Looking for the best places nearby Dehradun that can be covered in a single day? Whether you have a few hours or an entire day, several destinations within a short drive offer scenic views, peaceful surroundings, hill stations, waterfalls, temples, and nature escapes. From popular tourist places like Mussoorie to offbeat gems like Kimadi and Maldevta, there is something for every type of traveler.
In this blog, you will find some of the best one-day trips from Dehradun, along with the distance, travel time, best time to visit, things to do, and practical travel tips to help you plan your trip.
Top Tourist Places Near Dehradun for a One Day Visit (Within 100 Kms)
Kimadi, Old Mussorrie Road
- Distance from Dehradun: Around 15 km (30-40 minutes)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Famous For: Short drive, mountain views, quiet surroundings, nature
- Ideal Exploring Time: 2-3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather/ September to November for clear views
- Best For: Families, couples, nature lovers, short outings
Kimadi is a peaceful offbeat destination near Dehradun, located around 15 km from the city on the Old Mussoorie Road. Known for its scenic drive, forest routes, mountain views, and seasonal streams, it is a good choice for travelers looking for a short escape to nature without travelling too far. The best views appear about 10-12 km from Dehradun, as the city leaves behind. Unlike crowded tourist spots, Kimadi offers a quieter experience and is ideal for a relaxed half-day trip from Dehradun for families, couples, and photography lovers.
Why Visit Kimadi?
- Visit Kimadi Waterfall.
- Enjoy the scenic drive along Kimadi Road.
- Take photographs at multiple viewpoints
- Relax by the seasonal streams.
- Enjoy tea or Maggi at roadside stalls or restaurants
Recommended: Don’t rush through Kimadi. The drive, forested roads, and viewpoints along the way are a big part of the experience. During the monsoon, drive carefully as the roads can become slippery after rainfall, and avoid stopping on narrow bends.
Maldevta, Raipur
- Distance from Dehradun: Around 18 km (35-45 minutes)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Famous For: Song River, riverside picnic, greenery, peaceful atmosphere
- Ideal Exploring Time: 2-4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October to June for comfortable weather; avoid monsoon due to strong river currents
- Best For: Families, couples, friends, picnic lovers
Located in the Raipur area, around 18 km from Dehradun, Maldevta is one of the most popular riverside destinations for a short weekend getaway. If you are looking for a peaceful place to relax by the riverside without travelling too far, Maldevta is a great option for an outing. This location is surrounded by hills, forests, and the Song River, and can be explored in 2-3 hours. It is a favourite picnic spot among families, couples, and friends.
Many visitors plan their picnic here and spend time by the riverside. Besides being a nature and picnic spot, it is also a popular location for photography, pre-wedding and local promotional shoots.
Why Visit Maldevta?
- Relax by the Song River.
- Enjoy a picnic with family or friends.
- Take photographs of the surrounding hills and riverside.
- Visit nearby cafés and riverside resorts.
- Enjoy the scenic drive from Dehradun.
Recommended: If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, plan your visit on a weekday. Riversides are usually busiest on weekends with local visitors. During the monsoon, avoid entering the river and help keep the area clean.
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Dehradun: 33.8 km (1.5-2 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free (separate charges apply for attractions)
- Famous For: Mall Road, Gun Hill, mountain views, waterfalls
- Ideal Exploring Time: 5-8 hours
- Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather; December to February for winter views and snowfall chances
- Best For: Families, couples, first-time visitors, Mountain lovers
The most popular hill station, Mussoorie, is only 33.6 kms away from the city. It is a well-known tourist spot for mountain views, cafes, and snow experience, and is the most visited place nearby Dehradun. If you are planning a short trip within 50 kms from Dehradun, this place is suitable for you. It is the most crowded destination, unlike Kimadi or Maldevta, which offer more sightseeing options and facilities that make it the best tourist spot for families, couples, and first-time visitors. Depending on your available time, you can explore Nag Devta Temple and other popular attractions like Temple Mall Road, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, Kempty Falls, or if you have time plan a Himalayan trek to Nag Tibba on weekend for a more active escape.
