Erfahrung in Dehra Dun, Indien von Ankita

What is it like to live in Dehradun? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Dehradun is a town/small city in the Doon valley at the foothills of the Himalayas. Life here is quieter and more relaxed compared to the metropolitan atmosphere of New Delhi and Mumbai. There is less pollution and mild climate in the area - an average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius in the winter and 32 degrees Celsius in the summer.

The city is not too big and very safe with simple people. Despite this, it is also well equipped with city life perks- malls, cafes, pubs, theaters, sports clubs and a zoo.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dehradun?

Dehradun is the "High School" capital of the north. The city and the surrounding areas (Mussoorie, Rishikesh and Nainital) boast of several some of the best residential and non residential schools in the country. (Eg: The Doon School, Welham Boys and Girls, St. George's, St. Joseph's Academy) Many of them were founded in the British colonial era. There are also a lot of Coaching Institutes in the city for the national college entrance exams like JEE/AIPMT/CAT/NIFT. The city also hosts reputed institutes like IMA, ONGC, FRI, DIT, Jollygrant medical school.

A lot of students in these universities come from different places in Uttarakhand and the rest of India.

How much does it cost to live in Dehradun?

Dehradun is a cheap city compared to Mumbai or Bangalore whatever your living standard might be. A decent 1 room/ 2 room apartment costs around 6000 Rs. / month. If you live alone, you will spend 5000 Rs. /month more on groceries and other essentials. Travelling by the local city transport everyday would not exceed 1500 Rs. / month.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Dehradun? Is there any advice you can give?

A lot of schools in Dehradun are partially or fully residential whereas most universities have student hostels on campus. If you are looking for accomodation outside of campus, there are several student PGs in areas near the DIT university that offer rent+food packages. You can even rent an apartment in the residential areas of the city and share with a friend. The city is small so it is not going to be difficult to travel to your university everyday.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

There are a lot of trendy cafes as well as cheap street food joints around the city. The Dehradun food plate is very North Indian - rice, chapati bread, sabzi, dal. Most of the locals are from the Uttarakhand hills so the Garhwal and Kumaon traditional thalis and the Buraans flower and Malta Juice are also something that should be available for you to try. During the summers, do not miss out on the local Lychee produce that the city is very famous for. Dehradun also has several bakeries which are very famous.

What places would you recommend visiting in Dehradun?

Dehradun has several tourist attractions and hiking sites. Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara and Buddha's Temple come to mind. You can also pick up your bike and enjoy a fresh ride towards the Thano village every morning. Mussoorie, a quaint beautiful hill station is just an hour away by car. You can also reach Rishikesh in 45 minutes and enjoy a weekend of meditation and yoga and river rafting in the holy Ganges.

Is it good to eat out in Dehradun? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Razzmatazz and Café de Piccolo for good Italian food. Kalsang AMA restaurant for Tibetan flavors and Elloras Melting moments if you are craving something sweet.

Is the nightlife good in Dehradun? Where is good to go?

Dehradun is a quiet city. But students can enjoy a good night out at the Town Table and QB Lounge. The night clubs can be a bit expensive.