Landmarks and museums
Forest Research Institute (FRI)
A vast red-brick colonial building in wooded grounds, with museums on timber, insects and forest pathology. Usually 9 am to 5:30 pm, closed Sundays.
Mindrolling Monastery
One of the largest Tibetan Buddhist centres in India, in Clement Town, with a Great Stupa, shrine halls and gardens.
Darbar Sahib
The shrine of Guru Ram Rai, built in the early 18th century in a Mughal style; centre of the spring Jhanda Mela.
Clock Tower and Paltan Bazaar
The city's old centre: a busy market street running from the Clock Tower, good for shopping and street food.
Caves, springs and nature
Robber's Cave (Guchhupani)
A narrow limestone gorge where a stream disappears and reappears. Wear sandals; you walk through ankle-deep water.
Sahastradhara
Sulphur springs and small caves on the Baldi river, about 15 km from the city; busy on summer weekends.
Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple
A cave temple to Shiva on a riverbank, where water drips from the rock onto the lingam. Big crowds on Mahashivratri.
Lachhiwala
A forest picnic spot with shallow, man-made pools fed by a stream, about 20 km away on the Haridwar road.
Malsi Deer Park
A small forest park with deer, birds and a children's play area, on the way to Mussoorie.
Day trips
Things to Do in Dehradun: FAQs
What is Dehradun famous for?
The Forest Research Institute, Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara, Tapkeshwar Temple, Mindrolling Monastery, Paltan Bazaar, bakeries, and being the gateway to Mussoorie and Rishikesh.
Is the Forest Research Institute open on Sundays?
No. FRI is usually closed on Sundays. Visit Monday to Saturday, roughly 9 am to 5:30 pm.
Is Robber's Cave worth visiting?
Yes, especially with children. Go early on a weekday, wear sandals, and avoid it after heavy rain.
