Top 11 Tourist Places Near Dehradun Within 200 Kms

Hey fellow travelers! Are you looking for a getaway from Dehradun, it is like a treasure chest for weekend explorers. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, this charming city isn’t just a destination, but it’s the perfect starting point for a journey filled with lush hills, gushing rivers and offbeat adventures. In this guide, I am going to explore the best tourist places near Dehradun, complete with practical tips, seasonal advice and little stories from our travels to help you plan your perfect trip. So grab your backpack, a comfy pair of shoes and let’s set off on this adventure together! 

Top Tourist Places Near Dehradun Within 200 Kms

Whenever I plan a trip from Dehradun, I like to think of it as a treasure map waiting to be explored. Within 200 km, I’ve found everything from peaceful hill stations to thrilling adventure spots, serene rivers and even hidden waterfalls that feel like secret worlds. Over the years, I’ve kept returning to some favorites and I want to share them with you, so you can experience the same magic I have.

Here’s my personal guide to the top places near Dehradun that I have explored and absolutely loved:

1. ⇒ Mussoorie

Mussoorie has a special place in my heart. You will experience the cool breeze, the smell of pine forests and the clouds rolling over the valley below. It feels like stepping into a painting.

What I Love About Mussoorie

• Kempty Falls: I love starting my day here. The roar of the water is exhilarating. Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds because it feels almost like the falls are all yours!
  
• Gun Hill: For me, Gun Hill is all about the view. Take the cable car and stand there for what feels like forever, watching the Doon Valley spread below. Always bring your camera but honestly, no photo does it justice.
  
• Mall Road: This is where you slow down, sip chai and wander through little shops selling local handicrafts.

Travel Tips To Follow

• Best Time to Visit: I prefer visiting in the summer or early monsoon for lush greenery everywhere!
  
• Getting There: I love to drive from Dehradun because it’s a scenic 1.5-hour drive. You can also take buses if you’re not driving.
  
• Where to Stay: Mussoorie has plenty of options but I love cozy hill cottages or small guesthouses that let me hear the morning mist hitting the roofs.

If you visit Mussoorie multiple times, every trip will still surprise you with countess sightseeing places in Mussoorie. Sometimes with hidden trails, sometimes with new cafes and always with that incredible mountain air that makes you want to take a deep breath and just relax.

2. ⇒ Rishikesh

Rishikesh is one of those places that feels alive every single time you visit. The highlight here is Lakshman Jhula, the iconic suspension bridge swaying gently above the Ganges. I feels a mix of thrill and calm at the same time and that’s exactly what Rishikesh gives with adventure and peace in equal measure.

Why I Love Rishikesh

• River Rafting: Try rafting here. The rapids make your heart race and there’s nothing like cheering with fellow travelers as the boat navigates the waves. If you have never done it, I highly recommend it as it’s safe if you go with a certified guide.
  
• Cafes & Riverside Walks: After adventure, I love grabbing a cup of chai at a riverside cafe and watching the sunset paint the Ganges golden. Walking along the ghats in the evening and listening to the river is pure bliss.

Travel Tips from Me

• Best Time to Visit: I personally prefer early morning or late evening visits. The crowds are smaller and the light is perfect for photos!
  
• Getting There: It’s just a short drive from Dehradun, about an hour. Take your own car or there are plenty of buses and taxis available.
  
• What to Carry: Comfortable shoes for walking, a light jacket in the evenings and a reusable water bottle. Rishikesh is best enjoyed on foot.

Meet the fellow travelers who come just for adventure. Rishikesh has plenty of places to give multiple experiences at the same time which is why I make it a point to visit whenever you are near Dehradun.

Also Read: Places to Visit near Dehradun within 100 kms

3. ⇒ Haridwar

Haridwar is one of those places that instantly makes you slow down. The moment you step onto the ghats of the Ganges, you will feel a sense of calm wash over you.

Things to Do in Haridwar

• Har Ki Pauri: This is the heart of Haridwar. Reach just before sunset, find a quiet spot on the steps and watch the aarti unfold. There’s something magical about the combination of lights, chants and flowing water.
  
