Dehradun, the scenic capital of Uttarakhand, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, peaceful riversides, and refreshing mountain air. If you’re searching for “picnic places near me” and you’re in or around Dehradun, you’re in for a treat.
city and its surrounding areas are home to some of the best natural escapes—perfect for a day outing with family, friends, or even a solo nature break.
From hidden caves and flowing rivers to forested retreats and mountain viewpoints, this article will walk you through the top Dehradun picnic place options where you can relax, reconnect, and recharge.
1. Guchu Pani (Robber’s Cave) – A Unique Picnic Experience in a River Cave
No list of Dehradun picnic place ideas is complete without Guchu Pani, also known as Robber’s Cave. It’s one of the most visited yet surreal picnic destinations in Dehradun.
What makes it unique? A cool stream of water flows through a narrow cave, giving visitors a rare chance to walk through water inside a cave.
Why it’s perfect for a picnic:
- Shallow flowing water to wade in barefoot
- Naturally cool even during summer
- Food stalls nearby for quick snacks
Distance from Dehradun: Approx. 8 km
Best Time to Visit: March to June, and post-monsoon in September–October
2. Song River – A Quiet Riverside Escape
If your ideal picnic spot involves dipping your feet in cold mountain water and enjoying undisturbed nature, then Song River is the place for you.
Flowing gently near the Maldevta region, the Song River is one of the most peaceful picnic places near me for Dehradun locals.
Why it’s perfect for a picnic:
- Secluded and uncrowded
- Ideal for laying out a picnic mat by the river
- Surrounded by greenery and fresh mountain air
Distance from Dehradun: Around 12–15 km (via Raipur Road)
Best Time to Visit: March to July
3. Tons River – The Underrated Picnic Paradise
For those looking to explore beyond the usual spots, Tons River offers a raw, natural riverside experience.
Known for its clean waters and quiet surroundings, this river near Dehradun is ideal for long, lazy picnic afternoons with close friends or family.
Why it’s perfect for a picnic:
- Scenic views and a wide, open riverside
- Great for photography and quiet reflection
- Fewer tourists make it a hidden gem
Distance from Dehradun: Approx. 20–25 km, near Chakrata Road
Best Time to Visit: April to June, post-monsoon as well
4. Maldevta – Forest, River, and Peace All in One
Maldevta is one of the most popular Dehradun picnic place choices for both locals and tourists.
The scenic combination of riverbanks, open forest areas, and hill views makes it a go-to spot for all-day picnics.
Why it’s perfect for a picnic:
- Song River flows nearby
- Open space for games, music, or meditation
- Accessible by road with easy parking
Distance from Dehradun: Approx. 18 km
Best Time to Visit: March to June, and October
5. Sahastradhara – More Than Just a Tourist Spot
While Sahastradhara is famous for its sulphur springs and waterfall, there are hidden picnic spots along its streams and walking trails that offer peaceful moments away from the main crowd.
Why it’s perfect for a picnic:
- Natural pools with healing sulphur water
- Small eateries and resting spots nearby
- A mix of sightseeing and relaxation
Distance from Dehradun: Approx. 14 km
Best Time to Visit: March to July
6. Lacchiwala Nature Park – Ideal for Family Picnics
A forest picnic spot developed by the forest department, Lacchiwala (now called Nature Park) is a great Dehradun picnic place for families with kids. It has man-made water pools, walking trails, and ample shade.
Why it’s perfect for a picnic:
- Safe and family-friendly
- Benches, huts, and walking trails
- Activities for children and elders alike
Distance from Dehradun: Approx. 20 km, on the way to Haridwar
Best Time to Visit: October to March for cooler weather
7. Tapkeshwar Temple Area – Sacred and Serene
Located on the banks of a seasonal river, Tapkeshwar Temple is both a spiritual site and a quiet picnic area. The surrounding forested region and the natural cave shrine offer a mix of cultural visit and natural beauty.
Why it’s perfect for a picnic:
- Shaded by trees, cool even in summer
- Close to the city yet peaceful
- Combine spirituality with relaxation
Distance from Dehradun: 7 km from city center
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
8. Khalanga War Memorial Area – History and Hillside Picnics
Looking for a picnic place near me that also offers history and a panoramic view?
The Khalanga War Memorial area offers open green spaces and lesser-known trails, making it ideal for a quick nature break and learning about the Gorkha regiment’s bravery.
Why it’s perfect for a picnic:
- Quiet and historic location
- Elevated views of the surrounding valley
- Peaceful for morning or evening outings
Distance from Dehradun: Around 6–7 km from Rajpur Road
Best Time to Visit: March to November
Tips for Planning Your Picnic in Dehradun
- Carry a mat, water, and light food/snacks
- Do not litter – always carry trash bags
- Wear light clothes and sun protection in summer
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must for trails
- Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon heat
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a picnic spot by a river, in the forest, or amidst hills, there’s a perfect Dehradun picnic place waiting for you.
From well-known spots like Robber’s Cave and Maldevta to hidden rivers like Song and Tons, these picnic places near me (and you, if you’re in or around Dehradun) are peaceful, scenic, and perfect for unwinding this summer.
So pack your basket, invite your loved ones, and spend a day in the lap of nature—Dehradun’s natural beauty awaits you.
Here are some summer getaways around Dehradun
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q1. What are the best picnic places near me in Dehradun?
Ans: Some of the best picnic places near me in Dehradun include Guchu Pani (Robber’s Cave), Maldevta, Song River, Tons River, Lacchiwala Nature Park, and Sahastradhara.
Q2. Is Guchu Pani (Robber’s Cave) a good Dehradun picnic place?
Ans: Yes, Guchu Pani is one of the most unique and popular Dehradun picnic places, where you can walk through a stream inside a cave and enjoy a cool, shaded natural setting.
Q3. Are the picnic places near Dehradun suitable for families and kids?
Ans: Absolutely! Spots like Maldevta, Lacchiwala, and Sahastradhara are family-friendly, offering safe surroundings, open spaces, and even shallow riverbanks for kids to enjoy.
Q4. Are there any hidden or less crowded picnic spots in Dehradun?
Ans: Yes, hidden gems like Kimadi Waterfall, Tons River, and the streams beyond Sahastradhara offer peaceful and less crowded Dehradun picnic place options for offbeat experiences.
Q5. What should I carry for a picnic in Dehradun?
Ans: Carry essentials like a picnic mat, drinking water, light snacks, sunscreen, a small first aid kit, and a trash bag to help keep the picnic places near me clean and eco-friendly.
