Dehradun, one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, is called the gateway to the Himalayas. It is the capital of Uttarakhand, or Dev Bhoomi that is famous for its picturesque landscapes, peaceful vibes and spiritual sites, including ancient temples and monasteries. This gorgeous town is perfect for those seeking inner peace, divine blessings and cultural experience. Some of the best temples you can visit here include Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Sai Darbar Temple, Buddha Temple, Daat Kali Temple, and Laxman Siddh Temple.

Nestled in the serene Doon Valley, Dehradun is not just a paradise for nature lovers but also a haven for spiritual seekers. With its stunning mountains, lush forests, and calm rivers, the city attracts tourists with its serenity, history, and divine energy. One of the most important destinations in Uttarakhand tour packages, Dehradun is home to several temples that hold a great spiritual significance for devotees.

Top Temples in Dehradun

Here is the list of some of the most famous temples in Dehradun that you must visit:

• Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple
• Bhadraj Temple
• Santala Devi Temple
• Laxman Siddh Temple
• Shiv Mandir (Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple)
• Buddha Temple (Mindrolling Monastery)
• Sai Darbar Temple
• Daat Kali Mata Mandir
• Chandrabani Temple
• Jain Mandir

 

Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

The Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple is one of Dehradun’s most ancient and significant Shiva temples. Nestled inside a natural limestone cave, it attracts pilgrims year-round. Water drips from the cave ceiling naturally onto the Shivalinga, creating a mesmerising and serene ambience.

Historical Significance

Tapkeshwar gets its name from the Sanskrit word Tapak which means dripping. For centuries, water has naturally dripped from the cave ceiling onto the Shivalinga, a wonder believed to be divine. The cave is also associated with Guru Dronacharya, the royal teacher of the Pandavas and Kauravas from the Mahabharata. It is said he meditated here, and thus, the cave is also called the Drona Cave.

Location: Garhi Cantonment, Dehradun, around 6 km from ISBT

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM

 

Bhadraj Temple

Another famous temple in Dehradun, the Bhadraj Temple is a heavenly combination of spirituality and adventure. Located near Mussoorie, this temple is dedicated to Lord Bal Bhadra (Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna). The trek leading up to the temple is breathtaking and perfect for nature lovers. This is one of the highest and most scenic temples associated with Lord Bal Bhadra.

Historical Significance

The temple is believed to date back to the Dvapara Yuga, when Lord Balarama meditated atop the hill to gain strength and clarity. For centuries, shepherds and villagers trekked to the mountain top to seek blessings for cattle and prosperity. The hilltop offers majestic views of the Himalayas and Doon Valley.

Location: Bhadraj Hill, near Cloud’s End, Mussoorie–Dehradun region

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

 

Santala Devi Temple

High up in the hills, around 15 km from Dehradun, lies the Santala Devi Temple, one of the best mandirs in Dehradun. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Santala, a form of Durga. The temple is located at an elevation of around 2,083 m, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a very peaceful atmosphere. For trekkers and devotees, the journey up to Santala Devi is a spiritual rejuvenation amid crisp, cold mountain air.

Historical Significance

According to local legend, during the Mughal era, Princess Santala Devi and her brother sought refuge from invaders. When struggle seemed impossible, the goddess manifested her divine form and turned herself and her brother into stone idols. These idols remain preserved as the temple’s deity.

Location: Jaitanwala, Dehradun, approx. 15 km from the city

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

 

Laxman Siddh Temple

One of the four major Siddh Peeths in Dehradun, the Laxman Siddh Temple in Dehradun is surrounded by calm forests and holds deep mythological significance. Situated around 12 km from central Dehradun on the Haridwar–Rishikesh road, the Laxman Siddh Temple is a famous mandir in Dehradun.

Historical Significance

The temple is believed to stand at the spot where Lord Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, performed penance to repent for killing Meghnad (Ravana’s son) during the Ramayana war. Another belief is that a revered saint named Swami Laxman Siddh attained samadhi here, making this site a Siddh Peeth.

Location: Haridwar–Rishikesh Road, Dehradun, around 12 km from the city

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

 

Shiv Mandir (Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple)

Another name in the Dehradun temple list, Shiva Mandir is located on Mussoorie Road and is known for its peaceful ambience. Popular among locals for its peaceful hillside setting and free prasadam, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a simple yet spiritually fulfilling place. Visitors often praise the vibe of solitude and purity.

Historical Significance

Unlike ancient temples, the Prakasheshwar Mahadev Temple has been recently built. Constructed with deep devotion by spiritual followers, it has become a beloved Shiva temple for travellers planning a trip to Mussoorie and Dehradun.

