Top 20 Weekend Destinations from Dehradun

While you are astounded by the striking beauty of Dehradun, some more staggering places around the city will be waiting to make an impactful impression on you. These are overnight destinations, and hence, are perfect to plan a short weekend trip from Dehradun. Now that, your search for those weekend destinations from Dehradun have landed you on this page, let’s start with my handpicked list. All you just have to do is keep reading this blog till the end!

1. Mussoorie – A Dreamy Destination to Visit

Just a thought of holidaying conjures up the image of serenity, and Mussoorie is the best destination to materialize all your vacation plan. The hill station is one of the most visited places in Uttarakhand and is a perfect hideout for all the leisure travellers and honeymooners who’re seeking out for unforgettable holiday time in Garhwal Himalayas. Offering surreal vistas of the Himalayas in the backdrops, the summer resort of Mussoorie is known for its stunning attractions and exotic beauty. It’s not just your honeymoon that can be made great if you plan a trip to Mussoorie but those seeking that adrenaline rush can also have a great time.

Distance from Dehradun: 33 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 1-2 hour

Places to Visit: Kempty Falls, Lal Tibba, Happy Valley, Camel’s Back Road, Gun Hill, Mussoorie Lake, Tha Mall Road, Christ Church, Sir George Everest’s House, Jwalaji Temple

Famous for: Nature, Trekking, Cable Car, Hiking, Camping, Rock Climbing, Paragliding, Rafting and Shopping

Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to February

Apt for: Leisure travellers, couples, kids and adventurers

2. Dhanaulti and Chamba – Places to Witness Unparalleled Nature’s Beauty

Whether it’s the unmatchable greenery or the compelling surroundings which include the snow-clad Himalayan peaks, Dhanaulti is one of the perfect escapes from Dehradun. The hill stations have all the attributes to be served as your ideal home-away-home weekend vacation destination. Perched on an elevation of 2826 m above the sea level, Dhanaulti is known for its enduring beauty which includes gorgeous meadows, lush green forests and beautiful parks. Apart from indulging in nature, one can also spend some time performing pilgrimage and indulging in various adventure sports. It is the summer season in which the hill station serves as the weekend getaway near Dehradun but as the winter season approaches the place becomes a major tourist attraction for all the travellers mainly because of the snowfall.

If you have explored all the attractions in Dhanaulti and still left with some time, then I suggest you to further explore the exotic region of Chamba. Located at a distance of just 35 km from Dhanaulti, the unexplored and untouched destination of Chamba is also an amazing place for travellers from other states to spend some time away from the cacophony of the city life. The entire territory of Chamba is highly blessed with deodar and pine trees, green gorges, apple orchards and much more.

Distance from Dehradun: 35 km (Dhanaulti) and 65 km (Chamba) (Approx)

Time to Reach: 1 hour (Dhanaulti) and 2-3 hours (Chamba)

Places to Visit (Dhanaulti): Dashavatar Temple, Deogarh Fort, Eco Parks, Potato Farm, and Adventure Park

Places to Visit (Chamba): Gabbar Singh Negi Memorial, Tehri Lake and Surkanda Devi Temple

Famous for (Dhanaulti): Skywalk, Nature, Trekking, Zip Lining, Camping and Rock Climbing

Best Time to Visit Dhanaulti & Chamba: March to June and October to February

Apt for: Couples, Kids and Leisure Travellers

3. Dakpathar – A Place that Treats Travellers With A Unique Charm

Another lesser-known place in Uttarakhand which is worth a visit is Dak Pathar. In Dehradun district, this hill town is renowned for its calmness and relaxed environment which is ideal for all those who are in a dire need of a short break from the hustle bustle of Dehradun. For some fun and adventure, tourists can opt to indulge in various water sports activities like boating, water skiing, canoeing and sailing. Besides, there is also a park – Dakpathar Park which is home to numerous animals like rabbits, turkeys, parakeets, deer and owls. The park also includes a play area for kids with several swings where your kids can spend the best of their time. Also, while in Dakpathar, don’t forget to admire the exotic grandeur of Shivalik Range which can easily be seen from the village. Dakpathar is one of those places in Uttarakhand where you can take your kids on children-friendly weekend break.

