Latest news with #ForestResearchInstitute
India.com
5 days ago
- India.com
10 Fascinating Facts About Dehradun You Never Knew
Dehradun City of Uttarakhand is the capital of India, where rich culture and modern development meets natural beauty. The city is situated in the Doon Valley, with the Himalayas to the North and Shivalik hills to the South. There is something to offer to everyone from nature lovers, and history enthusiasts to people seeking solace. Let us look at some of the most inspiring facts about Dehradun that showcase its beauty and significance. 1. Dehradun has a tale behind its name The word 'Dehradun' is the combination and abbreviation of 'Dera' which stands for campsite and 'Doon' which refers to a valley. In the 17th century Guru Ram Rai, who was the eldest son of Guru Har Rai, the seventh siekh Guru, settled here giving reason for this name. The area was known as Sudhnagar before it became Dehradun. 2. It Serves as the Gateway to Several Tourist Destinations Dehradun serves as a point of access to some key locations in India including the temples of Mussoorie, Auli, Nainital, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri and in Addition to these above mentioned temples, there is the Char Dham pilgrimage area. Given its position, it is also very convenient for passerby tourists who make journeys in Uttarakhand. 3. Home to Prestigious Educational Institutions Dehradun is sometimes called the 'school capital of India' and for good reason. The Doon School, Welham Girls' School, Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Forest Research Institute (FRI), Indian Military Academy (IMA) are just some of the big names in this area. The quality of these institutions brings in a lot of students from different parts of the nation and enhances the reputation of the city. 4. Rich Biodiversity and Natural Beauty With the city's location at the Himalayan foothills, it is plausible that there is rich biodiversity. Dehradun is a city of green forests, the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, Rajaji National park and other wildlife sanctuaries around it. What also makes Rajaji National park special is the vast variety of flora and fauna that resides in it. Elephants, tigers, leopards, over 300 birds are just a small portion of what makes the park such a delight. 5. Forest Research Institute – A Heritage Site Dehradun has the Forest Research Institute (FRI), which is the foremost institution in India in the area of forestry research and boasts exceptional architecture. Its main building, constructed in 1906 during the British raj, is considered one of the largest wooden structures in the continent. In 2014, FRI was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the title of 'Modern Heritage'. 6. Birthplace of Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev The city of Dehradun is the birthplace of Yoga guru Swami Ramdev who is well known across the globe for practicing and popularizing Yoga, and Ayurveda through Patanjali Ayurved Limited. His endeavors have impacted the health and wellness of people around the globe. 7. Robber's Cave – A Unique Geological Wonder One of the iconic places of Dehradun is also Robber's Cave / Guchhupani. It is a natural cave with a stream running through it, and where water disappears quite suspiciously. The site is also well known for its association with some Hindu fables like Lord Rama believed to have meditated here during his exile. 8. Nearby Tehri Dam Reservoir Dehradun may not host the Tehri Dam in its vicinity, but what it does have is extremely close access to this engineering wonder which is roughly 100 kilometers away. The Tehri Dam on the Bhagirathi River is one of the tallest dams in the world and holds significance in hydroelectric power generation as well as irrigation in Northern India. 9. A Hub For Adventure Activities Adventure lovers, both domestic and foreign, are very much interested in getting to Dehradun because that means they will have relatively easier access to places like Mussoorie, Chakrata and Dhanaulti. An endless array of trekking, paragliding, river rafting, camping and skiing all await these adventurers throughout the year in the region. These activities become even more remarkable with the breathtaking views the region offers. 10. Climate and Agriculture Dehradun has a temperate climate, which is suitable for agriculture. The cold winters along with moderate summers leaves space for Basmati rice, litchis, mangoes and many others to flourish in the rich soil of the Doon Valley. Additionally, this region becomes an attraction for most expatriates and retirees who want to settle down in a tranquil environment surrounded by greenery, due to the nature infused lifestyle they offer. Conclusion Now you know that Dehradun is much more than the capital of Uttarakhand; it is a combination of culture, education, spirituality, and adventure all neatly packed into one location. The city is filled with opportunities for exploration and discovery, ranging from its historical roots, and notable institutions, to its surreal natural beauty and landmarks. If you are looking for a place to go on vacation, wanting to relocate, or you just want to learn more about this wonderful city, these facts highlight the reasons why Dehradun is one of the most loved places around the world.
