Tapkeshwar Temple: This is one of the oldest temples in Dehradun, located on the banks of a seasonal river within a cave. It derives its name from the phenomenon of the river entering the cave, seeping through the ceiling and falling in droplets on the shivling housed within. The water is said to disappear underground, only to reappear as a stream. Sulphur springs also surround the temple. This temple is especially active during the Shivratri festival celebrations.
Sahastradhara: Laterally meaning the ‘thousand fold spring’, this is situated almost 11 kms from the city. An ideal picnic spot, beautiful views of the Baldi River and caves can be had from here. The water here traverses almost 9 mts and has particles of lime collecting and forming a cave-like projection from which the water cascades continuously. Also located closeby is a sulphur spring believed to have curative and medicinal properties.
Lakshman Siddh Temple: Located almost 12 kms from the city, this temple is believed to be situated where Lakshmana underwent penance for killing the demon king Ravana. This temple is accessible only on foot and is visited by a large number of devotees, especially during the annual Lakshman Siddha Fair.
Malsi Deer Park: This is home to, quite obviously, deers. Located 10 kms from Dehradun, this park is a favourite with children. It also has a play area with options for refreshments.
Chandrabani Temple: Located 7 kms from Dehradun, this temple is the site of the holy Gautam Kund, where thousands of devotees take a dip.
Tibetan Temple: Located on Rajpur Road, this temple houses a huge and colourful idol of Lord Buddha.
Picnic Spots: Robber’s Cave, also known as Guchu Pani, this is a highly visited picnic spot. Set amidst green hills, it has a stream flowing past, which seems to appear and disappear at regular intervals. Lachhiwala is another serene picnic spot, which also has accommodation options closeby. Located 45 kms from the city, Dakpathar is a popular picnic spot located in the Shivalik range.
Santala Devi Temple: This temple is the site of great faith and religion. It is here that Santala Devi and her brother, unable to face the Mughal Army, prayed and were transformed to stone.
Tapovan: Located 5 kms from the bus stand, this beautiful spot derives significance from the belief that famous Guru Dronacharya had undergone penance here.
Asan Barrage Water Sports Resort: Located about 43 kms from Dehradun, this complex is a favourite with adventure sport lovers. Enjoy activities like water skiing, boating, rowing, kayaking and canoeing. During winter, the reservoir here is also the site for a large number of migratory birds.
Rajaji National Park: This is definitely one of the finest reserves in the Doon Valley. Spread over 3 sanctuaries – Rajaji, Motichur and Chilla, elephants are the most common sightings here. Other varieties include barking deer, leopards, sambar and a range of exotic birds.
Note – Take a jeep safari to enjoy the park and visit it between November and mid June
Survey of India: Located 4 kms away from the city, this is the best place toyou’re your hands on old maps. The highlight achievement of this organization was that it is credited with determining the height of Mount Everest under the leadership of the then Surveyor General, Sir George Everest after whom the peak was named.
Forest Research Institute: This Institute is dedicated to the preservation of India's varied and much-threatened flora and fauna. It is one of the biggest forest based product-training institutes and provides information on the science of forestry that covers almost all the aspects related to forests and wildlife in India.
Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology: For those interested in geological studies, the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology is an excellent center on Himalayan geology. Do visit the museum that has a large display of the geological diversities found here. The museum houses rock samples, semi-precious stones and fossils that have been discovered in the Himalayan region. |