Why Visit Mussoorie?
- Explore Mall Road and local markets.
- Enjoy mountain views from viewpoints like Gun Hill.
- Visit Camel’s Back Road.
- Explore nearby attractions like Kempty Falls.
- Enjoy cafes and bakeries.
Recommended: If you are planning Mussoorie as a one-day trip from Dehradun, start early. After around 9:00 AM, you may find traffic jams on the Dehradun-Mussoorie road, especially on weekends and peak hours.
Landour, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Dehradun: 40.9 km (1.5-2 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Famous For: Lal Tibba, Colonial architecture, Cafes, Peaceful Walks
- Ideal Exploring Time: 2-4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November for pleasant weather and clear views
- Best For: Couples, solo travelers, photographers, cafe lovers
If you are visiting Mussoorie, continue a little further to explore Landour, one of the quietest hill destinations near Dehradun. Located 3.5 km from Mussoorie, Landour is a peaceful British-era cantonment known for its colonial charm, cosy cafes, and beautiful Himalayan views. Apart from its colonial charm, Landour is also famous for its connection with Ruskin Bond, whose stories have made the beauty of these hills familiar to many readers.
Unlike the busier parts of Mussoorie, it offers a slower pace, making it a favorite among couples, families, solo travelers, photographers, and cafe lovers.
Landour can be easily explored in 2-3 hours, making it a good fit for a same-day trip from Dehradun. A few popular spots like Lal Tibba, Char Dukan, and St. Paul’s Church are located close to each other, so you can explore without rushing.
Why Visit Landour?
- Visit Lal Tibba View Point.
- Explore Char Dukan.
- Walk through the peaceful cantonment roads.
- Visit St. Paul’s Church.
- Relax at one of Landour’s cafés.
Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Dehradun: Around 60 km (2-2.5 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free (Eco Park has a separate entry fee)
- Famous For: Deodar forests, Eco Park, peaceful mountain views
- Ideal Exploring Time: 2-4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather; December to February for cold weather and occasional snowfall
- Best For: Families, couples, nature lovers, photographers
Dhanaulti, located on the Mussoorie-Chamba Road, is a quieter alternative to Mussoorie. Around 60 km from the city, Dhanaulti is a relaxing place for travelers planning a day trip. Known for its deodar forests and mountain views, it is a popular choice for families, couples, and nature lovers who want to spend a few quiet hours in the hills
Why Visit Dhanaulti?
- Walk through Eco Park.
- Enjoy the Himalayan views from nearby viewpoints.
- Try adventure activities (seasonal).
- Visit Surkanda Devi Temple or Kanatal if time permits.
- Enjoy the picturesque drive through deodar forests.
Around 2-4 hours are usually enough to explore Dhanaulti. To make the most of your day, combine it with Surkanda Devi Temple or Kanatal if you start early from Dehradun
Kanatal, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Dehradun: 76.3 km (3-3.5 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Famous For: Peaceful mountain views, camping, nature
- Ideal Exploring Time: 3-5 hours
- Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather; December to February for winter experience and snowfall chances
- Best For: Couples, families, road trip lovers, nature enthusiasts
Kanatal is considered an offbeat hill station, located 76.3 km away from the city on the Chamba-Mussoorie route. Compared to Mussoorie, Kanatal offers a quieter nature experience with forests and mountains, with beautiful Himalayan views. It is a good option for travelers looking for a peaceful weekend getaway from Dehradun or a longer one-day road trip surrounded by nature.
Known for its apple orchards, camping experiences, and peaceful atmosphere, Kanatal is best for visitors who prefer quiet hill destinations away from crowded tourist places. Due to the distance, it is a long one-day trip from Dehradun, but many visitors prefer staying overnight to enjoy the destination at a slower pace.
What Visit Kanatal?
- Enjoy scenic mountain drives.
- Explore forests and natural surroundings.
- Experience camping and stargazing.
