Perfect Weekend Escapes from Dehradun
Living in or visiting Dehradun puts you within easy driving distance of some of the most beautiful hill stations, lakes and adventure destinations in Uttarakhand. Whether you want a romantic getaway, a family outing or an adventure trip, there is something for every mood within 2-4 hours of the city.
Here are our top 10 recommendations — all easily reachable by taxi from Dehradun in a day or weekend.
1. Mussoorie — The Queen of Hills
Distance: 35 km | Drive time: 1-1.5 hours | Taxi fare: ₹1,500 one way
The most popular weekend destination from Dehradun. Mall Road, Kempty Falls, Gun Hill and Lal Tibba offer classic hill station charm. Visit Landour for a quieter, more authentic experience — the old cantonment area has stunning walks, bakeries and views.
Best for: Families, couples, first-time visitors to Uttarakhand.
2. Dhanaulti — Pine Forest Retreat
Distance: 60 km | Drive time: 2 hours | Taxi fare: ₹2,000 one way
A peaceful alternative to crowded Mussoorie. Dhanaulti sits at 2,250 metres surrounded by deodar and rhododendron forests. The Eco Park, Surkanda Devi Temple and the stunning views of the Himalayan range make it ideal for nature lovers.
Best for: Couples, nature lovers, those seeking quiet.
3. Kanatal — Adventure in the Clouds
Distance: 78 km | Drive time: 2.5 hours | Taxi fare: ₹2,500 one way
A tiny hamlet between Mussoorie and Chamba, Kanatal is Uttarakhand's emerging adventure destination. Camping under the stars, short treks through apple orchards and panoramic Himalayan views — all without the crowds.
Best for: Adventure seekers, campers, young groups.
4. Rishikesh — Yoga Capital of the World
Distance: 46 km | Drive time: 1.5 hours | Taxi fare: ₹2,000 one way
River rafting at Shivpuri, the Beatles Ashram, Laxman Jhula, Triveni Ghat aarti — Rishikesh offers spiritual depth and adrenaline in equal measure. The cafes along the Ganges serve some of the best vegetarian food in India.
Best for: Everyone — adventure, spirituality, food, yoga.
5. Haridwar — Gateway to the Gods
Distance: 54 km | Drive time: 1.5 hours | Taxi fare: ₹2,000 one way
The evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is one of the most powerful spiritual experiences in India. Combine with Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi temple visits for a complete pilgrimage day. The bazaars around the ghats are vibrant and full of local culture.
Best for: Families, spiritual travellers, photography.
6. Tehri Lake — Uttarakhand's Hidden Gem
Distance: 90 km | Drive time: 3 hours | Taxi fare: ₹3,000 one way
One of Asia's largest man-made lakes, Tehri offers water sports including jet skiing, banana boat rides and kayaking — unexpected in the mountains. The turquoise blue water surrounded by green hills creates a surreal landscape.
Best for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers.
7. Chakrata — Off the Beaten Path
Distance: 88 km | Drive time: 3 hours | Taxi fare: ₹3,000 one way
A former British cantonment town that remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism. Tiger Falls (one of the highest waterfalls in India), Deoban viewpoint and ancient cedar forests make it perfect for a weekend of exploration.
Best for: Off-beat travellers, nature photographers, trekkers.
8. Chamba — The Quiet Hillside
Distance: 60 km | Drive time: 2 hours | Taxi fare: ₹2,000 one way
Located on the Mussoorie-Tehri road, Chamba is a small town with apple orchards, stunning valley views and genuine mountain hospitality. Much quieter than Mussoorie, it offers the hill station experience without the crowds.
Best for: Families with children, elderly travellers, writers and artists.
9. Sahastradhara — Quick Day Trip
Distance: 14 km | Drive time: 30 minutes | Taxi fare: Local hire rates
Known as the "Thousand-fold Spring," Sahastradhara has sulphur springs with therapeutic properties, cave formations and a ropeway ride. Perfect for a half-day outing when you want nature without the long drive.
Best for: Quick family outing, picnic, day trip.
10. Landour — Mussoorie's Quieter Twin
Distance: 38 km | Drive time: 1.5 hours | Taxi fare: ₹1,500 one way
Just above Mussoorie, Landour is a world apart. The Char Dukan, Lal Tibba, Sister's Bazaar and the Landour Bakehouse offer a gentler, more contemplative hill experience. Ruskin Bond lives here — and you will understand why when you visit.
Best for: Book lovers, couples, anyone who prefers walks over crowds.
Book Your Weekend Getaway
All fares are one way, fixed prices with no hidden charges. Driver, fuel, toll and parking included. For round trip packages and multi-day weekend stays, WhatsApp us at +91 6397321825 with your preferred destination, dates and group size.
Shri Taxi provides experienced local pahadi drivers who know every mountain road, the best viewpoints, and the safest routes — so you can relax and enjoy the journey.