For a 3-day itinerary in Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, India, you’ll want to include a mix of natural, cultural, and historical attractions. Dehradun is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and offers a gateway to several prominent tourist destinations. Here’s a suggested itinerary that covers the highlights of Dehradun and its surroundings:
Day 1: Explore Dehradun City
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Forest Research Institute (FRI), a premier institution in forestry research in India. The colonial-era building is also a great place for photography.
- Afternoon: Head to the Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani), a natural cave formation where rivers disappear into the ground. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic and a little adventure walking through the stream.
- Evening: Visit the Buddha Temple (Mindrolling Monastery), one of the largest Buddhist centers in India. The serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens are ideal for a peaceful evening.
Day 2: Nature and Wildlife
- Morning: Drive to the Malsi Deer Park (now known as Dehradun Zoo), a mini-zoological park nestled at the foothills of the Shivalik range. It’s a great place for wildlife enthusiasts and families.
- Afternoon: After lunch, proceed to Sahastradhara, meaning ‘thousand-fold spring’. It’s renowned for its sulphur springs that are said to have medicinal properties. Enjoy the waterfalls and the scenic beauty.
- Evening: Spend your evening at the Pacific Mall or take a stroll on Rajpur Road for shopping and dining. These places offer a variety of shopping, entertainment, and dining options.
Day 3: Excursion around Dehradun
- Option 1: Mussoorie – Spend the day in Mussoorie, just about 35 km from Dehradun. Visit the Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and the Mall Road in Mussoorie. It’s a beautiful hill station offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Option 2: Rishikesh – Alternatively, you could head to Rishikesh, about 45 km away. Rishikesh offers spiritual experiences with its Ghats, the Ganges river, and the famous Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges. It’s also known for its yoga centers and adventure sports like white-water rafting.
Tips for Your Trip:
- Travel: Local taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for getting around. For day trips, consider hiring a car.
- Accommodation: Dehradun offers a range of accommodation options, from budget stays to luxury resorts.
- Food: Don’t miss out on trying local Garhwali cuisine. Also, bakeries in Dehradun are known for their delicious pastries and confectioneries.
This itinerary blends leisure, adventure, and cultural experiences, making your 3-day stay in Dehradun memorable. Adjustments can be made based on your interests and travel pace.