- Visit nearby attractions like Surkanda Devi Temple.
- Spend time enjoying Himalayan views.
Recommended: The drive from Dehradun to Kanatal takes around 3-4 hours one way, so start early if you are planning trip for a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the destination, an overnight stay is a better option for a relaxed experience.
Surkanda Devi Temple, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Dehradun: 66.4 km (2-2.5 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free (ropeway ticket separate, if used)
- Famous For: Religious significance, temple trek, Himalayan views
- Ideal Exploring Time: 3-5 hours
- Best Time to Visit: March to June for comfortable trekking/ October to February for winter views
- Best For: Devotional travelers, families, couples, trekking enthusiasts
If you’re looking for a nearby destination from Dehradun that combines a temple visit with mountain views, Surkanda Devi Temple is worth visiting. This religious Shakti Peeth is most popular among devotional travelers & local visitors. Located near Dhanaulti on the Mussoorie-Chamba route, the journey offers a beautiful mix of a hill drive, peaceful surroundings, and panoramic views from the temple top.
The temple requires a short trek of around 1-2 km, so keep some extra time for the trek while planning your trip. The drive, the mountain views, and the calm atmosphere make it worth visiting for a full-day outing from Dehradun. You can also combine it with nearby places like Dhanaulti or Kanatal to make the most of your day.
Why Visit Surkanda Devi Temple?
- Do darshan of Maa Surkanda (One of the 51 Shaktipeeth)
- Enjoy views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Experience the scenic mountain drive.
- Combine the trip with Dhanaulti or Kanatal.
Recommended: Start your journey from Dehradun at around 5-6 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. As the day progresses, the temple area gets busy, and finding parking may take extra time, especially on weekends.
Asan Barrage (Uttarakhand- Himachal Border)
- Distance from Dehradun: 46.5 km (1-1.5 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Famous For: Birdwatching, wetland, migratory birds, peaceful landscapes
- Ideal Exploring Time: 2-4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, especially winter mornings for migratory birds
- Best For: Birdwatchers, photographers, families, nature lovers
Unlike the hill destinations mentioned above, Asan Barrage lies on the Dehradun-Chakrata Road and offers a completely different experience. The barrage creates a man-made reservoir, popularly known as Dhalipur Lake. Instead of winding mountain roads and viewpoints, this wetland is surrounded by water and is ideal spot for boating, kayaking and other water activities. The place is famous for birdwatching, especially migratory birds in winter, and for its lakeside location. It is a great choice for a relaxed half-day or one-day trip from Dehradun, whether you are travelling with family, friends, or your partner.
Why Visit Asan Barrage?
- Spot migratory birds during the winter season.
- Enjoy water activities like boating, kayaking, windsurfing, rowing etc
- Views of the wetland and surrounding landscape.
- Capture nature and bird photography.
- Spend a peaceful evening near the water.
Recommended: Visit Asan Barrage on a winter morning with your binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching. Weekends can be busier with local visitors, so visiting on a weekday can offer a quieter experience.
Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance from Dehradun: 49.5 km (1.5-2 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Famous For: Historic Gurudwara, Sikh pilgrimage, religious importance
- Ideal Exploring Time: 2-3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for comfortable weather
- Best For: Devotional travelers, families, history lovers
Continuing on the Dehradun-Paonta Sahib route, Paonta Sahib is a good option if you are looking for a peaceful spiritual destination in a single day. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this well-known religious destination is just 49.5 kms from Dehradun. This place is especially visited by devotees, families, and travelers wanting a calm and meaningful outing. The drive is comfortable, and the peaceful atmosphere around the Gurudwara makes it a refreshing break from the city’s chaos.
Only 1-2 hours is required to explore the Gurudwara, making it a perfect spot for religious travelers who want to explore nearby destinations from Dehradun. Many visitors also spend time by the riverside and explore the local market before returning. If you are travelling with family or visiting with elders, Paonta Sahib is one of the most convenient and peaceful day outings near Dehradun.