• Temples & Ghats: Enjoy wandering along the ghats and dipping your hands in the holy Ganges. Each visit feels like a small spiritual journey, even if you are not performing any rituals.
  
• Street Food & Local Markets: Always make sure to try the local snacks like kachoris, jalebis and lassis! Walking through the bustling streets is a sensory adventure in itself.

Travel Tips To Follow

• Best Time to Visit: Prefer evenings when the aarti is happening. If you want a quieter experience, early morning walks along the ghats are equally beautiful.
  
• Getting There: Haridwar is just about an hour’s drive from Dehradun. I love to drive but there are frequent buses and shared taxis.
  
• What to Carry: A small bag for offerings if you like, comfortable shoes and a scarf or shawl if you visit temples.

You always leave Haridwar feeling lighter like you have had a little reset for your mind and soul. Haridwar has perfect places to combine a spiritual experience with a short and peaceful getaway from the city.

4. ⇒ Dhanaulti

I have a soft spot for Dhanaulti. Every time you visit, it feels like you have stepped into a calm and green world far away from the city’s hustle. Mornings are misty, the pine forests shrouded in fog and taking a deep breath of the crisp air is a feeling you can never get enough of.

Why I Love Dhanaulti

• Eco Park: I love wandering through Eco Park’s trails, listening to birds and taking photos of the vibrant greenery. It’s perfect for a picnic or just a slow morning walk.
  
• Forest Walks: Some of my best solo strolls have been in the dense forests around Dhanaulti. There’s something magical about the way the mist weaves through the trees. It feels like the forest is alive.

Travel Tips to Follow

• Best Time to Visit: I prefer summer and early monsoon. The hills are lush and the weather is just perfect for hiking and picnics.
  
• Getting There: Dhanaulti is roughly 1.5–2 hours by car from Dehradun. I like to drive myself which allows to stop at viewpoints along the way.
  
• What to Carry: Comfortable trekking shoes, a light jacket (it can get chilly even in summer), water and snacks for the trek.

Dhanaulti has this incredible ability to make you slow down, breathe deeply and just enjoy the little things like the rustle of leaves, the distant chirping of birds and the serene views that stretch for miles. Whenever you need a peaceful escape, this hill station is my go-to place.

5. ⇒ Chakrata

Chakrata is one of my favorite offbeat escapes near Dehradun. You can visit it when you want to get away from the usual tourist crowds and it will become a spot you will keep returning to. There’s something about the quiet roads, dense forests and misty mountains that makes you feel completely unplugged from the world.

Why I Love Chakrata

• Tiger Falls: This hidden gem is worth every bit of the short trek to reach it. Do hiking through the forest and hear the roar of the falls before you even see. It feels like discovering a secret world. I love to spend time just sitting by the water, letting the mist cool my face.
  
• Deoban: I love camping here. I ask you to set up a small tent, when the sky clears and the stars above become breathtaking. It’s one of the best stargazing experiences you will have in the Himalayas.
  
• Nature Walks & Trekking: I love wandering through trails surrounded by pine trees. Sometimes, You spot deer or hear birds that you can not even identify. It makes you feel like you are in a nature documentary!

Travel Tips to Follow

• Best Time to Visit: I personally prefer visiting in the summer or early monsoon. The weather is perfect for trekking and exploring without the chill of winter.
  
• Getting There: It’s about a 3-hour drive from Dehradun. The roads are winding but the journey itself is full of scenic surprises.
  
• What to Carry: Comfortable trekking shoes, a jacket for evenings, water and a camera.  You will want to capture every moment.

Whenever you are in Chakrata, it feels like you have found a little sanctuary. The mix of adventure, serenity and offbeat charm makes it one of my go-to destinations when you need a refreshing break from the city.

6. ⇒ Rajaji National Park

I’ve always been drawn to wildlife and Rajaji National Park is one of my favorite escapes for just that reason. The first time you visit, you will like a kid again, eyes wide open at every rustle in the bushes and every bird call echoing through the forest. It’s amazing how close you can get to nature without leaving the Dehradun region.

