Fascinating history and intriguing mythology meet at the crossroads of this beautiful hill-station, one of the most popular in the country. Just 240 km from Delhi, nestled in the rolling Doon Valley and at the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun is surrounded by high mountains and lush Sal forests. Known for its pleasant year-round weather and scenic surroundings, the city is a gateway to several popular hill-stations like Mussoorie and pilgrimage sites like Haridwar and Rishikesh.

Offering a blend of unparalleled landscape and modern amenities, bustling Dehradun is a city for both business and leisure. Once a retirement haven, today it buzzes with excitement, yet has managed to retain its laid-back vibe. Quaint cafés and lounges rub shoulders with heritage monuments and bazaars. The education hub of northern India, the city is home to iconic institutions like Welham and Doon School, alma mater of stalwarts like former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Olympian Abhinav Bindra, and renowned author Amitav Ghosh. The Indian Military Academy is also located here. Said to have been established by Sikh guru Ram Rai in 1675, the city is also known as the abode of Dronacharya, the famed teacher from the epic Mahabharata. Fascinating history and intriguing mythology meet at the crossroads of this beautiful town, one of the most popular vacation spots in the country.

Forest Research Institute
The grand building of the Forest Research Institute is an icon of Dehradun. And even if you are visiting it for the first time, the colonial-era structure may look familiar, having been the location for several Bollywood films, including the Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan starrer 'Student of the Year'. The reputed institute involved in the field of forestry also has a museum on forestry that is open from 9.30 am to 5 pm.

Assan Barrage
A pristine lake located around 43 km from Dehradun, Assan Barrage is hub for nature-lovers and birdwatchers. The man-made lake, developed in 1967 during the construction of the Dhalipur power house, is home to over 50 species of water birds. During winter (October-November and February-March), the lake is filled with migratory birds. The Assan Barrage also offers boating facilities.

Gucchupani or Robbers' Cave
Just 9 km from the heart of Dehradun is the Robber's Cave or Gucchupani, one of the most popular picnic spots in the region. A natural cave with a subterranean river flowing through it, it gives the feeling of being in a mysterious land deep in the forest. You can trek and wade through the river till the end of the cave, where there is a small waterfall. If you want, you can rent slippers from the cave entrance.

Malsi Deer Park
Located at the distance of just 10 km from Dehradun this mini-zoological park is situated at the foothills of Shivalik range. Spot deer and enjoy its beautiful settings.

Paltan Bazaar
Filled to the brim with affordable local products ranging from clothes, footwear, artifacts, souvenirs, and other knick-knacks, this market area is a must-visit for some retail therapy. Located in the heart of the city near Ghanta Ghar or the clock tower, amble through Paltan Bazaar to shop or to just absorb its vibrant ambience.

Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara, which means, 'thousand springs' is one of the best picnic spots on the outskirts of the city. Falling from a height of 9 m, the waterfall attracts tourists and locals alike. There are sulphur springs nearby, where people take a dip as it is said the water can cure skin ailments. You can swim in the cool water or just explore the natural surroundings.