Distance from Dehradun: 40 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 1-2 hours

Places to Visit: Dakpathar Barrage, Dakpathar Park, Kalsi, Assan Barrage Bird Sanctuary and Tulas Auditorium

Famous for: Nature and Sightseeing

Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to November

Apt for: Kids, Nature Lovers and Leisure Travellers

4. Kalsi – Nature, Heritage and History at its Best

A quaint hill town in Jaunsar-Bawar tribal belt region at confluence of Rivers Tons and Yamuna, Kalsi is famous for its heritage importance. This offbeat destination in Uttarakhand is a perfect escape to plan a village tour. While here, you get a chance to learn about the different cultures of communities like Bhutis, Khils and Mundar. Dotted with abundance of lush greenery, the village also proffers you with impeccable natural beauty. However, the main highlight of Kalsi Village is the famous Ashoka Rock Edict which engraves the edict of Ashoka – the Mauryan King, which was written in the year 253 BC.

Distance from Dehradun: 44 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 1-2 hours

Places to Visit: Asan Barrage, Paonta Sahib, Timli Pass, Dak Pathar, Ashoka’s Rock Edict, Vikasnagar and Katta Pathar

Famous for: Nature, Heritage and History

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Apt for: Nature Lovers, Leisure Travellers, Pilgrims

5. Haridwar and Rishikesh – The Sacred Destinations in Uttarakhand

Such is the charm of these sacred cities that even if you are not a religiously inclined person, both Haridwar and Rishikesh will make you fall in love with them. The destinations are excellent havens for all those who are looking for the best family weekend destination from Dehradun as both the destinations are located within a distance of 50 km.

Haridwar, on one hand, is known for its spiritual significance which includes sacred ghats and temples. Being a part of the evening Aarti at Ganga Ghat is one of the surreal experiences one could witness. On the other hand, Rishikesh is not only a pilgrimage destination in Uttarakhand but also pioneers the tourism scene of fitness and health, and adventure sports in Uttarakhand. The ashrams, yoga retreats and the laid back cafes altogether make Rishikesh a not-to-miss place in Uttarakhand. And yes, without a doubt you can also expect to be treated with an abundance of natural beauty in Rishikesh as well as Haridwar.

Distance from Dehradun: 45 km (Rishikesh) and 53 km (Haridwar) (Approx)

Time to Reach: 1 hour (Rishikesh) and 1-2 hours (Haridwar)

Places to Visit (Rishikesh): Laxman Jhula, The Beatles Ashram, Shivpuri, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Triveni Ghat, Neer Garh Waterfall, Kaudiyala, Swarg Ashram, Rishi Kund, Kunjapuri Temple and Vashishtha Gufa Temple

Places to Visit (Haridwar): Har Ki Pauri, Bharat Mata Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Bara Bazaar, Bhimgoda Kund, Daksha Mahadev Temple, Kanva Rishi Ashram, Mansa Devi Temple, Shantikunj and Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary

Famous For (Rishikesh): Nature, River Rafting, Rappelling, Flying Fox, Bungee Jumping, Giant Swing, Kayaking, Wellness & Fitness, and Pilgrimage

Famous For (Haridwar): Pilgrimage and Nature

Best Time to Visit (Rishikesh): March to June and Late September to November (for rafting)

Best Time to Visit (Haridwar): March to June and October to February

Apt for: Pilgrims, Leisure Travellers, Adventurers and Fitness Buffs

6. Sainji – The Corn Village of India

For a unique reason, India is famous for its varied geographical and cultural diversity which no one can really hope to unveil in a lifetime. A part of that cultural diversity can be experienced in a small village called Sainji, some 50 km from Dehradun. The locals of the village hang corns on the outer part of their houses to dry them for the next season. Not just this, at the entrance of the village, there is a gate like structure which is also adorned with corns.

