Dehradun Secrets From Local Boy Apoorva Anand
Also check out Apoorva's three day itinerary recommendation.
Meet Apoorva, the epitome of a friendly Pahadi boy with a heart of gold. His journey from the world of numbers as an accountant to the realm of public welfare speaks volumes about his passion for making a positive impact. Apoorva and his friends in Dehradun breathed new life into cherished traditions and initiated projects that uplift communities.
They revived the long-forgotten festivals of Harela and Phool Dei. Harela, celebrated in Uttarakhand, marks the monsoon's onset and symbolizes new life. Meaning "green" in Hindi involves decorating homes with barley sprouts, community gatherings, feasting, and cultural performances. Harela is celebrated twice: "Chaitra Harela" in March or April and "Shravan Harela" in July or August, marking seasonal transitions. Phool Dei, celebrated in Uttarakhand's Kumaon region during March or April, marks the arrival of spring and the new year. Young girls in traditional attire visit homes, singing folk songs and offering flowers, grains, and blessings. In return, they receive sweets, money, or tokens of appreciation.
Apoorva works with Dhad, an NGO that has made hobby corners in classrooms across over 700 schools in Uttarakhand. He owns a cafe - Dehra Kettle- a magnet for artists.
I caught up with Apoorva, a native of Dehradun, and we’ve got some great tips for your next visit.
What is the best way to explore Dehradun?
Due to increased traffic, a two-wheeler is the ideal choice. Mussoorie, Tehri, Rishikesh, and Haridwar are all within a stone's throw.
What about under-the-radar neighborhoods we should check out?
Given that Dehradun is similar to other cities, with a central market and innumerable neighboring localities, the Tibetan colony and the peaceful Buddha Temple are my top recommendations for authentic Buddha Temple, Dehradun
Tehsil Chowk is one of the oldest areas, with buildings based on Mughal architecture. It is the earliest Muslim settlement since the 1600s.
Although Sahatradhara is known for having some of the biggest and most numerous Buddhist monasteries, Rajpur is among Dehradun's hilly and green areas. Surrounded by neighboring waterfalls, its history includes the origins of the Ganga Canal System. The idea of the canal was first conceptualized and started on the origins of the Rispana River.
Vivekanand Baoli (spring water) is where Swami Vivekanand meditated regularly during his stay in Dehradun.
Where should we stay?
Purukul is my most recommended area because it is easily accessible and beautiful, with greenery, valleys, and rivers.
Your best breakfast recommendations?
One of the oldest and most popular joints is at the Hanuman Chowk near the railway station.
Ama Café is everyone’s favourite here. Many of us locals are still regulars. I recommend their English breakfast, coffee, and bakery products, and the vibe is especially great for working.
Jhurmut Vatiaka, located at Thano, has a rustic appeal with chairpai (cot) placed below mango or lychee trees. It is famous for its in-house-grown fresh produce and Pahadi cuisine.
Then there's Udupi for south-Indian and Ellora’s bakery, another good option.
For Lunch: My top choices are Tibetian food at Lhasa, Tibet Kitchen, or Orchard.
And Dinner: Any cafe in Rajpur that catches your attention. They are all good.
Enlighten us about Dehradun.
For six centuries, Dehradun has stood as a silent witness to diverse migrations, from the valiant Gurkhas of Nepal to the imposing presence of British and Mughal invaders and the Sardars from Punjab. And above all, Hindus and Muslims have harmoniously coexisted.
Where do you go to relax?
I enjoy working with my hands, so clay pottery is a medium I find relaxing. A drive to Maldevta, only 5km from my home, is also a relaxing getaway. Now that paragliding in Maldevta has begun, I also enjoy doing it on some days.
Any local business you support?
Shop Kuhoo and Project Purukul for their hand-made artistic products.
What are your future plans?
Since there are no souvenirs special to Dehradun, I am working on that. I'm transforming my café, Dehra Kettle, into a co-working space for artists. Workshops, art, and music festivals are some events I will regularly host.
What are some must-try dishes from your café?
Our local cuisine stands out in all of Dehradun. We have a kitchen garden, and all food is home-cooked by local chefs. Among many, Chai (tea), devil momos, shakes, and soda-based drinks are favorites.
For those seeking seasonal specialties, we offer a taste of tradition with dishes like millet-based flour delicacies, Koda flour creations, indulgent red rice kheer, and aromatic Jhangore ki kheer, alongside sweet treats like Arse and Gulgule (sweet dumplings).
My 3-day itinerary recommendation:
Day 1: Begin your day with a satisfying breakfast at Udupi, Chetan Poori Wala, or Ama Cafe. Then, dive into a clay pottery workshop to unleash your creativity. Soon, after a fulfilling lunch, embark on a heritage walk through Paltan Bazaar and the Jhanda Bazaar area. In the evening, savor the sunset hues in Rajpur while relishing local momos and a cup of tea. What's more, immerse yourself in Rajpur's lively nightlife scene. The party truly comes alive!
Day 2: Kickstart your day with an invigorating hike to Shikhar Falls and a visit to the serene Sai Temple nearby. Indulge in a delightful breakfast in Rajpur before embarking on a spiritual journey to the four Siddhs of Dehradun - Sri Kalu, Manak, Laxman, and Madu Ji. As the evening sets in, savor a cozy cup of tea around Thano, soaking in the charming ambiance of its cafes and witnessing the mesmerizing sunset.
Day 3: Embark on an exhilarating adventure with a thrilling rock climbing session. Channel your inner chef as you prepare your own meals amidst the wilderness by the river. In the evening, head to Clement Town to explore the serene Buddha Temple. Treat your taste buds to the savory delights of local Buddhist cuisine. The spicy Laphing, comforting momos, and flavorful Shapta are a local favorite.
Dehradun ❤️
I feel like exploring all the places right away!!!