India.com
5 days ago
- India.com
Discover The Ultimate Guide To Night Trekking Near Dehradun
The Himalayan foothills provide Dehradun with its status as an ideal destination for adventure seekers. The region embraces forested areas and polished natural scenery along with beautiful hiking trails suitable for trekking activities. Facility with night treks over day treks along with the opportunity to witness forest night activities and experience exploration at night under moonlight. Before embarking on a night trek proper preparation becomes necessary to achieve safety alongside fun. This guide will provide you with complete instructions to organize your night forest trek in the Dehradun area. the Right Trail The initial step when preparing for your night trek involves selecting an ideal hiking path. Most trekking routes located in the Dehradun area do not support nighttime exploration. Some popular trails include: The easy and secure path to Robber's Cave (Guchhupani) brings beginners through natural caves alongside picturesque mountain views. An area inside the Forest Research Institute (FRI) Campus consists of dense wooded surroundings which creates a secure spot for night hiking activities. The nighttime atmosphere of Sahastradhara remains magical because it contains sulfur springs and waterfall features. Select a trail suiting your fitness rate alongside your experience combined with group member numbers. Nights require staying away from unknown and remotely located areas while trekking. Weather Conditions The current weather conditions strongly affect the possibility of conducting night-time hikes. A forecast of the daily weather should be your first step before you depart. The road becomes hazardous for trekking when there are strong rains or thunderstorms or chilly conditions produce sleepiness on the path. When skies remain clear with gentle temperature conditions then night trekking becomes most suitable for adventurers. During summer nights throughout the forests near Dehradun the temperatures decrease significantly enough to require additional clothing. Wear appropriate clothing with additional layers which you should bring along to maintain your body temperature. Essential Gear To achieve safe and comfortable night trekking it is vital to have proper equipment. These are the necessary items you should never forget: The trail at night becomes navigable with the help of either a flashlight or a dependable headlamp that provides reliable illumination. The use of spare batteries for your lighting equipment must be a part of your trek preparations. Comfortable footwear providing non-slip capabilities and good traction should be worn to confront irregular paths. The lightweight backpack serves as the best tool to carry water bottles along with snacks and a map and a first-aid kit. Protection from low temperatures requires packing a jacket and gloves together with a hat. An emergency whistle functions as an alert tool to signal both lost circumstances or spontaneous problems. The key to success is packing a few necessary items which aid both weight management and movement preservation. Your Route and Timing Extensive research should be conducted on your selected trail path followed by developing an organized itinerary. Use markers to note down entrance and exit points together with rest locations along with points of interest. Communicate your trek itinerary to individuals who stay behind since they require location updates and timing information about your return. Travel early to a protected position before entire darkness overtakes the surroundings. The initial section of the trail becomes more visible while you have daylight to observe it. with a Group A person should always conduct night treks in a team setting. The best practice for night trekking consists of joining a group of experienced trekkers or obtaining a local guide who understands the terrain. Group treks boost safety by providing mutual protection to each person and instant emergency responses. Local guides offer important information about both the natural vegetation in the area as well as the animals that live there and the historical background of the territory. New adventurers to night trekking should enroll in organized excursions managed by respected adventure businesses located in Dehradun. Wildlife and Nature A wide array of leopards, deer and birds exist in the forest surrounding Dehradun. The occurrence of encountering wildlife during night treks is unusual yet visitors must keep their habitat disturbances at a minimum. Follow these guidelines: The loud sounds along with musical devices should be avoided because they might drive away the wildlife. It is your responsibility to transport all tossed items out of nature areas because littering is forbidden. The designated paths should be your only way to move while you should keep out of all restricted spaces. The habit of both approaching or feeding animals must be completely avoided. Respect for nature contributes to maintaining the natural ecological equilibrium of this particular area. Safety Measures The safety of your night trek needs to maintain its highest position at all times. To guarantee safety you should follow these extra measures: A first-aid kit containing bandages together with antiseptics and painkillers and required personal medicine should be packed into your belongings. Drink water in large amounts during your trek to stop yourself from becoming dehydrated. Safety starts with watching your every move because you want to prevent roots as well as rocks and uneven ground from causing injuries. Reduce the risk by packing a physical map and compass because GPS devices can stop functioning when isolated. Know the hospital and safety emergency telephone numbers as part of your emergency preparedness. Essential survival techniques such as fire-starting and first aid knowledge should be acquired by trekkers before starting their journeys. Final Thoughts The forests near Dehradun provide a unique opportunity to experience natural beauty at night through trekking activities. The thrilling experience can reach its maximum potential when you first select the appropriate trail then enter adequate preparation followed by safety-oriented actions. You should always show respect to nature combined with group travel and essential equipment usage. Proper planning combined with mindfulness makes night treks become remarkable experiences within Dehradun's stunning wilderness area. Prepare your companions then pack transportation for visiting the magical forest while stars watch over you.