By hanging corns on the peripheral of their houses, people of Sainji village show the importance of corns in the village. This often is used as a piece of art in every house. There are no specific tourist places to visit in Sainji village but the immense love and warm hospitality of the locals along with their unique practice of hanging corn are certainly enough to hold you there for at least two days.

Distance from Dehradun: 51 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 1-2 hours

Famous for: Nature, Heritage and Sightseeing

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Apt for: Nature Lovers and Leisure Travellers

7. Paonta Sahib – The Best Stop from Dehradun for Both Pilgrimage and Wildlife Excursion

For a short weekend trip from Dehradun, you can also consider Himachal as a perfect getaway. Paonta Sahib is one of those popular tourist places in Himachal that are located in the near proximity to Dehradun. This small hill station is reckoned to be one of the renowned sacred site in the region. On the banks of holy River Yamuna, this hill site is a highly esteemed religious centres in Himachal Pradesh for the Sikh community.

The Gurdwara at Paonta Sahib commemorates the tenth Sikh Guru – Guru Gobind Singh, who spent four and a half years of his life at this place. Besides, it’s sacred significance, the town is also known to proffer an enthralling sightseeing and wildlife experience at Asan Barrage and Kalesar National Park. Both the place are located at a distance of 8 km and 15 km, respectively.

Distance from Dehradun: 51 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 2-3 hours

Places to Visit: Gurudwara Bhangani Sahib, Sirmour, Memorial of Rishi Kalpi, Dakpathar, Asan Barrage and Kalesar National Park

Famous for: Pilgrimage, Nature, Wildlife, and Sightseeing

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Apt for: Pilgrims, Nature Lovers, Wildlife Buffs and Leisure Travellers

8. Chakrata – An Ideal Place to Disconnect Yourself from the Outside World

An interesting family weekend destination from Dehradun that can soothe your nerves, is waiting for you at Chakrata. Tucked between the Rivers of Yamuna and Tons, Chakrata is a cantonment town which is perched on a height of 2118 m above the sea level. The place is perfect for those who seek to witness the sublime views of snow-clad mountains with an azure background. The region of Chakrata is magnificently dotted with lush greenery including gorgeous meadows and forests of oak, rhododendron and coniferous.

Not just this, the bunch of stunning waterfalls also serve as highlights of the town. Besides the enduring nature, it’s the ancient temples that draws a lot of pilgrims to this place. While vacationing in Chakrata, you also get an opportunity to indulge in various adventure sports like river rafting, trekking, rock climbing, waterfall rappelling and more.

Distance from Dehradun: 90 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 1-2 hours

Places to Visit: Tiger Falls, Kanasar, Deoban, Chilmiri Neck, Ram Tal Horticultural Garden, Moigad Falls, Kimona Fall, Budher Caves, Thanda Danda Peak, Mundali, and Chinta Haran Mahadev Temple

Famous for: Nature, Pilgrimage and Adventure

Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to February

Apt for: Nature Lovers, Leisure Travellers, Couples, Kids, Adventurers

9. New Tehri – A Peaceful Himalayan Retreat to Rejuvenate Your Senses

Nestled amidst the mighty Himalayan mountains, New Tehri lies comfortably at the confluence of the Bhilanga and Bhagirathi River. The untouched and unexplored beauty of the region makes New Tehri a fascinating weekend escape from Dehradun. Apart from the very famous Tehri Dam, there are several other places which you would love to discover here in Tehri.  You would also be amazed to see the variety of water sports the place offers to tourists.

