climate, water and food your body isn’t aware of. Therefore, it becomes essential to take good care of one’s health. Apart from that, mosquitoes are everywhere and one bite will surely be quite costly. It is better to be safe than sorry and thus one must always use spray-one repellents and avoid being in regions that are inhabited by mosquitoes.
Transportation: Dehradun in Uttarakhand is quite walkable. Hence, if you’re worried about travelling within this place – don’t. Moreover, the city itself is quite locally connected in terms of bus and local taxis. Travel around the city and avoid taxis as the most fun you will have is on foot.
Water and eatables: Dehradun is blessed with a pleasant climate. However, water consumption is essential for the well-being of the body. Ensure that you drink more than you sweat and one of the most important things is to carry bottled water around. Not only is it convenient but also quite for your journey throughout the way.
Drinking laws: The drinking laws of Uttarakhand are pretty different slightly strict compared to other states. The legal age for consumption of alcohol is 21. However, the government plans on reducing the age factor. But one can figure out a way through this. It is not that difficult. The night-life is chilled and relax.
Visit the Robber’s cave: The Robber’s cave is situated approximately 7kms away from the heart of the city and is in the top of the list of places to visit in Dehradun. The place is also known as Gucchipani or Guchu Pani as it is surrounded by majestic hills and adventure – junkies will have a time of their life as the place also offers options for activities like trekking and camping.
Therapeutic visit to Sahastradhara: What better than indulging in the loving surroundings of the nature? Sahastradhara which literally translates into ‘thousand fold spring’ is one of the most beautiful destinations in the whole of India. It is popular for its ecstatic beauty and can be visited at any time of the year. You will love this place for what it is. It will deliver a worthy experience – the unforgettable kind.
Spiritual illumination at the Mind rolling monastery: Mindrolling, which literally means the ‘place of perfect emancipation’ is one of the largest Buddhist Vihara of India. It is such a grandeur place for the perfect kind of spiritual experience. Experience the lively vibrations through the entire locality for this is the kind that only comes once in a lifetime. You will not regret coming to this place.
Visit the Zonal Museum: The Zonal Museum is quite recognized for its collection of artifacts. There is a great tone of items that can be related to origins, developments and sustenance of the mankind on this planet that can be discovered at this place. Be truly mesmerized by this place.
Paragliding activity: Experience the thrilling adrenaline rush while you go flying into the infinite sky. One of the must-do things while you’re in Dehradun, this will truly exhilarate anyone’s living soul. Get the bird eye’s view to the spectacular destination of Dehrdun.
Visit the Rajaji National Park: The Rajaji National Park is located at the base of Shivalik Crests and will ensure a revitalizing experience for its visitors. The place has some of the most magnificent trekking trails in the world.
Asan Barrage for water sports: Think Dehradun is only limited to hills and mountains? Think again. Beat the heat and indulge in some exciting water sports. The Asan Barrage resort offers all sorts of water sports activities designed especially to deliver satisfaction.
Shopping at the Tibetan market: This is one of the top things to do in Dehradun. You are incomplete without shopping at a certain place. This popular market offers all kinds of products for its visitors.