Once you travel up to Dehradun, the location begins to act as a base for further adventures. The hilly circuit of Dehradun, Mussoorie and Dhanaulti, at an average elevation of 6,170 ft, makes for a great exploration of the hills of Uttarakhand, providing ample activities, places and experiences you could explore. From the Mall Road of Mussoorie to the Eco Park of Dhanaulti and the mystical Robbers' Cave of Dehradun, a traveller hits on a gem once they are on this circuit. We have curated a full 3-day itinerary to explore this circuit best.
Begin your day by visiting the Robber's Cave, or Gucchupani. This natural cave formation is surrounded by lush greenery, and a stream flows inside. The story of the cave dates back to the 1800s when robbers used it to hide their looted treasures from the British police. It's a great place to spend a few hours away from the city. Local tales suggest that the cave served as a hideout for robbers because of its complex passages and chambers, which allowed them to evade authorities and stash their ill-gotten treasures. You can explore the cave, discover its enigmatic passages, and refresh yourself by dipping your feet in the cool water.
Later, head to the Forest Research Institute (FRI), a well-reputed institution for forestry research in India. The vast campus is home to buildings from the colonial era and educational museums that showcase India's diverse biodiversity. The FRI provides guided tours twice daily, from 9 am to 1 pm and from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. The admission fee is INR 20 per person, and you can buy tickets at the front desk of the building. The FRI is open from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5:30 pm, and it remains closed on Saturday and Sunday. You can take a refreshing walk through the botanical gardens and learn about various tree species.
End your day with a visit to the Clock Tower, a prominent landmark in Dehradun. Around the tower, you will find bustling markets that offer a variety of local products and street food. You can enjoy shopping and savour delicious snacks like chaat and momos from roadside stalls.
In the morning, take a bus from Dehradun to Mussoorie, a distance of 33 km. The route between the two stations is magnificent, with verdant rolling hills, neat terraced farms, and thrilling hairpin bends on steep rises along the roads. It is advised to sit on the left window site of the bus to best enjoy the scenic ride. Once in Mussoorie, start your day by taking a cable car ride to Gun Hill, the second-highest peak in Mussoorie. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and the Doon Valley from the hilltop. You can also indulge in some souvenir shopping and try local snacks at the viewpoint.
Later, you can visit Kempty Falls, one of the most renowned waterfalls in Uttarakhand. It's situated at an altitude of 1,364 metres above sea level. You can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters or simply relax amidst the picturesque surroundings. Additionally, you can enjoy a picnic by the falls while admiring the cascading water.
In the evening, you can explore Mall Road, the central hub of bustling activity in Mussoorie. You can walk along the charming promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and buildings from the colonial era. You can treat yourself to some delicious Tibetan cuisine at one of the local eateries or enjoy a cup of steaming hot tea at a cosy café.
On your third morning, you can take a bus from Mussoorie to Dhanaulti, about 24 km away. The route between the two stations is equally scenic, although narrower and steeper. Once you reach Dhanaulti, you can witness the ice-capped Himalayan peaks glistening in the virgin sunlight. Start your day by visiting Eco Park, nestled amidst dense forests and offering panoramic Himalayas views. Various recreational activities are available, such as horse riding, trekking, and nature walks. Don't miss the opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the surrounding landscape.
Proceed to Surkanda Devi Temple, located in the Unniyal Village of Tehri district, at about 9,041 feet above sea level, dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Trek up to the temple, enjoying the serene ambience and scenic vistas along the way. Pay homage at the shrine and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Wrap your trip up by visiting Potato Farm, where you can discover the methods of potato cultivation and relish the spectacular views of the valleys beneath. Satiate your taste buds with freshly prepared potato-based snacks such as aloo paratha or potato chaat before bidding adieu to the tranquil hills of Dhanaulti.