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Dehradun is served by Jolly Grant Airport 24km east of the city, a major railway station, and a bus stand, which makes it one of the easiest gateways to the Uttarakhand hills. This Dehradun travel tips guide covers the airport, transport costs, visa and money basics, tipping, and safety, plus where to stay. Time your visit around the Dehradun events and festivals calendar.
Dehradun Travel Tips: Getting There and Around
Jolly Grant Airport (DED) is about 24km from the city center and also serves Rishikesh and Haridwar. Daily flights connect to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. A prepaid taxi from the airport to the city costs about ₹800 to ₹1,200 and takes 45 to 60 minutes. Dehradun railway station (DDN) is a terminus on the Northern Railway, with the Shatabdi and Vande Bharat Express covering New Delhi in about 5.5 hours. The ISBT bus stand next to the station runs deluxe and ordinary buses to Delhi (250km, 6 to 7 hours), Mussoorie (35km), Rishikesh (45km), and Haridwar (52km). Once you’re in, start with the things to do in Dehradun list.
Dehradun Travel Tips: Money, Visa, and SIM
India requires most foreign visitors to hold an e-visa, which costs about US$25 for a 30-day tourist entry and is applied for online before travel. The currency is the Indian rupee (₹), and ATMs are plentiful along Rajpur Road and near the railway station. Prepaid SIMs from Jio and Airtel need passport ID and a local address for activation. Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled water or the filtered water most hotels provide. For the cheapest and least crowded months, see the best time to visit Dehradun guide.
Dehradun Travel Tips: Tipping and Customs
Tipping is not compulsory but expected for good service: leave about 5% to 10% at sit-down restaurants, and give ₹20 to ₹50 to porters and hotel staff. Dress modestly at temples like Tapkeshwar, and remove your shoes before entering. English and Hindi are widely spoken, and Garhwali is the local language in the surrounding hills.
Dehradun Travel Tips: Safety and Health
Dehradun is generally safe, with the usual caution about pickpockets in the crowded Paltan Bazaar and about crossing traffic on Rajpur Road. During the monsoon, watch for waterlogged roads and avoid the Mussoorie road after heavy rain (rain timing is in the Dehradun weather by month guide). Carry any prescription medicines you need, since the best pharmacies are in the center, and use bottled water throughout.
Suggested Hotels in Dehradun
Hyatt Centric Rajpur Road Dehradun
A five-star on Rajpur Road near the Pacific Mall, with a rooftop pool and the Onyx restaurant. Best for couples and business travelers who want a central base. Check rates and availability
The Solitaire
A four-star with an outdoor pool, spa, and the Emerald Court restaurant, about 4km from the center. Best for families who want pool time and easy hill access. Check rates and availability
Le Roi Dehradun at Dehradun Railway Station
A three-star directly at the railway station with a 9.1 guest rating and an on-site restaurant. Best for transit travelers and solo visitors on a budget. Check rates and availability
For the full area breakdown and more hotel options at every price point, read the where to stay in Dehradun guide and the Dehradun neighborhoods overview.
