Best Places to Visit in Dehradun with Family

Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is a wonderful destination for families, offering the perfect blend of nature, learning, and fun-filled activities. Nestled in the Doon Valley with a pleasant climate (10°C–25°C) and lush greenery, it sets the stage for memorable trips with kids and adults alike. From serene parks to interactive museums, the city has no shortage of engaging spots that make it ideal for family outings. This guide highlights the best places to visit in Dehradun with family, including Malsi Deer Park, Forest Research Institute (FRI), and the Subir Raha Oil Museum, along with other enriching attractions. Each spot is detailed with activities, timings, entry fees, and practical tips for smooth planning. Whether you’re looking for nature walks, wildlife encounters, or educational experiences, these places to visit in Dehradun with family promise a delightful getaway for all ages.

Why Dehradun for Families?

Dehradun’s appeal lies in its safe, accessible, and engaging attractions that cater to children of all ages. The city’s natural surroundings, including the Shivalik range and verdant forests, create a serene backdrop for outdoor activities like picnicking and nature walks. Educational sites, such as museums, offer interactive exhibits that spark curiosity in young minds, while parks with play areas keep kids entertained. The user’s request for family-friendly places, specifically highlighting Malsi Deer Park, FRI, and Subir Raha Oil Museum, aligns perfectly with Dehradun’s offerings. These spots, along with others like Robber’s Cave and Lacchiwala Nature Park, provide a diverse range of experiences, from wildlife encounters to scientific exploration. The best times to visit are March to June and September to November, when pleasant weather enhances outdoor fun, though winter (December–February) offers a cozy ambiance, and monsoon (July–August) brings lush greenery but requires caution due to slippery paths.

Top Family-Friendly Places in Dehradun

Below is a curated list of Dehradun’s best family-friendly attractions, presented in a numbered format as requested. Each entry includes detailed information on location, activities, entry fees, timings, best times to visit, and practical tips, ensuring a comprehensive guide for planning your family trip. The information is drawn from recent sources to provide accurate and up-to-date details, addressing the user’s focus on Malsi Deer Park, Forest Research Institute, and Subir Raha Oil Museum, with additional suggestions to enrich the experience.

1. Malsi Deer Park (Dehradun Zoo)

• Location: Mussoorie Road, Malsi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001, India (30.3648° N, 78.0746° E, ~10 km from Dehradun city center)
• Description: Malsi Deer Park, also known as Dehradun Zoo, is a 25-hectare mini-zoological park nestled at the foothills of the Shivalik range. It seems likely that its serene setting and diverse wildlife make it a top family-friendly destination in Dehradun. Established in 1976, the park is home to animals such as spotted deer, barking deer, sambar deer, nilgai, peacocks, rabbits, and various birds, including owls and parakeets. The park’s children’s play area, with swings and slides, and its lush surroundings make it ideal for picnics and nature walks, offering a fun and educational experience for kids.
• Activities:
  • Observe wildlife, including deer, peacocks, and rabbits, in their natural habitat.
  • Enjoy the children’s play area with swings, slides, and merry-go-rounds.
  • Picnic in designated areas surrounded by Sal trees and scenic hills.
  • Engage in photography to capture the park’s flora and fauna.
• Entry Fees: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children; camera fees ~₹50; parking fees ~₹10–₹40 (weekdays/weekends)
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (closed on Mondays)
• Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather (15°C–25°C), allowing animals to be active and visible; September to November for lush greenery post-monsoon. Avoid July to August due to heavy rainfall and muddy paths.
• How to Reach: From Dehradun city center, take a taxi (₹200–₹400, 20 minutes) or auto-rickshaw (₹100–₹200) via Mussoorie Road. Public buses (₹20–₹50) are available but may require a short walk from the drop-off point. Dehradun is 230 km from Delhi (5–6 hours via NH334, taxis ~₹3,000–₹5,000) or 200 km from Chandigarh (4–5 hours).
• Tips for Families:
  • Arrive early to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
  • Supervise children in the play area and near animal enclosures to ensure safety.
  • Bring snacks and water, as the park’s canteen offers limited options (e.g., Maggi, chai ~₹50–₹100).
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on tiled pathways and exploring the park.
  • Avoid feeding animals to preserve their natural behavior and follow park guidelines.
• Why Kids Will Love It: The playful deer, colorful peacocks, and interactive play area keep kids entertained, while the serene environment offers a relaxing outing for parents. The park’s compact size ensures it’s manageable for young children without being overwhelming.
• Source: Dehradun Tourism - Malsi Deer Park

