While you are in Dehradun, you can take half a day or day-long or evening excursions to famous nearby destinations like Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar etc.

Mussoorie

Just 35 Kms or an hour’s drive from Dehradun, Mussoorie is a famous hill station in north India. Developed by the British during the early 19th century as a retreat to get skip the hot summers of northern plains, it still remains the preferred hill destination of north India to take refuge from the scorching heat during mid-summers. It is also a favorite winter destination to see snow. Apart from the mild climate Mussorrie commands a birds-eye view of Doon valley and a panoramic view of some of the snow-capped peaks of the western Himalayas.

Strolling in the Mall, enjoying a cup of tea in a local cafe, or taking long walks in the outskirts of Mussoorie town are some of the activities one can do here.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is 45 Kms from Dehradun and a little over an hour’s drive. Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, it is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage, a great center for spiritual learning. The main town is located on the bank of the holy Ganges and dotted with religious cents and temples. Millions of devotees come here every year to absolve themselves of their sins by taking a dip in the river.

Some of the famous stops are Lakshman Jhula (almost a century old cable suspension bridge), an ancient Lakshman temple, etc.

Witnessing an evening aarti that takes place at Triveni Ghat here is one of the highlights of the visit here.

Haridwar

Nestled on the foothills of western Himalayas, Haridwar is 50 kms away from Dehradun and a little over an hour’s drive.

One of the four holiest Hindu pilgrimages, the very word translates to the entrance of God or to God’s abode. It is of the four locations where Kumbh Mela (the largest religious congregation in the world) takes place.

Attending aarti at Har-ki-pauri here is a surreal experience.