Why Visit Paonta?
- Visit Gurudwara Paonta Sahib.
- Spend some time by the Yamuna River.
- Experience the langer served at the Gurudwara
- Explore the local market.
- Enjoy the scenic drive from Dehradun.
Recommended: Cover your head before entering the Gurudwara and follow the Gurudwara’s guidelines to respect local customs and traditions.
Chakrata, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Dehradun: 92.2 km (3-4 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free (separate charges may apply at some attractions)
- Famous For: Tiger Falls, Deoban, viewpoints, forests, peaceful experience
- Ideal Exploring Time: 5-7 hours (overnight stay recommended for relaxed exploration)
- Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather; December to February for snowfall experience
- Best For: Nature lovers, families, road trip enthusiasts, adventure seekers
If you are ready to drive further on the same Chakrata road, you will reach Chakrata, a beautiful destination for a long day trip. Located 92.2 km away from the city. It is a peaceful and popular hill station known for the refreshing nature views. Unlike busier hill stations like Mussoorie, Chakrata offers a quieter experience, making it a great choice for families, couples, and friends who enjoy spending time close to nature.
Since the journey takes around 3-4 hours one way, it is best to plan as a full-day outing in Chakrata. If time allows, combine popular attractions like Tiger Falls, Chilmiri Neck, and Deoban in your trip, although covering all of them comfortably in a single day may not always be possible.
If you have extra time, you can also stop at Matogi Shiv Mandir, a peaceful shrine on the Chakrata route that is often visited by travelers passing through the area.
Why Visit Chakrata?
- Visit Tiger Falls.
- Enjoy panoramic views from Chilmiri Neck.
- Explore Deoban (if time permits).
- Stop at local cafés and viewpoints.
- Enjoy the scenic drive through forests and hills.
Recommended: Start your journey early in the morning to make the most of your day. If you start late, you may not have enough time to visit Tiger Falls and other nearby attractions comfortably. If possible, consider staying overnight to explore Chakrata at a more relaxed pace.
Katapatthar, Vikasnagar
- Distance from Dehradun: 46.5 km (1-1.5 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Famous For: Yamuna River, riverside picnic, peaceful natural surroundings
- Ideal Exploring Time: 2-4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October to June for comfortable weather; avoid monsoon due to river conditions
- Best For: Families, friends, picnic lovers, nature lovers
If you are planning to spend time by the riverside instead of visiting crowded tourist spots, Katapathar is worth considering. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this peaceful destination is popular as a picnic spot among local families, friends, and nature lovers. The surroundings and the flowing Yamuna River, and cooking on the riverside make this place quite enjoyable. It is a good choice for a half-day or one-day outing near Dehradun, especially if you prefer peaceful places over busy tourist hotspots.
Why Visit Katapatthar?
- Relax by the Yamuna River.
- Enjoy a riverside picnic.
- Capture scenic views for photography.
- Take a peaceful break while exploring the Chakrata route.
Recommended: Carry your own drinking water and snacks, as facilities around the riverside are limited, and avoid entering the river during monsoons.
Kalsi, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Dehradun: Around 48.3 km (1-1.5 hours)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Famous For: Ashokan Rock Edict, heritage, history, cultural importance
- Ideal Exploring Time: 2-3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for comfortable sightseeing
- Best For: History lovers, students, families, heritage enthusiasts
If you are interested in exploring history and heritage, Kalsi is worth adding to your one-day outing from Dehradun. This town is home to the famous Ashokan Rock Edict, it offers a different experience from the hill stations and waterfalls around Dehradun. It is a good choice for visitors looking to explore Uttarakhand beyond the usual tourist spots.
Why Visit Kalsi?
- Visit the Ashokan Rock Edict.
- Explore the surrounding heritage area.
- Take a short walk around the riverside near Kalsi.
- Enjoy a peaceful drive from Dehradun.