Distance from Dehradun: 100 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 3-4 hours

Places to Visit: Tehri Dam, Sem Mukhem Temple, Chandrabadni Temple and Tehri Lake

Famous for: Nature, Pilgrimage, jet skiing, kayaking, rafting, parasailing and boating

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Apt for: Leisure Travellers, Pilgrims and Adventurers

10. Nag Tibba – An Enticing Weekend Trek

A special mention for all those who are looking out for some trekking or camping experience on this coming weekend near Dehradun – Nag Tibba is your best bet. In Tehri district, Nag Tibba is one of the highest peaks (9915 ft) in lower Garhwal Himalayas which is loved by numerous trekkers. This easy to moderate trek passes through dense forests. Not just this, this wonderful trek also let you unveil the striking views of Bandarpunch peak, Kedarnath peak, Gangotri group of peaks along with Changabang peak and Doon Valley. The fact that you can reach the base point of Nag Tibba peak by car/jeep makes it a weekend trek.

Lies on the midpoint of Nag Tibba, there is a special village – The Goat Village, which is worth mentioning. The natives of the village work with The Green People community towards ecotourism, rural tourism and agro-tourism. The Green People community has set up various farm retreats and homestays which are managed by the locals to provide a basic lifestyle experience to visitors. This also makes employment opportunities for the locals of the Goat Village. Not just this, the society has also started exporting the products made by the people of the village.

Distance from Dehradun: 109 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 3-4 hours

Famous for: Trekking, Camping and Nature

Best Time to Visit: April to June and October to February

Apt for: Adventurers and Nature Lovers

11. Kanatal – The Picture-Perfect Nature’s Abode

If you are someone who loves to spend some quality with your family amidst the scenic beauty and serene setting of mountains and rivers, Kanatal can be your best bet. Far away from the hustle and bustle of Mussoorie, Kanatal is a perfect family weekend destination located in the suburbs of Mussoorie on Chamba-Mussoorie road. The heavenly nature and several adventure activities make this a place lots of fun to be at. A leisure time spent in the pristine setting of Kanatal is worth a cherishing experience.

Distance from Dehradun: 116 km (via Rishikesh) 120 km (via Dhanaulti) (Approx)

Time to Reach: 2-3 hours

Places to Visit: Nag Devta Temple, Chineshwar Waterfall, Arjuneshwar Temple, Ghunsera Devi Temple, Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple, Mahakali Temple and Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple

Famous for: Nature and Pilgrimage

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Apt for: Nature Lovers, Leisure Travellers and Pilgrims

12. Lansdowne – Where Nature Meets History

It’s the rich history and striking scenery that make Lansdowne one of the most exotic and peaceful weekend getaways from Dehradun. Located in the district of Pauri Garhwal, Lansdowne is one of the most tranquil places in Uttarakhand (even after having a huge hype among tourists). The place is visited by tourists who are in search of solace and adventure. Talking about the history, the name of this enticing hill station was kept after Lord Lansdowne – The British Viceroy of India. The entire place was also built by the British as a cantonment town, and thus, a number of colonial buildings can also be seen at this place.

Distance from Dehradun: 157 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 3-4 hours

Places to Visit: Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Bhulla Tal, Darwan Singh Museum, Tip N Top, War Memorial, St Johns Church, St Mary Church, Bhim Pakora and Kalagarh Tiger Reserve

Famous for: Nature, Pilgrimage, Trekking, Camping and Wildlife

Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to February

Apt for: Leisure Travellers, Nature Lovers, Couples, Kids, and Adventurers

13. Chandigarh – A Modern Cultural Epicentre

Probably, the best-planned city in India, Chandigarh is one of the most beautiful and the well-organized cities of the country. The tourism scene of the city is more like of Delhi but with a touch of authentic Punjabi culture. On the foothills of Shivalik Range, Chandigarh is known for its gorgeous gardens, tranquil ambiance and the modern culture that together makes it perfect home-away-home. Apart from this, the contemporary lifestyle of the city is one of the main things that attracts a lot of travellers throughout the year. Whether you want to indulge in a leisure experience or want a better social life, the city of Chandigarh proffers everything to make your trip a memorable one.

