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{{Use Indian English|date=September 2015}}
Dehradun
{{Infobox settlement
| name = Dehradun
| native_name = देहरादून
| native_name_lang = hi
| other_name =
| nickname =
| settlement_type = Metropolitan City
| image_skyline = Front View of F.R.I.,dehradun.JPG
| image_alt =
| image_caption = [[Forest Research Institute (India)]]
| pushpin_map = India Uttarakhand
| pushpin_label_position =
| pushpin_map_alt =
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Uttarakhand, India
| latd = 30.318
| latm =
| lats =
| latNS = N
| longd = 78.029
| longm =
| longs =
| longEW = E
| coordinates_display = inline,title
| subdivision_type = Country
| subdivision_name = {{flag|India}}
| subdivision_type1 = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_name1 = [[Uttarakhand]]
| subdivision_type2 = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_name2 = [[Dehradun District|Dehradun]]
| established_title = <!-- Established -->
| established_date =
| founder =
| named_for =
| government_type =
| governing_body =
| seat_type = Headquarters
| seat = Dehradun
| unit_pref = Metric
| area_footnotes =
| area_rank =
| area_total_km2 =
| elevation_footnotes =
| elevation_m = 435
| population_total = 578420
| population_as_of = 2011
| population_rank =
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_metro = 714223
| population_metro_footnotes = <ref name=UA1Lakhandabove>{{cite web | url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/paper2/data_files/India2/Table_3_PR_UA_Citiees_1Lakh_and_Above.pdf | format=pdf | title=Provisional Population Totals, Census of India 2011; Urban Agglomerations/Cities having population 1 lakh and above | publisher=Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India | accessdate=26 March 2012}}</ref>
| population_demonym =
| population_footnotes = <ref name=Cities1Lakhandabove>{{cite web | url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/paper2/data_files/India2/Table_2_PR_Cities_1Lakh_and_Above.pdf | format=pdf | title=Provisional Population Totals, Census of India 2011; Cities having population 1 lakh and above | publisher=Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India | accessdate=26 March 2012}}</ref>
| demographics_type1 = Languages
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| demographics1_info1 = [[Hindi]]
| timezone1 = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| utc_offset1 = +5:30
| postal_code_type = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| postal_code = 248001
| area_code_type = Telephone code
| area_code = 91–135
| registration_plate = UK-07,UA-07,UP-07
| website = {{URL|http://dehradun.nic.in/}}
}}

'''Dehradun''' {{IPAc-en|,|d|err|@|'|d|oo|n}} is the [[List of state and union territory capitals in India|capital]] city of the [[States and territories of India|state]] of [[Uttarakhand]] in the [[North India|northern]] part of [[India]]. Located in the [[Garhwal division|Garhwal region]], it lies {{convert|236|km}} north of India's capital [[New Delhi]] and is one of the "[[National Capital Region (India)#Counter magnets|Counter Magnets]]" of the [[National Capital Region (India)|National Capital Region]] (NCR) being developed as an alternative centre of growth to help ease the migration and population explosion in the [[Delhi]] metropolitan area.<ref name="mydigitalfc1">{{cite web|last=Bhushan |first=Ranjit |url=http://www.mydigitalfc.com/news/ambala-kanpur-taken-counter-magnet-towns-492 |title=Counter Magnets of NCR |publisher=Mydigitalfc.com |date= |accessdate=1 September 2010}}</ref> Dehradun is in the [[Doon Valley]] on the foothills of the [[Himalayas]] nestled between two of India's mightiest rivers — the [[Ganges]] on the east and the [[Yamuna]] on the west. The city is famous for its picturesque landscape and slightly milder climate and provides a gateway to the surrounding region. It is well connected and in proximity to popular Himalayan tourist destinations such as [[Mussoorie]], [[Nainital]] and [[Auli]] and the [[Hindu]] holy cities of [[Haridwar]] and [[Rishikesh]] along with the Himalayan pilgrimage circuit of [[Chota Char Dham|Char Dham]].

Dehradun is renowned for its natural resources, publishing services and particularly for its educational institutions. It is one of the highest rain receiving areas of North India. {{citation needed|date=June 2015}} It hosts training institutions of national importance such as the [[Indian Military Academy]]. City population has significant contribution of government servants. It is home to national foundations such as the Ordnance Factory Dehradun, Opto Electronics Factory, and other defence establishments. Other institutions include the [[DIT University]], [[Indian Institute of Petroleum]], [[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation]], [[University of Petroleum and Energy Studies]], [[Law College Dehradun]], [[Survey of India]], [[Wadia Institute Of Himalayan Geology]], [[Indian Institute of Remote Sensing]], [[Wildlife Institute of India]] and the [[Forest Research Institute]].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.trainenquiry.com/Hindi/StaticContent/Tourist_Info/dehradun.html |title= देहरादून शहर मार्गदर्शिका |accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएमएल|publisher= ट्रेनइन्क्वायरी.कॉम|language=}}</ref>

[[Dehradun Municipal Corporation]] is locally known as Nagar Nigam Dehradun. Other urban entities involved in civic services and city governance and management include [[Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority]] (MDDA), Special Area Development Authority (SADA), Jal Sansthan, and Jal Nigam among others.

==Etymology==
Dehradun is made up of two words: 'Dehra' is derived from the word "dera", deriving from griha and meaning home. "Doon" is a term for the valley that lies between the Himalayas and the "Shivaliks". When Ram Rai Ji, son of [[Guru Har Rai]] Ji, came to this region with his followers, he established a camp here for them. Around this time, the modern city of Dehradun started to develop. This is when the word dehra was linked to doon, and thus the city was named Dehradun.In Skanda Purana, Dun is mentioned as a part of the region called Kedar Khand, the abode of Shiva. In ancient India during the Mahabharata epic era, Dronacharya the great teacher of Kauravas and Pandavas lived here hence the name, "Drona-nagr".<ref>[[History of Dehradun]]</ref><ref>Natural Resource Management By B.W. Pandey (ed. By) Page 226 ISBN 81-7099-986-3 Mittal Publications, India Language English (31 March 2005)</ref> Some historians believe that the word dehra can be regarded as a term for camping.<ref>The History of Sikh Gurus ISBN 81-8382-075-1 page 112 Chapter 8</ref>

== History ==
[[File:Tehga.svg|thumb|right|Princely flag of [[Garhwal Kingdom|Kingdom of Garhwal]]. Dehradun was part of the princely state of Garhwal before becoming part of British India after the [[Anglo-Nepalese War]] in 1816.]]
{{Main | History of Dehradun}}
The history of the city of [[Uttarakhand]], Dehradun (nicknamed "Doon Valley") is linked to the story of [[Ramayana]] and [[Mahabharata]]. It is believed that after the battle between [[Ravan]] and [[Lord Ram]], Lord Ram and his brother [[Laxman]] visited this site. [[Dronacharya]], the legendary Royal guru to the [[Kauravas]] and [[Pandavas]] in the epic [[Mahabharata]], is believed to have been born and resided in Dehradun.<ref>[http://gov.ua.nic.in/schooleducation/DIET/diet_dehradun/district_profile.htm ए ब्रीफ हिस्ट्री एण्ड प्रोफ़ाइल ऑफ़ देहरादून] [[Uttarakhand]] सरकार वेबसाइट।</ref> Evidence such as ancient temples and idols have been found in the areas surrounding Dehradun which have been linked to the mythology of [[Ramayana]] and [[Mahabharata]]. These relics and ruins are believed to be around 2000 years old. Furthermore, the location, the local traditions and the literature reflect this region's links with the events of Mahabharata and Ramayana. Even after the battle of [[Mahabharata]], the [[Pandavas]] had influence on this region as the rulers of [[Hastinapur]] with the descendants of [[Subahu]] ruled the region as subsidiaries. Likewise, [[Rishikesh]] is mentioned in the pages of history when [[Lord Vishnu]] answered the prayers of the saints, slaughtered the demons and handed the land to the saints. The adjoining place called [[Chakrata]] has its historical impression during the time of Mahabharata.

