Dehradun – A City Replete of Local Gods and Goddesses

Dehradun, the educational hub city, is the capital of Uttranchal state and is a significant city in India. The town is perhaps the most important city in northern India, as it is the most popular and the major stoppage city, connecting the cities of northern India to rest of the nation. Politically, the city is the seat of administration as the government headquarters of the state are settled in the city. Besides, the city is also the very core of commerce and industries. With the recent exposure of the city to modernization, Dehradun is rapidly turning into an urban city. The neighbouring cities look up to Dehradun as their role-model because it is from the handful of cities that best combines the new way of living with the centuries old traditions, customs, and beliefs. The city is widely known for its handicrafts, exquisite woodcraft, woolen garments, paintings, and local ornaments including the junk jewelleries. The commerce centres, particularly the Paltan Bazaar and Bara Bazar, are the most popular places to buy lovely souvenirs and gifts.

A trip of Dehradun will take one to the lands where religion and the festivals are followed with utmost conviction. The locals are adherent believers of the gods. Apart from the most revered Hindu gods and goddesses, several local deities are followed here. The existence of a mass of temples and shrines in and around the hill station simply consolidates the fact. The calendar in the city is stroked with plenty of festivities; all the most significant Hindu and Islamic festivals are celebrated here with utmost joy. Besides, the city simply drowns in the pool of joy and celebration during Easter, Christmas, and New Year.

A major credit for the popularity of the city also goes to the Britishers. It were they who saw and made the nation realize that Dehradun is an ideal destination for summer holidays. The place was their summer resort, where they found the escapade from the blazing summers in the plains of India. Due to its lovely weather the Britishers chose to form a cantonment in the city, and even after decades of India's independence there is a cantonment of Indian Army (which derived from the British Army) in the city. The Indian Military Academy, which is the most prestigious Indian Army institution, is settled in the city.

Nonetheless, Dehradun also makes as an ideal destination for tourism. People head here to explore-experience the old colonial bungalows and streets, natural sightseeing spots, rich Dehradun culture and the way of life, appetizing food, modern marvels, and to experience the thrill of several outdoor actions. The major highlights of the city include: Tapkeshwar Temple, Rajaji National Park, Tapovan, Sahastradhara, IMA, Forest Research Institute, Robber's Cave, Har Ki Doon, Santala Devi Temple, Clock Tower, Malsi Deer Park, and Laxman Sidh Temple. The good thing is that all these tourist attractions are easily accessible and are well served by local transportation modes. Besides, there are couple of luxury hotels in Dehradun that are situated in the vicinity to major tourist attractions.

Many travellers take trains to reach the city rather than catching a flight. There are several regular trains from all over India to and from Dehradun. Besides, there exist number of good hotels in Dehradun near the railway station that offer content accommodation along with having the benefits of conveniences.

Simply put, Dehradun is an old city that is rapidly transforming into a metropolitan. Religion is given huge significance here, and the city is also the hub of education. Meanwhile, the city is also an excellent destination to spend a fun-disturbance free holiday.