Parade Ground
The Parade Ground in Dehradun is a vast, open space of historical and cultural significance, situated near the city centre, a short distance from the Clock Tower. Primarily, it serves as a massive venue for large-scale events, including political rallies, cultural festivals, trade fairs, and most no tably, the annual Independence Day and Republic Day parades. The ground is a central point for the city’s social and recreational activities. In the mornings and evenings, it transforms into a popular spot for joggers, walkers, and sports enthusiasts. Local cricket and football matches are a common sight, contributing to the ground's lively atmosphere. Historically, the ground has been used for military parades and assembly, hence its name. Surrounded by important administrative and commercial buildings, the Parade Ground remains a critical public space, acting as the lungs of the city. It provides a much-needed open area in the otherwise congested city center. It has witnessed countless significant moments in Dehradun's history. Its large size makes it ideal for hosting major exhibitions, including the famous Uttarakhand Festival (Lok Mahotsav) which showcases the state's rich culture and heritage. The ground’s maintenance is crucial for the city, reflecting its importance as a community space for celebration, protest, and daily exercise. It often becomes the first point of contact for new visitors to the central part of Dehradun.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1-2 Hours (For a walk or event viewing)Place Type:
Public Space/Historical/RecreationalEntry Fees:
General Entry: Access to the Parade Ground is completely free of charge as it is a central public park and event venue managed by the local administration.
Event Tickets: If a major commercial event, trade fair, or large-scale cultural show ...General Entry: Access to the Parade Ground is completely free of charge as it is a central public park and event venue managed by the local administration.
Event Tickets: If a major commercial event, trade fair, or large-scale cultural show is being hosted, there may be a specific ticketed entry fee for that event, which varies widely (e. g. , from Rs.50 to Rs.500).
No Sports Fees: There are no fees for playing informal sports like cricket or football or for using the ground for jogging or walking.
Parking Fees: Parking near the ground, especially on the periphery, might be managed by the city and can cost between Rs.20 and Rs.50 for a few hours.
Photography Fees: There are no fees for personal photography of the ground or events.
VIP/Gallery Seating: During official parades or major events, special VIP or covered gallery seating may be ticketed or restricted to pass-holders.
Vendor Fees: Small vendors setting up temporary stalls during events are subject to a daily or event-based licensing fee paid to the organizing body.Timing:
Regular Timings (Daily): The ground is accessible almost 24 hours a day for public use, though official activities are restricted. The main gate hours for vehicle entry or events are often from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time (Fitness):Regular Timings (Daily): The ground is accessible almost 24 hours a day for public use, though official activities are restricted. The main gate hours for vehicle entry or events are often from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time (Fitness): The ideal time for fitness/walks is early morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) and late evening (5:00 PM to 7:00 PM), when the temperature is pleasant.
Event Timings (Varied): Event times are highly variable; check local listings for the specific schedule of any fair or cultural program.
Sports Hours: Local matches typically take place in the afternoons (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM) or on Sunday mornings.
Parade Hours: Official parades (e. g. , Republic Day) start very early, usually around 8:00 AM.
Security Closure: The ground may be fully or partially closed a day or two before and during major national events for security preparations.Special Events:
Independence Day and Republic Day Parades: The two most significant and highly-attended special events are the official 15th August (Independence Day) and 26th January (Republic Day) parades and flag hoisting ceremonies, featuring military and police contingents.Independence Day and Republic Day Parades: The two most significant and highly-attended special events are the official 15th August (Independence Day) and 26th January (Republic Day) parades and flag hoisting ceremonies, featuring military and police contingents.
Uttarakhand Festival (Lok Mahotsav): The ground is the main venue for the annual Uttarakhand Festival, a major cultural event showcasing the state’s heritage, folk music, dances (like Garhwali and Kumaoni), local cuisine, and crafts.
Major Political Rallies: Being a central location, the Parade Ground frequently hosts major political rallies by national and regional leaders, especially during election years, drawing massive crowds.