In the seventh century this area was known as Sudhnagar and was described by the Chinese traveler [[Huen Tsang]]. Sudhnagar later came to be recognised as the name of Kaalsi. [[Edicts of Ashoka]] have been found in the region along the banks of river [[Yamuna]] in Kaalsi indicating the wealth and importance of the region in ancient India. In the neighbouring region of Haripur, ruins were discovered from the time of King Rasala which also reflect the region's prosperity.

Before the name of Dehradun was used, the place is shown on old maps as Gurudwara (a map by Webb, 1808) or Gooroodwara (a map by Gerard, 1818). Gerard's map names the place as "Dehra or Gooroodwara". Surrounding this original Sikh temple were many small villages that are now the names of parts of the modern city.

Dehradun itself derives its name from the historical fact that Shri Ram Rai, the eldest son of the Seventh Sikh Guru Har Rai Ji, set up his "dera" (camp) in "dun" (valley) in 1676. This 'Dera' 'Dun' later on became Dehradun.

The Mughal Emperor [[Aurangzeb]] was highly impressed by the miraculous powers of charismatic Ram Rai. He asked the contemporary Raja of Garhwal, Fateh Shah to extend all possible help to Shri Ram Rai. Initially a Gurudwara (temple) was built in Dhamawala. The construction of the present building of Darbar was completed in 1707. There are portraits of gods, goddesses, saints, sages and religious stories on the walls. There are pictures of flowers and leaves, animals and birds, trees, similar faces with pointed noses and big eyes on the arches which are the symbol of the colour scheme of Kangra-Guler and Mughal art. High minarets and round pinnacles are the models of the Muslim architecture. (The huge talab in the front measuring 230 x 80 feet had dried up for want of water over the years. People had been dumping rubbish; it has been renovated and revived. Now whoever visits to the Darbar would notice the change.)

Dehradun was invaded by [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] during his campaigns into India followed by Taimooralang in 1368, Ruahela Njibuddulo in 1757 and Ghulam Qadir in 1785. In 1806 King [[Prithvi Narayan Shah]] united and many of the Indian territories now fell under such as [[Almora]], Phatankot, [[Kumaon division|Kumaon]], Garhwal, Simur, [[Shimla]], [[Kangra district|Kangra]] and Dehradun.

On the western front Garhwal and parts of [[Himachal Pradesh]] up to [[Punjab, India|Punjab]] and on the eastern front the state of [[Sikkim]] up to [[Darjeeling]] became parts of Nepal for a brief period until the British [[East India Company]] went on war from 1814 to 1816. The war ended with signing of the [[Sugauli Treaty|Treaty of Sugowli]] where almost a third was ceded to British East India company. The British got Dehradun in 1816 and colonised [[Landour]] and [[Mussoorie]] in 1827–1828.

[[Jawaharlal Nehru]], India's first prime minister, was quite fond of the city and often visited. He spent his last few days here before passing away in Delhi in 1964.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mid-day.com/news/2012/may/270512-How-Nehru-spent-his-last-four-days.htm|title=How Nehru spent his last four days|publisher=Mid-day.com|accessdate=8 December 2014}}</ref> Another leader from the independence movement, [[Rash Behari Bose]], who was one of the key organisers of the [[Ghadar conspiracy]] and, later, the [[Indian National Army]] was based in Dehradun in his early days before he was forced to move to Japan in 1915 to continue the freedom struggle.

Post independence Dehradun and other parts of [[Garhwal Kingdom|Garhwal]] and [[Kumaon Kingdom|Kumaon]] were merged with [[United Provinces (1937-1950)|United Provinces]] which was later renamed the state of [[Uttar Pradesh]]. In 2000, [[Uttarakhand]] state (earlier called Uttaranchal) was created from the northwestern districts of [[Uttar Pradesh]] under the Uttar Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2000. Dehradun was made its provisional capital. After becoming the capital, the city has seen continuous development.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://kandpalsubhash.blogspot.com/2008/05/blog-post_7899.html?showComment=1211199960000|title= गौरवशाली इतिहास है देहरादून का |accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएमएल|publisher= म्यार पहाड़ |language=}}</ref>

== Geography ==
The city of Dehradun mainly lies in Doon Valley and is at a varying height from 410m at Clement Town to above 600 m at Jakhan which is 4 km from the city.
However general elavation is 450 mtrs above sea level.
Tiuni hills, rising to 3700 m above sea level.The hilly region of Mussoorie goes up to a height of 1870–2170 metres above sea level.
The [[Doon valley]] contains the settlements including Dehradun, Doiwala, Herbertpur, Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Rishikesh, Raiwala and Subash Nagar, Clement Town.
The district contains [[Rajaji National Park]] which is home to several elephants. The Doon valley has the Terai and Bhabar forests within it as well as the Shiwalik hills and Lesser Himalayan Range containing hill stations such as Mussoorie and Chakrata.
The district is bordered by the [[Himalayas]] in the north, the [[Sivalik Hills]] to the south, the river [[Ganges]] to the east, and the [[Yamuna]] river to the west. Towns in the foothills of the mountain ranges include [[Mussoorie]], Sahastradhara, Chakrata, Lahkhamondal, Gautam Kund Chandrabani and Dakpathar.

This district is divided into two major parts: the main city Dehradun surrounded by Shivalik and the Jaunsar Bavar, which is in the foothills of Himalayas. In the north and northwest it borders on the district of [[Uttarkashi district|Uttarkashi]] and in the east by [[Pauri Garhwal district|Pauri]]. In the west, it is bordered by [[Yamunanagar district]] of [[Haryana]] and the [[Tons river|Tons]] and [[Yamuna]] rivers. To the south are [[Haridwar district|Haridwar]] and [[Uttar Pradesh]]'s [[Saharanpur district]].

It is between latitudes 29 °58' N and 31°2'N and longitudes 77° 34' E and 78° 18'E.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://210.212.78.56/dehradun/English/altitude.html| title= Altitude |accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएमएल|publisher= देरादून|language=अंग्रेज़ी}}</ref> This district consists of six tehsils — Dehradun, Chakrata, Vikasnagar, Kalsi, Tjonee and Rishikesh — six community development blocks — Vis, Chakrata, Kalsi,Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Rajpur and Doiwala — 17 towns and 764 villages. Out of these 746 villages are inhabited; 18 are uninhabited.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://dehradun.nic.in/glance.htm#TOWNS,%20VILLAGES%20AND%20AMENITIES |title= Important District Indicators
|accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएम|publisher= देरादून.निक.इन|language=अंग्रेज़ी}}</ref>

=== Climate ===
The city is also referred as the 'Rainy City of India' due to continuous and incessant rainfalls specially in monsoon.
In fact 16–17 June rainfall was highest ever recorded rainfall of 370&nbsp;mm rainfall that devastated whole Uttarakhand and nearby regions. {{citation needed|date=June 2015}}

