Shopping in Dehradun – What to Buy & Where to Shop
IntroductionDehradun isn’t just known for its misty hills, cafés, and serene temples—it’s also a hidden gem for shopping lovers. Whether you’re strolling through the charming lanes of Paltan Bazaar, browsing high-end stores along Rajpur Road, or grabbing fresh bakery treats from local legends like Ellora’s, shopping in Dehradun is as vibrant as the city itself.
From fragrant basmati rice and cozy woollens to handcrafted souvenirs and freshly baked cookies, Dehradun offers a delightful mix of tradition and modern retail. In this blog, we’ll take you through what to buy in Dehradun and where to shop, along with a few insider tips.
And the best part? Most of these spots are just minutes away from Manor House Hotel on Rajpur Road, your perfect base for exploring Dehradun’s culture, cuisine, and markets.
What Is Dehradun Famous For?
Dehradun’s shopping scene beautifully reflects its personality—laid-back, artistic, and full of character. The city blends old-world charm with new-age style, offering something for every kind of shopper.
You’ll find local handicrafts, aromatic rice, handmade candles, warm shawls, and delicious baked goods all within a few kilometers. From timeless souvenirs to trendy fashion, shopping here feels personal and unhurried—just like the city itself.
So if you’re wondering what to buy in Dehradun, here’s a guide that covers the must-haves.
Top Things to Buy in Dehradun
1. Dehradun Basmati Rice
One of Dehradun’s most famous exports, its long-grain basmati rice is known for a distinct aroma and rich taste. Packaged varieties are available at local stores and grocery markets like Paltan Bazaar and Astley Hall. It’s a classic gift to take home for food lovers.
2. Juicy Dehradun Litchis (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting between May and June, don’t miss Dehradun’s world-famous litchis. Sweet, juicy, and aromatic, they’re grown in the lush valley farms surrounding the city. You’ll find vendors selling them fresh on Rajpur Road or near the main bus stand.
3. Woollens & Shawls
Dehradun’s proximity to the hills makes it a great spot for winter wear. The Tibetan Market near Parade Ground and small pop-up stalls during winters offer hand-knitted sweaters, pashmina shawls, mufflers, and gloves. These items make both practical purchases and memorable souvenirs.
4. Wooden Handicrafts & Artifacts
Crafted by local artisans, these items reflect the culture of the Garhwal region. From carved jewelry boxes and photo frames to traditional décor pieces, you’ll find authentic wooden handicrafts in Paltan Bazaar, Astley Hall, and at local craft fairs held at Parade Ground.
5. Handloom & Traditional Fabrics
Dehradun is home to skilled weavers who create handloom scarves, stoles, and kurtas. Check out stores run by local women’s cooperatives for high-quality, sustainable fabrics. These garments combine hill aesthetics with everyday comfort—perfect for gifting.
6. Bakery & Confectionery Items
Ask anyone what Dehradun is famous for, and you’ll hear one word—bakeries! The city’s legendary bakeries are must-visits for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ellora’s Bakery (Rajpur Road): Famous for rusks, plum cakes, and pastries.
Sunrise Bakers (Arhat Bazaar): Known for buttery cookies and dry cakes.
Nany’s Bakery (Jakhan): Modern twist on Dehradun’s classic recipes.
Take home a box of cookies or rusks—they’re the perfect edible souvenir.
7. Books, Candles & Stationery
Dehradun’s educational heritage also shows up in its bookstores and stationery shops. You’ll find handmade candles, diaries, bookmarks, and journals in the markets around Clock Tower and Rajpur Road. These small, creative items make thoughtful travel keepsakes.
Best Shopping Places in Dehradun
1. Paltan Bazaar (Old City Charm)
Located near the iconic Clock Tower, this bustling market is Dehradun’s oldest and most colorful shopping spot. You’ll find:
Handicrafts, ethnic wear, souvenirs, and dry fruits.
Aromatic spices, pickles, and locally grown tea.
Street food like samosas, jalebis, and momos.
