Dehradun

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.

For spa break

• A forward thinking and award winningly luxurious wellness retreat, Vana Malsi Estate pulls out all the stops. Luxurious rooms are interspersed amongst 21 acres of forest. There is a five night minimum stay for optimum results from their tailor-made treatments.

For a hilltop hideaway

• Boasting what is touted as one of the best private gardens in India, Sheheen Bagh also has some delightful interiors. It offers all round an English country cottage feel plus there is a sun dappled outdoor pool.

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.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Dehradun