Dehradun is India’s wettest State capital this monsoon with 2,865&nbsp;mm of rainfall between 1 June and 30 September, according to Director of the Dehradun Meteorological Centre Anand Sharma.
With 2,365&nbsp;mm, Mumbai received the second highest rainfall during this monsoon season.
*In 2011, the Maharashtra capital recorded the maximum rainfall amongst all State capitals during the monsoon season. However, in 2012, Dehradun outdid Mumbai to become the wettest State capital. The trend continued in 2013 too.
Mr. Sharma said, "In 2012, Dehradun recorded 2137 mm of rainfall, and Mumbai received 1867 mm."
This year many records had been broken. Dehradun’s maximum recorded rainfall in 24 hours was 188&nbsp;mm in 1925. This year, heavy rains caused havoc in the State in June. On 17 June, the rainfall for 24 hours was 370&nbsp;mm.
*In 1966, rainfall for June was 964&nbsp;mm. This record too was broken as Dehradun’s rainfall this June was 1,095&nbsp;mm.
The year 2013 has the longest monsoon since 1975.
*Mumbai comes second with 2,365&nbsp;mm rainfall
The climate of Dehradun is humid continental, although it varies from tropical: from hot in summers to severely cold, depending upon the season and the altitude. The nearby hilly regions often get snowfall during winter.
*Although the temperature in Dehradun can reach below freezing during severe cold snaps,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.outlookindia.com/items.aspx?artid=786301|title=Cold Wave Claims 29 Lives in North India|publisher=News.outlookindia.com|accessdate=8 December 2014}}</ref> this is not common. Summer temperatures can reach up to 44&nbsp;°C for a few days and hot wind called Loo blows over North India, whereas winter temperatures are usually between 1 and 20&nbsp;°C and fog is quite common in winters like plains. During the [[monsoon]] season, there is often heavy and protracted rainfall. Dehradun and other plains areas of Uttarakhand see almost as much rainfall as coastal Maharashtra and more than Assam. Agriculture benefits from fertile alluvial soil, adequate drainage and plentiful rain.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://uttarakrishiprabha.com/wps/portal/!ut/p/kcxml/04_Sj9SPykssy0xPLMnMz0vM0Y_QjzKLN4j3dQLJgFjGpvqRINrNBybiCBFAKPFFiPh65Oem6gcBZSLNgSKGBs76UTmp6YnJlfrB-t76AfoFuaGhEeXejgBpzmUQ/delta/base64xml/L0lJSk03dWlDU1EhIS9JRGpBQU15QUJFUkVSRUlnLzRGR2dkWW5LSjBGUm9YZmcvN18wXzEwQw!!?WCM_PORTLET=PC_7_0_10C_WCM&WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=/wps/wcm/connect/UAAP_HI/Home/Know+Uttarakhand/Garhwal+Region/%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%A2%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B2+%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B7%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0+%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%87+%E0%A4%9C%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A6/%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A8|title= देहरादून
|accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एक्सएमएल|publisher= उत्तराकृषिप्रभा|language=}}</ref> Mountain areas are also used for agriculture. Dehradun is known internationally for its variety of [[Basmati rice]] and [[Lychee]]s.

{{Weather box
|location= Dehradun
|metric first= yes
|single line= yes
|temperature colour =
|Jan record high C=28.6
|Feb record high C=31.2
|Mar record high C=37.2
|Apr record high C=40.8
|May record high C=42.8
|Jun record high C=43.9
|Jul record high C=40.6
|Aug record high C=37.2
|Sep record high C=36.6
|Oct record high C=36.1
|Nov record high C=30.6
|Dec record high C=27.4
|year record high C=
|Jan high C= 19.3
|Feb high C= 21.5
|Mar high C= 26.4
|Apr high C= 32.1
|May high C= 35.6
|Jun high C= 34.8
|Jul high C= 30.5
|Aug high C= 29.4
|Sep high C= 29.7
|Oct high C= 28.5
|Nov high C= 25.0
|Dec high C= 21.1
|year high C= 27.8
|Jan low C= 6.0
|Feb low C= 7.8
|Mar low C= 12.0
|Apr low C= 16.7
|May low C= 20.7
|Jun low C= 23.0
|Jul low C= 22.8
|Aug low C= 22.4
|Sep low C= 20.8
|Oct low C= 15.7
|Nov low C= 10.4
|Dec low C= 6.8
|year low C= 15.4
|Jan record low C=-1.1
|Feb record low C=-1.1
|Mar record low C=2.2
|Apr record low C=7.2
|May record low C=11.3
|Jun record low C=13.1
|Jul record low C=13.2
|Aug record low C=18.0
|Sep record low C=14.3
|Oct record low C=8.4
|Nov record low C=2.8
|Dec record low C=0.0
|year record low C=
|Jan precipitation mm= 55.0
|Feb precipitation mm= 58.8
|Mar precipitation mm= 49.0
|Apr precipitation mm= 22.5
|May precipitation mm= 41.7
|Jun precipitation mm= 201.8
|Jul precipitation mm= 672.6
|Aug precipitation mm= 728.2
|Sep precipitation mm= 296.5
|Oct precipitation mm= 49.8
|Nov precipitation mm= 8.6
|Dec precipitation mm= 24.4
|Jan humidity=72
|Feb humidity=66
|Mar humidity=57
|Apr humidity=46
|May humidity=48
|Jun humidity=66
|Jul humidity=85
|Aug humidity=86
|Sep humidity=81
|Oct humidity=69
|Nov humidity=68
|Dec humidity=71
|source 1 = IMD<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.imd.gov.in/doc/climateimp.pdf |title=Dehradun Climatological Table 1901–2000 |publisher=Indian Meteorological Department |accessdate=24 January 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.imdpune.gov.in/Temp_Extremes/histext2010.pdf |title=Extremes of India |publisher=Indian Meteorological Department |accessdate=24 January 2015 }}</ref>
|source 2 = MyWeather.com<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.myweather2.com/City-Town/India/Dehradun/climate-profile.aspx?month=1 | title = Climate profile for Dehradun | publisher = MyWeather.com | accessdate = 24 January 2015}}</ref>
}}

== Demographics ==
{{bar box
|title=Religions in Dehradun City, 2011 Census data<ref>{{cite web|first1=Goverment of India|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW05C-01%20MDDS.XLS|website=Census of India|accessdate=26 August 2015}}</ref>
|titlebar=#Fcd116
|left1=Religion
|right1=Percent
|float=right
|bars=
{{bar percent|[[Hindus]]|orange|82.94}}
{{bar percent|[[Muslims]]|green|11.43}}
{{bar percent|[[Sikhs]]|blue|3.52}}
{{bar percent|Others†|black|2.12}}
|caption=Distribution of religions<ref>{{cite web|title=Census India, 2001, Religious composition by district|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/Census_Data_2001/Census_Data_Online/Social_and_cultural/Religion.aspx|accessdate=12 May 2015}}</ref><br />
†<small> [[Christian]]s, [[Buddhist]]s, [[Jain]]s.</small>
}}

As per provisional reports of Census India, population of Dehradun in 2011 was 578,420;<ref name=Cities1Lakhandabove /> male and female are 303,411 and 275,009 respectively. The sex ratio of the city is 906 per 1000 males.<ref name=Cities1Lakhandabove />
The number of literates in Dehradun city is 463,791, of which 251,832 are males and 211,959 are females.<ref name=Cities1Lakhandabove /> Average literacy rate of Dehradun city is 89.32 percent, whereas male literacy and female literacy rates are 92.65 and 85.66 percent, respectively.<ref name=Cities1Lakhandabove />

The number of children of age under six in Dehradun city is 59,180 as per figure from Census India report on 2011. There are 31,600 boys and 27,580 are girls.<ref name=Cities1Lakhandabove /> Child sex ratio of girls is 873 per 1000 boys.<ref name=Cities1Lakhandabove />

==Economy==
Because of the low population and great education institutes, Dehradun garners a good per capita income close to $2400 (per 2012 figures : national average $800). It has enjoyed strong economic growth in the last 20 years. Dehradun today has experienced a commercial and information technology boom, amplified by the establishment of software technology parks of India (STPI)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dehradun.stpi.in|title=STPI homepage|publisher=Dehradun.stpi.in|accessdate=8 December 2014}}</ref> and SEZs ([[Special economic zones]]) throughout. Regional offices of [[Genpact]], [[Spice Digital]], [[Serco]], IMSI, Spanco, [[Aptara]], [[IndiaMART]] are present in Dehradun. A number of manufacturing units are present in the Selaqui area. The construction of the Delhi-Dehradun four-lane highway will enable more economic development.

Dehradun is also known for being a center for national defence production. Major defence production establishments include the Ordnance Factory Dehradun, the Opto Electronics Factory of the [[Ordnance Factories Board]], [[Defence Electronics Application Laboratory]] and [[Instruments Research and Development Establishment]] of the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] which manufactures products for the [[Indian Armed Forces]]. Many of these are located in Raipur area. The Ordnance Factory estate is located in the middle of mountains. Dulhani river flows in the heart of the colony.

