Dehradun, the gateway to the Himalayas, offers a plethora of hiking trails that cater to adventurers of all levels. From leisurely strolls to challenging treks, there’s something for everyone. Surrounded by lush forests, majestic mountains, and serene valleys, these trails provide an unforgettable experience.
Dehradun, nestled in the picturesque Doon Valley, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, the city offers some of the best hiking trails that promise a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a refreshing escape into nature. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a beginner, these trails cater to all levels of hikers, offering diverse experiences from lush forests to panoramic mountain views.
1. George Everest Peak Trek
Trek Starting Point: Library Bus Stand/Hathipaon Chowk, Mussoorie
Distance from Dehradun: 34 km
Best time to do the trek: Spring, Autumn
George Everest Peak is a popular hiking destination located near Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, India. It’s named after Sir George Everest, the Surveyor General of India who played a crucial role in measuring Mount Everest’s height.
Here’s a brief overview of the peak:
- Elevation: Approximately 6,578 feet (2,005 meters) above sea level.
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- Difficulty: Considered a moderate trek, suitable for beginners and experienced hikers.
- Views: Offers stunning panoramic views of the Doon Valley, snow-capped Himalayan peaks, and the surrounding hills.
- Activities: Popular for hiking, camping, picnics, and birdwatching.
- Location: Just 4 kilometers away from Mussoorie, making it easily accessible.
The trek to George Everest Peak typically involves:
- Hike to the peak: The trail starts from near Sir George Everest’s house and leads uphill through forests and meadows.
- Enjoy the views: Once at the summit, you can savor the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.
- Explore the area: You can also visit Sir George Everest’s house, which is now a museum, and explore nearby attractions like Hathipaon and Lambi Dehar Mines.
If you’re looking for a rewarding and scenic hike near Mussoorie, George Everest Peak is a great option.
2. Landour — Lal Tibba Trek
Trek Starting Point: Landour Clock Tower
Distance from Dehradun: 34 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons
The highest peak of Mussoorie, Lal Tibba is one of the most popular places in the region. Located at Depot Hill in Landour, Lal Tibba is well known among travelers and trekkers alike. Be it the sight of mesmerizing mountain peaks or the splendid sunrise and sunset views, Lal Tibba doesn’t fail to amaze you.
Lal Tibba is also one of the oldest places in Mussoorie. A testament to it is the structures from the pre-independence era that you see on the trail. Lal Tibba is a steep trail and is nestled in the dense canopy of Deodar trees. At the top, there is a government-approved mounted telescope at a cafe named Lal Tibba Binocular Cafe. On a clear day, from the telescope, you get an excellent view of the Himalayas, including Badrinath and Kedarnath!
The Landour — Lal Tibba trek is suitable for both fit beginners and experienced trekkers.
3. Nag Tibba Trek
Trek Starting Point: Pantwari Village
Distance from Dehradun: 100 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons except monsoon
Golden Sunset on Nag Tibba Trek. Picture by Kumar Amrit.
Resting at 9806 ft, the summit of this trek is the highest in the Nag Tibba range of the Garhwal Himalayas. From here, you see a 100-degree view of snow-capped Himalayan ranges such as Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Srikantha, and Gangotri. You also see Kedarnath peak in the north, Doon valley, and the snow peaks of Changabang. With views like this and a climb to make you earn them, this weekend trek may be one of the best.
As you go up one side of the mountain and come down from another side, you also experience a variety of landscapes. This trek takes you through dense forests, clearings, and ridge walk. All within two days!
For beginners, Nag Tibba is a great introductory trek. That being said, even for the experienced trekkers, it offers the thrill of a summit climb in just two days.
4. Nag Thatch Trek
Trek Starting Point: Saindul Village
Distance from Dehradun: 100 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons except monsoon
A quaint village west of Pantwari called Saindul is the base of this short little day hike called Nag Thatch. Nag Thatch trek overlooks the famed Nag Tibba trek, but it takes half the effort to get the views which you would otherwise get from the top of Nag Tibba.
From Nag Thatch, one can see almost all the mountain peaks of Garhwal Himalaya such as Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Shrikanth, Gangotri 1, Jaonli, Thalaysagar, Kedarnath Main, Kedarnath Dome, Chaukhamba and many others. For an easy and short trek of 2.5 kilometres, this is a dream come true! Apart from the big mountain views, the trek also has pretty meadows that are lush green in summer and golden brown in autumn. You’ll also find snow here in winter.
The Nag Thatch trek can be done by both fit beginners and experienced trekkers. It is an ideal trek for families with children and elders who find it difficult to do longer Himalayan treks.
5. Neergarh Waterfalls Trek
Trek Starting Point: Jonk Rishikesh
Distance from Dehradun: 47 km
Best time to do the trek: All seasons
Neergarh Waterfalls Trek offers a serene escape amidst the lush greenery of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. This picturesque hike is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility. As you ascend through the verdant forests, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills and the cascading waters of Neergarh Falls. The trek is suitable for both experienced hikers and casual nature enthusiasts, providing a memorable experience in the heart of nature.