Monsoon in the mountains can be a mesmerising experience. And one of the most ideal mountain destinations to spend a wonderful monsoon vacation is Dehradun. Lying in the cradle of the Doon valley, the picturesque city is flanked by sal forests and has soothing weather all around the year. During the rainy season, the drizzles turn the hilly slopes at Dehradun into an echoing green paradise. Its proximity to Delhi also makes it an ideal pick for a weekend getaway. 

If you are visiting Dehradun this monsoon, here are the 8 best things to do to make your vacation memorable!

1. Stay Amid The Malsi Forest At Hyatt Regency Dehradun

An abode of opulence in the lap of the mountains, Hyatt Regency Dehradun is a US-based 5-star hotel with top-notch amenities. Here, you can wake up to the uninterrupted valley views and start your day with a lavish breakfast at Range, the in-house cosmopolitan restaurant. On the rooftop of Hyatt, lies a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the stunning vistas of the Malsi forest. The spacious rooms here speak volumes of luxury and comfort. The property also has a spa, a fitness centre and a ballroom. And it has a special monsoon package too that includes amazing deals on stay, dining, spa, bar and other experiences. 

The monsoon package at Hyatt Regency Dehradun incorporates accommodation in the Regency King room for two adults and two kids, a daily breakfast buffet at Range, lunch and dinner at Range, happy hours ( 1+1 on drinks) at The Malt Bar on select beverages,15% discount on spa and 15% discount on food and soft beverages including in-room dining, among other amenities. Once you’re here, you can also explore a plethora of attractions nearby.

2. Busk In The Glory Of The Sahastradhara Waterfall

The roaring waters of the Sahastradhara Waterfall in Dehradun are known to have healing properties. Nestled between two caves with the Baldi River meandering beside, Sahastradhara looks nothing short of a spectacle. Monsoon is the best time to visit the fall. During this season, the mighty waters come rushing from above the cliff, offering glorious views.

3. Visit The Robber’s Cave

Known as the Gucchu Paani by the locals, Robber’s Cave is a natural gem near Dehradun with a river flowing in between. You can cross the stream to go to the cave’s edge, where a raging waterfall is located. The soothing breeze, the light rains and the damp smell in the air make Robber’s Cave one of the dreamiest monsoon destinations in Dehradun. It is said that during the British rule in India, robbers used to hide in this cave. That’s how the structure got its name. However, do check the weather forecasts before making your way to this cave in the rainy season. Do not enter the cave if it is raining heavily as the flow of the river increases.

4. Spot Majestic Herds Of Deer At the Malsi Deer Park

The rainwashed jungles of Malsi Deer Park look therapeutic during monsoons. Cocooned in the heart of the Malsi Reserve Forest, this deer park in the foothills of the Shivalik offers sightings of herds of two-horned deer, nilgai, peacocks and Himalayan birds. Lucky tourists might also spot tigers here. It lies on the Mussoorie highway, around 10 kilometres away from Dehradun. The park has a section for children too with swings and slides.

5. Go On A Monsoon Safari At Rajaji National Park

Thrill-seekers can embark on a monsoon safari through the wilderness of Rajaji National Park to spot elephants, tigers and other majestic animals. Tourists can enjoy rides through the buffer zone of the national park flanked by hills, water bodies and more. Due to the rains, the climate also remains soothing during this time. At this place, the chances to witness an Indian peacock unfurling its royal blue wings are high during monsoons.

6.  Witness Mulberry Cultivation At The Sericulture Centre

Get a glimpse into the art of mulberry cultivation and silkworm farming at Dehradun’s Sericulture Institute. Get close to the mulberry farms and have an immersive experience of silk farming at this production hub nestled around 8 kilometres away from Premnagar.

7. Visit The Filming Spot Of Student Of The Year

The palatial school building featured in the movie student of the year is none other than the popular Forest Research Institute of Dehradun. The institute sits in the lap of the mountains. You can enter the premises, walk through the British-era corridors and visit the museums inside. The institute is over a hundred years old.

8. Visit Nearby Spiritual Centres

If you’re a spiritual traveller, visit the Lakshman Sidhh and Tapkeshwar temples in Dehradun. The holy town of Rishikesh is just an hour’s drive from here. At Rishikesh, you can explore the serene white sand beaches, witness Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat and also visit ashrams like the Parmarth Niketan Ashram and Geeta Ashram. A hidden gem in Rishikesh, the Vashishtha Gufa Temple, will let you experience celestial energy flow inside a cave. The temple is flanked by a gorgeous white sand beach encompassed by the mountains.

So, don’t take a rain check on your travel plans this monsoon and pull out your travel bags ASAP!