3 Days in Dehradun and Nearby: A Backpacker’s Guide to Mountains and Serenity

You’re in Delhi, stuck in traffic, when a friend texts: “Dehradun this weekend?” Three days later, you’re trading honking cars for chirping birds, swapping smog for crisp mountain air, and trading deadlines for panoramic views of the Doon Valley. Ready to dive into Dehradun’s charm and explore its hidden gems? Let’s plan your perfect escape!

Day 1: Delhi to Dehradun – City Vibes and Waterfall Magic

6:00 AM – Hit the Road

• Bus Options: Overnight Volvo (₹800–1,200) from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Pro tip: Book upper berths for views.

• Train Option: Dehradun Shatabdi (₹500, 6 hours).

12:00 PM – Check In & Refuel

• Stay: Zostel Dehradun (₹600/night) or The Hosteller Dehradun (₹800).

• Lunch: Warm up with ₹100 aloo paratha.

2:00 PM – Explore Robber’s Cave

• Entry: Free. Walk through a natural cave with a flowing stream (1.5 km from Dehradun).

• Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes—the path can be slippery.

5:00 PM – Stroll on Dehradun Market

• Shop: Woolen socks (₹100), handmade candles (₹200), and local jams.

• Snack: Hot momos (₹50) at street stalls.

8:00 PM – Dinner at Black Pepper

• Feast: ₹200 butter chicken with garlic naan.

Day 2: Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills

7:00 AM – Drive to Mussoorie

• How to Reach: Shared taxi (₹200/person, 1.5 hours).

• Pro Tip: Leave early to avoid traffic.

9:00 AM – Explore Kempty Falls

• Entry: Free. A stunning waterfall surrounded by hills.

• Do: Dip your feet in the cool water or enjoy a picnic.

12:00 PM – Lunch at Chic Chocolate

• Try: ₹150 pasta with hot chocolate.

2:00 PM – Stroll on Mall Road

• Shop: Woolen shawls (₹300), handmade jewelry (₹200), and local spices.

• Snack: Hot aloo tikki (₹50) at street stalls.

5:00 PM – Sunset at Gun Hill

• How to Reach: Cable car (₹200 round-trip).

• Views: Panoramic sights of the Doon Valley and Himalayan peaks.

8:00 PM – Return to Dehradun

• Dinner: Dig into ₹200 trout fish at Ellora’s Melting Moments.

Day 3: Hidden Gems & Farewell Feels

7:00 AM – Sunrise at Tapkeshwar Temple

• Spiritual Vibes: Seek blessings at this cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva (free entry).

9:00 AM – Breakfast at Doon Darbar

• Sip: ₹20 masala chai with kachori (₹30).

11:00 AM – Explore Sahastradhara

• Entry: Free. A serene waterfall with sulfur springs.

• Do: Take a dip or enjoy the scenic views.

2:00 PM – Lunch at Town Table

• Try: ₹200 pizza with garlic bread.

4:00 PM – Last-Minute Shopping

• Paltan Bazaar: Buy woolen shawls (₹300), handmade jewelry (₹200), and local spices.

6:00 PM – Return to Delhi

• Bus: Overnight Volvo (₹800–1,200).

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Backpacker Hacks for Dehradun

1. Walk Everywhere: Dehradun is compact—skip cabs and explore on foot.

2. Layer Up: Evenings can get chilly (10–15°C).

3. Avoid Weekends: Dehradun gets crowded; weekdays are quieter.

FAQs

1. Is Dehradun safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Locals are friendly, but avoid isolated areas at night.

2. Best time to visit?

March–June (spring blooms) and September–November (autumn colors).

3. Can I visit Mussoorie without a guide?

Yes! The town is easy to explore on your own.

4. What’s a must-try street food?

Aloo tikki (₹50) at Mall Road stalls.

5. How to handle touts near Robber’s Cave?

Politely decline guided tours—most info is available online.

Final Tip: Let Dehradun Surprise You

Beyond the waterfalls and mountains, Dehradun thrills with hidden trails, cozy cafés, and sunsets that paint the sky pink. Talk to locals, try bal mithai (local sweet), and let the hills’ heartbeat guide you.

Three days here isn’t a trip—it’s a love letter to nature, peace, and freedom. Now, grab that backpack and go write yours!