Known as an important educational hub in India, Dehradun is a charming hill town nestled in the foothills of the Shivalik ranges. But there is more to Dehradun than meets the eye, my friends. These spectacular hill stations near Dehradun offer a host of verdant valleys, perennial streams, majestic sceneries, soul-stirring architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for a short getaway for explorers.
Dehradun serves as a major point of passage for travelers riding to many a mesmerizing hill towns in Uttarakhand like Nainital, Chopta, and Chakrata. Let’s have a look at what all there is to discover in these tiny pieces of paradise!
17 Best Hill Stations Near Dehradun
Here’s our pick of the best hill stations around Dehradun that will steal your heart with their serenity and spellbinding views.
- Cool Chamba
- Dreamy Darchula
- Scenic Harsil
- Refreshing Binsar
- Chilly Chaukori
- Magical Mussoorie
- Reviving Dhanaulti
- Adventurous Rishikesh
- Kaleidoscopic Kanatal
- Invigorating Chakrata
- Revitalizing Ranikhet
- Magnificent Shimla
- Soul-Stirring Auli
- Mystical Lansdowne
- Exhilarating Parwanoo
- Breathtaking Chopta
- Unforgettable Nainital
17. Chamba
Chamba, in Uttarakhand, is only 50 km from Mussoorie and source of awe for many tourists. Enjoy Chamba at 1600 m above sea level. Beautiful forests of pines and deodars, look beautiful when the sun shines over them. It is very similar to Mussoorie in look and feel but is quiet, without the throngs of crowds. and Pittoresque is a matter of location and surroundings of the city. Hence, it is an excellent place to relax and wash off the city blues.
Things to do in Chamba: Visit Surkanda Devi Temple, Ranichauri, New Tehri,
Distance from Dehradun to Chamba: 89.0 km
Travel time: 3 Hours and 10 mins
16. Darchula
Situated in Pithoragarh district, Dharchula is standing 915 m above the sea level. It surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. The Panchachuli peaks are on the western side of Dharchula. It is just a little far from Johar Valley. It literally means Stove Peak since it looks like a stove. It does not snow here, but if you are bored of city life and are looking for a place untouched by crowds, this is the place to be.
Things to do in Darchula: Visit the sulfur springs, Om Parvat, Jauljibi, Kali River
Distance from Dehradun to Darchula: 473.4 km
Travel time: 16 Hours
15. Harsil
Harsil is a hidden jewel in the state of Uttarakhand and offers great opportunities for people seeking peace and serenity in the Himalayas. It is located on the Bhagirathi River at stands at a height of 2620 meters above the sea level. This picturesque town has recently become very popular among travel enthusiasts and seems to have quite some scope for eco-tourism. You can visit this place if you just want a quiet hilly hamlet to chill out at.
Things to do in Harsil: Wilson Cottage, Sattal, Dharali, Gangnani
Distance from Dehradun to Harsil: 216.3 km
Travel time: 6 hours 48 min
14. Binsar
Binsar is 2,420 meters above sea level and is known for its fascinating views of the Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Panchachuli, Nanda Kot, and Kedarnath. The main attraction of Binsar is the majestic 300-km-long panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks from Zero Point. This compact hill station near Dehradun, India, is surrounded by the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, habitat for flora and fauna. Covered by dense foliage, it is undoubtedly the best place to go hiking, camping and walking in nature.
Things to do in Binsar: Zero Point, Binsar Sanctuary Museum, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, and the Kasar Devi Temple.
Distance from Dehradun to Binsar: 369.6 km via NH7
Travel time: 10 hours 24 min
13. Chaukori
Named so due to its bowl shape, Chaukori in Uttaranchal is at an altitude of more than 2010 meters. One of the top hill stations nearby Dehradun, you will be privy to breathtaking views from the beautiful green tea gardens to the majestic snowy peaks of Nanda Devi and Panchachuli with a starry sunrise and sunset. There are a number of temples in the area that attract a number of tourists and pilgrims alike.
Things to do in Chaukori: Arjuneshwar Shiva Temple, Nakuleshwar Temple, Patal Bhubaneshwar,
Distance from Dehradun to Chaukori: 370.1 km
Travel time: 12 h 2 min
12. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Perched atop a mountain valley in Uttarakhand, Mussoorie is among the closest hill stations and places near Dehradun. The hill town draws a considerable influx of travelers every year with its majestic green hills, old-world colonial architecture, stunning waterfalls, blooming diversity of flora and fauna, and enchanting landscapes. Mussoorie is the best hill station near Dehradun that provides an ideal escape from the unforgiving heat in the plains in summers and as an ethereal white wonderland in winters, which is why it is the perfect place for a weekend getaway from Dehradun.
