Maldevta and Sahastradhara are the two river spots on the east side of Dehradun, and people often ask which one to go to. They're only about 9 km apart, so you can do both in one afternoon. But they're quite different places, and if you only have time for one, the choice depends on what you want from the day.
Quick comparison
- Distance from Dehradun: Sahastradhara is about 14 km. Maldevta is about 13 km from the Clock Tower.
- Entry: Both are free. At Sahastradhara the ropeway and rides cost extra. At Maldevta you only pay for food or a stay.
- Main attraction: Sahastradhara has dripping caves and sulphur pools. Maldevta has the Song river, the old canal and its aqueduct.
- Crowds: Sahastradhara is busy by late morning on weekends. Maldevta is quieter, though the river banks fill up on Sundays.
- Facilities: Sahastradhara has rides, a ropeway and a row of food stalls. Maldevta has a few riverside shacks.
- Time needed: Half a day for Sahastradhara, two to four hours for Maldevta.
Go to Sahastradhara if
You want something to do, not just somewhere to sit. The caves where water drips from the rock are the reason the place is famous, and the sulphur pools below are where most people get in the water. The ropeway and small rides give children something to do. There are stalls selling Maggi, pakoras, corn and chai right by the springs, so you don't need to plan food.
It's the better choice for first-time visitors to Dehradun, or for a family outing where everyone wants something different.
Go to Maldevta if
You want a slower afternoon by the water. The Song river is wide and shallow in most months, and people spread a sheet under the trees and stay for hours. There are no rides and no ticket counters.
Maldevta also has something Sahastradhara doesn't: a piece of Dehradun's history. The Kalanga canal still runs here, and you can walk across the aqueduct that Proby Cautley built in the 1840s and follow the canal to Do Naali, where the channels meet. Near the bridge there's an old water mill that locals brought back into use a few years ago.
It's the better choice if you've already seen Sahastradhara, if you want to avoid crowds, or if you'd like to stay the night at one of the riverside resorts.
Doing both in one day
Start at Sahastradhara early, before 10 am, when the caves and pools are still quiet. By the time the crowds arrive, drive the 9 km to Maldevta and spend the afternoon by the river. Eat at the stalls at Sahastradhara or carry a packed lunch, because Maldevta has only small shacks.
Safety at both
Both rivers rise quickly after rain in the hills. In the monsoon, stay out of the water and follow any closures. The rocks at Sahastradhara are always wet, so wear footwear with grip.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Maldevta or Sahastradhara?
Sahastradhara has more to do, with the caves, sulphur pools, ropeway and rides. Maldevta is quieter and better for a slow afternoon by the river. If you have time, do both in one day.
How far is Maldevta from Sahastradhara?
About 9 km.
Is there an entry fee at Maldevta or Sahastradhara?
No. Both are free to enter. At Sahastradhara the ropeway and rides are ticketed separately.
Which is better for kids?
Sahastradhara, because of the ropeway, rides and food stalls. Keep children out of the water after rain at both places.
Find more on Doon Dekho
Read our full guides to Maldevta and Sahastradhara for directions, food and where to stay.