Uttarakhand
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3 Days in Dehradun for a Food Trip
Dehradun is a hidden gem for food lovers, offering everything from street snacks to cozy hill-style cafes. Over three days, you'll taste the best of Garhwali flavors, sip on locally grown tea, and discover why this city is famous for its bakeries. I've spent years exploring Dehradun's food scene, and this itinerary covers all my favorite spots.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Dehradun
A mix of iconic sights and delicious local flavors to kick off your Dehradun trip. We'll cover the city's top attractions and savor its famous dishes.
Activities
Robber's Cave & Guchhupani
Start your day with a short hike to Robber's Cave, a natural wonder where a river mysteriously disappears underground. The cool water and unique rock formations make it a refreshing morning spot. Nearby Guchhupani (also called Sahastradhara) has therapeutic sulfur springs – dip your feet if you're feeling adventurous!
- Wear sturdy shoes for the rocky path
- Carry a towel if you plan to wade in the water
Lunch at Kalsang Friends Corner
This unassuming Tibetan joint serves the best momos in town. Try their steamed mutton momos with fiery chutney or the hearty thukpa noodle soup. The butter tea is an acquired taste but worth sampling for the authentic Himalayan experience.
- Ask for 'half fry' momos for a crispy twist
- Their chili oil is homemade – use sparingly!
Forest Research Institute & Tea Garden Stroll
Walk off lunch at Dehradun's most photogenic spot – the colonial-era FRI campus with its grand buildings and towering trees. The adjacent Tea Garden is perfect for an evening stroll among fragrant tea bushes, with locals gathering here for chai as the sun sets.
- Visit the museum inside FRI (closes at 4:30)
- Try masala chai from roadside stalls near the garden
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Dehradun
A mix of iconic sights and local flavors, from colonial-era landmarks to bustling markets and hidden food gems.
Activities
Mindrolling Monastery & Buddha Park
Start your day with serenity at this stunning Tibetan Buddhist monastery, one of the largest in India. The intricate architecture and giant golden Buddha statue are breathtaking. Don’t miss the peaceful Buddha Park next door, filled with smaller stupas and lush greenery.
- Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees)
- Try the butter tea at the monastery café for an authentic taste
Paltan Bazaar & Lunch at Black Pepper
Dive into Dehradun’s most famous market for spices, woolens, and local souvenirs. After shopping, head to Black Pepper, a beloved no-frills spot for Garhwali thalis. Their slow-cooked dal, bhang ki chutney, and mandua ki roti are must-tries.
- Bargain gently in the market—start at 60% of quoted prices
- Ask for the seasonal saag (leafy greens) at Black Pepper
Tapkeshwar Temple & Evening Chai
A unique cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where water drips naturally onto the lingam. The walk through the forested path adds to the charm. Wrap up with masala chai and hot pakoras at the tiny stalls outside—locals swear by the one with the blue benches.
- Wear sturdy shoes—the path can be slippery
- Try the ‘special chai’ with ginger and black pepper
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Hidden Gems & Local Flavors of Dehradun
A relaxed day uncovering Dehradun's lesser-known spots and indulging in its authentic food culture, from heritage bakeries to hidden viewpoints.
Activities
Breakfast at Ellora's Bakery
Start your day at this 80-year-old bakery, a local institution famous for its fruit buns, patties, and melt-in-the-mouth rusks. The colonial-era building and vintage display counters add to the charm. Try their signature plum cake if you visit around Christmas.
- Ask for 'fresh from oven' items around 8:30 AM
- Their cheese straws make great edible souvenirs
Sahastradhara & Sulphur Springs
Escape to this therapeutic spot where hundreds of mineral-rich streams cascade down limestone formations. The sulphur springs are believed to have healing properties. Weekdays are blissfully quiet compared to weekends when local families picnic here.
- Wear water-friendly sandals
- Carry a towel if planning to dip in springs
Evening at Prakash Lok
Wrap up your trip at this legendary no-frills eatery serving Dehradun's best kachoris since 1952. Their aloo-pyaz kachoris with tangy tamarind chutney are legendary. Grab a stool at the shared tables and watch the evening snack rush unfold.
- Try their special lassi in kulhad (clay cup)
- Buy their famous papad as takeaway