==Tourism==
[[File:Central Braille Press, Dehradun (photo - Jim Ankan Deka).jpg|thumb|right|250px|Central Braille Press, Dehradun — the first [[Braille]] press of India]]
[[File:Forest Research Institute, Dehradun.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Forest Research Institute, Dehradun]]

Tourist destinations<ref>{{cite web|url=http://dehradunlive.in/attractions/|title=Dehradun Attractions – Things to do in Dehradun|publisher=Dehradunlive.in|accessdate=17 February 2015}}</ref> include the Tapkeshwar temple, Malsi Deer Park, Kalanga monument, Laxman Siddh, Chandrabani, Guchhupani, [[Forest Research Institute]], Tapovan, Santala Devi temple, Central [[Braille]] Press<ref>[http://www.withjim.in/2013/09/Central-Braille-Press-in-Dehradun.html Central Braille Press – the first braille printing press of India], ''Withjim.in''</ref> and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://210.212.78.56/dehradun/Hindi/excursions.html|title= इनका आकर्षण है खास|accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएमएल|publisher=देहरादूनएक्सकर्शन्स|language=}}</ref>
The tourist destinations can be divided into four or five areas: nature, sports, sanctuary, museums and institutions. The nearby hill stations are well known for their natural beauty,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.namastedehradun.com/natural-beauty-of-dehradun/|title=Namaste Dehradun-Natural Beauty of Dehradun – Namaste Dehradun|publisher=Namastedehradun.com|accessdate=8 December 2014}}</ref> temples for its faith dimensions, sanctuary for animal and bird lovers. Hill stations include [[Mussoorie]], Sahastradhara, Chakrata, and Dakpathar. Famous temples Tapkeshwar, [[Lakhamandal]] and Santala Devi are here.

In sports tourism, the Doon Ice Rink at Maharana Pratap Sports Complex, Raipur is the first full-sized ice arena in India.<ref>[http://www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20101218/dplus.htm#1] {{dead link|date=December 2014}}</ref><ref>[http://www.iihf.com/home-of-hockey/news/news-singleview/article/first-ice-arena-for-india.html?cHash=6cb9abfb5a] {{dead link|date=December 2014}}</ref> It has hosted [[Ice skating in India|ice skating competitions]] and [[Ice hockey in India|ice hockey tournaments]], including the [[IIHF]] Challenge Cup of Asia.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iihf.com/channels1112/ccoa/statistics.html|title=STATISTICS|publisher=Iihf.com|accessdate=8 December 2014}}</ref>

==Transport==
[[File:Dehradun City Railway station.jpg|thumb|right|Railway Station]]
Transport options include:
* '''By air:''' [[Air India]], [[Jet Airways]] and [[SpiceJet]] offer daily flights from Delhi while jet airways operates a daily hopping flight(stop at delhi) from Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram(via Banglore and Delhi) and air India has direct 50 minutes flight from lucknow to Dehradun's [[Jolly Grant Airport]] 25&nbsp;km from the valley of Dehradun.
* '''Railways:''' Dehradun has a [[Dehradun railway station]] with services to major cities including [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Kolkata]], [[Lucknow]], [[Trivandrum]], [[Vadodara]] and [[Varanasi]]. Some fast trains running to and from Dehradun include the Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi Express and New Delhi—Dehradun AC Express (to be renamed as [[Nanda Devi]] Express).

==Education==

Dehradun, also known as "City of Schools" and "School Capital of India", is home to some of India's renowned educational institutions, which include<ref>{{cite web |url= http://dehradun.nic.in/Institution.htm|title= इंस्ट्टीट्यूशंस |accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएम|publisher= देहरादून प्रशासन|language=अंग्रेज़ी}}</ref>[[ St. Joseph's Academy, Dehradun|St. Joseph's Academy]],[[Colonel Brown Cambridge School]], [[Summer Valley School]], [[Rashtriya Indian Military College]], [[Welham Girls School]], [[Welham Boys School]], [[St. George's College, Mussoorie|St. George's College]], [[Woodstock School]], [[Wynberg Allen School]], [[Convent of Jesus and Mary]], [[The Doon School]], [[SelaQui International School]], [[Indian Army Public Schools|Army Public School]], [[Cambrian Hall]], [[St. Thomas' College, Dehradun|St. Thomas' College]], [[Brightlands School]]

Several Indian and international luminaries have attended these schools. There are numerous forest officials in India who have attended the [[Forest Research Institute]] in Dehradun. It is home to many religious schools as well. [[Yoga]], [[Ayurveda]] and meditation have great influence in Dehradun.

National Institute for Visually Handicapped<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.nivh.org/|title= National Institute for the Visually Handicapped |accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएमएल|publisher= एन.आई.वी.एच|language=अंग्रेज़ी}}</ref> (NIVH) plays a key role in helping the blind people. It is the first such institute in India and the first press for [[Braille]] script in the country<ref>{{cite web |url= http://rehabcouncil.nic.in/programmes/study_center.htm|title=Rehabilitation Council of India |accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएम|publisher=रिहैबिलिटेशन काउंसिल ऑफ़ इंडिया|language=अंग्रेज़ी}}</ref> which provides education and service to the blind children.

[[Guitarmonk]] school for guitar classes in Dehradun is also available at various locations.

Dehradun houses organizations like the Latika Roy Foundation<ref>{{cite web|url=http://latikaroy.org/|title=Latika Roy Foundation|publisher=Latikaroy.org|accessdate=8 December 2014}}</ref> for people with disabilities to access education, employment, and full inclusion in the community. It harbours innovative organizations like the ASK Foundation working to channelize the teaching community and to uplift the academic level of students of Dehradun.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://askfound.org/|title=Home Tuition – Home|publisher=Askfound.org|accessdate=8 December 2014}}</ref>

Dehradun has institutions for engineering, medical, management and others for purpose of higher education.

==Culture==
[[File:Tara statue Great Stupa Dehra Dun.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Statue of Tara and Great Stupa Dehra Dun]]
Dehradun is a part of the [[Garhwal division|Garhwal region]], therefore the local customs of the [[Garhwali people]] have had a great influence on its culture. [[Garhwali]] and [[Hindi]] are the primary languages spoken. Other languages spoken in the region are [[Punjabi language|Punjabi]], English, Nepali, Tibetan, and [[Kumaoni language|Kumaoni]]. There are people from different religions and backgrounds residing here. After becoming the capital, there has been continuous growth in education, communication and transport. As the state capital, Dehradun is home to many government institutions. Dehradun is renowned all over India for its educational institutions.

Buses are identified with blue bars. There are autorickshaws which are often used for transportation but blamed for pollution and noise. The evening buzz of Rajpur road is an attraction. After becoming the capital of [[Uttarakhand]], the growth of the city has accelerated; it is still known as a peaceful city with pleasant weather. The city centre is easily recognized by the Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), a structure with six functioning clocks. The statue of San Dijen placed in Shanti Niketan contributes to the beauty of the city. Dehradun has been home to artists and writers including [[Stephen Alter]], [[Nayantara Sahgal]], [[Allan Sealy]], and [[Ruskin Bond]].

Dehradun was home to freedom fighters whose names are engraved in gold on the Clock Tower. It was called "The Gray City" in the initial days because ex-Army officers and VIPs considered this place ideal for residence after retirement.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://210.212.78.56/dehradun/Hindi/indexcity.html|title=देहरादून |accessdate=26 March 2011 |format= एचटीएमएल|publisher= देहरादून|language=}}</ref>

Woolen blankets are typical of this region and worn by people living at high altitude. Women wear saris with full-sleeve blouses along with angora jackets. Girls wear full skirts with scarfs covering their head and shoulders; more recently, they have adopted modern wear like salwar suits. In villages and to a lesser extent in towns, men wear the traditional dhoti, angarkha and langoti. The way dhotis are worn represents backgrounds and castes: short dhotis represent low status whereas long dhotis represent high. It is more common in urban areas for men to wear shirts and trousers, jeans and kurta-pyjamas. In winter, men usually dress in jackets, hats and overcoats. Hemp is grown in great quantities in this region, so its yarn is frequently used as lining.