2. Forest Research Institute (FRI)

• Location: Kaulagarh Road, PO. I.P.E., Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248195, India (30.3416° N, 77.9967° E, ~5 km from Dehradun city center)
• Description: The Forest Research Institute (FRI), established in 1878 as the Imperial Forest Research Institute, is a premier institution for forestry research and education, declared a deemed university in 1991. Its main building, a national heritage site designed by C.G. Blomfield in 1929, showcases stunning Greeko-Roman architecture with arches and columns. Spanning 450 hectares, FRI features six museums, a botanical garden, and lush grounds, making it an educational and visually appealing destination for families. It seems likely that the institute’s interactive exhibits and scenic campus captivate children while offering parents a glimpse into India’s forestry heritage.
• Activities:
  • Explore six museums covering forestry, botany, and Himalayan ecology, with exhibits on herbs, woods, and wildlife.
  • Stroll through the botanical garden to learn about native plants and trees.
  • Admire the colonial architecture of the main building, a favorite for photography.
  • Enjoy picnicking on the expansive lawns, ideal for family relaxation.
• Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children; guided tours may cost extra (~₹100–₹200)
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (closed on Sundays and public holidays; closed 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM for lunch)
• Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather (15°C–25°C); September to November for lush greenery and clear skies. Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to potential rain disruptions.
• How to Reach: From Dehradun city center, take a taxi (₹150–₹300, 15 minutes) or auto-rickshaw (₹80–₹150) via Kaulagarh Road. Public buses (₹20–₹50) are available but may require a short walk. Dehradun is 230 km from Delhi (5–6 hours via NH334).
• Tips for Families:
  • Opt for a guided tour to enhance the educational experience for kids, available through the institute or local operators like www.euttaranchal.com.
  • Bring a camera, but note that photography is prohibited inside the museums.
  • Pack snacks and water, as the campus canteen has limited options (~₹50–₹100 for snacks).
  • Supervise children on the expansive grounds to ensure they stay on designated paths.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the large campus and gardens.
• Why Kids Will Love It: The interactive museum exhibits, such as displays on forest products and wildlife, spark curiosity, while the open lawns provide space for kids to play and explore.
• Source: FRI Official Website

3. Subir Raha Oil Museum

• Location: Tel Bhawan, ONGC Headquarters, Krishna Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248003, India (30.3165° N, 78.0322° E, ~3.5 km from Dehradun Railway Station)
• Description: The Subir Raha Oil Museum, inaugurated on August 14, 2005, is a unique attraction housed within the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) headquarters, formerly the Patiala House. Named after ONGC’s former chairman, it offers an engaging look at India’s oil industry through interactive exhibits, models, and artifacts. It seems likely that the museum’s hands-on displays, such as a life-size oil rig model and a 3D theater, make it a fascinating stop for kids interested in science and technology. The museum is divided into three sections: oil history, exploration and production, and refining and transportation.
• Activities:
  • Explore exhibits on the history of oil, including samples of crude oil and flow charts.
  • Interact with models like the oil rig exhibit, where kids can climb and learn about drilling.
  • Watch a documentary in the 3D theater about India’s oil industry.
  • Visit the “Hall of Fame” showcasing pioneers of the oil sector.
• Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (closed on Sundays)
• Best Time to Visit: March to June for comfortable weather (15°C–25°C); September to November for pleasant conditions. Year-round indoor attraction, suitable even during monsoon.
• How to Reach: From Dehradun city center, take a taxi (₹100–₹200, ~10 minutes) or auto-rickshaw (₹50–₹100) via Saharanpur Road. The museum is near the ONGC headquarters, ask locals for “Tel Bhawan” if needed. Dehradun is 230 km from Delhi (5–6 hours via NH334).
• Tips for Families:
  • Combine with nearby attractions like Robber’s Cave or Sahastradhara Springs for a full day out.
  • Encourage kids to engage with interactive displays for a hands-on learning experience.
  • Note that the museum is small, so plan for a 1–2 hour visit.
  • Check for updated documentary quality, as some reviews suggest improvements are needed.
  • Bring water and snacks, as food options are limited (~₹50–₹100 at nearby stalls).
• Why Kids Will Love It: The interactive models, such as the oil rig and live refinery map, make learning about the oil industry fun and engaging, while the 3D theater adds an exciting dimension.
• Source: TripAdvisor - Subir Raha Oil Museum

4. Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani)

• Location: Anarwala Village, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001, India (30.3871° N, 78.0676° E, ~8 km from Dehradun city center)
• Description: Robber’s Cave, or Guchhupani, is a 600-meter-long river cave with a 10-meter waterfall inside, offering a thrilling yet safe adventure for families. The cave’s cool, dark environment and shallow stream make it an exciting spot for kids to explore. Surrounded by hills, it’s also a great place for picnics and photography, adding to its family-friendly appeal.
• Activities:
  • Wade through the ankle-deep stream to explore the cave and waterfall.
  • Enjoy picnicking by the riverbank.
  • Capture photos of the natural rock formations and scenic surroundings.
• Entry Fees: Free; parking fees ~₹20–₹50
• Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
• Best Time to Visit: October to June for safe exploration, as water levels are manageable. Avoid July to August due to high water levels and potential closures.
• How to Reach: Take a taxi (₹200–₹400, ~20 minutes) or auto-rickshaw (₹100–₹200) from Dehradun city center. The cave is a short walk from the parking area.
• Tips for Families:
  • Wear waterproof sandals or flip-flops for wading through the stream.
  • Supervise children closely, as the cave’s gravel bed can be slippery.
  • Bring a flashlight for better visibility inside the cave.
  • Pack snacks like Maggi or chai (~₹50–₹100) from nearby stalls for a cozy picnic.
• Why Kids Will Love It: The adventure of wading through a cave and discovering a waterfall is thrilling for kids, while the open spaces allow for safe exploration and play.
• Source: Holidify - Robber’s Cave

5. Lacchiwala Nature Park

• Location: Near Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248140, India (30.1920° N, 78.1400° E, ~15 km from Dehradun city center)
• Description: Lacchiwala Nature Park is a serene oasis surrounded by Sal forests and the Song River, offering a peaceful retreat for families. It seems likely that its lush trails, diverse birdlife, and natural pools make it a favorite for nature walks and picnics. The park’s tranquil setting is perfect for kids to explore and learn about the environment.
• Activities:
  • Take nature walks along forest trails and the riverbank.
  • Spot birds like kingfishers and hornbills, or wildlife like deer and peacocks.
  • Picnic or barbecue in designated areas.
  • Relax by the canal and enjoy photography.
• Entry Fees: ₹20 per person; parking fees ~₹20–₹50
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
• Best Time to Visit: October to June for clear trails and pleasant weather (10°C–25°C). Avoid July to August due to muddy paths and potential closures.
• How to Reach: Drive 15 km from Dehradun (~30 minutes, ₹300–₹500 by taxi) or take an auto-rickshaw (₹150–₹250). The park is en route to Jolly Grant Airport.
• Tips for Families:
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching to engage kids in spotting wildlife.
  • Pack a picnic with snacks, as the park’s café has limited options (~₹50–₹100).
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Supervise children near the canal to ensure safety.
• Why Kids Will Love It: The open trails and wildlife sightings spark curiosity, while the serene setting allows kids to run and play freely.
• Source: eUttaranchal - Lacchiwala Nature Park

Planning Your Family Trip

Best Time to Visit

Dehradun’s temperate climate makes it a year-round destination, but specific seasons enhance family-friendly experiences:

• March to June: Pleasant temperatures (15°C–25°C) are ideal for outdoor activities like picnicking at Malsi Deer Park and exploring Robber’s Cave. The clear weather ensures animals are active and visible.
• September to November: Post-monsoon freshness brings lush greenery, perfect for nature walks at Lacchiwala and visits to FRI’s botanical gardens. Moderate temperatures enhance comfort.
• July to August (Monsoon): Heavy rainfall (200–250 mm monthly) can make outdoor sites like Robber’s Cave and Lacchiwala slippery or inaccessible. Indoor attractions like Subir Raha Oil Museum are suitable during this period.
• December to February: Cooler temperatures (5°C–15°C) create a crisp ambiance, ideal for museum visits and wildlife spotting at Malsi Deer Park. Pack warm clothing for comfort.