India.com
03-05-2025
- India.com
Explore Dehradun: The Perfect City For Adventurous Backpackers
Dehradun, the capital of the state of Uttarakhand, India, has always been a favorite for many travelers for its calmness and nature. It lies in the south of the mighty Himalayas and north of the Shivalik range, and Indo-Saracenic architecture draws tourists toward it. Backpackers who want a taste of a new culture while staying at budget-friendly places, Dehradun is heaven on Earth. Here are seven reasons why Dehradun is the best backpacking city in the world. 1. A Variety Of Budget Accommodation Options The most important thing for any backpacker is comfortable accommodation on a budget and Dehradun does not disappoint. The city has many budget guest houses, hostels, and even a few homestay options. No matter the size of the traveling group, every type of visitor is well catered to. Variety in size from single rooms to dormitory settings in many hostels makes it easy for backpackers to meet other travelers and share experiences. Moreover, some of these homestays give a taste of Dehradun's culture by serving home cooked meals at affordable prices, making it easier for travelers to experience the local life. This way backpackers can stretch the UK travel budget and visit different attractions. 2. Excursion and Mother Nature's Doorstep The serene charm of Dehradun is highlighted by the Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Jim Corbett National Park which are some of the exceedingly beautiful parts of India. Its strategic positioning, close to such mesmerizing sights, offers fantastic opportunities for backpackers who wish to delve into its diversified topography inclusive of thick forests, placid rivers, wildlife sanctuaries, snow-capped mountains, and a lot more. For example, a very nice drive takes you to Robber's Cave (Guchhu Pani), a cave with a lake where water seamlessly enters and exits the cave. Like Sahastradhara, with its rejuvenating sulfur springs and limestone caves competently manages to calm and ease the frantic part of city life. These attractions which are all within reach make Dehradun a very desirable place for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. 3. Vivid Ethnic History Dehradun is rich in culture and history as it possesses numerous events and pieces of art that expand the geographic range of a backpacking trip. The city has some of the historical sites like the colonially built Forest Research Institute (FRI) and the Temple Tapkeshwar, which is revered by ascetics and travelers. The Paltan Bazaar and Indira Market endow every tourist visiting Dehradun with an insight of how the region functions. These markets hold great value with respect to traditional handicrafts and street food. Backpackers engaging in the local customs and traditions will surely have a great time. 4. Scrumptious Local Food No country is complete with having its own specialties when it comes to food and Dehradun is no different. The meals reflect the exquisite blend of Kumaoni and North Indian culinary styles. Backpackers are treated with sumptuous meals such as Aloo Ke Gutke (spiced potatoes), Kafuli (an Indian spinach-based curry) and Bhang Ki Chutney (a tangy chutney made from hemp seeds). Chaat, pahadi singhara (a type of samosa), and momos are all served by street vendors at throwaway prices. In addition, there is plenty of vegetarian food available to those who require it. Italian pasta and continental breakfast is served in various cafes for people looking for food from other countries. 5. Transport Links and Accessibility The city of Dehradun is well linked to all parts of the country through roads, railways, and airways, so it is easy to reach for travelers originating from different parts of the country or even overseas. Jolly Grant Airport about 25 kilometers away from the city has daily flights from and to Delhi and Mumbai. The Dehradun Railway Station is also well connected with all the important places in the country. Good quality roads and highways also connect the town to the rest of the country. While on Dearderun, getting around the city is even easier. Auto rickshaws, shared taxi services and app based cabs are available for tourists, so exploring the city becomes hassle free. All these factors contribute towards an enhanced travel experience Dehradun has to offer its visitors. 