Exploring Dehradun and Mussoorie: A 3-Day Adventure
Tuesday, August 29, 2023: Arrival in Dehradun
Welcome to Dehradun! Start your day by arriving at Jolly Grant Airport and heading to your hotel in Dehradun city. After checking in and freshening up, take a morning stroll in the lush greenery of Robber's Cave, also known as Guchhupani. This picturesque spot offers a serene environment, with a natural cave formation and a gushing stream. In the afternoon, visit the famous Clock Tower, a landmark of Dehradun, and explore the bustling Paltan Bazaar nearby, known for its variety of shops and local delicacies. As the evening approaches, head to Rajpur Road, a popular hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Paltan Bazaar: Shopping and food expenses vary, Time spent - 2 hours
Rajpur Road: Shopping and dining expenses vary, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
Breakfast: The Buffet Spot is a popular breakfast spot in Dehradun, offering a wide variety of dishes including Indian and continental options. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Orchard is a charming restaurant located near Clock Tower in Dehradun, known for its delicious North Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: The Great Kabab Factory is a must-visit restaurant in Dehradun for dinner, famous for its unlimited kebab platters. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, August 30, 2023: Exploring Dehradun
Wake up early and energize yourself with a delicious breakfast before starting your day. Begin by visiting the iconic Mindrolling Monastery, a renowned Buddhist temple known for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. Spend the morning exploring its beautiful gardens and intricate Tibetan art. In the afternoon, head to the Indian Military Academy and witness the grandeur of the renowned training institution of the Indian Army. Take a guided tour of the academy and learn about the history and training methods. For the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque banks of the Ram Tal Horticultural Garden, offering scenic views and a variety of flora.
Mindrolling Monastery: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
Indian Military Academy: Entrance fee - INR 50, Time spent - 3 hours
Ram Tal Horticultural Garden: Free entry, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
Cafe Coffee Day: Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day. This popular chain offers a wide range of options including sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Cafe Dehradun: Enjoy a delicious lunch at Cafe Dehradun, known for its cozy ambiance and delectable Indian and Continental dishes. From biryanis to wraps, there's something for everyone. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Melting Pot: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Melting Pot, a multi-cuisine restaurant offering a variety of global flavors. From Mexican to Chinese, their menu is diverse and flavorful. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Thursday, August 31, 2023: Mussoorie Calling
On this day, embark on a scenic journey from Dehradun to the hill station of Mussoorie. After breakfast, drive to Mussoorie, which will take approximately 1.5 hours. Once you reach Mussoorie, start your day with a visit to Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. Enjoy the cool mountain breeze and capture memorable photographs. In the afternoon, explore the famous Mall Road, lined with shops, eateries, and colonial-style buildings. Indulge in some local shopping and savor delicious street food. For the evening, take a cable car ride to Gun Hill, a popular viewpoint, to witness the mesmerizing sunset over the Doon Valley.
Lal Tibba: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
Mall Road: Shopping and food expenses vary, Time spent - 3 hours
Gun Hill: Cable car ride - INR 75, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Char Dukan, a popular eatery in Mussoorie known for its delicious pancakes and refreshing masala chai. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, try Kalsang Friends Corner, a Tibetan restaurant in Mussoorie that serves a variety of momos, thukpa, and Tibetan bread. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 400 per person.
For dinner, visit Urban Turban Bistro, a cozy restaurant in Mussoorie serving delectable Indian and international cuisines. Try their mouthwatering butter chicken and pizzas. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Dehradun and Mussoorie, don't miss out on some hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the picturesque Sahastradhara, a natural spring known for its therapeutic properties, located on the outskirts of Dehradun. Enjoy a refreshing bath in the cascading waterfalls and rejuvenate your senses. For a unique experience, explore the Tibetan Market in Dehradun for Tibetan artifacts and handicrafts. In Mussoorie, take a short trek to the beautiful Kempty Falls and enjoy the natural beauty. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like Kumaoni cuisine and shop for woolen garments and handicrafts at the local markets.