Just 15 to 20 kilometres from Dehradun city, on the road that connects Dehradun to Haridwar, sits one of the most loved picnic spots in the region. Lachhiwala Nature Park is a place where locals have been coming for generations to cool off in shallow forest pools, walk under tall Sal trees, and spend a quiet day away from the city traffic.
Quick Facts: Lachhiwala at a Glance
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If you are planning a short trip from Dehradun and want something peaceful, green, and easy on the pocket, Lachhiwala deserves a spot on your list. In this guide, we cover everything you need before you go: timings, entry fee, history, what to do once you are there, the best time to visit, and how to reach the park from Dehradun.
A Bit of History
Lachhiwala Nature Park was developed in 1982 as a forest recreation zone under the Dehradun forest division. It was originally known as “Paryatak Sthal Lachhiwala” before it was developed further and renamed Lachhiwala Nature Park. The idea behind the park was simple: create safe, shallow, man-made pools fed by the Suswa River so that visitors could enjoy the water without the risks of open river bathing nearby.
Over the decades, the forest department added basic infrastructure such as entry gates, parking areas, changing rooms, and picnic zones. What started as a simple riverside spot has slowly grown into a well-organised nature park, while still keeping its forest character intact.
What Makes Lachhiwala Worth Visiting
The Suswa River Pools
The heart of Lachhiwala is its series of shallow, man-made pools filled with clean water from the Suswa River. These pools are ideal for wading and light swimming, especially for families with children. The water remains cool through most of the year, which is exactly why the park fills up during the hotter months between April and June.
Dense Sal Forest
The park sits inside a stretch of Sal forest that belongs to the Shivalik range. Tall trees provide shade almost everywhere, so even on a warm afternoon, walking through the park feels comfortable. This green cover is also what gives Lachhiwala its calm, forest-picnic feel, quite different from a regular city park.
Uttarakhand’s First Butterfly Park
Lachhiwala is home to Uttarakhand’s first dedicated Butterfly Park, with more than 130 species of butterflies recorded in the area. It is a nice stop for anyone travelling with kids or simply interested in nature and photography.
Shivalik Herbal Garden
Next to the butterfly park is the Shivalik Herbal Garden, which displays local medicinal plants and herbs found across the Shivalik hills. It is a small but educational addition that adds another reason to slow down and explore the park on foot instead of rushing through.
Birdwatching
Lachhiwala also attracts a good variety of resident and migratory birds, thanks to its forest and water combination. Early morning visitors, especially those who arrive right at opening time, have the best chance of spotting them.
Things to Do at Lachhiwala
- Wade or swim in the shallow river pools
- Take a short boat ride within the park premises (charges apply separately)
- Walk the forest trails under the Sal canopy
- Visit the Butterfly Park and Shivalik Herbal Garden
- Spot local birds in the early morning hours
- Enjoy a family picnic on the park lawns
- Pick up light snacks from the small food stalls near the entrance
Best Time to Visit Lachhiwala
The weather around Lachhiwala stays pleasant for most of the year, but the experience changes with the seasons.
- Summer (April to June): The most popular season, since the pools offer relief from the heat. Expect larger weekend crowds.
- Monsoon (July to September): The forest looks its greenest, but paths near the pools can get slippery. Walk carefully if you visit during this period.
- Winter (October to February): A quieter, cooler time to visit if you prefer a peaceful walk over a splash in the water.
For a calmer experience with fewer crowds, plan a weekday visit and arrive close to opening time.
How to Reach Lachhiwala from Dehradun
Lachhiwala sits directly on the Dehradun-Haridwar highway, which makes it one of the easier day-trip spots to reach from the city.
- By road: Take the Haridwar Road out of Dehradun and continue past Doiwala. Lachhiwala is well signposted along this stretch and the drive takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.
- By taxi or auto: Local taxis and shared autos regularly ply this route, since it is also used by travellers heading to Haridwar and Rishikesh.
- By train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, from where you can hire a cab for the onward journey.
- By air: Jolly Grant Airport is close to this route as well, so travellers flying in can combine an airport pickup with a Lachhiwala stop before heading into Dehradun city.
Practical Tips Before You Go
- Carry a change of clothes if you plan to get into the pools.
- Wear footwear with good grip, since the stone paths near the water can be slippery, especially after rain.
- Carry cash for the entry ticket, parking, and any boating charges.
- Basic food stalls are available, but if you have specific dietary needs, it helps to carry your own snacks and water.
- Avoid glass bottles and plastic waste. The park is a protected forest area, and keeping it clean helps everyone enjoy it longer.
- Since the park closes on Mondays, double check your travel day before you plan the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lachhiwala good for a family day trip from Dehradun?
Yes. It is one of the easiest and most affordable picnic spots near Dehradun, with shallow pools that are safe for children under adult supervision.
Is Lachhiwala open every day?
No. The park stays closed on Mondays and is open the rest of the week from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Can we swim in the pools at Lachhiwala?
Yes, the man-made pools are meant for wading and light swimming. Open bathing directly in the river is generally not permitted, since the park now regulates water access through these built pools.
How far is Lachhiwala from Dehradun city?
It is roughly 15 to 22 km from central Dehradun, depending on your starting point, and takes about 30 to 40 minutes by road.
Is there an entry fee at Lachhiwala?
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee, generally around ₹60 for adults and ₹30 for children, with small additional charges for parking and boating. Rates can change, so it is best to confirm at the counter.
Lachhiwala is not a grand tourist attraction with big monuments or adventure sports. Its appeal lies in something simpler: cool water, tall Sal trees, and an easy escape from the city, all within 40 minutes of Dehradun. Whether you are a local looking for a weekend picnic spot or a visitor with half a day to spare, Lachhiwala offers a slice of Doon’s forest life that is worth experiencing at least once.