History

History of Dehradun dates back to 300 BC and also referred in many Hindu texts. According to Indian mythology it’s known as the land of Lord Shiva. Based on archaeological relics found near Kalsi, it’s evident that Dehra Dun was once ruled by great Mauryan emperor Ashoka (1st century BC). The area is small but enticing and ruled over the years by various powerful dynasties including the Sikhs, Mughals and Gurkhas. Finally, British established their garrison and educational institutes of repute. Dehra Dun was a favorite hill station among Britishers, its serene beauty and lush green valley enticed British to defy to make the place commercial. But after independence Dehra Dun was fast converted from a desolate sub Himalayan town to a busy commercial place. The place is now a major tourist attraction and capital of new state of Uttarakhand.

Sights And Activities

Forest Research Institute Museum
Admission fee is Rs 10 and if you take guide it cost Rs 50. The prime attraction of this 2000 acre spread forest institute is the building itself. It is an architectural beauty built in a mixture of Mughal and Roman style. The Mughal towers has adorned the red brick huge buildings and perfectly formed arches and Roman columns in a series of quadrangles edged by elegant cloisters. Inside the building, six huge halls displays every aspects of forestry in India.

Activities
You can hire cycle in the gate of Forest institute and explore the 2000 acres wide forest environ. Also you can stroll around the forest, and if you are interested to know intricate details of forests and its habitat you can easily take guide along with you . That will cost Rs 50.

Tapkeshwar Temple
A small but popular Lord Shiva shrine that open from dawn to dusk is located inside a narrow cave in the backdrop of Tons Nadi River. Opposite side of the river is another shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. You have to cross a bridge over the river to reach the narrow cave shrine.

Ram Rai Darbar
This unique mausoleum is located at the Paltan Bazaar and there is no admission fee. Ram Rai was the errant fallible son of seventh Sikh guru. After his death Mughal emperor Aurangazeb ordered to convert the building to a mausoleum. This beautiful structure is made up of white marble and sour smaller tombs in the garden courtyard are those of Ram Rai’s wives. The entrance gate is embellished with colorful murals.

Picnic At Sahastradhara
Sahastradhara is a sulphur spring is a popular place for picnic. Bathing in the river is must and explore some narrow caves from where sulphur water seeps through it. You find hordes of picnickers hanging around the spot. To reduce the crowd, climb little upwards or downwards. Near by Robber’s cave or Gucchu Pani and Lacchiwalla are some other favorite outing spots.