How to Reach Dehradun

• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (25 km from city center) connects to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Taxis to the city cost ₹500–₹800 (30 minutes).
• By Train: Dehradun Railway Station is a major hub with trains from Delhi (e.g., Shatabdi Express, ~5 hours, ₹500–₹1,000), Haridwar (43 km, ~1 hour, ₹20–₹100), and other cities.
• By Road: Dehradun is 230 km from Delhi (5–6 hours via NH334, taxis ₹3,000–₹5,000) and 200 km from Chandigarh (4–5 hours, taxis ~₹2,500–₹4,000). State buses (₹200–₹500) are available from ISBT Delhi.
• Local Transport: Taxis (₹100–₹500) and auto-rickshaws (₹50–₹200) are convenient for reaching attractions. Private cars or bikes offer flexibility for families visiting multiple sites.

Accommodation Options

Dehradun offers family-friendly accommodations:

• The Emerald Grand Hotel: Near Sahastradhara (1.5 km from city center), offering luxury with valley views (₹5,000–₹10,000/night, www.theemeraldgrand.com).
• Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels: Centrally located, ideal for easy access to all attractions (₹6,000–₹12,000/night, www.itchotels.com).
• Hotel Pacific: Budget-friendly near the railway station, convenient for Malsi Deer Park and FRI (₹2,000–₹4,000/night, www.booking.com).

Local Cuisine

Refuel with local Uttarakhandi and North Indian dishes at eateries near attractions or in Dehradun’s Paltan Bazaar:

• Maggi and Chai: Popular at stalls near Malsi Deer Park and Robber’s Cave (~₹50–₹100).
• Kumaoni Dishes: Try aloo ke gutke or pahadi dal at dhabas near FRI (~₹100–₹200).
• Street Food: Enjoy momos, chaat, and jalebi at Paltan Bazaar (~₹20–₹100).

Safety and Practical Tips

• Supervision: Always supervise children near water bodies (Robber’s Cave, Lacchiwala) and in wildlife areas (Malsi Deer Park). Ensure kids stay on designated paths.
• Weather: Check forecasts at www.imd.gov.in for monsoon visits to avoid heavy rain or slippery paths, particularly at outdoor sites.
• Preparation: Pack comfortable, water-resistant shoes for parks and caves. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. Binoculars are useful for birdwatching at Lacchiwala.
• Booking: Reserve accommodations and guided tours in advance, especially during peak seasons (March–June, September–November).
• Environment: Follow “Leave No Trace” principles to preserve Dehradun’s natural beauty. Dispose of waste properly and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Emergency Contact: Dehradun Police (+91-135-2656144).

Comparative Table

Destination	Distance from City Center	Key Features	Activities	Entry Fee	Timings	Best Time	Why Kids Will Love It
Malsi Deer Park	10 km	Mini-zoo, play area, Shivalik views	Animal spotting, play area, picnics	₹20 (adults), ₹10 (children)	10:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mon)	Mar–Jun, Sep–Nov	Deer, peacocks, swings
Forest Research Institute	5 km	Colonial architecture, museums, gardens	Museum tours, garden walks	₹50 (adults), ₹25 (children)	9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Sun)	Mar–Jun, Sep–Nov	Interactive exhibits, open lawns
Subir Raha Oil Museum	3.5 km	Oil industry exhibits, 3D theater	Interactive models, documentaries	₹50 (adults), ₹25 (children)	10:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Sun)	Year-round	Oil rig model, 3D theater
Robber’s Cave	8 km	River cave, waterfall	Cave exploration, picnics	Free	7:00 AM–6:00 PM	Oct–Jun	Wading through cave, waterfall
Lacchiwala Nature Park	15 km	Sal forests, Song River, birdlife	Nature walks, birdwatching, picnics	₹20	8:00 AM–5:00 PM	Oct–Jun	Wildlife, open trails

Creating Unforgettable Memories with Family

Dehradun offers more than just scenic beauty; it’s a treasure trove of delightful experiences for families. We hope this guide has inspired you with a fantastic list of places to visit in Dehradun with family, from adventurous parks to enriching museums. These spots are designed to spark joy and create lasting memories for both kids and adults.

For those moments when the kids are busy and you’re looking for a peaceful escape, be sure to explore our guide on the spiritual places to visit in Dehradun for a more serene experience.

When you're ready to book your perfect family retreat, simplify your travel plans by visiting BidYourStay. They can help you find the ideal accommodation to complement your family's needs. We hope you've found this guide to places to visit in Dehradun with family helpful, and we wish you a journey filled with laughter, discovery, and unforgettable moments!