It’s perfect for those who love exploring local culture.
2. Rajpur Road (Modern & Trendy)
Rajpur Road is the heart of Dehradun’s shopping and café culture. It’s a lively mix of branded outlets, boutiques, bakeries, and local handicraft stores.
You’ll find:
Premium fashion stores and gift shops.
Bakeries like Ellora’s and Bakes & Beans Café.
Art stores and bookshops for unique souvenirs.
Best of all, Manor House Hotel is located right here—making it incredibly convenient for travelers who want to explore the area on foot.
3. Astley Hall (Classic Shopping Zone)
Astley Hall near Rajpur Road is a blend of old and new. You can shop for home décor, stationery, and local fabrics, then grab a quick bite at nearby cafés. The area is especially charming during evenings when the stores light up.
4. Tibetan Market (Seasonal Shopping)
The Tibetan Market near Parade Ground is a winter favorite. It’s known for warm sweaters, bags, jewelry, and handmade scarves. The market opens around October and lasts until February.
5. Pacific Mall (Contemporary Shopping Experience)
For those who prefer an urban shopping vibe, Pacific Mall on Rajpur Road has all major brands, a movie theatre, and a variety of restaurants. It’s great for family shopping days and indoor leisure.
6. Local Handicraft Fairs & Emporiums
Throughout the year, Dehradun hosts local fairs and exhibitions—especially at Parade Ground, MDDA Complex, and Gandhi Park. These pop-ups are perfect for finding one-of-a-kind handmade crafts directly from local artists.
Shopping Tips for Tourists
Best Time: Visit markets in the morning or late afternoon for comfortable temperatures.
Bargaining: Reasonable bargaining is accepted in bazaars, not in branded stores.
Payment: UPI and cards widely accepted.
Carry Bags: Bring a reusable shopping bag to avoid plastic.
Transport: All major markets are within 10–15 minutes of Manor House Hotel Rajpur Road.
Food Souvenirs to Take Home
Don’t leave Dehradun without tasting its local flavors. Here are some edible goodies worth carrying back:
Pickles & Jams: Especially rhododendron, lemon, and mango.
Organic Honey & Herbal Tea: Available in Paltan Bazaar and Astley Hall.
Bakery Boxes: Dehradun rusks and fruit cakes travel perfectly.
Each of these items captures the taste of the valley and makes thoughtful gifts.
Why Rajpur Road Is the Best Shopping Base
If you’re visiting Dehradun, Rajpur Road is the perfect area to stay for both leisure and shopping. It’s central, scenic, and connects directly to all the city’s major markets.
Why choose Manor House Hotel Rajpur Road:
Just a few minutes from Paltan Bazaar, Astley Hall, and Pacific Mall.
Surrounded by the city’s best bakeries and cafés.
Elegant rooms, peaceful ambiance, and premium amenities after a busy shopping day.
From here, you can easily explore both sides of Dehradun—the bustling city markets and the calm green hills leading to Mussoorie.
Conclusion
Shopping in Dehradun is an experience that combines tradition, flavor, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re buying a bag of famous basmati rice, a cozy shawl, or a box of rusks, each item tells a story of the valley’s charm.
And when your shopping bags are full, unwind at Manor House Hotel Rajpur Road, where comfort meets elegance right in the city’s most vibrant neighborhood.
✨ Shop, explore, and experience the best of Dehradun—all from the heart of the valley.
FAQs
1. What is famous in Dehradun for shopping?
Dehradun is famous for basmati rice, woollens, handicrafts, and bakery items.
2. Where is the main market in Dehradun?
Paltan Bazaar near Clock Tower is the city’s most popular local market.
3. Which are the best bakeries in Dehradun?
Ellora’s, Sunrise Bakers, and Nany’s Bakery are must-visits.
4. What can I buy from Dehradun as souvenirs?
Wooden crafts, handloom scarves, litchi jams, and cookies.
5. Which area is best for shopping in Dehradun?
Rajpur Road—home to both traditional markets and modern stores.