Uttarakhand’s capital city, Dehradun is known for its educational and government institutions left behind by the British. With a bustling city centre most of Dehradun’s sights are located away from this hustle. A smattering of colonial buildings plus some impressive scenery courtesy of the Doon Valley and the lower Himalayas make it a beautiful spot. Within easy reach of its popular neighbours, Rishikesh and Haridwar, this city is certainly worth a visit whilst travelling through Uttarakhand. Our pick of the best places to stay in Dehradun are all great for a relaxing stay in the quiet of the countryside.
Captain Arthur Connolly may have coined the term ‘The Great Game’ but it was Kipling who immortalized it in ‘Kim”. Anyone that’s read this classic novel will be familiar with the work documented at the Survey of India Museum. Housing an impressive collection of instruments used by the British to undertake the monumental task of mapping India.
Another architectural wonder left over from the Raj is the Forest Research Institute Museum. Larger than Buckingham Palace it lies within 5km2 of ornamental parkland. Home to a cross-section of a 700-year-old deodar tree plus the exquisite bird, animal and plant paintings of Afshan Zaidi, it is a fascinating visit.
Dehradun has a thriving Buddhist community and Mindrolling Monastery is a testament to this. Everything is built on a pretty grandiose scale with a 60m high stupa, purported to be the tallest in the world and a 35m tall, gold Sakyamuni Buddha.
Our pick of the best places to stay in Dehradun are all veritable hideaways.
Still not sure which to book? From spa breaks to hideaways browse through our list of the best places to stay in Dehradun to start to plan your trip. Alternatively check out all our Uttarakhand recommendations or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.
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Dehradun (Guniyal Goan)
This iconic home-stay owes its success to the sheer love that everything is done with: from the meals, to the decor, to the service. A colonial style bungalow the interiors hark back to the days of the Raj with intricate four posters and ceramics. There's an outdoor pool and stunning gardens.
Dehradun (Uttarakhand)
To call Vana a spa or retreat does not cover it; it is a philosophy. Combining ancient Indian and Tibetan traditions be transported into a realm of peace and tranquility. Rooms have natural decor and colour palettes and include private balconies. Cuisine is health conscious. Minimum seven nights.