Distance from Dehradun: 166 km

Time to Reach: 5-6 hours

Places to Visit: Rock Garden, Rose Garden, Pinjore Gardens, International Dolls Museum, Terraces Garden, Le Corbusier Centre, ChattBir Zoo, Cactus Gardens, Museum and Art Gallery and Punjab Cricket Association Stadium

Famous for: Pilgrimage, Nature, Sightseeing and Leisure

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Apt for: Socialites and Leisure Travellers

14. Hanol – A Surreal Offbeat Destination for that Serene Holiday

Hanol – a beautiful hamlet engirdled by verdant hills, is one of the most amazing offbeat places around Dehradun. On the banks of River Tons, Hanol is located in the district of Dehradun. It has adorned with nature and ancient temples. The 9th-century Mahasu Devta Temple is the most famous pilgrimage site in Hanol. The beauty of the place has the power detoxify and rejuvenate you, completely.

Distance from Dehradun: 172 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 3-4 hours

Places to Visit: Mahasau Devta Temple, Pavasi Devta Temple, Vasik Devta Temple and Chalda Devta Temple

Famous for: Nature and Pilgrimage

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Apt for: Nature Lovers, Leisure Travellers and Pilgrims

15. Kasauli – A Humble Heaven For Your Weekend

Just imagine starting your day with a gorgeous sunrise view and ending as well with a stunning sunset view. And how about a leisure walk amidst the beautiful valley? And if that is also not enough then what about just sitting in your hotel room’s balcony with a cup of hot coffee while the beautiful high mountains and gorgeous valleys treats you a with a magical sight? Sounds fascinating, isn’t it? Well, that is what Kasauli is all about! Located in the district of Solan, Himachal Pradesh, this hill town is a paradise for all the leisure travellers and peace seekers. From various nature trails to view points to historical sites to age-old temples, the town offers a range of mind-boggling experiences and enthralling attractions that are enough to satiate your wanderlust.

Distance from Dehradun: 184 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 6-7 hours

Places to Visit: Gilbert Trail, Kasauli Brewery, Sunset Point, Manki Point, Christ Church, Sunrise Point, Gurkha Fort, The Mall Road, Kasauli Brewery The Mall, Baptist Church and Shri Baba Balak Nath Tempe

Famous for: Pilgrimage, Nature, Sightseeing and Leisure

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year

Apt for: Pilgrims, Nature Lovers, Wildlife Buffs and Leisure Travellers

16. Chopta – A Gateway to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak

Whenever it’s about top travel destinations in Uttarakhand, Chopta can always found somewhere top on the list.  The place also serves as one of the top places to visit near Dehradun. The geographical boundaries of this popular hill station in Rudraprayag district allow travellers to savour numerous natural grandeurs including dense forests, snow-crowned Himalayan ranges and luxuriant meadows. Besides nature, what makes Chopta a superb destination are the trekking trails. The village is the base point of the famous trek to one of the Panch Kedar temples – Tungnath along with the thrilling Chandrashila Peak. The village boasts an ideal setting for all those who seek for a place to relax and unwind the mind, body and soul with a treat of nature.

Distance From Dehradun: 252 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 7-8 hours

Places to Visit: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila, Deoria Tal, Ukhimath, and Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary

Famous for: Nature, Pilgrimage and Adventure

Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to February

Apt for: Nature Lovers, Leisure Travellers, Pilgrims and Adventurers

17. Delhi – The Heart of North India

The “Dilwalon ki Dilli” is one of the most obvious choice as a place to visit in near Dehradun. Delhi is known for its rich history that flows through every lane and alley of the city. From the bustling hub of Connaught Place to the sophisticated southern region to the chaotic yet beautiful East Delhi, the city offers a plenty of different experiences for that ultimate holiday. Apart from this, it’s the modern culture that binds the tourism. The city is also a renowned party destination in India with its range of up-class restaurants, laid-back cafes, night clubs and bars.

