Complete History & Tourist Guide
🌿 Introduction: Why Dehradun Is Special
Dehradun, the beautiful capital of Uttarakhand, is not just a city—it is an experience. Surrounded by the Shivalik range and the central Himalayas, Dehradun lies peacefully in the Doon Valley. The city is known for its pleasant climate, spiritual heritage, natural caves, waterfalls, wildlife, and historic importance.
Today, Dehradun is talked about not only as an administrative capital but also as a gateway to Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Jaunsar-Bawar. If you love history, nature, spirituality, and adventure, Dehradun welcomes you with open arms.
👉Archaeological Survey of India
📜 Historical Background of Dehradun
According to Vedic literature, this land was once inhabited by Asuras before the arrival of Aryans. During the Mahabharata period, the valley was known as Acharya Drona Valley, as Guru Dronacharya is believed to have lived here.
In 1699, Guru Ram Rai Ji, the eldest son of Guru Har Rai, established his camp here and built a Gurdwara, which later became the center of the city. It is believed that the name Dehradun originated from “Dera” (camp) and “Doon” (valley).
Historically, the region was ruled by:
- Garhwal kings (till 1804)
- Gorkhas (1804–1815)
- British rule (1815–1947)
Earlier, the city was also known as Prithvipur.
🌄 Famous Places to Visit in Dehradun
💧 Guchhupani (Robber’s Cave)
Located about 8 km from Dehradun, this natural cave formation with flowing water is one of the most popular tourist attractions and holds national and international recognition.
🏛️ Sri Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib
Founded in 1699, this historic gurdwara reflects Mughal architectural style and stands as the spiritual foundation of Dehradun city.
🕉️ Tapkeshwar Mahadev
A sacred Shiva temple inside a cave, where water continuously drips on the Shivling. A grand fair is organized here during Mahashivratri.
🙏 Laxman Siddha
Situated 10 km from Dehradun, this is one of the 84 Siddha Peeths of Rishi Dattatreya and holds great religious importance.
🌳 Chandrabani
It is believed that Maharishi Gautam, along with Ahilya and Anjani, performed penance here for 12 years.
🧺 Bhagirathi Resort
A peaceful picnic spot near Selakui, ideal for family outings.
🎢 Fun Valley
A large amusement park featuring water slides, wave pool, go-karting, and adventure sports.
🦌 Malsi Deer Park
Located on Mussoorie Road, this park is ideal for children and nature lovers.
🐘 Rajaji National Park
Spread over 820 sq. km, this wildlife sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, and rich biodiversity.
💦 Sahastradhara
Famous for sulfur-rich water springs, Sahastradhara means “thousand springs” and is a major tourist attraction.
🏞️ Jaunsar-Bawar: The Tribal Heartland
This culturally rich tribal region lies between the Yamuna and Tons rivers.
📍 Important Places
- Kalsi: Ashokan inscriptions in Brahmi script
- Lakhamandal: Ancient Shiva temple, linked to Mahabharata’s Lakshagriha
- Bairatgarh: Believed to be King Virata’s capital
- Hanol: Home to the grand Mahasu Devta Temple
👑 Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills
Just 32 km from Dehradun, Mussoorie offers stunning Himalayan views and colonial charm.
🌟 Major Attractions
- Gun Hill (Ropeway ride)
- Camel’s Back Road
- Kempty Falls
- Surkanda Devi Temple
- Bhadraj & Jwalaji Temples
- Mussoorie Lake
Mussoorie is also the gateway to Gangotri and Yamunotri.
🕊️ Rishikesh – The Spiritual Gateway
Situated on the banks of the Ganga, Rishikesh is known worldwide for yoga, meditation, and spirituality.
🛕 Key Attractions
- Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula
- Triveni Ghat (Ganga Aarti)
- Neelkanth Mahadev
- Bharat Mandir
- Sivananda Ashram
- Muni Ki Reti
🌐 Why Explore More on Our Website?
This article is just a glimpse of Dehradun’s glory. On our website, you will discover:
✔️ Hidden history of Uttarakhand
✔️ Ancient temples & folklore
✔️ District-wise travel guides
✔️ Cultural and tribal heritage
👉 “Explore All Uttarakhand Districts History”
👉 “Read More About Devbhoomi Uttarakhand”
👉 Explore more articles and dive deeper into Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.
Tourism and Religious Places Haridwar
Tourism and Religious Places Haridwar (Part 2)
Dehradun is famous for its natural beauty, Doon Valley, Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Tapkeshwar Mahadev, educational institutes, and nearby hill stations like Mussoorie and Rishikesh.
Dehradun is called the Doon Valley because it lies between the Shivalik range and the central Himalayas, forming a fertile and scenic valley region.
Dehradun city was founded by Guru Ram Rai Ji in 1699 when he established his camp and built the Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib.
Popular tourist places in Dehradun include Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani), Sahastradhara, Tapkeshwar Mahadev, Rajaji National Park, Malsi Deer Park, and Fun Valley.
Mussoorie is approximately 32 km away from Dehradun and can be reached by road in about 1.5 hours.
Yes, Rishikesh is considered a suburban region of Dehradun district and is located near the Tehri–Dehradun border.