The largest profession in Dehradun is agriculture. There are large numbers of people in the military, businesses and education. Staple foods are rice and dal with raita, curd and salad. Dehradun is known for its lychees and for growing the world's finest basmati rice.

There are fairs ([[mela]]s) throughout the year. Notable fairs include Magh Mela, held on 14 January and Jhanda Mela in March, a fair for the Hindu community, that attracts Hindus from all over India and abroad.

==Sport==
The first indoor ice rink in India that meets the size requirements for [[ice hockey]], [[figure skating]], [[short track speed skating|short track]] and [[rink bandy]] was built in Dehradun.<ref>[http://www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20101218/dplus.htm] {{dead link|date=December 2014}}</ref>

[[Uttarakhand Cricket Association]] is the governing body of the Cricket activities in the Uttarakhand state of India and the [[Uttarakhand cricket team]].

===Grounds===
'''[[Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium]] & Mega Sports Complex''' is a proposed multi-purpose stadium in the Raipur area of Dehradun. It will be the first international level stadium in the state.<ref name="allindoon.com">[http://www.allindoon.com/showbusinesslist/showbusinessarticle/directory/active-life-dehradun/4930-rajiv-gandhi-international-cricket-stadium-dehradun-uttarakhand] {{dead link|date=December 2014}}</ref>

Since, the formation of the state 2000, the state suffered a blow to its sport facilities as [[Uttar Pradesh]] had the entire infrastructure for sports. [[Uttarakhand]] had hosted very few matches of [[Ranji Trophy]]. Due to lack of the in infrastructure the player started moving to different states.

In November 2012, [[List of Chief Ministers of Uttarakhand|Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand]] [[Vijay Bahuguna]] laid the foundation of the stadium hoped that the stadium would bring Dehradun on the international cricket map and added that the shortage of money would not be a hurdle in the completion of the [[Rajiv Gandhi Stadium and Mega Sports Complex]].<ref name="allindoon.com"/> The stadium would be constructed as per international norms. The stadium and sports complex would be built in 23 acres.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailypioneer.com/state-editions/dehradun/layout-for-rajiv-gandhi-cricket-stadium-finalised.html|title=Layout for Rajiv Gandhi cricket stadium finalised|publisher=Dailypioneer.com|accessdate=8 December 2014}}</ref>

==Architecture==
[[File:Dehradun India 2006-11.JPG|right|thumb|Ghanta Ghar (Clock tower), Dehradun]]
After Dehradun was made the capital of Uttarakhand, there was a construction boom, especially in residential property. {{citation needed|date=June 2015}} Modern buildings have gradually supplanted older architectural styles including those related to the British colonial rule of India. Important older buildings still upstanding include the Clock Tower, [[Forest Research Institute (India)|Forest Research Institute]], CNI College, Morrison Memorial Church, Inamullah Building, Jama Masjid, Osho Meditation Centre, [[Indian Military Academy]] and Darbar Sahib.

==Shopping and entertainment==
Paltan Bazaar and Rajpur Road are the economic heart of Dehradun. The largest mall in Dehradun is currently Pacific Mall at Jakhan. Other malls are also in various stages of proposal, consideration or development, in response to changing demographics, globalisation and purchasing power.

Malls include Crossroads, Pacific, City Junction, Parsvanath Eleganza and Vikas Cine Mall. There are five multiplexes:
* Glitz Cinemas near ISBT,
* Silvercity Multiplex on Rajpur Road,
* PVR Cinemas in the [[Pacific Mall]],
* Reliance Big Cinemas inside the Vikas Cine Mall in Indira Nagar.
* Movie Lounge in Crossroad Mall.

==Images==
<gallery>
Image: Dehradun - Night Lights - A View from Mussoorie.jpg|Dehradun night lights: A view from [[Mussoorie]]
Image: Great stupa in Mindroling.jpg | Mindroling stupa
Image: Tara statue Great Stupa Dehra Dun.jpg | Tara statue and stupas
Image: Dehradun Night View.jpg | Dehradun Night View From Mussorie
Image: Forest_Research_Institute_campus,_Dehradun,_India.jpg | [[Forest Research Institute]]
Image: Osho Institute, Dehradun.jpg | Osho Institute, Dehradun
Image: BuddhaStatueDehradun.jpg | Buddha statue, Dehradun
File:Ghanta Ghar (Clock tower), Dehradun.jpg | Six-face Clock Tower marks the centre of the city
</gallery>

==See also==
* [[Dehradun Municipal Corporation|Nagar Nigam Dehradun]]
* [[Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority|MDDA]]
* [[Doiwala]]
* [[Haridwar]]
* [[Roorkee]]
* [[Saharanpur]]
* [[Najibabad]]
* [[Meerut]]
* [[List of cities in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh by population]]
* [[People of Nepal|Nepali people]]
* [[Garhwali people]]
* [[Garhwal Division|Garhwal]]
* [[Garhwal Rifles]]
* [[Bengal Engineer Group]] (based in Uttarakhand)
* [[Kumaon Division|Kumaon]]
* [[Kumaoni people]]
* [[Kumaon Regiment]]
* [[Special Frontier Force]]
* [[Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education]]
* [[Indian Military Academy]]

==References==
{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2011}}

{{Authority control}}
[[Category:Dehradun district]]
[[Category:Dehradun| ]]
[[Category:Places in the Ramayana]]

Revision as of 11:37, 4 October 2015

Dehradun
देहरादून
Metropolitan City
Forest Research Institute (India)
Forest Research Institute (India)
Country India
StateUttarakhand
DistrictDehradun
HeadquartersDehradun
Elevation
435 m (1,427 ft)
Population
 (2011)[1]
 • Metropolitan City578,420
 • Metro
[2]
714,223
Languages
 • OfficialHindi
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
248001
Telephone code91–135
Vehicle registrationUK-07,UA-07,UP-07
Websitedehradun.nic.in

Dehradun /ˌd[invalid input: 'err']əˈd[invalid input: 'oo']n/ is the capital city of the state of Uttarakhand in the northern part of India. Located in the Garhwal region, it lies 236 kilometres (147 mi) north of India's capital New Delhi and is one of the "Counter Magnets" of the National Capital Region (NCR) being developed as an alternative centre of growth to help ease the migration and population explosion in the Delhi metropolitan area.[3] Dehradun is in the Doon Valley on the foothills of the Himalayas nestled between two of India's mightiest rivers — the Ganges on the east and the Yamuna on the west. The city is famous for its picturesque landscape and slightly milder climate and provides a gateway to the surrounding region. It is well connected and in proximity to popular Himalayan tourist destinations such as Mussoorie, Nainital and Auli and the Hindu holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh along with the Himalayan pilgrimage circuit of Char Dham.

Dehradun is renowned for its natural resources, publishing services and particularly for its educational institutions. It is one of the highest rain receiving areas of North India. [citation needed] It hosts training institutions of national importance such as the Indian Military Academy. City population has significant contribution of government servants. It is home to national foundations such as the Ordnance Factory Dehradun, Opto Electronics Factory, and other defence establishments. Other institutions include the DIT University, Indian Institute of Petroleum, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Law College Dehradun, Survey of India, Wadia Institute Of Himalayan Geology, Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Wildlife Institute of India and the Forest Research Institute.[4]

Dehradun Municipal Corporation is locally known as Nagar Nigam Dehradun. Other urban entities involved in civic services and city governance and management include Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA), Special Area Development Authority (SADA), Jal Sansthan, and Jal Nigam among others.

