It was a holiday after a while and it turned out to be such a wonderful one. Being back first to our university campus BITS, Pilani with my buddy gave us immense pleasure. And next it was the turn of the hills for me. Starting with Dehradun – The Gateway to Uttarakhand.
The Journey
I took the early morning Spicejet flight from Delhi and we landed almost half an hour before schedule. The cab was still on its way when I stepped out of the Jolly Grant airport terminal. The journey was smooth thereafter as we headed to Silver Heights, a residential complex developed for Air Force & Naval personnel on the hills just outside city limits.
How to reach Dehradun
By Road – Many visitors staying in the capital city of Delhi & National Capital Region drive down or avail a hired cab to reach Dehradun which is approximately 280 km and takes around 5 hours.
By Train – Dehradun station is well connected to Delhi & various parts of the country. However you need to book your tickets well in advance to ensure that you get reservation for seats or berths. The fastest option from Delhi is the Shatabdi express which takes 6 hours.
By Air – Indigo, Spicejet, Go Air & Air India all operate direct or connecting flights from all metros and other important cities of India.
Where to stay in Dehradun
Dehradun being the capital city of the state of Uttarakhand, there are numerous 5*, 4*, 3*, 2* and budget options available depending on the amount you wish to shell out on accomodation. Check out Booking.com here for the best options.
My Stay
For a change it was not a hotel that I was heading to for my stay in Dehradun. But this lovely house belonging to my childhood school friend and his beautiful better half. And the next two days that I spent with them will stay in my heart for ever. It was fun of a completely different kind as we laughed our hearts out recalling our good old days more than four decades back.
What to see in Dehradun
If you are traveling to Dehradun, ideally 1-2 days are good enough as there are not too many activities that would require more time than that. And like on every occasion, even this time my planning was immaculate. With a comprehensive list of places to visit and things that I wished to do.
- Robber’s Cave
- Tapakeswar Temple
- Sahastradhara Falls
- Mindrolling Monastery
- Forest Research Institute
- Indian Military Academy
- Shopping for bakery items in Paltan Bazar including the famous rusks
And what did I land up doing
Had a rollicking time with school friends
Went for morning walks in the beautiful neighborhood
My favorite Breakfasts every morning
And all from the kitchen of Master Chef Gita Chatterjee
A quick view of these landmarks
Indian Miltary Academy
Forest Research Institute
Gantaghar
Visiting an interesting Defence Training College
A Cafe visit for some Chai
A Foodie’s evening at Miru’s home
Before we headed for Dinner at Punjab Grill
Dehradun. This solo trip of mine was about friends, fun & food. The landmarks can wait for next time when I am back again with my best half. Will be back soon to take you up the mountains to a beautiful destination.
If you loved this quick tour of Dehradun, PIN it for later!
Thanks for sharing such a thorough guide to the beautiful Dehradun; including the details for getting there and what to see. The food all looked truly incredible, especially the Poha. It sounds like the short trip was incredible and full of all the things I, too, would love – friends, food and sites!
Yes Jamie it was fun of a different kind. Like being with friends always is.
I hadn’t heard of Dehradun before this, the food looks amazing. I could easily fill 2 days checking out the temple, waterfall and caves
Indian food is very special Sherianne. And a huge number of options to choose from.
I am sure time with friends would have been amazing in this town. I have always enjoyed those cafes in Dehra Dun. They sure have a lovely menu. I have always missed out on some of those sights like you. Robbers cave sounds interesting.
Yes Ami it was good fun with friends. Would visit the attractions next time when there with my wife.
Beautiful captures and what a great tour! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Jyothi. So happy you enjoyed.
Mmm… all that food looks so delicious! I had never heard of Dehradun but it was so interesting to read what is there. Looks like you had a great trip and you even got to meet up with old friends. This is a great guide for anyone visiting in the area.
Thanks Paula you found it useful.
Good to know there are hotels for all budgets if you stay in Dehradun. Given the time it takes to get there, I would certainly plan for a few days. And plan to see the great outdoor sights in the area. Hope you do get back to see more.
Yes Linda should be back again there sometime soon with my wife.
I haven’t heard of this place before, but it seems fantastic and offers many attractions. It’s not easy to get to Dehradun, and you had a beautiful adventure. Great tips for travelers! I would love to see Rober’s Cave, Tapakeswar Temple, monastery, and falls. I add it to my list for my next trip to India.
Thanks Agnes. Welcome Agnes back to India.
Aw! How special that you were able to spend time with childhood friends. Those times are always the best – so much laughter and reminiscing I’m sure. Sounds like a lovely time in a fun place!
Yes it was an awesome trip Jennifer with friends.
Spending time with friends and catching up all the memories are always fun to do. I like your friend’s yard. It’s beautiful and the marigolds are fascinated! Hopefully on the next visit you’ll be able to explore the landmarks.
Yes Umiko I had a wonderful few days.
Wow! Stunning photos! I’d never heard of Dehradun, but it looks amazing. So glad you could have fun with old friends — that’s the best! Also, my mouth is watering after seeing the food you ate!
Yes Tami Indian food is very special with an awesome range to indulge in. And being with friends was so very special.