Distance from Dehradun: 268 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 5-6 hours

Places to Visit: Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Lodhi Garden, India Gate, Parliament House, Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Akshardham Temple, Chattarpur Temple, ISKCON Temple, Lotus Temple, Purana Quila, Raj Ghat, Hauz Khas Fort, National Rail Museum, Air Force Museum, Sarojini Nagar Market and Palika Bazaar.

Famous for: Shopping, Sightseeing and Leisure

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Apt for: History Buffs, Socialites and Leisure Travellers

18. Auli – A Charming Winter Abode of Honeymooners

An amazing addition in the list of top hill stations in Uttarakhand, is Auli. The natural grandeur of this place is hard to express in words but one can imagine its beauty by knowing that it is flanked by gorgeous meadows and luxuriant vegetation of coniferous and oak. It is one of those places which you can’t miss out to explore in the summer season. Besides, this hill station also serves as a winter resort mainly because of good skiing opportunity along with snowfall makes Auli an ideal romantic getaway from Dehradun in winter season. The place is also the base of a number of enthralling treks; Auli Gorson Trek and Kuari Pass Trek being two most popular ones amongst them.

Distance from Dehradun: 302 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 9-10 hours

Places to Visit: Hanuman Temple, Artificial Lake, Trishul Peak, Nanda Devi Peak and Gurso Bugyal

Famous for: Nature, Adventure Sports, Ropeway Ride and Pilgrimage

Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to February

Apt for: Leisure Travellers, Pilgrims, Couples and Kids

19. Chaukori – The Land of Compelling Dusk and Dawn Views

In the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Chaukori is a peaceful getaway from Dehradun. Dotted with thick woodland and surrounded by imposing Himalayan peaks, Chaukori is a delight for every nature lover. The dream of catching the sights of Nanda Devi and Panchachuli Peaks in the near proximity comes true here in Chaukori. For the fact, it is also a place where you can expect to see long stretches of tea gardens. Like other hill stations in Uttarakhand, Chaukori is a peaceful town with the most beautiful sunrise and sunset It’s not just the nature that calls you to Chaukori, there are several age-old shrines that draw the attention.

Distance from Dehradun: 370 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 8-10 hours

Places to Visit: Nag Devta Temple, Chineshwar Waterfall, Arjuneshwar Temple, Ghunsera Devi Temple, Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple, Mahakali Temple and Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave Temple

Famous for: Nature and Pilgrimage

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Apt for: Nature Lovers, Leisure Travellers and Pilgrims

20. Amritsar – The Holy Abode of Golden Temple

A beautiful city of Punjab that makes into the list of popular weekend getaways from Dehradun is Amritsar. Popularly known as one of the most sacred cities for Sikh pilgrims, Amritsar is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in Punjab. The city serves as one of the ideal stopovers from Dehradun for a short pilgrimage tour. In fact, it’s the not just the pilgrimage that the city is dotted with, there are also several historical sites in Amritsar that you can’t afford to miss. Jallianwala Bagh is one of those historical landmarks in the city. The northern area is a modern cultural hotspot of Amritsar. Here you can expect to see the contemporary lifestyle which include shopping markets, hotels, laid-back restaurants and well-organized localities.

Distance from Dehradun: 403 km (Approx)

Time to Reach: 8-9 hours

Places to Visit: Golden Temple, Durgiana Temple, Akal Takht, Gobindgarh Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Tarn Taran Sahib, Wagah Border, Harike Wetland, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Bathinda Fort, Pul Kanjri, Jama Masjid Khairuddin, Goindwal Sahib, Faridkot Fort and ISKCON Temple.

Famous for: Pilgrimage, Nature, Sightseeing and Leisure

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Apt for: Pilgrims, Nature Lovers, History Buffs and Leisure Travellers

Now that if I have convinced you to plan a trip to any of these destination (I have, right?), it is time to impart you with some other useful information.

To make your weekend trip from Dehradun possible, we are here to help you by proffering you the best Uttarakhand travel packages. For over two decades, Tour My India has been one of the leading travel agencies in India mainly because of their incredible tour packages, remarkable services and great arrangements.