If you are looking for the perfect places to visit in Dehradun in one day, I have the best plan for you. Combine history with peace by visiting the grand FRI Dehradun and Shiv Mandir on Mussoorie Road.
These two spots are the pride of Dehradun. One is a British-era architectural marvel where movies like Student of the Year were shot. The other is a magical temple famous for its “No Donation” rule and delicious free tea.
I have lived in this valley for 15 years, and I still visit these places with my family. In this blog, I will share the exact FRI Dehradun timings and entry fee, the unique story of the Shiv Mandir Mussoorie Road, and how to plan this trip easily.
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Part 1: The Grand Forest Research Institute (FRI)
Your day should start at FRI. It is huge, green, and very beautiful.
Why is FRI Dehradun Famous?
FRI stands for Forest Research Institute. It was built by the British in 1906. The building is bigger than the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi!
- Architecture: It looks like a palace from England (Greco-Roman style).
- Movies: Many Bollywood movies like Student of the Year, Krishna Cottage, and Paan Singh Tomar were filmed here.
- Museums: There are 6 incredible museums inside that show different types of wood, insects, and forest history.
FRI Dehradun Timings and Entry Fee (2026 Update)
Please note that FRI is a government office, so they are strict about time.
| Category | Details |
| Opening Time | 9:00 AM |
| Closing Time | 5:30 PM |
| Lunch Break | 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM (Museums close briefly) |
| Entry Fee | ₹20 per person (approx.) |
| Museum Ticket | ₹40 – ₹50 (Extra) |
| Vehicle Entry | Car: ₹50 |
Local Tip: Try to reach by 9:30 AM. It takes at least 2 hours to walk around the campus and see the museums properly.
Part 2: The Famous Shiv Mandir on Mussoorie Road
After visiting FRI, drive towards Mussoorie. On the way, you will find the Dehradun famous Shiv Mandir, officially known as Prakasheshwar Mahadev Mandir.
This is not just any temple; it is a very special place.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
- No Donation Policy: This is the only temple where you cannot donate money. If you try to put money in the prayer plate, the priest will politely return it to you.
- Free Tea and Prasad: They serve hot tea and delicious Prasad (sweets) to everyone, 365 days a year.
- Gem Stones: Inside the temple, there are shops selling real gemstones (Rashi Ratna) and jewelry.
- The View: Since it is located on a hill slope, the view of the Dehradun valley from the back balcony is stunning.
Shiv Mandir Mussoorie Road Timings
| Feature | Timings |
| Temple Opening | 8:00 AM |
| Temple Closing | 9:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | 4:00 PM (for evening Aarti and tea) |
| Entry Fee | FREE (Strictly No Money Accepted) |
How to Plan Your Day: A Simple Itinerary
If you want to cover both FRI Dehradun and Shiv Mandir comfortably, follow this schedule:
1. Morning (10:00 AM): Reach FRI
- Enter from the FRI Main Gate on Chakrata Road.
- Buy your ticket and drive your car inside to the parking area.
- Walk through the long corridors, take photos in the lush green gardens, and visit the Timber Museum.
2. Afternoon (1:00 PM): Lunch Time
- FRI is near Ballupur Chowk. You can have a nice lunch at a nearby restaurant like “The Doon Darbar” or any cafe on Rajpur Road.
3. Evening (3:30 PM): Drive to Shiv Mandir
- Start driving towards Mussoorie Road (also called Rajpur Road).
- The drive is beautiful. The road winds up the mountain with trees on both sides.
- Reach Shiv Mandir Mussoorie Road (Kuthal Gate) by 4:15 PM.
- Wash your hands, do the darshan of the Sphatik Shivling, drink the chai, and enjoy the sunset view.
How to Reach FRI and Shiv Mandir?
Both places are easy to find, but they are in different parts of the city.
- Distance: FRI is about 14 km away from the Shiv Mandir. It will take you 40 to 50 minutes to drive between them.
- By Car/Taxi: This is the best option. You can book a cab for the whole day (approx. ₹2000 – ₹2500).
- By Public Transport:
- For FRI: Take a Vikram (Blue Auto) number 5 from Connaught Place or Clock Tower to FRI Gate.
- For Shiv Mandir: Take a bus or shared taxi going to Mussoorie from the Dehradun Railway Station or Mussoorie Bus Stand. Ask them to drop you at “Shiv Mandir Kuthal Gate”.
Important Tips for Tourists
- Respect the Rules: Do not insist on giving money at the Shiv Mandir. It is against their tradition.
- Dress Code: Both places are family-friendly. Wear comfortable walking shoes for FRI as the campus is huge.
- Photography:
- FRI: Photos are allowed outside but not inside the museums.
- Shiv Mandir: Photography is generally allowed outside, but be respectful during prayers.
- Traffic Warning: The road to Mussoorie gets jammed on weekends (Saturday/Sunday). Leave early to avoid traffic.
FAQs about FRI and Shiv Mandir
Q1: Is FRI Dehradun open on Sundays?
A: Yes, the FRI campus and museums are generally open on Sundays for tourists. However, the administrative offices remain closed.
Q2: Can we donate money at Shiv Mandir Mussoorie Road?
A: No, absolutely not. The Prakasheshwar Mahadev Mandir has a strict policy of not accepting any cash donations.
Q3: How far is Shiv Mandir from Dehradun Railway Station?
A: The Shiv Mandir is about 12 km from the Dehradun Railway Station. It takes 30-40 minutes by car.
Q4: Is food available inside FRI?
A: There is a small canteen, but it is better to carry your own water and light snacks. Do not litter in the gardens.
Q5: Which movie was shot in FRI Dehradun?
A: The most famous movie is Student of the Year. Other movies include Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein and Paan Singh Tomar.
Q6: Is the road to Shiv Mandir difficult to drive?
A: No, the road is wide and well-maintained. It is the main highway to Mussoorie. Just drive carefully on the curves.
Conclusion
Visiting FRI Dehradun and Shiv Mandir is the best way to see the true soul of Dehradun. You get to see the British history in the morning and feel spiritual peace in the evening.
Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with kids, this day trip is perfect for everyone. The best part? It is very affordable!
So, when are you planning your trip? If you need a cab or a hotel booking for this trip, let us know at Clans Stays.