Why I Love

• Safari Rides: Always take the morning safari because it’s the time when the animals are most active. You can elephants, deer and even the occasional leopard tracks! Riding through the park, it feels completely immersed in the wild with only the sounds of nature surrounding you.
  
• Birdwatching: If you are a bit of a bird nerd then Rajaji never disappoint you. I love to spend hours spotting kingfishers, woodpeckers and my personal favorite, the Himalayan pied kingfisher.
  
• Nature Photography: Every visit offers a new opportunity to capture stunning landscapes like misty mornings, sun-dappled forests and the rare glimpses of wildlife.

Travel Tips to Follow

• Best Time to Visit: I prefer the cooler months from October to March, when wildlife spotting is easier and the weather is comfortable.
  
• Getting There: About an hour’s drive from Dehradun. I love to go early in the morning to catch the safari without missing the golden light.
  
• What to Carry: Binoculars, camera, water and comfortable walking shoes. Also pack some snacks in case the safari stretches longer than expected.

Every time you leave Rajaji, you feel a little more connected to the nature. It’s one of those places that reminds you why I love traveling not just to see new sights but to experience moments of quiet awe and discovery.

7. ⇒ Lansdowne

Lansdowne is one of those places I will love to visit when you need a peaceful weekend away. It’s a quiet, charming hill station with a colonial-era vibe that makes you feel like you have traveled back in time. The first time you walk its calm streets, you will think, “Why isn’t everyone here already?”—it’s that serene and untouched compared to the busier hill stations.

Why I Love Lansdowne

• Bhulla Tal: Always start your visit here. This small, peaceful lake surrounded by pine trees is perfect for a morning walk or even a little paddle boating. I love sitting on the benches, sipping chai and listening to the soft rustle of the trees.
  
• Quiet Nature Walks: Unlike other hill stations, Lansdowne’s trails are almost empty. I love strolling through the forest paths, breathing in the fresh mountain air and watching birds flit through the trees.

Travel Tips to Follow

• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early monsoon are my favorites. The weather is perfect for walks and the hills are beautifully green.
  
• Getting There: It’s about a 4–5 hour drive from Dehradun. I love to take my own car for flexibility but there are buses too.
  
• Where to Stay: I prefer small guesthouses or homestays because they feel cozy and let you experience the local charm.

Lansdowne has a way of slowing down. It leaves Just you, the pine forests and long stretches of peaceful trails. Whenever you need a truly relaxing hill station experience, this is my go-to destination.

8. ⇒ Kanatal

Kanatal is one of my favorite offbeat escapes. I discovered it when I was exploring quiet and untouched nature, and it instantly stole my heart. Unlike the more popular hill stations, Kanatal has this serene and almost private feel, as if the mountains themselves are welcoming you to slow down and breathe.

Why I Love Kanatal

• Camping Under the Stars: On evenings, You can set up a small camp with friends on a hilltop when the sky feels like a blanket of stars. You rarely see such a clear view of the Milky Way anywhere else. It is just magical.
  
• Nature Walks: I love to spend hours wandering along the trails surrounded by pine and oak trees. Sometimes I like to stumble upon little streams or hidden viewpoints. It feels like nature is rewarding me for exploring.
  
• Himalayan Views: From Kanatal, wake up early just to watch the sun rise over the distant snow-capped peaks. That golden morning light hitting the hills is one of those moments that stays with you long after you leave.

Travel Tips to Follow

• Best Time to Visit: I love visiting in summer and monsoon because the greenery is lush and the temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities.
  
• Getting There: It’s roughly a 4-hour drive from Dehradun. I love to drive because it gives me the freedom to stop at scenic points along the way.
  
• What to Carry: Comfortable trekking shoes, a light jacket for early mornings and snacks if you plan on hiking or camping.

Kanatal has this rare mix of calm, adventure and breathtaking scenery. Every time you visit, it feels like you have found a secret Himalayan hideaway which is perfect for disconnecting from city life and reconnecting with nature.

