Dehradun

Capital City of Uttarakhand

Dehradun has been one of the fascinating hill stations tucked away in the State of Uttarakhand. 

It has been a favorite among tourists who love the idea of spending some quality time away from the chaos of the cities. With the Himalayan ranges close by, the scenic beauty of Dehradun is unparalleled. It makes you fall in love with the place at first sight. 

There is also something for the adventure lovers who love to go camping and trekking as there are plenty of sites for the same.

Historical Background:

Dehradun was once a part of the Garhwal Kingdom, and then it changed hands from Rajputs to Gujjars to the Sikhs and then the Gurkhas. 

Eventually, it became a part of British India and is currently a part of the State of Uttarakhand in independent India. During British rule, the place was called Dera Dun.

In Skanda Purana, Dehradun is referred to as a piece of the district called Kedar Khand, the dwelling place of Shiva. 

Different legendary stories interface Dehradun to have been a piece of Ramayana. It is a prevalent view that Rama and Lakshamana had resulted in these present circumstances town for repentance.

Major attractions:

Dehradun is all about some of the most beautiful sights you will ever see. The place is overwhelmed with some iconic tourist attractions. 

Among these exciting places to visit in Dehradun, Robber's Cave is one of the major attractions. 

It is a gorge located between limestone formations. As for other scenic sites, there is Lacchiwalla popular among the picnickers, Har Ki Dun, a fascinating valley offering great views all around. 

Fun Valley is another location near Dehradun that impresses with the brilliant view of the surroundings.

Things to do:

You can go for a jungle safari at the Tiger View Jungle Camp and the Malsi Deer Park. There are some beautiful temples, and you should pay a visit to the likes of Tapkeshwar Temple, Bhadraj Temple, etc. 

Dehradun has consistently ranked among the favorites for trekking lovers. There are numerous places to trek, such as Shivalik ranges, Bali Pass, Dakpather, Doon Valley, etc. 

Trekkers also explore Rupin Pass Trek and the Kedarkantha Trek. While both are treacherous journeys, the views around make it worth the effort.

Best Places to eat in Dehradun:

Lhasa Restaurant 

The comfortable little café is a favored place for individuals who want to appreciate authentic Tibetan food in Dehradun. 

Happy with the guest plan. Soft lighting and splendidly painted dividers welcome you at Lhasa. As the spot is someplace out of the city, ensure you have earlier reservations. 

Moti Mahal Restaurant 

Indian, Continental, Tandoori, Mughlai, or Chinese, Moti Mahal Restaurant has got all that you can consider. 

Aside from the menu, you can also deck your plate at the buffet spread here. 

Nanking Restaurant 

Nanking Restaurant is an ideal spot on the chance that you need to have the best of practically every one of the universes. 

This multi-cooking café at Dehradun serves the best of fortes.

People and Culture:

The people maintain their tradition, and from their attires to languages, they have preserved their authenticity. 

They speak Garwali and Kumaoni, and throughout the region, they understand Hindi. The majorities are followers of the Hindu religion and are traditional by nature. 

Some of the famous festivals are Jhanda Fair, Bissu Fair, and Tapkeshwar air.

Also Read- A Weekend Escape to Dehradun

Local Food and Popular Shopping Items:

Dehradun tourism is incomplete without the local food such as Kandalee ka saag, Bal mithai, gula, kaafli, and singodi are worth trying out if you are up for exploring the cuisine here.

Those with a knack for shopping must head to the Paltan Bazaar, the primary shopping destination in Dehradun. 

This place is famous for everything from apparel to local artifacts and confectionary items. You can also buy some local spices from this market.

Offbeat Places in Dehradun:

Dhanaulti 

Regardless of whether it's the unequaled greenery or the convincing environment which incorporates the snow-clad Himalayan pinnacles, Dhanaulti is one of the ideal getaways from Dehradun. 

The slope stations have every one of the qualities to be filled in as your optimal home-away-vacation end of the week excursion place. 

Dakpathar 

In Dehradun locale, this slope town is famous for its smoothness and a beautiful setting that is ideal for every individual in critical need of a brief break from the hustle clamor of Dehradun. 

For some fun and experience, travelers can select to enjoy different water sports exercises like sailing.

Best Time to Visit:

Since the beautiful town of Dehradun lies at the foothills of the Himalayas, the winters are bitterly cold, and we strongly advise you to visit during the summers, i.e., from March to June. 

This is also the ideal time to explore the place and enjoy adventure activities.

Availability of Accommodation Type:

Accommodations in Dehradun range from convenient and economical homestays to luxury hotels.

 According to the favorites among the tourists, Lakshmi Guest House, Duggal Homestay, Old British House, and Colonel's Quarters are the ones you can try out.

Interesting facts about Dehradun:

1. This old city was previously a Mauryan Empire, under Ashoka the Great, from 273 BC to 232 BC. The travelers can see the stone decree of Ashoka that has been raised in Kalsi since 1860. 

2. Dehradun is likewise hailed as 'Dronagiri' or the city of Drona as Guru Dronacharya, the instructor of Kauravas and Pandavas used to live here during the Mahabharata time frame. 

3. Dehradun produces the best litchis and is also a maker of Basmati rice, with its starting point in Kesharwala, a few kilometers north of Raipur.