Serenity on the Foothills: Dehradun

Dehradun is a beautiful place located in the state of Uttarakhand. It is currently the provisional capital of Uttarakhand too. While it has a great deal of mythological history, it is believed that Dehradun was formed in the year 1676 by Shri Ram Rai Ji, the son of a famous Sikh Guru. It is said that he set his ‘dera’ (camp) in this ‘dun’ (valley) from where Dehradun gets its name.

Dehradun lies 1400 feet above mean sea level, which makes it a great location to escape to all throughout the year. It is situated on the foothills of the Himalayas. This valley has the Ganga River on its east and the Yamuna River on its west. It is famous for its natural beauty and the premier educational institutions in the area. Dehradun is situated in a prime spot with many famous hill stations and religious locations located around it. As a result, it is no surprise that it attracts a very large number of travelers all throughout the year.

How to Get There

Being the capital of a state, Dehradun has great connectivity by all modes of transport. This makes it a great destination for tourists all over the country. While air and train transports are preferable for people staying very far, road trips from places like Delhi are a great way to reach this serene location. The drive from Delhi is 237 kilometers long and takes just over 5 hours. Also, it is a very smooth ride on the highway, which adds to the fun when you are with your family or friends.

Best time to Enjoy Dehradun

Dehradun is a beautiful location which has a different charm in every season. In the months of March to June, Dehradun is flocked by people looking to escape the heat in the lowlands. As for the months of October to January, there is chilly weather in the area because of the snowfall in the neighboring places. This offers a completely different experience of the natural beauty soaked in the winter sun. Proper clothing should be carried for this time as it can be really cold, especially during the nights. Thus, it becomes a matter of personal preference, since Dehradun has something to offer all throughout the year.

What to Do

Dehradun has a never-ending list of things to do. From temples to waterfalls, it has it all. Hence, it becomes a matter of individual choice according to one’s own desires. Nevertheless, here are a few places that cannot be avoided at any cost.

1. Robber’s Cave – Also known as Guchhupani, this is the single most popular picnic spot in all of Dehradun. This area is known because of its unparalleled scenic beauty. The unique thing about Robber’s Cave is that a water stream in the area disappears underground, only to appear a few meters away. People looking for a peaceful and quiet time should find this spot perfect.

2. Tapkeshwar Temple – This renowned cave temple idolizes Lord Shiva. It is situated on the banks of a seasonal river, 7 kilometers from the main city of Dehardun. Here, water droplets from a rock continuously fall on a Shivling (an idol of Lord Shiva) from where it gets its name. People flock here in large numbers to seek the Lord’s blessings.

3. The Kalinga War Memorial – This is a one of its kind, unique war. It was built by the British themselves after their war with the Gurkhas (local warriors of the region). This was done for the courage and strength that had been shown by these people against the mighty British army. A visit here offers a great insight of the history of this place.

4. Malsi Deer Park – The Malsi Deer Park is a zoological park on the foothills of the Shivaliks. It is home to a large variety of deer, including the very rare two horned deer. The Park is a great picnic spot for families, especially with children. It also has many other animals like tigers which provide for a fascinating getaway for all nature and wildlife lovers.

5. Tiger Falls – These are one of the highest waterfalls in all of Uttarakhand. Having a height of 312 feet, the Tiger Falls is a very secluded place. People who looking for a quiet day in the lap of nature, have this place right at the top of their list. It is located 5 kilometers from the main area and is indeed a very gorgeous spot.

6. Explore More – Dehradun is also known as the gateway to hill stations in the state of Uttarakhand. This is because Dehradun is an in evident stop en route almost all of them. Hence, when one plans a trip to Dehradun, visiting these hill stations is almost a mandate. Some of the popular ones are – Mussoorie, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Shimla and Nainital.

Dehradun Specialities

1. Shopping – Dehradun is an excellent place for every shopaholic. It has great products on offer, some of which are widely known. The Basmati Rice, which is a very popular form of rice, has its roots in Dehradun. Also, ‘Khukri’ which is a traditional knife can be bought from the local markets. There are also many areas where woolen products made by local tribes are sold.

2. Eating – Dehradun is a place which has many local dishes that are definitely worth trying. The folk in the area are mostly vegetarian and also love milk products. Some of the food items worth trying are – Jhangora Kheer, Baal Mithai, Singodi and Arsa.

3. Festivals – Dehradun has people of all religions living together in harmony. Consequently, all the typical festivals are celebrated with great fervor and happiness. There are also many local festivals that people celebrate elaborately. Some of them are – Jhanda Fair (organized by the Sikh community), Tapkeshwar Mela in the temple, Bissu Fair and the Mahasu Devta’s fair. All these festivals add a great charm to this place making it an even better experience for tourists.

Hence, Dehradun is a complete package in terms of a holiday destination. Since it caters to everybody’s needs, it is no surprise that it is populated with visitors throughout the year. But, it still offers a quiet and peaceful outing away from the city life. So, if you are planning a road trip anytime soon, Dehradun should be right at the top of the list of possible destinations.

References:

- www.google.com

- www.wiwigo.com

- www.mapsofworld.com

- en.wikipedia.org