Dehradun, The City Of Love. The beautiful city situated around 241 KM from Delhi is the capital of Uttarakhand. The beauty of Dehradun has always intrigued its visitor. Its modernity without losing its traditionalistic approach is what sets it apart. Dehradun has seen rapid change in the past decade.
Nevertheless, this city is more than what the eyes see. It is beautifully mysterious, and not many know about its history. So, let us dig into the pages of the past to know more about Dehradun.
HISTORY:-
This city records its existence back to Skanda Puraan, where it is mentioned as a part of the Kedar Khand, which translates to the home of Lord Shiva.
Later on, during the Mahabharat era, Dronacharya, the mentor of Kauravas and Pandavas, lived here. Hence, the place got its name ‘Dronanagari.’
Its present name Dehradun is believed to be derived from the term dera or camp, started by Baba Ram Rai, eldest son of the seventh Sikh guru. The marking of Dera in the ‘Doon’ valley gave rise to its present name Dehradun. In memories of Baba Ram Rai, Jhanda Mela is hosted on the fifth day after Holi. The British establishment in Dehradun started in 1816. The colonial influence can still be seen here. They also promoted the culture of tea cultivation here.
POST-INDEPENDENCE ERA:-
After independence, Dehradun’s expansion into a city started. The most famous Clock Tower was built soon after. In the year 2000, it became the capital of the state Uttarakhand.
PRESENT:-
Dehradun is also known as the educational hub. Students from all across the nation come here for the finest education in various fields. With the convenient motorway, it has become a tourist destination as well. It also has the connecting route to the Queen Of Hill stations – Mussoorie.
It is a melting pot for various types of cuisine. The colonial touch can be found in various cafes of Doon. The Garhwali cuisine is ever prevalent, and the influence of Mughals has left a kind of paradise of cuisine for all meat lovers. Momos or steamed dumplings are favorites amongst the youth. Chole Katlambe is also a dish that is relished by localities for breakfast.
Dehradun is home to various scenic locations such as the MalDevta region, which is famous for its riverside cafes and Off-road bicycling, SahastraDhara or GuchchuPani to take a dip and beat the heat, Buddha Temple to seek peace and solace, FRI for all the photoshoots or the Malsi Deer Park to enjoy nature at its best. Dehradun weather is also one of the major factor why it is one of the most preffered location by tourists.
Dehradun Uttarakhand has a charm to it. It is crowded yet peaceful. The ancient history, culture, and beauty of the mountains make it stand out. It is a beautiful city one wants to visit time and again.