Etymology

Dehradun is made up of two words: 'Dehra' is derived from the word "dera", deriving from griha and meaning home. "Doon" is a term for the valley that lies between the Himalayas and the "Shivaliks". When Ram Rai Ji, son of Guru Har Rai Ji, came to this region with his followers, he established a camp here for them. Around this time, the modern city of Dehradun started to develop. This is when the word dehra was linked to doon, and thus the city was named Dehradun.In Skanda Purana, Dun is mentioned as a part of the region called Kedar Khand, the abode of Shiva. In ancient India during the Mahabharata epic era, Dronacharya the great teacher of Kauravas and Pandavas lived here hence the name, "Drona-nagr".[5][6] Some historians believe that the word dehra can be regarded as a term for camping.[7]

History

Princely flag of Kingdom of Garhwal. Dehradun was part of the princely state of Garhwal before becoming part of British India after the Anglo-Nepalese War in 1816.
Main article: History of Dehradun

The history of the city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun (nicknamed "Doon Valley") is linked to the story of Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is believed that after the battle between Ravan and Lord Ram, Lord Ram and his brother Laxman visited this site. Dronacharya, the legendary Royal guru to the Kauravas and Pandavas in the epic Mahabharata, is believed to have been born and resided in Dehradun.[8] Evidence such as ancient temples and idols have been found in the areas surrounding Dehradun which have been linked to the mythology of Ramayana and Mahabharata. These relics and ruins are believed to be around 2000 years old. Furthermore, the location, the local traditions and the literature reflect this region's links with the events of Mahabharata and Ramayana. Even after the battle of Mahabharata, the Pandavas had influence on this region as the rulers of Hastinapur with the descendants of Subahu ruled the region as subsidiaries. Likewise, Rishikesh is mentioned in the pages of history when Lord Vishnu answered the prayers of the saints, slaughtered the demons and handed the land to the saints. The adjoining place called Chakrata has its historical impression during the time of Mahabharata.

In the seventh century this area was known as Sudhnagar and was described by the Chinese traveler Huen Tsang. Sudhnagar later came to be recognised as the name of Kaalsi. Edicts of Ashoka have been found in the region along the banks of river Yamuna in Kaalsi indicating the wealth and importance of the region in ancient India. In the neighbouring region of Haripur, ruins were discovered from the time of King Rasala which also reflect the region's prosperity.

Before the name of Dehradun was used, the place is shown on old maps as Gurudwara (a map by Webb, 1808) or Gooroodwara (a map by Gerard, 1818). Gerard's map names the place as "Dehra or Gooroodwara". Surrounding this original Sikh temple were many small villages that are now the names of parts of the modern city.

Dehradun itself derives its name from the historical fact that Shri Ram Rai, the eldest son of the Seventh Sikh Guru Har Rai Ji, set up his "dera" (camp) in "dun" (valley) in 1676. This 'Dera' 'Dun' later on became Dehradun.

The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb was highly impressed by the miraculous powers of charismatic Ram Rai. He asked the contemporary Raja of Garhwal, Fateh Shah to extend all possible help to Shri Ram Rai. Initially a Gurudwara (temple) was built in Dhamawala. The construction of the present building of Darbar was completed in 1707. There are portraits of gods, goddesses, saints, sages and religious stories on the walls. There are pictures of flowers and leaves, animals and birds, trees, similar faces with pointed noses and big eyes on the arches which are the symbol of the colour scheme of Kangra-Guler and Mughal art. High minarets and round pinnacles are the models of the Muslim architecture. (The huge talab in the front measuring 230 x 80 feet had dried up for want of water over the years. People had been dumping rubbish; it has been renovated and revived. Now whoever visits to the Darbar would notice the change.)

Dehradun was invaded by Mahmud of Ghazni during his campaigns into India followed by Taimooralang in 1368, Ruahela Njibuddulo in 1757 and Ghulam Qadir in 1785. In 1806 King Prithvi Narayan Shah united and many of the Indian territories now fell under such as Almora, Phatankot, Kumaon, Garhwal, Simur, Shimla, Kangra and Dehradun.

On the western front Garhwal and parts of Himachal Pradesh up to Punjab and on the eastern front the state of Sikkim up to Darjeeling became parts of Nepal for a brief period until the British East India Company went on war from 1814 to 1816. The war ended with signing of the Treaty of Sugowli where almost a third was ceded to British East India company. The British got Dehradun in 1816 and colonised Landour and Mussoorie in 1827–1828.

Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first prime minister, was quite fond of the city and often visited. He spent his last few days here before passing away in Delhi in 1964.[9] Another leader from the independence movement, Rash Behari Bose, who was one of the key organisers of the Ghadar conspiracy and, later, the Indian National Army was based in Dehradun in his early days before he was forced to move to Japan in 1915 to continue the freedom struggle.

Post independence Dehradun and other parts of Garhwal and Kumaon were merged with United Provinces which was later renamed the state of Uttar Pradesh. In 2000, Uttarakhand state (earlier called Uttaranchal) was created from the northwestern districts of Uttar Pradesh under the Uttar Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2000. Dehradun was made its provisional capital. After becoming the capital, the city has seen continuous development.[10]

Geography

The city of Dehradun mainly lies in Doon Valley and is at a varying height from 410m at Clement Town to above 600 m at Jakhan which is 4 km from the city. However general elavation is 450 mtrs above sea level. Tiuni hills, rising to 3700 m above sea level.The hilly region of Mussoorie goes up to a height of 1870–2170 metres above sea level. The Doon valley contains the settlements including Dehradun, Doiwala, Herbertpur, Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Rishikesh, Raiwala and Subash Nagar, Clement Town. The district contains Rajaji National Park which is home to several elephants. The Doon valley has the Terai and Bhabar forests within it as well as the Shiwalik hills and Lesser Himalayan Range containing hill stations such as Mussoorie and Chakrata. The district is bordered by the Himalayas in the north, the Sivalik Hills to the south, the river Ganges to the east, and the Yamuna river to the west. Towns in the foothills of the mountain ranges include Mussoorie, Sahastradhara, Chakrata, Lahkhamondal, Gautam Kund Chandrabani and Dakpathar.

This district is divided into two major parts: the main city Dehradun surrounded by Shivalik and the Jaunsar Bavar, which is in the foothills of Himalayas. In the north and northwest it borders on the district of Uttarkashi and in the east by Pauri. In the west, it is bordered by Yamunanagar district of Haryana and the Tons and Yamuna rivers. To the south are Haridwar and Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur district.

It is between latitudes 29 °58' N and 31°2'N and longitudes 77° 34' E and 78° 18'E.[11] This district consists of six tehsils — Dehradun, Chakrata, Vikasnagar, Kalsi, Tjonee and Rishikesh — six community development blocks — Vis, Chakrata, Kalsi,Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Rajpur and Doiwala — 17 towns and 764 villages. Out of these 746 villages are inhabited; 18 are uninhabited.[12]

Climate

The city is also referred as the 'Rainy City of India' due to continuous and incessant rainfalls specially in monsoon. In fact 16–17 June rainfall was highest ever recorded rainfall of 370 mm rainfall that devastated whole Uttarakhand and nearby regions. [citation needed]

Dehradun is India’s wettest State capital this monsoon with 2,865 mm of rainfall between 1 June and 30 September, according to Director of the Dehradun Meteorological Centre Anand Sharma. With 2,365 mm, Mumbai received the second highest rainfall during this monsoon season.

  • In 2011, the Maharashtra capital recorded the maximum rainfall amongst all State capitals during the monsoon season. However, in 2012, Dehradun outdid Mumbai to become the wettest State capital. The trend continued in 2013 too.

Mr. Sharma said, "In 2012, Dehradun recorded 2137 mm of rainfall, and Mumbai received 1867 mm." This year many records had been broken. Dehradun’s maximum recorded rainfall in 24 hours was 188 mm in 1925. This year, heavy rains caused havoc in the State in June. On 17 June, the rainfall for 24 hours was 370 mm.

  • In 1966, rainfall for June was 964 mm. This record too was broken as Dehradun’s rainfall this June was 1,095 mm.

The year 2013 has the longest monsoon since 1975.

  • Mumbai comes second with 2,365 mm rainfall

The climate of Dehradun is humid continental, although it varies from tropical: from hot in summers to severely cold, depending upon the season and the altitude. The nearby hilly regions often get snowfall during winter.

