Why Dehradun is One of the Best Summer Vacation Destinations near Delhi
Dehradun sits at approximately 640 m above sea level in the Doon Valley, flanked by the Shivalik ranges to the south and the Mussoorie ridge to the north. This geography keeps the city naturally cooler than the plains throughout the summer months. While Delhi frequently exceeds 40°C in May and June, Dehradun remains between 32°C and 36°C in the afternoons and is considerably cooler in the mornings and evenings, making it ideal among the summer vacation destinations near Delhi for picnics and riverside outings as well.
The air quality is noticeably better, the humidity feels manageable, and the tree cover along most roads provides shade that genuinely changes how warm the day feels.
- Breezy and Fresh Mornings: Ideal for a walk, a garden breakfast, or a short drive
- Cool Evenings: Comfortable enough for outdoor dining, long walks, and unhurried conversation
- Dense Green Cover: Forests, orchards, and roadside trees keep the air cleaner and noticeably more pleasant than the Delhi plains.
Getting There: Easier than Most Expect
Unlike many hill destinations that involve steep mountain roads, the route to Dehradun is largely flat and well-maintained, with only a short stretch of gentle curves near the city itself, comfortable even for first-time drivers.
- By Road: Delhi to Dehradun is roughly 300 km via NH - 58/NH - 344, about a 6-hour drive.
- By Train: The Shatabdi Express and multiple overnight trains run daily between New Delhi and Dehradun Railway Station (about 14 km from Shaheen Bagh) in around 6 hours.
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is about 42 km from Shaheen Bagh, with daily flights from Delhi.
Picnic spots and riverside outings within Dehradun include:
- Malsi Deer Park (~5 km): A quiet green park along Mussoorie Road with shaded lawns, walking trails, and forest views, making it ideal for relaxed family picnics
- MDDA Park (~8 km): A landscaped park with walking tracks and open lawns, often used by locals for evening strolls and casual picnics
- Song River banks (~16 km): Clear mountain water flowing over rocky beds near Raipur and Maldevta, creating natural riverside picnic spots where visitors often spend slow afternoons by the stream
Beyond the city, short drives open up several well-known destinations from the luxury resort:
- Robber’s Cave (~6 km): A natural cave with a cool stream—one of the most refreshing midday stops in summer, and easy to reach from the city
- Sahastradhara (~15 km): Natural springs, waterfalls, and shaded rock formations about 14 km from the city. A relaxed afternoon outing, well-suited to those who prefer nature without a long trek.
- Mussoorie (~28 km): Himalayan views, Mall Road, and Kempty Falls. About 45 minutes from Dehradun, with temperatures dropping as you climb.
- Rajaji National Park (~50 km): Forest trails and wildlife, best visited in the cool morning hours. Jeep safaris are available and well-suited to families.
- Rishikesh (~50 km): Riverside cafes, seasonal white-water rafting, and the evening Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat
- Haridwar (~64 km): Har Ki Pauri, the morning Ganga aarti, and lively bazaars—a culturally rich half-day or full-day trip
Best Months for a Summer Getaway to Dehradun
While Dehradun is cooler than Delhi in summer, the experience varies noticeably across the months:
- April to Mid-May: The most comfortable window, warm but not hot, naturally green, and relatively uncrowded.
- Mid-May to June: The peak summer travel period. Temperatures are at their highest but remain manageable in the mornings and evenings. Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar see heavier footfalls.
- July Onwards: Monsoon arrives with heavy rain, cooler weather, and dramatic greenery. Activities become limited, but the landscape is striking, and accommodation is easier to book.
Shaheen Bagh: Your Base for a One-day Trip from Delhi in Summer
Finding the right place to stay often defines a trip, particularly in summer when comfort and environment matter as much as what you do each day. Shaheen Bagh, a luxury boutique resort and spa in Dehradun, is designed precisely for the kind of stay summer demands—unhurried, comfortable, and grounded in genuine hospitality.
The Setting: Green, Quiet, and Genuinely Cool
Set in a quieter stretch of Dehradun, about 20 minutes from the city centre, Shaheen Bagh opens into shaded gardens, expansive lawns, and uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains. Treat yourself to wide lawns, afternoon-shaded sit-outs, and a quietude rare even in smaller cities at this resort. Unwind from the monotony of city life with The Sparsh Spa, offering therapeutic massages and spa treatment, Just a short drive from Dehradun’s main city areas, railway station, and highway routes connecting to Delhi, its location makes it equally convenient for quick weekend escapes and longer summer stays, especially for families, couples, and senior travellers looking to avoid crowded hill stations.
The outdoor experience is defined by:
- Tree-covered sit-outs that stay cool through the day and keep the outdoors comfortable even in the afternoon
- A constant mountain line in view from the garden that quietly anchors the sense of escape
- Open-air breakfasts, shaded tea breaks, and relaxed evenings that settle into an unhurried daily rhythm
- Curated experiences in and around the resort, including birdwatching, nature wallks, and games
Dining at Shaheen Bagh: A Nature-led Experience
Dining here blends freshness with comfort, as 3 exclusive spaces offer flexible seating that shifts effortlessly between a homely setting and a lively, celebratory mood. The experience includes:
- Fresh, organic produce and in-house dairy products used in daily preparations
- A diverse menu of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines served in a refined yet relaxed setting
- Multiple dining spaces designed for everything from intimate meals to group gatherings
- Under-the-sky dining options that combine scenic surroundings with flavourful cuisine
