Welcome to Dehradun! On your first day, take some time to settle into your hotel and get acquainted with the city. In the morning, visit the iconic Clock Tower, a bustling market area where you can shop for local handicrafts and sample delicious street food. In the afternoon, explore the Robber's Cave, a fascinating natural formation with a stream running through it. As the evening approaches, head to Rajpur Road, a popular hub for shopping and dining.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Marigold. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to fresh omelettes. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to The Pavilion. This classy restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes. Their lunch buffet is a great option to try a little bit of everything. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 500 per person.
Finish your day with a memorable dinner at Town Table. Known for its elegant ambiance and delectable food, this restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, August 28: Mussoorie Excursion
Embark on a day trip to the beautiful hill station of Mussoorie, located just 34 kilometers from Dehradun. Start your morning with a visit to Kempty Falls, a popular waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Mall Road, lined with shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and handicrafts. Don't miss a cable car ride to Gun Hill for breathtaking panoramic views. End your day with a visit to the enchanting Landour Bazaar, offering a glimpse of Mussoorie's colonial past.
Rokeby Manor Café: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Rokeby Manor Café, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious food. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Urban Turban Bistro: Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at Urban Turban Bistro, offering a blend of Indian and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about INR 600 per person.
Kasmanda Palace Restaurant: Experience a regal dinner at Kasmanda Palace Restaurant, set in a charming heritage hotel. The average cost for a meal is about INR 1000 per person.
Tuesday, August 29: Forest Research Institute and Mindrolling Monastery
Start your day with a visit to the Forest Research Institute, a premier institute for forestry research and education. Marvel at the stunning colonial architecture and explore the lush green gardens surrounding the institute. In the afternoon, make your way to the impressive Mindrolling Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist centers in India. Admire the intricate Tibetan architecture and soak in the serene atmosphere. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Sahastradhara Road and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Forest Research Institute: Cost Estimate - Entry Fee: ₹20, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Cafe Marigold: Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at Cafe Marigold, known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive menu. From continental to Indian dishes, there is something for everyone here. Average cost for a meal is about 200-300 INR per person.
Momo Cafe: Indulge in a satisfying lunch at Momo Cafe, a popular spot for Tibetan cuisine. Try their mouthwatering momos or opt for other Tibetan delicacies like thukpa and tingmo. Average cost for a meal is about 300-400 INR per person.
Olive Garden: For a delightful dinner experience, head to Olive Garden, a charming restaurant offering a mix of Indian and international dishes. Enjoy their delicious pasta, sizzlers, and desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 500-600 INR per person.
Wednesday, August 30: Tapkeshwar Temple and Tibetan Market
In the morning, visit the Tapkeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and located inside a natural cave. Witness the beauty of the temple and the natural springs surrounding it. Afterward, head to the vibrant Tibetan Market, known for its colorful handicrafts, clothing, and jewelry. Spend the afternoon exploring the market and indulging in some retail therapy. In the evening, take a serene walk along the banks of the Ganges Canal and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with a safari in Rajaji National Park. Start your day with an early morning jeep safari, accompanied by experienced guides who will help you spot various wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, and deer. After the safari, visit the Chilla Range of the park, where you can relax by the river and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. In the evening, return to Dehradun and spend some time exploring the vibrant Paltan Bazaar.
Rajaji National Park Safari: Cost Estimate - Safari Fee: ₹500, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
A perfect spot for breakfast is Cafe Marigold, known for its delicious and healthy breakfast options. They offer a variety of dishes like pancakes, sandwiches, and fresh fruit smoothies. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
For lunch, head to The Great Indian Thali, a popular restaurant that serves authentic Indian thalis with a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The thali includes a selection of curries, rice, bread, and dessert. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Black Pepper Restaurant, which offers a cozy and elegant ambiance. Known for its mouthwatering continental and Indian cuisines, their signature dishes include grilled meats and curries. The average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Friday, September 1: Tapovan and Mindrolling Monastery
Start your day with a visit to Tapovan, a serene spot located on the banks of the Ganges River. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and take a dip in the holy river. In the afternoon, revisit the Mindrolling Monastery for a deeper exploration of its spiritual significance. Spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful gardens and engaging in meditation and reflection. In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal at one of Dehradun's local restaurants.
Tapovan: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Local Restaurant: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe de Curlews: Enjoy a tasty breakfast at this cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 250 per person.
Mullawala: For lunch, head to Mullawala, a popular restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful curries and aromatic biryanis. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
Angeethi: Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at Angeethi, known for its mouthwatering kebabs and grilled dishes. The cozy ambience and live music add to the dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600 per person.
Saturday, September 2: Local Cultural Experience
On your last day in Dehradun, immerse yourself in the local culture. Start your morning by exploring the Tibetan Market once again, this time focusing on experiencing the local cuisine and flavors. In the afternoon, visit the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, where you can learn about the geological history of the region. End your day with a visit to the Malsi Deer Park, home to various species of deer and a perfect spot for a leisurely evening stroll.
For breakfast, head to Kumar's Food Plaza located near the Tibetan Market. This popular local spot offers a wide range of breakfast items including parathas, sandwiches, and chai. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Orchard Restaurant which is known for its delicious Indian and Chinese cuisine. Located in the heart of Dehradun, this restaurant offers a relaxed ambiance and outdoor seating. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Doon Darbar located near the Clock Tower. This restaurant specializes in North Indian and Mughlai cuisine, serving mouthwatering kebabs and curries. The average cost for a meal here is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Dehradun, don't miss the opportunity to visit some off the beaten path attractions and experience the city like a local. Head to the Robber's Cave, a hidden gem known for its breathtaking natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Another local favorite is the Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, located in a cave with a natural spring. The tranquil setting and spiritual ambiance make it a must-visit. Lastly, don't forget to explore the local street food scene, where you can indulge in mouthwatering delicacies like chole bhature, momos, and jalebis.
For hotel and flight prices in Dehradun, you can check here.