  • Although the temperature in Dehradun can reach below freezing during severe cold snaps,[13] this is not common. Summer temperatures can reach up to 44 °C for a few days and hot wind called Loo blows over North India, whereas winter temperatures are usually between 1 and 20 °C and fog is quite common in winters like plains. During the monsoon season, there is often heavy and protracted rainfall. Dehradun and other plains areas of Uttarakhand see almost as much rainfall as coastal Maharashtra and more than Assam. Agriculture benefits from fertile alluvial soil, adequate drainage and plentiful rain.[14] Mountain areas are also used for agriculture. Dehradun is known internationally for its variety of Basmati rice and Lychees.
Climate data for Dehradun
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 28.6
(83.5) 		31.2
(88.2) 		37.2
(99.0) 		40.8
(105.4) 		42.8
(109.0) 		43.9
(111.0) 		40.6
(105.1) 		37.2
(99.0) 		36.6
(97.9) 		36.1
(97.0) 		30.6
(87.1) 		27.4
(81.3) 		43.9
(111.0)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 19.3
(66.7) 		21.5
(70.7) 		26.4
(79.5) 		32.1
(89.8) 		35.6
(96.1) 		34.8
(94.6) 		30.5
(86.9) 		29.4
(84.9) 		29.7
(85.5) 		28.5
(83.3) 		25.0
(77.0) 		21.1
(70.0) 		27.8
(82.0)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 6.0
(42.8) 		7.8
(46.0) 		12.0
(53.6) 		16.7
(62.1) 		20.7
(69.3) 		23.0
(73.4) 		22.8
(73.0) 		22.4
(72.3) 		20.8
(69.4) 		15.7
(60.3) 		10.4
(50.7) 		6.8
(44.2) 		15.4
(59.7)
Record low °C (°F) −1.1
(30.0) 		−1.1
(30.0) 		2.2
(36.0) 		7.2
(45.0) 		11.3
(52.3) 		13.1
(55.6) 		13.2
(55.8) 		18.0
(64.4) 		14.3
(57.7) 		8.4
(47.1) 		2.8
(37.0) 		0.0
(32.0) 		−1.1
(30.0)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 55.0
(2.17) 		58.8
(2.31) 		49.0
(1.93) 		22.5
(0.89) 		41.7
(1.64) 		201.8
(7.94) 		672.6
(26.48) 		728.2
(28.67) 		296.5
(11.67) 		49.8
(1.96) 		8.6
(0.34) 		24.4
(0.96) 		2,208.9
(86.96)
Average relative humidity (%) 72 66 57 46 48 66 85 86 81 69 68 71 68
Source 1: IMD[15][16]
Source 2: MyWeather.com[17]

Demographics

Religions in Dehradun City, 2011 Census data[18]
Religion Percent
Hindus
 
 82.94%
Muslims
 
 11.43%
Sikhs
 
 3.52%
Others†
 
 2.12%
Distribution of religions[19]
† Christians, Buddhists, Jains.

As per provisional reports of Census India, population of Dehradun in 2011 was 578,420;[1] male and female are 303,411 and 275,009 respectively. The sex ratio of the city is 906 per 1000 males.[1] The number of literates in Dehradun city is 463,791, of which 251,832 are males and 211,959 are females.[1] Average literacy rate of Dehradun city is 89.32 percent, whereas male literacy and female literacy rates are 92.65 and 85.66 percent, respectively.[1]

The number of children of age under six in Dehradun city is 59,180 as per figure from Census India report on 2011. There are 31,600 boys and 27,580 are girls.[1] Child sex ratio of girls is 873 per 1000 boys.[1]

Economy

Because of the low population and great education institutes, Dehradun garners a good per capita income close to $2400 (per 2012 figures : national average $800). It has enjoyed strong economic growth in the last 20 years. Dehradun today has experienced a commercial and information technology boom, amplified by the establishment of software technology parks of India (STPI)[20] and SEZs (Special economic zones) throughout. Regional offices of Genpact, Spice Digital, Serco, IMSI, Spanco, Aptara, IndiaMART are present in Dehradun. A number of manufacturing units are present in the Selaqui area. The construction of the Delhi-Dehradun four-lane highway will enable more economic development.

Dehradun is also known for being a center for national defence production. Major defence production establishments include the Ordnance Factory Dehradun, the Opto Electronics Factory of the Ordnance Factories Board, Defence Electronics Application Laboratory and Instruments Research and Development Establishment of the Defence Research and Development Organisation which manufactures products for the Indian Armed Forces. Many of these are located in Raipur area. The Ordnance Factory estate is located in the middle of mountains. Dulhani river flows in the heart of the colony.

Tourism

Central Braille Press, Dehradun — the first Braille press of India
Forest Research Institute, Dehradun

Tourist destinations[21] include the Tapkeshwar temple, Malsi Deer Park, Kalanga monument, Laxman Siddh, Chandrabani, Guchhupani, Forest Research Institute, Tapovan, Santala Devi temple, Central Braille Press[22] and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology.[23] The tourist destinations can be divided into four or five areas: nature, sports, sanctuary, museums and institutions. The nearby hill stations are well known for their natural beauty,[24] temples for its faith dimensions, sanctuary for animal and bird lovers. Hill stations include Mussoorie, Sahastradhara, Chakrata, and Dakpathar. Famous temples Tapkeshwar, Lakhamandal and Santala Devi are here.

In sports tourism, the Doon Ice Rink at Maharana Pratap Sports Complex, Raipur is the first full-sized ice arena in India.[25][26] It has hosted ice skating competitions and ice hockey tournaments, including the IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia.[27]

Transport

Railway Station

Transport options include:

Education

Dehradun, also known as "City of Schools" and "School Capital of India", is home to some of India's renowned educational institutions, which include[28]St. Joseph's Academy,Colonel Brown Cambridge School, Summer Valley School, Rashtriya Indian Military College, Welham Girls School, Welham Boys School, St. George's College, Woodstock School, Wynberg Allen School, Convent of Jesus and Mary, The Doon School, SelaQui International School, Army Public School, Cambrian Hall, St. Thomas' College, Brightlands School

Several Indian and international luminaries have attended these schools. There are numerous forest officials in India who have attended the Forest Research Institute in Dehradun. It is home to many religious schools as well. Yoga, Ayurveda and meditation have great influence in Dehradun.

National Institute for Visually Handicapped[29] (NIVH) plays a key role in helping the blind people. It is the first such institute in India and the first press for Braille script in the country[30] which provides education and service to the blind children.

Guitarmonk school for guitar classes in Dehradun is also available at various locations.

Dehradun houses organizations like the Latika Roy Foundation[31] for people with disabilities to access education, employment, and full inclusion in the community. It harbours innovative organizations like the ASK Foundation working to channelize the teaching community and to uplift the academic level of students of Dehradun.[32]

Dehradun has institutions for engineering, medical, management and others for purpose of higher education.

Culture

Statue of Tara and Great Stupa Dehra Dun

Dehradun is a part of the Garhwal region, therefore the local customs of the Garhwali people have had a great influence on its culture. Garhwali and Hindi are the primary languages spoken. Other languages spoken in the region are Punjabi, English, Nepali, Tibetan, and Kumaoni. There are people from different religions and backgrounds residing here. After becoming the capital, there has been continuous growth in education, communication and transport. As the state capital, Dehradun is home to many government institutions. Dehradun is renowned all over India for its educational institutions.

Buses are identified with blue bars. There are autorickshaws which are often used for transportation but blamed for pollution and noise. The evening buzz of Rajpur road is an attraction. After becoming the capital of Uttarakhand, the growth of the city has accelerated; it is still known as a peaceful city with pleasant weather. The city centre is easily recognized by the Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), a structure with six functioning clocks. The statue of San Dijen placed in Shanti Niketan contributes to the beauty of the city. Dehradun has been home to artists and writers including Stephen Alter, Nayantara Sahgal, Allan Sealy, and Ruskin Bond.