Which One-Day Trip Near Dehradun Is Right for You?
| If You Want To | Visit |
|---|---|
| Visit a famous hill station | Mussoorie + Landour |
| Explore peaceful hill destinations | Dhanaulti + Kanatal + Chakrata |
| Visit religious places | Surkanda Devi Temple + Paonta Sahib |
| Enjoy a riverside picnic | Maldevta + Katapathar |
| Experience nature and scenic drives | Kimadi + Chakrata + Maldevta |
| Birdwatching & love water destination | Asan Barrage |
| Explore history and heritage | Kalsi |
Planning a hill-station getaway from Dehradun? Read our guide to find out whether Mussoorie or Chakrata is better for your trip.
Suggested One-Day Route Trips from Dehradun
Short Getaways Near Dehradun
Kimadi + Maldevta (for short drive and picnic resp.)
Mussoorie-Chamba Route
Mussoorie – Landour – Dhanaulti – Surkanda Devi Temple – Kanatal
- Mussoorie + Landour
- Dhanaulti + Surkanda Devi Temple
- Dhanaulti + Surkanda Devi Temple + Kanatal (if you start early) or
- Kanatal (full day trip)
Chakrata Road
Asan Barrage – Kalsi – Chakrata – Katapathar
- Asan Barrage + Kalsi
- Kalsi + Chakrata
- Chakrata + Katapathar (if you have extra time while returning)
- Chakrata (full day)
Paonta Sahib Road
Asan Barrage + Paonta Sahib
Asan Barrage is located before the road splits towards Paonta Sahib and Chakrata, so it can be combined with either route depending on your travel plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which places near Dehradun can be visited within 50 km?
Within 50 km of Dehradun, you can visit Kimadi, Maldevta, Mussoorie, Landour, Asan Barrage, Kalsi, and Paonta Sahib, making them convenient choices for a short getaway.
Is one day enough to explore Mussoorie and Landour?
Yes. If you start early from Dehradun, you can explore the main attractions in Mussoorie and spend relaxing time in Landour on a single day.
Which destination is best for couples near Dehradun?
Landour, Dhanaulti, Kanatal, and Kimadi are some of the best places for couples looking to enjoy a drive, spend time in quite place away from the crowds.
Can I visit multiple places in one day nearby Dehradun?
Yes. You can combine multiple destinations in a single day if they are on the same route and you start your journey early. Plan your itinerary based on travel time rather than distance, and avoid adding too many stops on hill routes, as traffic can increase travel time.
What are the best religious destinations for a day trip from Dehradun?
- Surkanda Devi Temple: Famous Shakti Peeth with Himalayan views.
- Santala Devi Temple: Peaceful hilltop temple near Dehradun.
- Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple: Popular Shiva temple on the Mussoorie Road.
- Paonta Sahib: Revered Sikh pilgrimage destination.
- Matogi Shiv Temple: Peaceful temple on the Chakrata route.
What are the best picnic spots near Dehradun?
Maldevta and Katapathar are two of the most popular riverside picnic spots near Dehradun. Maldevta is located along the Song River, while Katapathar on the banks of the Yamuna River. Both are great for families, groups, and anyone looking to relax in a natural setting.
Which places can I visit within 20-25 km of Dehradun?
Kimadi and Maldevta are two of the best places for a short outing from Dehradun. Both are located within around 20 km from the city and are perfect for a relaxing break from the city.
Do I need a full day to explore Kanatal?
Yes. Kanatal is best planned as a full-day trip because of the travel time. If you start early, you can combine it with Dhanaulti or Surkanda Devi Temple, but an overnight stay lets you enjoy the destination at a more relaxed pace.
Which place near Dehradun is best for a first-time visitor?
Mussoorie is the best choice for first-time visitors as it is a popular hill station famous for cafes, shopping, and nature viewpoints. If you prefer quieter surroundings, Landour or Dhanaulti are excellent alternatives.
Which tourist places near Dehradun are best to visit with families with children?
Mussoorie, Landour, Maldevta, Asan Barrage, Dhanaulti, and Paonta Sahib are among the best family-friendly destinations near Dehradun.