6. Booming Remote Worker Community Due to its increasing community of travelers and backpackers, Dehradun is rapidly becoming one of the preferred locations for all sorts of travelers. Many new cafes and co-working spaces are coming up that help support digital nomads or remote workers. Such places are not only great for backpackers to chill, but also ideal for networking, story sharing, and planning other trips. Group activities like camping trips, meditation camps, and art festivals are regularly organized in the region, which helps bring people together. Whether you are traveling solo or with friends, you will get a chance to mingle with fellow adventurers and cherish your time. 7. Attractiveness in Every Season Many tourist spots are seasonal, but Dehradun welcomes people all year long. The summers are pleasant, unlike many parts of the country. The Monsoons bring magnificent views of waterfalls and hills with a foggy backdrop. During winters, it gets cold which is suitable for spending cozy evenings by a bonfire with your family and friends. With this kind of appeal throughout the year, backpackers can make their way to Dehradun at their convenience as they are certain that whatever the season, breathtaking views and plenty of things to do will be on offer. Wrap Up Dehradun is the perfect location for backpackers as it is rich in culture and beauty, has a piling traveller community, is cheap and easy to get to. Additionally, Being the entry point to many tourist attraction sites makes it even more appealing. For a passionate trekker, a novice historian or someone looking to relax, Dehradun does not disappoint. So grab your bags, wear your hiking shoes, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable trip to this stunning city. You won't regret your decision.
India.com
22-04-2025
- India.com
Top 7 Secret Clifftop Spots Near Dehradun For Perfect Stargazing
The Himalayan foothills city of Dehradun gives residents breathtaking nighttime stargazing through its natural landscape surrounding the city. Beyond city illumination the clifftop locations surrounding Dehradun create wonderful conditions which make observing stars a delightful experience. Both casual observers of the stars and professional astronomers need to see the beautiful viewing points located in hidden areas. The following guide presents the top clifftop viewing spots for stargazing around Dehradun. 1. Robber's Cave (Guchhupani) Robber's Cave stands as a famous natural destination near Dehradun which attracts visitors because of its intriguing combination of limestone caves and subterranean river flow. It surprises many people to discover that Robber's Cave surrounds an excellent location suitable for star observations. From this elevation you can spot the stars in the dark sky because the area near the cave has very little artificial lighting. Under transparent night conditions you can observe the Milky Way reach from one horizon to another. Go to Robber's Cave when visitor volume is low so you can fully enjoy watching the night stars. 2. Malsi Deer Park Hills The attractive combination of wildlife and picturesque landscapes makes Malsi Deer Park stand out near Dehradun's edge. The park draws many tourists but the surrounding hill area next to it transforms into a peaceful environment after the sunset. Both elevations permit unhindered observations of space since they enjoy complete darkness. Because of its remote location the park stays dark which enables people to see Orion and Cassiopeia constellations clearly. A telescope or binoculars will improve your view of distant galaxies and nebulae when viewing the night sky. 3. Sahastradhara Cliffside Sahastradhara stands out because of its thousand-fold spring nature which includes sulphur springs and waterfalls. Beyond its daytime allure, the cliffside areas here offer spectacular panoramic views of the valley below and the starlit sky above. Due to its elevated position and wide-open area the Perseids and Geminids meteor showers become easily detectable. Viewing shooting stars is a fortunate experience you could encounter as they produce dazzling streaks that cross the sky. Warm clothing needs to be packed since evening temperatures descend substantially. 4. Forest Research Institute Ridge The Forest Research Institute (FRI) campus located in Dehradun is both nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status and functions as a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. The ridge behind the institute offers visitors a private area to see the entire night sky in all its beauty. This spot is located within a heavily forested area which shields it from artificial light contamination. People who want to observe globular clusters and distant galaxies will find this location especially advantageous. When exploring distant territories you should always notify someone about your excursion since safety considerations dictate this practice. 5. Chakrata Viewpoints Chakrata exists at a greater distance from Dehradun with a journey spanning 90 kilometers but offers star watchers a perfect destination. Winding up at 2,000 meters elevation makes this hill station home to pure air together with unbeatable views of cosmic phenomena. Visitors can admire the powerful illumination of stars while standing at the Tiger Falls viewpoint among the nearby cliff areas. Because of its distance from other areas Chakrata reduces practically all outdoor light emissions so star-gazing enthusiasts can fully experience cosmic phenomena. 