9. ⇒ New Tehri

I will be honest—New Tehri is included in the list of places to visit near Dehradun only because of the massive Tehri Dam and the sparkling reservoir. There’s something about the combination of modern engineering and serene natural surroundings that makes this spot unforgettable.

Why I Love New Tehri

• Tehri Dam: I love walking along the dam, watching the sun glint off the water. I love to spend hours just sitting and enjoying the calm waves and the mountains in the distance. It’s the kind of place where you can relax completely and let your mind do wanderings.
  
• Water Activities: Try kayaking on the reservoir. It is thrilling to glide across such a huge expanse of water, surrounded by hills. I recommend it if you are looking for a mix of adventure and scenery.
  
• Scenic Views: I love to take short drives around the reservoir, stopping at viewpoints to soak in the panorama. Early morning mist over the water is one of my favorite sights.

Travel Tips to Follow

• Best Time to Visit: I prefer visiting in winter or early spring when the skies are clear and the views of the surrounding hills are stunning.
  
• Getting There: It’s about a 3-hour drive from Dehradun. I will go by car to enjoy the scenic route but buses and taxis are also available.
  
• What to Carry: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a camera. If you plan to try water activities, pack quick-dry clothes.

Every time you visit New Tehri, you are reminded how rewarding it is to explore beyond the usual hill stations. The mix of modern infrastructure and natural beauty makes it a unique spot and it always leave feel refreshed and inspired.

10. ⇒ Lachhiwala

Lachhiwala is one of my favorite quick getaways from Dehradun, especially when you are craving fresh air and greenery without traveling too far. On visiting, you will be blown away by how peaceful it feels. The tall trees, small streams and natural pools look straight out of a postcard.

Why I Love Lachhiwala

• Natural Swimming Pools: I love dipping my feet into the cool water and sometimes taking a full swim on hot afternoons. It’s so refreshing!
  
• Picnic Areas: I like to pack a little picnic basket and find a shady spot under the trees. There’s something so satisfying about having lunch surrounded by nature, listening to birds chirping.
  
• Forest Walks: I love wandering along the trails, spotting butterflies and small wildlife. Sitting on a log and watching the sunlight filter through the leaves is incredibly calming.

Travel Tips to Follow

• Best Time to Visit: I prefer summer or early monsoon. The water is pleasant and the forest is lush and green.
  
• Getting There: It’s just a 30–40 minute drive from Dehradun, making it perfect for a half-day or full-day trip.
  
• What to Carry: Swimwear if you want to enjoy the pools, a towel, picnic essentials and comfortable walking shoes.

Lachhiwala has a special charm for me because it’s like a little slice of forest paradise so close to the city. Whenever you visit, you feel relaxed, recharged and grateful for nature’s simple joys.

11. ⇒ Kalsi

Kalsi is one of those hidden gems that are always proved surprise. You feel so fascinated by history the moment you see the Ashoka Rock Edict. Standing in front of inscriptions that are over 2,000 years old make you pause and think about the incredible legacy of the past.

Why I Love Kalsi

• Ashoka Rock Edict: I love spending time reading and photographing the edict. For me, it’s not just about history but it’s about connecting with a civilization that existed long before any of us.
  
• Dakpathar Dam: I love to stop by this dam on my way back. The views of the river and surrounding hills are calming and I recommend to sit there for a while for just enjoying the breeze and the sound of water.
  
• Offbeat Exploration: I love wandering around the small town nearby. It’s quiet and there are little cafes or local shops that make you feel like you have discovered something special.

Travel Tips to Follow

• Best Time to Visit: I prefer winter or early spring because this is the time when the weather is comfortable and you can explore without the heat getting in the way.
  
• Getting There: About an hour’s drive from Dehradun. I love to go by car which gives me flexibility to stop at Dakpathar and other nearby spots.
  
• What to Carry: Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, water and a small notebook if you like jotting down your impressions. It’s easy to get inspired here!

Kalsi is a perfect spot for me when you want to mix a little history with natural beauty. Every visit leaves you both inspired and refreshed, and it’s a reminder that some of the best experiences are tucked away in small and quiet places.