Dehradun was home to freedom fighters whose names are engraved in gold on the Clock Tower. It was called "The Gray City" in the initial days because ex-Army officers and VIPs considered this place ideal for residence after retirement.[33]

Woolen blankets are typical of this region and worn by people living at high altitude. Women wear saris with full-sleeve blouses along with angora jackets. Girls wear full skirts with scarfs covering their head and shoulders; more recently, they have adopted modern wear like salwar suits. In villages and to a lesser extent in towns, men wear the traditional dhoti, angarkha and langoti. The way dhotis are worn represents backgrounds and castes: short dhotis represent low status whereas long dhotis represent high. It is more common in urban areas for men to wear shirts and trousers, jeans and kurta-pyjamas. In winter, men usually dress in jackets, hats and overcoats. Hemp is grown in great quantities in this region, so its yarn is frequently used as lining.

The largest profession in Dehradun is agriculture. There are large numbers of people in the military, businesses and education. Staple foods are rice and dal with raita, curd and salad. Dehradun is known for its lychees and for growing the world's finest basmati rice.

There are fairs (melas) throughout the year. Notable fairs include Magh Mela, held on 14 January and Jhanda Mela in March, a fair for the Hindu community, that attracts Hindus from all over India and abroad.

Sport

The first indoor ice rink in India that meets the size requirements for ice hockey, figure skating, short track and rink bandy was built in Dehradun.[34]

Uttarakhand Cricket Association is the governing body of the Cricket activities in the Uttarakhand state of India and the Uttarakhand cricket team.

Grounds

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium & Mega Sports Complex is a proposed multi-purpose stadium in the Raipur area of Dehradun. It will be the first international level stadium in the state.[35]

Since, the formation of the state 2000, the state suffered a blow to its sport facilities as Uttar Pradesh had the entire infrastructure for sports. Uttarakhand had hosted very few matches of Ranji Trophy. Due to lack of the in infrastructure the player started moving to different states.

In November 2012, Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Vijay Bahuguna laid the foundation of the stadium hoped that the stadium would bring Dehradun on the international cricket map and added that the shortage of money would not be a hurdle in the completion of the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium and Mega Sports Complex.[35] The stadium would be constructed as per international norms. The stadium and sports complex would be built in 23 acres.[36]

Architecture

Ghanta Ghar (Clock tower), Dehradun

After Dehradun was made the capital of Uttarakhand, there was a construction boom, especially in residential property. [citation needed] Modern buildings have gradually supplanted older architectural styles including those related to the British colonial rule of India. Important older buildings still upstanding include the Clock Tower, Forest Research Institute, CNI College, Morrison Memorial Church, Inamullah Building, Jama Masjid, Osho Meditation Centre, Indian Military Academy and Darbar Sahib.

Shopping and entertainment

Paltan Bazaar and Rajpur Road are the economic heart of Dehradun. The largest mall in Dehradun is currently Pacific Mall at Jakhan. Other malls are also in various stages of proposal, consideration or development, in response to changing demographics, globalisation and purchasing power.

Malls include Crossroads, Pacific, City Junction, Parsvanath Eleganza and Vikas Cine Mall. There are five multiplexes:

  • Glitz Cinemas near ISBT,
  • Silvercity Multiplex on Rajpur Road,
  • PVR Cinemas in the Pacific Mall,
  • Reliance Big Cinemas inside the Vikas Cine Mall in Indira Nagar.
  • Movie Lounge in Crossroad Mall.

Images

  • Dehradun night lights: A view from Mussoorie
    Dehradun night lights: A view from Mussoorie
  • Mindroling stupa
    Mindroling stupa
  • Tara statue and stupas
    Tara statue and stupas
  • Dehradun Night View From Mussorie
    Dehradun Night View From Mussorie
  • Forest Research Institute
    Forest Research Institute
  • Osho Institute, Dehradun
    Osho Institute, Dehradun
  • Buddha statue, Dehradun
    Buddha statue, Dehradun
  • Six-face Clock Tower marks the centre of the city
    Six-face Clock Tower marks the centre of the city

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g "Provisional Population Totals, Census of India 2011; Cities having population 1 lakh and above" (pdf). Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. Retrieved 26 March 2012.
  2. ^ "Provisional Population Totals, Census of India 2011; Urban Agglomerations/Cities having population 1 lakh and above" (pdf). Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. Retrieved 26 March 2012.
  3. ^ Bhushan, Ranjit. "Counter Magnets of NCR". Mydigitalfc.com. Retrieved 1 September 2010.
  4. ^ "देहरादून शहर मार्गदर्शिका" (एचटीएमएल). ट्रेनइन्क्वायरी.कॉम. Retrieved 26 March 2011.
  5. ^ History of Dehradun
  6. ^ Natural Resource Management By B.W. Pandey (ed. By) Page 226 ISBN 81-7099-986-3 Mittal Publications, India Language English (31 March 2005)
  7. ^ The History of Sikh Gurus ISBN 81-8382-075-1 page 112 Chapter 8
  8. ^ ए ब्रीफ हिस्ट्री एण्ड प्रोफ़ाइल ऑफ़ देहरादून Uttarakhand सरकार वेबसाइट।
  9. ^ "How Nehru spent his last four days". Mid-day.com. Retrieved 8 December 2014.
  10. ^ "गौरवशाली इतिहास है देहरादून का" (एचटीएमएल). म्यार पहाड़. Retrieved 26 March 2011.
  11. ^ "Altitude" (एचटीएमएल) (in अंग्रेज़ी). देरादून. Retrieved 26 March 2011.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  12. ^ "Important District Indicators" (एचटीएम) (in अंग्रेज़ी). देरादून.निक.इन. Retrieved 26 March 2011.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  13. ^ "Cold Wave Claims 29 Lives in North India". News.outlookindia.com. Retrieved 8 December 2014.
  14. ^ "देहरादून" (एक्सएमएल). उत्तराकृषिप्रभा. Retrieved 26 March 2011.
  15. ^ "Dehradun Climatological Table 1901–2000" (PDF). Indian Meteorological Department. Retrieved 24 January 2015.
  16. ^ "Extremes of India" (PDF). Indian Meteorological Department. Retrieved 24 January 2015.
  17. ^ "Climate profile for Dehradun". MyWeather.com. Retrieved 24 January 2015.
  18. ^ Census of India http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/C-01/DDW05C-01%20MDDS.XLS. Retrieved 26 August 2015. {{cite web}}: |first1= missing |last1= (help); Missing or empty |title= (help)
  19. ^ "Census India, 2001, Religious composition by district". Retrieved 12 May 2015.
  20. ^ "STPI homepage". Dehradun.stpi.in. Retrieved 8 December 2014.
  21. ^ "Dehradun Attractions – Things to do in Dehradun". Dehradunlive.in. Retrieved 17 February 2015.
  22. ^ Central Braille Press – the first braille printing press of India, Withjim.in
  23. ^ "इनका आकर्षण है खास" (एचटीएमएल). देहरादूनएक्सकर्शन्स. Retrieved 26 March 2011.
  24. ^ "Namaste Dehradun-Natural Beauty of Dehradun – Namaste Dehradun". Namastedehradun.com. Retrieved 8 December 2014.
  25. ^ [1] [dead link]
  26. ^ [2] [dead link]
  27. ^ "STATISTICS". Iihf.com. Retrieved 8 December 2014.
  28. ^ "इंस्ट्टीट्यूशंस" (एचटीएम) (in अंग्रेज़ी). देहरादून प्रशासन. Retrieved 26 March 2011.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  29. ^ "National Institute for the Visually Handicapped" (एचटीएमएल) (in अंग्रेज़ी). एन.आई.वी.एच. Retrieved 26 March 2011.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  30. ^ "Rehabilitation Council of India" (एचटीएम) (in अंग्रेज़ी). रिहैबिलिटेशन काउंसिल ऑफ़ इंडिया. Retrieved 26 March 2011.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  31. ^ "Latika Roy Foundation". Latikaroy.org. Retrieved 8 December 2014.
  32. ^ "Home Tuition – Home". Askfound.org. Retrieved 8 December 2014.
  33. ^ "देहरादून" (एचटीएमएल). देहरादून. Retrieved 26 March 2011.
  34. ^ [3] [dead link]
  35. ^ a b [4] [dead link]
  36. ^ "Layout for Rajiv Gandhi cricket stadium finalised". Dailypioneer.com. Retrieved 8 December 2014.

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