6. Kempty Falls Surroundings The stargazing enthusiast will find Kempty Falls approximately 15 kilometers from Mussoorie to be another impressive star-gazing destination. The cliff regions surrounding Kempty Falls gain enchanting qualities during nighttime although they're typically recognized for daytime picnics. Observing the planets Jupiter and Saturn becomes simpler because at this altitude and scarce human presence there is better visibility. Bring enough water, snacks and equipment to rely on since nighttime facilities might provide restricted amenities at Kempty Falls. 7. Dhanaulti Eco Park Overlook People consider Dhanaulti to be Mussoorie's quieter counterpart because it combines environmental tourism with stunning scenery. You can enjoy excellent stargazing at Dhanaulti Eco Park because its elevated location features quiet surroundings. Nights spent in this location allow you to embrace nature fully as you lose yourself in the sights of the heavens above the pine-covered hills. Due to limited solar activity you should seek auroras during those times but their manifestation is commonly scarce at your location. Tips for a Memorable Stargazing Experience The quality of nighttime observations requires completely clear skies. Websites and weather applications can assist you in making proper planning decisions. The best viewing experience under the stars becomes possible with an appropriate pair of binoculars or a portable telescope. You should bring both star map software together with pre-downloaded offline mapping programs to detect the arrangements of stars. Minimize exposure to cool temperatures which become more prevalent in Dehradun's hill regions during winter season when night falls. The combination of various clothing layers and additional blankets will ensure your comfort. Conserving night vision requires you to steer clear of directly using flashlights or mobile phones as well as using red-light filters during observation. Watch local laws at all times and completely remove any human traces from your presence. It is important to verify local regulations before planning any nighttime outdoor activities in a given area. Safety First: Inform friends or family about your whereabouts and expected return time. Maintain portable first aid equipment and consume sufficient fluids throughout the evening. Conclusion The proximity of Dehradun to Himalayan mountain ranges enables one to experience breathtaking stargazing vistas in their natural setting. Each location between Robber's Cave cliffs and Chakrata reaches different heights in the range to bring special astronomy experiences for enthusiasts. Due care in planning and environmental respect allows you to experience unforgettable starry nights. Obtain your equipment and visit these concealed cliff observation spots where you will be enthralled by cosmic wonders.
Time of India
21-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
2 Indian bamboo species found suitable for dissolving grade pulp production
Dehradun: Scientists at the Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun, have identified two Indian bamboo species as high-performing alternatives to traditional wood-based dissolving grade pulp (DGP). The research, presented during Union textiles minister Giriraj Singh's two-day visit to Dehradun, highlights bamboo's potential in sustainable textile production The two shortlisted bamboo species boasts high alpha-cellulose content (over 52%), low ash and silica levels, and excellent pulping properties suitable for DGP production, a key component for manufacturing textile fibres such as rayon and viscose. Director of FRI, Renu Singh, said, "Bamboo's rapid growth and sustainability make it an ideal resource for textile production, supporting the vision of a self-reliant and green economy. The research paves the way for bamboo use in high-value industries while uplifting rural livelihoods." Union minister Giriraj Singh lauded the initiative and said, "This is about jobs, sustainability, and putting India on the global textile map." During the meeting, officials also discussed future steps, including plans to scale up production, refining processes, and collaborating with textile manufacturers, marking a significant stride toward integrating bamboo into the textile supply chain, and promising eco-friendly solutions for a growing global market. The session concluded with a promise to push the research further, aiming to turn bamboo into a household name in fashion and other industries. The meeting was attended by Uttarakhand's minister for agriculture and farmer welfare, Ganesh Joshi, and senior officials of the forest services and academic wing, including the director general of Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), Kanchan Devi, AK Sharma, director of Indian Jute Industries Research Association (IJIRA), Kolkata, among others.