Adventure & Nature Activities Near Dehradun

One of the reasons I love exploring places around Dehradun is the incredible variety of adventure and nature activities. Every time you plan a trip, make sure to leave room for a little thrill or just a peaceful immersion in nature. Here are some of my personal favorites:

1. Trekking in the Hills

I absolutely love trekking and the areas around Dehradun are perfect for it. Whether it’s the quiet trails in Chakrata, the lush forests of Dhanaulti or the hidden paths in Mussoorie, you always find new spots to explore. Trekking here isn’t just exercise, it’s a way to connect with the mountains.

2. Water Sports in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is my go-to spot for river adventures. Try river rafting and it will be a lifelong experience! The rapids give such an adrenaline rush but you also enjoy floating calmly along stretches of the Ganges, taking in the surrounding hills and forest. Kayaking is another activity you can try near New Tehri, it’s a different kind of fun, gliding across a huge, serene reservoir while feeling completely at one with nature.

3. Wildlife Experiences at Rajaji National Park

Rajaji is my little piece of wilderness near the city. I love going on morning safaris and spotting elephants, deer and a variety of birds. Sometimes just sitting quietly and listening to the birds soothes your soul. The forest has a soundtrack all its own and you will find it incredibly soothing. Be patient here because wildlife doesn’t appear on demand and that’s part of the charm.

4. Forest Walks and Nature Trails

Some of the most memorable trips have been simple walks in the forests around Lachhiwala, Kanatal or Dhanaulti. I love noticing the small things like the chirping birds, the way sunlight filters through the trees or the occasional deer darting across the trail. It’s a perfect way to slow down, take photos or just breathe in fresh air.

5. Camping Under the Stars

Whenever you get a chance, camp in Kanatal, Chakrata or Dhanaulti. Sitting by a campfire, sharing stories with friends and watching the stars fill the sky are one of those experiences that always makes you feel connected to the world. Even solo camping trips are special and I love spending hours just listening to nature and watching the moonlight on the hills.

My Personal Tips

• Always carry comfortable shoes and a small backpack with water and snacks.
  
• Check the weather before heading out, especially for trekking or camping.
  
• For water sports, go with certified guides for safety.
  
• Keep a camera handy because you never know when you will spot a breathtaking view or wildlife moment.

For me, the best trips around Dehradun are the ones where I can mix adventure with quiet nature moments. It keeps every day exciting while still letting me recharge and soak in the incredible surroundings.

Sample 2-Day or 3-Day Itinerary Near Dehradun

Whenever I plan a short getaway from Dehradun, I like to mix hill stations, adventure and a little relaxation. Here’s a sample itinerary that I personally love to follow:

Day 1: Mussoorie + Kempty Falls

Start the trip early and head straight to Mussoorie. Walking along Mall Road, sipping chai and enjoying the mountain air is my favorite morning ritual. Later, you can drive to Kempty Falls for a refreshing dip and some fun photos. The roar of the water is always exhilarating!

Day 2: Rishikesh + Lakshman Jhula + River Rafting

On day two, head to Rishikesh for adventure and serenity. Crossing Lakshman Jhula, exploring riverside cafes and going river rafting always makes me feel alive and energized. End the day watching the sunset over the Ganges, it’s magical.

Optional Day 3: Dhanaulti or Chakrata

If you have an extra day, I love exploring Dhanaulti for its peaceful pine forests or Chakrata for offbeat trails and quiet nature walks. It’s the perfect way to recharge before heading back home.

Conclusion

Every time you travel around Dehradun, just remind yourself that how lucky you are to have such a mix of mountains, rivers and hidden gems so close by. From the bustling hill station vibes of Mussoorie to the spiritual calm of Haridwar and Rishikesh and the offbeat serenity of Dhanaulti and Chakrata, there’s truly something for every kind of traveler.

For me, exploring these destinations isn’t just about sightseeing but it’s about making memories, trying new adventures and soaking in nature and culture. I promise, once you start exploring the areas around Dehradun, you will find yourself planning your next trip before you even leave! 

FAQs About Tourist Places Near Dehradun

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