The Doon Valley is ringed by the Himalayas. Blessed with a climate that remains perfect all through the year, Dehradun is today a major academic and research centre. It is home to the Indian Military Academy and a number of prestigious boarding schools. Adding to Dehradun's popularity is the hill resort of Mussoorie which is just 34km away.
SIGHTSEEING
Forest Research Institute
It's the only institute of its kind in Asia and is devoted to research in forest sciences. Located 5km from the city, it has six museums relating to different disciplines. Built by the British in the early 20th century, this elegant building is set in spacious grounds.
Robber's Cave (Guchchu Pani)
Some 8km from the town centre lies this perfect picnic spot. A stream of water emerges from the cave but disappears underground, only to reappear a few kilometres away.
Sahastradhara
About 14km from the city, Sahastradhara is famous for its sulphur springs. Nearby under the overhanging cliff, stands a small but attractive Shiva temple .
Rajaji National Park
Rajaji, Motickur and Chilla are three sancturies that make the Rajaji National Park. The forest is home to elephants, leopards, hyenas, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boars and a variety of birds though you may not get to see many. Accommodation is available at the rest house and tourist bungalow.
Dakpather Barrage
Nearly 45km from the city, the Dakpather Barrage is built on River Yamuna. It offers facility for boating and water skiing and is a lovely picnic spot. It is well connected to the city by bus and taxi.
Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology
Apart from research, this institute is also home to a museum that exhibits the geological diversity of the sub-continent.
Tapkeshwar Temple
These are two inter-connected cave temples cut into a cliff by the Tons River. Water constantly drips over the stalactites and onto the stalagmites which seem like a Shivalinga. The city bus service operates to the temple.
Malsi Deer Park
About 8km from the city, the Malsi Deer Park makes a pleasant break. You can spot nilgai, deer and a variety of birds that live here.
Kalsi
About 50km from Dehradun, it has an edict inscribed on a the rock. It was carved on the orders of the Buddhist Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC