Must-Visit Hill Stations Near Dehradun Within 100 kms

There’s something magical about starting a journey in Dehradun. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, this charming city feels like a doorway that opens into a world of misty mountains, pine-scented air and perfect landscapes. Whenever I am here, the excitement of being so close to some of Uttarakhand’s most beautiful hill stations never fades.

What makes it even better? Many of these hill retreats lie just a short drive away — all within 100 kilometers. Whether I am chasing snow in winter, escaping the summer heat or simply longing for a quiet weekend surrounded by forests, the hills near Dehradun always have a story waiting to unfold.

In this guide, I will take you through the best hill stations near Dehradun within 100 km, complete with real travel tips, hidden gems and seasonal advice. Think of it as traveling together and sharing tea at roadside stalls, watching sunsets from mountain tops and discovering cozy little stays tucked away from the crowds.

So, ready to pack your bags and join us on this hill-hopping adventure?

Why Explore Hill Stations Near Dehradun?

Every time we visit Dehradun, it feels like the city whispers, “The hills are calling!” And honestly, it’s hard to resist. Being so close to the Shivalik and Garhwal ranges, Dehradun is one of the best starting points for hill station getaways.

A Quick Escape From the Heat

In summer, when the plains are burning up, nothing feels better than driving up winding mountain roads with the windows down and cool mountain breeze rushing in. Within just an hour or two, we can swap the city’s warm air for the crisp freshness of pine forests.

Perfect for All Kinds of Travelers

• Families love Mussoorie for its lively streets and fun attractions.
  
• Couples find their quiet moments in Landour’s peaceful cafes.
  
• Adventure lovers head to Kanatal or Chakrata for trekking, camping and a splash of adrenaline.

Beauty in Every Season

What we love most is how these hill stations change their colors with the seasons:

• Summer (Mar–June): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  
• Monsoon (July–Sept): Lush green landscapes, though roads need caution.
  
• Autumn (Oct–Nov): Clear skies, colorful forests and fewer tourists.
  
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowfall in Mussoorie, Dhanaulti and Kanatal which makes it a true winter wonderland.

Close Yet Refreshing

And the best part is all these escapes are so close to Dehradun. We don’t need days of travel but just a few hours and we are sipping chai on a mountain top, watching clouds drift below us.

So, if you have ever wanted to enjoy the charm of the Himalayas without a long road trip, these hill stations are the answer

How to Plan Your Trip

I have learned one thing from our hill station adventures near Dehradun, a little planning goes a long way. Whether you’re heading out for a quick weekend or a longer stay, these tips will make your trip stress-free and memorable.

Distance vs. Travel Time

The hills can be tricky. Even if a hill station is just 60 or 70 km away, the winding mountain roads mean it can still take 2–3 hours to reach. Always keep this in mind when planning your day. We usually start early in the morning to avoid traffic and enjoy the journey at our own pace.

Getting There

• By Car/Taxi: The most flexible option. Roads are generally good but sharp bends need careful driving.
  
• By Bus: Regular buses and shared jeeps run to popular places like Mussoorie, Chakrata, and New Tehri.
  
• By Bike: If you love road trips, biking up the hills is thrilling just ride with caution.

What to Pack

• Clothes: Layer up! Even in summer, evenings can get chilly.
  
• Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Wet socks from waterfalls taught us that lesson the hard way.
  
• Rain Gear: Monsoons come with sudden showers, so a light raincoat or umbrella is a lifesaver.
  
• Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses and some snacks for the road.

Budgeting Smart

Hill stations near Dehradun fit all kinds of budgets.

• Budget stays: ₹800–₹1,200 (simple guesthouses, homestays)
  
• Mid-range: ₹2,000–₹4,000 (boutique hotels, comfy resorts)
  
• Luxury: ₹6,000+ (premium resorts with mountain views)

Tip: Book early on weekends and holidays. These spots are popular with Delhi and Chandigarh travelers too.

Our Little Hack

We always keep a thermos of hot tea or coffee in the car. Nothing beats sipping it while taking a roadside break with valley views spread out below. 🌄

Top Hill Stations Near Dehradun Within 100 kms

When it comes to hill getaways, Dehradun is spoiled for choice. Each destination nearby has its own charm from lively bazaars to peaceful trails and even offbeat hidden corners. Here are our favorite spots, all within 100 kilometers of the city.

1. ⇒ Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills (35 km | 1.5 hrs)

Ah, Mussoorie. No matter how many times we visit, this hill station never loses its sparkle. Perched at about 6,000 feet, Mussoorie is where the mountains put on a show with misty mornings, glowing sunsets and twinkling lights at night that look like stars have settled on earth.

How to Reach

Just 35 km from Dehradun, it’s an easy 1.5-hour drive. Buses and taxis are available too but driving up on your own feels like part of the adventure.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer: Perfect escape from the plains’ heat.
  
• Winter: Snowfall turns Mussoorie into a wonderland.
  
• Monsoon: Lush green, though roads can be slippery.

Things to Do in Mussoorie

• Take a leisurely stroll along Mall Road and enjoy the street food, visit local shops and mountain vibes.
  
• Ride the cable car to Gun Hill for sweeping views of the Doon Valley.
  
• Watch the sun dip behind the Himalayas from Lal Tibba.
  
• Hike to Kempty Falls and yes, I once dipped my feet in the icy water and couldn’t stop laughing.
  
• Visit the quirky Mussoorie Library or catch a Ruskin Bond sighting at Cambridge Book Depot if you’re lucky!

Stay Options

• Budget: Cozy guesthouses near Library Chowk.
  
• Mid-range: Family-friendly hotels around Mall Road.
  
• Luxury: Resorts with valley views in and around Landour.

Our Tip

Avoid peak weekends if you can, Mussoorie can get crowded. Early mornings are magical here. We once enjoyed piping-hot chai at a stall while the town slowly woke up and it remains one of our sweetest memories.

2. ⇒ Landour – A Peaceful Colonial Retreat (38 km | 1.5 hrs)

If Mussoorie is the queen of the hills, Landour is her quiet little crown. Just a few kilometers above Mussoorie, Landour feels like stepping back in time with narrow winding lanes, British-era cottages and pine forests that whisper stories of the past. Whenever I need peace away from the touristy buzz, this is where I go.

Distance & How to Reach

Landour is about 38 km from Dehradun and takes around 1.5 hours by car. Once you reach Mussoorie, Landour is just a short uphill drive (or walk if you are feeling adventurous).

Best Time to Visit

• Summer: Cool, refreshing and perfect for long walks.
  
• Autumn: Crystal-clear skies and golden forests.
  
• Winter: A blanket of snow makes Landour look like a fairy tale.

Things to Do in Landour

• Stroll along the Landour Clock Tower and old colonial streets.
  
• Walk the famous Landour Bakehouse Trail and stop for cookies, fresh bread and coffee.
  
• Visit Char Dukan, a row of legendary eateries. We still dream of their pancakes and parathas!
  
• Spot writer Ruskin Bond’s house. Landour is often linked with his stories.
  
• Enjoy the serene St. Paul’s Church, built in the 19th century.

Stay Options

• Boutique stays: Quaint heritage cottages with mountain views.
  
• Mid-range guesthouses: Perfect for families or couples looking for comfort without fuss.
  
• Homestays: Stay with locals and hear stories of the hills.

Our Tip

Landour is not about rushing from one spot to another. It’s about slowing down. Once, we spent an entire afternoon just reading a book on a hillside bench with the sound of birds and the smell of pine in the air. It reminded us that sometimes, the best part of travel is doing nothing at all. 🌲

3. ⇒ Dhanaulti – A Serene Escape in the Forests (60 km | 2 hrs)

If Mussoorie feels lively and Landour feels nostalgic, then Dhanaulti feels like nature’s lullaby. Nestled in thick deodar, oak and rhododendron forests, this sleepy little hill station is where we go when we crave peace, fresh air and starlit nights. The stillness here is almost magical that makes you breathe deeper and smile wider.

Distance & How to Reach

Dhanaulti is about 60 km from Dehradun and the drive takes roughly 2 hours. The road winds through Mussoorie but once you move further up, the crowds thin out and the journey feels calm and scenic.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer: Cool, pleasant and crowd-free which is ideal for family picnics.
  
• Monsoon: The forests turn lush green, though the roads need caution.
  
• Winter: A snowy wonderland in winter. We once made a snowman here with local kids and it was unforgettable.

Things to Do in Dhanaulti

• Spend time in Eco Park (there are two: Amber & Dhara). There are peaceful walking trails and play areas for kids.
  
• Take a short hike to Surkanda Devi Temple, perched on a ridge with panoramic Himalayan views.
  
• Try camping under the stars — the sky here at night is breathtaking.
  
• Explore nearby apple orchards and taste local jams and juices.

Stay Options

• Budget homestays: Run by friendly locals, often with home-cooked meals.
  
• Eco-resorts: Cottages tucked in forests, great for families and couples.
  
• Camping sites: For adventure lovers who enjoy bonfires and stargazing.

Our Tip

Dhanaulti is best enjoyed at a slower pace. Carry a warm blanket, sip hot chai and watch the mist roll through the trees. Once, we woke up early to see the sunrise and the entire forest glowed golden. It felt like a private show put on by the Himalayas just for us. 🌄

4. ⇒ Kanatal – The Offbeat Gem of Garhwal (78 km | 3 hrs)

Kanatal is one of those places that quietly surprises you. Tucked between Mussoorie and Chamba, this tiny hill station is known for apple orchards, pine forests and crisp mountain air. It’s not crowded like Mussoorie and that’s exactly why we love it. Every time I have been here, I felt like Kanatal was letting us in on a little secret.

Distance & How to Reach

Kanatal is about 78 km from Dehradun and it takes around 3 hours by road. The drive is scenic, especially once you leave the busier routes behind. Local taxis and buses also head this way but having your own car makes it easier to explore the nearby trails and villages.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer: A cool and quiet escape with clear skies and breezy evenings.
  
• Autumn & Winter: The most charming time with chances of snow from December to February.
  
• Spring: Orchards bloom and the hills look alive with color.

Things to Do in Kanatal

• Camp under the stars because bonfires here feel extra cozy in the chilly night air.
  
• Trek through Kaudia Forest, where tall trees and bird calls make you feel worlds away.
  
• Visit Tehri Lake nearby for water sports and breathtaking views.
  
• Walk through apple orchards and taste local produce.
  
• Try adventure activities like zip-lining and valley crossing for a thrill.

Stay Options

• Campsites: Perfect for adventure seekers.
  
• Boutique resorts: With stunning valley views and rustic charm.
  
• Homestays: Run by locals, offering warmth and hearty meals.

Our Tip

Kanatal is best if you love peace and starry nights. We once spent an evening here sitting by a bonfire, listening to mountain stories from our host while the Milky Way stretched across the sky with no camera could ever do that moment justice. 🌌

5. ⇒ Chakrata – An Offbeat Himalayan Hideout (88 km | 3 hrs)

If you love exploring places that still feel untouched, Chakrata will win your heart. This cantonment town is not as commercial as Mussoorie or even Dhanaulti which makes it perfect for travelers seeking quiet and raw mountain beauty. With cascading waterfalls, limestone caves and pine-covered hills, Chakrata is where nature whispers in every corner.

Distance & How to Reach

Chakrata lies about 88 km from Dehradun and takes around 3 hours by car. The drive is scenic but includes narrow, winding mountain roads, so it’s best tackled by confident drivers. Shared jeeps are available too, especially from Dehradun’s main bus stand.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer: Ideal for families and trekkers with pleasant weather.
  
• Monsoon: Green and fresh but landslides can sometimes affect travel.
  
• Winter: Snow lovers rejoice. Chakrata often turns into a snowy wonderland.

Things to Do in Chakrata

• Visit Tiger Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Uttarakhand, perfect for a picnic.
  
• Explore the mysterious Budher Caves (limestone caves believed to be ancient).
  
• Hike through pine and deodar forests with birdsong all around.
  
• Watch breathtaking sunsets from Chirmiri Point, one of Chakrata’s most peaceful spots.
  
• Discover local culture in nearby villages, where life feels beautifully simple.

Stay Options

• Budget lodges: Basic yet comfortable, great for backpackers.
  
• Mid-range hotels: A few options in town with mountain views.
  
• Homestays: Warm hospitality and local flavors.

Our Tip

Chakrata feels like a secret and part of its charm is that it’s still less explored. Once, during a morning walk near Tiger Falls, we had the entire trail to ourselves with only the sound of gushing water and chirping birds. It felt like the mountains had opened their arms just for us. 🌲

6. ⇒ New Tehri – The Town by the Lake (100 km | 3 hrs)

New Tehri is not your usual hill station but it’s a planned town overlooking the massive Tehri Lake and Dam, one of Asia’s largest hydroelectric projects. Instead of colonial charm, what you will find here is a modern hillside town with breathtaking views of sparkling blue waters against the backdrop of the Himalayas. It’s a spot that combines nature, adventure and a touch of engineering marvel.

Distance & How to Reach

New Tehri is about 100 km from Dehradun, a drive of roughly 3 hours. The road is smooth for most parts and as you get closer, the glittering lake comes into view. This is a sight that makes the trip worth it instantly.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer: Pleasant and breezy, perfect for lake activities.
  
• Monsoon: The hills turn lush green but be mindful of heavy rains.
  
• Winter: Cold and misty, with magical views of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Things to Do in New Tehri

• Try water sports at Tehri Lake: boating, kayaking, jet skiing and even parasailing.
  
• Spend a peaceful evening watching the sunset over the lake.
  
• Hike in the surrounding hills and enjoy panoramic Himalayan views.
  
• Visit Tehri Dam, an incredible feat of engineering.
  
• Explore nearby villages for a taste of Garhwali culture and cuisine.

Stay Options

• Lake-view resorts: Offer cozy rooms with balconies facing the water.
  
• Budget stays: Good for backpackers passing through.
  
• Eco-lodges & homestays: Great for sustainable travel lovers.

Our Tip

New Tehri is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure. We once went boating on the lake as the sun dipped behind the mountains. The water shimmered golden and it felt like time had slowed down. Trust me, that’s a memory that stays with you long after you have left.

7. ⇒ Lachhiwala – Nature’s Playground Near Dehradun (20 km | 40 mins)

Sometimes, the best spots are the simplest ones and Lachhiwala is exactly that. Just a short drive from Dehradun, this spot is surrounded by sal forests and is famous for its natural water pools. Families, picnickers and nature lovers often come here to spend the day, dipping their feet in the cool streams and breathing in the fresh forest air.

Distance & How to Reach

Lachhiwala is only about 20 km away from Dehradun, making it one of the most accessible nature spots on this list. You can reach it in under an hour by car or even a local bus.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer: The most popular time, when travelers come to cool off in the streams.
  
• Monsoon: The greenery is refreshing, though the water currents can get stronger.
  
• Winter: Quiet and peaceful, perfect for forest walks.

Things to Do in Lachhiwala

• Take a dip in the natural water pools created by the Suswa River.
  
• Enjoy a family picnic under the tall sal trees.
  
• Go birdwatching, the forest is home to many colorful species.
  
• Explore nearby forest trails for a light trek or peaceful walk.
  
• Visit in the evening to catch a magical sunset.

Stay Options

Since Lachhiwala is close to Dehradun, most travelers return the same day. But if you’d like to stay nearby:

• Budget hotels & guesthouses in Doiwala town.
  
• Resorts around Dehradun that offer quick access.

Our Tip

Lachhiwala is best enjoyed slowly. We once carried a little picnic basket, found a shady spot by the water and spent hours just chatting, dipping our feet and letting the day roll by. It’s one of those places that reminds you how simple joys can be the sweetest. 🌳

Hidden & Lesser-Known Escapes

While Mussoorie and Chakrata often steal the spotlight, some of the most magical experiences near Dehradun lie tucked away in little-known corners. These offbeat hill stations near Dehradun may not be on every tourist map but that’s what makes them so special.

Kimoi Village – A Quiet Himalayan Hamlet

Kimoi is a tiny village where time seems to slow down. Surrounded by thick forests and terraced fields, it’s the kind of place where you wake up to birdsong instead of alarms. A homestay here means simple Garhwali meals, warm hosts and starry skies.

Buranskhanda – Orchards and Forest Walks

Just beyond Mussoorie, Buranskhanda is known for its apple orchards and rhododendron trees (called “Buransh” locally). It’s perfect for travelers who love peaceful forest walks, picnics and breathtaking views without the crowds.

Nag Tibba Base – For the Trekking Souls

Nag Tibba (“Serpent’s Peak”) is one of the most popular beginner treks in Uttarakhand. Staying at the base village offers a rustic hill retreat, where evenings are spent around bonfires and mornings greet you with snow peaks in the distance.

Sample Itinerary for Hill Stations Near Dehradun

Planning a quick trip? Here’s a simple 2–3 day plan that balances famous spots with peaceful escapes.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

• Start early from Dehradun.
  
• Drive to Mussoorie (33 km | 1 hr). Visit Mall Road, Camel’s Back Road and enjoy local cafes.
  
• Head to Landour for a quiet afternoon walk and bakery treats.
  
• Stay overnight in Mussoorie or Landour.

Day 2:

• Drive to Dhanaulti (24 km from Mussoorie). Explore Eco Park and forest trails.
  
• Continue to Kanatal for apple orchards and valley views.
  
• Return to Dehradun in the evening.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Begin in Chakrata (88 km | 3 hrs). Explore Tiger Falls and pine forests. Stay overnight in a lodge or homestay.

Day 2:

Head to New Tehri. Try water sports on Tehri Lake and enjoy a lakeside evening.

Day 3:

• On the way back, stop at Lachhiwala for a relaxed picnic in the forest.
  
• Return to Dehradun by evening.

💡 Travel Tip: If you love offbeat vibes, swap Mussoorie with Buranskhanda or Kimoi village for fewer crowds and more peace.

FAQs About Hill Stations Near Dehradun Within 100 kms

Here is the list of frequently asked questions:

Conclusion

We can conclude that the hills around Dehradun are more than just weekend escapes. These are the places that recharge your soul. From the lively buzz of Mussoorie to the quiet charm of Landour, the snowy trails of Chakrata or the peaceful orchards of Kanatal, every hill station has its own magic. And if you love hidden gems, spots like Kimoi village and Buranskhanda will make you feel like you have stumbled into a secret corner of the Himalayas.

So pack your bags, grab your camera and let the hills surprise you. The best part of traveling here is not just the views but the little moments: sipping chai with a mountain breeze, hearing stories from locals or watching the sun dip behind snow peaks.

💚 Trust me, once you’ve explored these hill stations near Dehradun, you will keep coming back just like we always do.

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