Nestled among the lush hills of Dehradun, Uttarakhand, there exists a hidden treasure that has surprised adventurers, travellers and nature lovers for generations—the Robbers' Cave. Locally known as Gucchu Paani, the Robbers' Cave is a natural river cave that offers a place to enjoy a few hours of respite from the city. The cave is a unique blend of history, geography, and urban significance that makes it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking to unravel the mysteries of this enchanting region. Find out all about Robbers' Cave, and make sure you put it in your itinerary when you next visit the buzzing hill station.
Robbers' Cave is a place with a rich history full of folklore and legend, which makes it even more interesting. Located in the mountains, the story of the cave goes as far back as the 1800s when it was used by robbers to hide their loot from the British Police. It is an ideal place to spend a few hours away from the city. According to local tales, the cave served as a hideout for robbers because of its complex passages and chambers, allowing them to evade authorities and stash their ill-gotten treasures. These stories have contributed to the mystery surrounding the cave, attracting curious visitors eager to explore its depths and discover its secrets. It is situated about ten kilometres away from the central city. As you ascend the hills, you will be amazed by the magnificent view. The entrance gate features a big monster-like face.
Lying at the beautiful landscapes of the Himalayan foothills, the cave is formed by an unusual geological occurrence, where a stream of water vanishes underground only to reappear a few hundred metres away, creating a captivating sight. The surrounding area is full of lush greenery, rocky cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The cave is 600 metres long and divided into two main parts, with the highest fall measuring about 10 metres. The central part of the cave features a fort wall structure that has been broken down. It is a narrow gorge in a limestone area on the Dehra Plateau in the Doon Valley.
Besides its natural beauty and historical significance, Robbers' Cave also enjoys considerable urban importance. It is easily accessible from the city centre, making it a convenient day trip for both locals and tourists. Its proximity to other major regional attractions, such as the Rajaji National Park and Tapkeshwar Temple, makes it a must-visit destination in Uttarakhand.
While Robbers' Cave is a popular attraction, other major attractions are in its vicinity, providing travellers with much more to explore. Nature enthusiasts can visit Rajaji National Park and spot wildlife on safari tours and nature walks. It's located near the foothills of the Himalayas and covers 820.5 square kilometres, including the districts of Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. The park is known for its elephant population, scenic beauty, and rich biodiversity.
History buffs can explore ancient temples like Tapkeshwar Temple, a popular pilgrimage site. It's located on the banks of the Tons River, built on top of a natural cave that contains the temple's main shiva linga. Aside from the attractions, the nearby hills and forests also provide ample space for outdoor adventurers to trek, camp, picnic, and birdwatch.
Entry Fees: The entrance fee for the Robbers Cave in Dehradun is approximately INR 35. If you wish to park your vehicle or cab, you can utilise the parking lot by paying INR 20 for two-wheelers and INR 30 for four-wheelers. Moreover, if you have any additional items you do not want to carry inside the cave, you can rent a locker for INR 30.
Timings: 7 am to 6 pm
Remember to wear comfortable clothing such as shorts or pyjamas and slippers or flip-flops when visiting the cave. You can rent your slippers for INR 10 per pair if you forget to bring your own. Avoid visiting during monsoon season due to rising water levels and the risk of injury from falling. Be careful of flash floods.
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport in Dehradun. You can fly from almost all major cities and hire a cab to your hotel. There are several options near the airport or within the city limits.
By Train: Dehradun railway station in Lakkhi Bagh is well-connected to different cities in India. From Shatabdi to Rajdhani and Howrah Express, several options are available for tourists in India.
By Road: You can hop on any private or state-run bus from nearby cities to reach Dehradun. You can take an auto-rickshaw, a public auto, Vikram, as they call it in Dehradun, or a cab to Anarwala village and walk to the cave from there. Alternatively, you can travel to Dehradun along NH7 in your vehicle or car and enjoy the scenic beauty on the way.