Things to do in Mussoorie: Ropeway rides, Sky Bridge, trekking, rafting, paragliding, shopping
Distance from Dehradun to Mussoorie: 33.5 km
Travel time: 1 hour 20 mins
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11. Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
A small but one of the wonderful places near Dehradun, Dhanaulti sits amid lofty Himalayan peaks and cloud-kissed valleys. Earlier it was just a serene pit stop for travelers engaging in longer journeys in Uttarakhand, but now it has turned into a full-fledged holiday destination in itself. Located at an altitude of 2,286 m far away from the city’s hustle-bustle, Dhanaulti’s handful of beautiful attractions offer solitude and peace to nature lovers. For those looking for nothing but relaxation and private time amid hills, Dhanaulti makes up for some of the best-unexplored hill stations near Dehradun.
Things to do in Dhanaulti: Camping, trekking, flying fox, river crossing
Distance from Dehradun to Dhanaulti: 36.5 km
Travel time: 1 hour 42 mins
10. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Soak in the charm of the glistening Ganges and immerse yourself in the deep chants of Hindu prayers that touch the soul. the scenic backdrops of Rishikesh tend to refresh the senses with the myriad adrenaline-pumping adventures that it offers. Often a highlight of most Uttarakhand tour packages, this Adventure Capital of India is a fusion of thrill and piousness. It is the best hill station near Dehradun, India for adventure activities as well as pilgrimage.
Things to do in Rishikesh: River rafting, bungee jumping, camping, flying fox, cliff jumping
Distance from Dehradun to Rishikesh: 45 km
Travel time: 1 hour 27 mins
9. Kanatal, Uttarakhand
Snuggled on the Chamba-Mussoorie road, Kanatal is an unbeatably serene and picturesque suburb that boasts of incredible scenic views, striking greenery, and bountiful adventure activities. Though it’s not as popular as other hill stations near Dehradun, it makes up for that with its peaceful environment, untouched landscapes, and a promise of privacy to its visitors. It’s also a great place for various adventure activities. So, looking for a getaway offering solemn peace and a bucket full of adventure far away from urban hassles? Get to Kanatal and discover why it’s among the best hill stations around Dehradun.
Things to do in Kanatal: Trekking, valley crossing, camping, rock climbing, rappelling, jungle safari
Distance from Dehradun to Kanatal: 76 km
Travel time: 2 hours 56 mins
8. Chakrata, Uttarakhand
Chakrata is a gorgeous hill station in Uttarakhand surrounded by the mighty Himalayan range on top of the Yamuna valley. Known for its lush green forests, caves, and ancient temples, this small hamlet is among the most famous hill stations near Dehradun. The hill town is located at an elevation of 7,000 ft and serves as a popular picnic spot looking down upon the Yamuna valley.
Things to do in Chakrata: Trekking, skiing, birdwatching, cave tours, river rafting
Distance from Dehradun to Chakrata: 88 km
Travel time: 2 hours 59 mins
7. Ranikhet
Thinking to visit a small hill station near Dehradun? An impeccable hill station famous for its enchanting landscapes, golf courses, and church, Ranikhet is an ideal destination for your next vacation with family or friends. Located in Uttrakhand, Ranikhet observes snowfall in winters and so you should definitely visit the town on your next trip.
Distance from Dehradun to Ranikhet: 315 km
Things To Do: Sightseeing, Photography
6. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
A scintillating British Era hill station situated in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is known to all and quite famous among travelers. Shimla is the most famous hill station near Dehradun. Enjoy a ride to Shimla in a toy train or stroll around the Mall Road. You can even try adventurous activities like trekking, hiking and more while you explore this beautiful city in Himachal Pradesh.
Distance from Dehradun to Shimla: 227 Km
Travel time: 1 hour 20 mins
Things To Do: Trekking, Paragliding
5. Auli, Uttarakhand
Be it any season or any day of the month, a quick trip to Auli is always a good idea! If you love this hamlet in summers, you’ll love it even more in winter. Though there are only a few attractions to explore, Auli still makes up for a wonderful weekend getaway destination owing to its unmatched beauty, exhilarating experiences, and layers and layers of snow stretching into the beautiful horizon. If you are looking for the perfect destination to have a snow fight with your partner, then Auli is the best hill station near Dehradun for your sweet romance.
Things to do in Auli: Trekking, skiing, snow games, cable car rides
Distance from Dehradun to Auli: 295 km
Travel time: 4 hours 30 minutes
4. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Sitting at an elevation of around 1,700 m above sea level, Lansdowne is a lush haven of thick oak and pine forests, indescribable natural beauty, and endless opportunities for camping and trekking.
