5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary to Dehradun

Tuesday, October 3: Arrival in Dehradun

Arrive in Dehradun and check into your hotel. Spend the morning exploring Robber's Cave, an intriguing natural cave formation where you can walk through chilly water streams. In the afternoon, visit the Tapkeshwar Temple, a serene Shiva temple situated inside a cave. In the evening, head to Paltan Bazaar for some shopping and street food.

• Robber's Cave: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Tapkeshwar Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1.5 hours
• Paltan Bazaar: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Exploring the City

Start your day with a visit to the Mindrolling Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India. Spend the morning exploring its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Forest Research Institute (FRI), a premier institution for forestry research. Take a walk in the lush greenery of the FRI campus. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the scenic Sahastradhara river.

• Mindrolling Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Forest Research Institute (FRI): Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Sahastradhara: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1.5 hours

Thursday, October 5: Trek to Robber's Cave and Museum Hopping

Embark on a trek to Robber's Cave in the morning and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills. After the trek, visit the Indian Military Academy (IMA), an esteemed institution training future army officers. Explore the museum showcasing the history and achievements of the Indian Army. In the evening, visit the Uttarakhand State Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• Trek to Robber's Cave: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Indian Military Academy (IMA): Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Uttarakhand State Museum: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Friday, October 6: Nature and Wildlife

Start your day with a visit to the Malsi Deer Park, where you can see various species of deer in their natural habitat. Enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Rajaji National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Take a jeep safari and spot elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. In the evening, relax by the picturesque Robber's Cave.

• Malsi Deer Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Rajaji National Park: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 4 hours
• Robber's Cave: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1.5 hours

Saturday, October 7: Culinary Delights and Shopping

Indulge in the local food scene by starting your day with a visit to the famous Ellora's Melting Moments for delicious bakery items. After breakfast, explore the Tibetan Market for some unique handicrafts and souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology and gain insights into the geological history of the Himalayas. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Mussoorie Road.

• Ellora's Melting Moments: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1 hour
• Tibetan Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
• Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1.5 hours
• Mussoorie Road: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For some off the beaten path experiences in Dehradun, head to the Robber's Cave waterfall, a hidden gem within the cave where you can witness the cascading water. Another local favorite is the Tapovan Temple, located amidst lush greenery, offering a tranquil and scenic spot for relaxation and meditation. Don't miss trying the local delicacies like Kumaoni cuisine and Garhwali food, which are known for their unique flavors and use of local ingredients.

For hotel and flight prices in Dehradun, you can check out this link.