Location: Mussoorie Road, near Kuthal Gate, Dehradun

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

 

Buddha Temple (Mindrolling Monastery)

A must-visit Buddha temple in Dehradun, Mindrolling Monastery offers serenity and a picturesque setting. The iconic Buddha Temple is part of the monastery, one of the largest Buddhist centers in India. The temple complex features a tall stupa, meditation rooms, huge gardens, and beautifully painted Tibetan murals.

Historical Significance

The monastery was established in 1965 by Khochhen Rinpoche and other monks of the Tibetan community when they relocated to India. The original Mindrolling Monastery was founded in Tibet in 1676. The Dehradun center continues its legacy of Buddhist learning, meditation, and art. Here, the 220-ft high stupa symbolises enlightenment and inner peace.

Location: Clement Town, Dehradun

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

 

Sai Darbar Temple

One of the most famous temples in Dehradun, the Sai Darbar Temple offers a peaceful place for reflection and worship. This elegant white-marble temple is one of the most serene and welcoming spiritual spots in the city. The calm ambience and devotional aartis make it a popular spiritual stop in Dehradun.

Historical Significance

The temple was built as a tribute to Shirdi Sai Baba, who preached peace, equality, and humanity. The temple welcomes people of all religions and promotes the message of Sabka Malik Ek (One God for All). Thursdays hold special significance with aartis and community meals.

Location: Rajpur Road, near Jakhan, Dehradun

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

 

Daat Kali Mata Mandir

A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, known for protecting travellers and locals. This temple in Dehradun is known for its powerful ambience of divine feminine energy. Located in the scenic hill surroundings, Daat Kali Mata Mandir holds a rustic charm. A major part of Dehradun tourism, this temple is a must-visit place for spiritual rawness and authenticity of the experience.  

Historical Significance

Established during the early 19th century, the temple holds a sacred flame believed to have burned continuously since its inception. The goddess is worshipped for her fierce protective nature, and many travellers stop here when entering or leaving Dehradun.

Location: Dehradun–Saharanpur Highway (NH 72A)

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM

 

Chandrabani Temple

Located just outside the city, about 7 km from the clock tower, lies the Chandrabani Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chandrabani. The temple is situated amid the hills, offering a view of the Dehradun valley and a serene place for meditation. Pilgrims visiting Chandrabani often combine this with nature walks or short hikes, making it a balanced spiritual-nature retreat.

Historical Significance

According to mythology, this is where the sage Gautama Rishi lived with his family. The sacred pond, Gautam Kund, is believed to have formed when Goddess Chandrabani (also known as Anjana) manifested here. The kund is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.

Location: Chandrabani, Dehradun, about 7 km from ISBT

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

 

Jain Mandir

Located in the heart of the city, the Jain mandir attracts visitors with its stunning architecture, which reflects traditional Jain art and intricate carvings. The temple’s peaceful ambience offers a perfect setting for meditation and reflection.

Historical Significance

The Jain Mandir in Dehradun holds both historical and spiritual significance as a prominent place of worship for Jains in the region. It reflects the spread of Jainism in the northern regions of India. It is dedicated to Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara, and is known for its beautiful marble idol and intricate carvings that represent Jain artistry.

Location: Clement Town, Dehradun

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Dehradun’s temples are more than places of worship. They are gateways to history, mythology, nature, and spiritual transformation. The above list of Dehradun temples offers something unique for pilgrims, culture lovers, and travellers seeking peace and purpose. With Dehradun tour packages from Veena World, you can plan a journey filled with divine energy.

 

FAQs

Q1. Which temple in Dehradun is known for its natural underground streams?

The Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple is famous for a Shiva lingam continuously bathed by natural cave water droplets, creating a soothing, mystical ambience that attracts both devotees and explorers.

 

Q2. Is there a temple in Dehradun that combines spirituality with panoramic valley views?

Yes, the Buddha Temple (Mindrolling Monastery) offers peaceful prayer halls along with stunning views of the Doon Valley from its gardens and towering stupa, making it a top spot for reflection and photography.

 

Q3. What is the most offbeat temple experience in Dehradun?

The Laxman Siddh Temple, located in a serene forested area, is considered a sacred meditation site connected to Laxman from the Ramayana, offering visitors a quiet spiritual escape away from the city rush.

 

Q4. Are there any ancient temples suitable for a quick heritage walk?

The Tapovan Temple area is ideal, blending mythology with nature. Its ashram-like surroundings, river streams, and meditation spots make it perfect for a short spiritual cum heritage walk.

 

Q5. Which temple in Dehradun is best for cultural events and devotional gatherings?

The Sai Darbar Temple regularly hosts bhajans, community prayers, and cultural events, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere where visitors can experience the region’s devotional culture up close.