This quaint hill town in the Pauri district of Uttarakhand has been named after Lord Lansdowne, the then Viceroy of British India. Its tranquil aura and undisturbed natural beauty have earned it a place among the best hill stations around Dehradun. If you’re looking for the perfect place to relax near Dehradun then you’ll love a visit to Lansdowne for its leisurely walks and lazy sunsets
Things to do in Lansdowne: Camping, boating, nature walks, birdwatching
Distance from Dehradun to Lansdowne: 159 km
Travel time: 4 hours 30 mins
3. Parwanoo, Himachal
The newly built bypass road from Pinjore has made it so much more easy to explore this hidden paradise. Famous for the Timber Trail and the cable car rides, Parwanoo is among the best-unexplored hill stations near Dehradun that lies in its pristine form. The hamlet is also famous for its range of delicious fruit products like jams, jellies, and marmalades, owing to the endless expanses of fruit orchards here.
Things to do in Parwanoo: Trekking, hiking, cable car rides
Distance from Dehradun to Parwanoo: 181 km
Travel time: 5 hours
2. Chopta, Uttarakhand
One can feel the true magic of outdoors only in Chopta, whose stunning location and perfect topography makes it ideal for various adventure activities. Nestled in the heart of Kedarnath Valley in Uttarakhand, Chopta promises its visitors unique views of Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Trishul Peaks, all enveloped in snow. Imagine sitting around a cozy bonfire, listening to tipsy music in the company of friends, and sleeping under the stars! Chopta gives you that and much more. No wonder it’s the best hill station close to Dehradun and a sheer delight for mountain lovers.
Things to do in Chopta: Trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, mountain biking, camping
Distance from Dehradun to Chopta: 203 km
Travel time: 6 hours 7 mins
1. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital is a beautiful emerald lake town bordered by lush green hills, quaint old cottages, bustling markets, and a web of walking tracks. One of the most famous hill stations near Dehradun, Nainital offers plenty of charming attractions to explore and activities to indulge in. Boating, old temples, scenic views, shopping – Nainital is a bundle of joy for lovers of nature and mountains. In fact, Lake City is one of the favorite holiday hotspots of honeymooners and couples.
Things to do in Nainital: Boating, wildlife spotting, shopping, cable car rides, birdwatching
Distance from Dehradun to Nainital: 283 km
Travel time: 7 hours 47 mins
There’s more beauty in the hills of the north than you know. And with these stupendous hill stations near Dehradun, you can unveil a major share of the charm it holds! Book your own trip to Uttarakhand right away and begin exploring! Know of any more delightful hill stations around Dehradun? Put them in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions on Hill stations near Dehradun
Q. Which is the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand?
A. Dehradun is the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand.Q. Is Dehradun a hill station?
A. Yes, Dehradun is a hill station.Q. What are some hill stations are located near Dehradun?
A. Some of the famous hill stations near Dehradun are Chamba, Nainital, Chopta, Auli, Shimla, Kanatal, and many more.Q. Why Dehradun is famous for?
A. Dehradun is situated in the Doon Valley on the hills of the Himalayas settled between the river Ganges on the east and the river Yamuna on the west.Q. Is Dehradun worth visiting?
A. Yes! Dehradun is the capital of Uttaranchal. It is also known as Doon valley and is situated at the foothills of Shivalik ranges in India.Q. Is Dehradun a developed city?
A. Yes, Established by Guru Dronacharya, bestowing to the epic of Mahabharata, Dehradun is today one of the most developed cities of India.Q. How many days on average are needed to visit Dehradun?
A. 3 days! If you are planning a Dehradun trip of 3 days then you can cover Mussoorie along with Dehradun. Q.What is the best time to visit Dehradun?
A. The best time to visit Dehradun is from March to June. The maximum temperature during this time is 35 degrees Celsius and the minimum is 17 degrees Celsius.Q. Is it safe to visit Dehradun in July?
A. The monsoon season from July is exquisite, especially when it showers, making Dehradun a striking place to visit. The temperatures sort from 27-degree Celcius to 35-degree Celsius.Q. Is Dehradun a safe city?
A. The safest city is Dehradun, which ranks third, according to the combined survey conducted by Jagaran.com, KPMG, and Facebook.Q. What is the famous food of Dehradun?
A. Dehradun compromises several choices, what one must try, is the local food. These include Ghat ki Daal, Aloo ke Gutke, Kandalee ka saag, Nimbu, Kaafli, Gulgula as well as some traditional sweets that one just cannot miss such as Arsa, Bal Mithai, Jhangora ki Kheerand more.