Sporting Championships: The ground occasionally hosts the finals or key matches of local or regional cricket and football tournaments, which draw large, enthusiastic crowds of local supporters.Best Photo Spots:
The Grand Event View: A wide-angle shot from the perimeter that captures the sheer expanse of the empty ground, highlighting its scale and the surrounding city skyline, particularly effective on a quiet morning.
The Flagpole View on Event Day:The Grand Event View: A wide-angle shot from the perimeter that captures the sheer expanse of the empty ground, highlighting its scale and the surrounding city skyline, particularly effective on a quiet morning.
The Flagpole View on Event Day: A patriotic and crowded shot of the massive gathering near the central flagpole during a Republic Day or Independence Day parade, capturing the national fervor.
The Golden Hour Silhouette: A beautiful silhouette shot of joggers or sports players against the dramatic backdrop of a sunrise or sunset sky over the vast, open field.
The Archway/Entrance Frame: A photograph taken from one of the peripheral archways or entrance gates that frames the open ground, creating a sense of depth and scale.
The Sports Action Shot: A high-speed action shot of a cricket bowler or a football player in the middle of a game, conveying energy and local passion.
The Peripheral Buildings: A photograph focusing on the architecture of the surrounding historical or governmental buildings that overlook the ground, placing the location within the city's historical context.
The Fairground Lights (if an event is on): An attractive nighttime photo of the colorful lights and temporary stalls when a trade fair or the Lok Mahotsav is running, capturing the festive ambiance.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Morning Fitness Session: Join the locals for an invigorating morning jog or walk around the perimeter of the vast ground. It is an excellent way to start the day and observe the city's fitness culture.
Watching a Local Cricket/Football Match: During the day, especially on weekends, find a spot to watch an informal local cricket or football match. The passion and skill on display offer authentic local entertainment.
Attending a Major Event: Check the local schedule and try to attend a cultural show, a trade fair, or an exhibition when one is running. This is the best way to see the ground in its main functional capacity.
Photography of the Open Space: Capture the sheer vastness of the open ground, contrasted against the backdrop of the city buildings and the di...Morning Fitness Session: Join the locals for an invigorating morning jog or walk around the perimeter of the vast ground. It is an excellent way to start the day and observe the city's fitness culture.
Watching a Local Cricket/Football Match: During the day, especially on weekends, find a spot to watch an informal local cricket or football match. The passion and skill on display offer authentic local entertainment.
Attending a Major Event: Check the local schedule and try to attend a cultural show, a trade fair, or an exhibition when one is running. This is the best way to see the ground in its main functional capacity.
Photography of the Open Space: Capture the sheer vastness of the open ground, contrasted against the backdrop of the city buildings and the distant hills, particularly during the golden hours (sunrise/sunset).
Relaxation and People Watching: Find a bench or a quiet spot on the grass to relax and engage in people-watching. It is a great location to observe the daily routines of Dehradun residents.
Practicing Photography Skills: Given the open nature and variety of activities, the ground is an excellent spot to practice action photography (sports) or architectural photography (surrounding buildings).
Evening Stroll: Take a leisurely evening stroll when the ground is often most crowded with families and friends enjoying the cooler temperature and the city lights.
Attending Political Rallies (with caution): If a political rally is happening, observe the dynamics of a large public assembly (from a safe distance) to gain insight into the local political climate.
Sampling Street Vendors near the Boundary: Check out the small, temporary food stalls and vendors that set up shop on the edges of the ground, selling quick snacks and beverages.
Observing Military/Police Drills: Occasionally, a formal drill or parade practice might be taking place, which offers a glimpse into the discipline and precision of the armed forces (observe respectfully from the side).
Flying a Kite: On clear days, especially around festivals, a fun activity is to buy a kite from a nearby market and fly it in the open space, a classic recreational pastime.
Children's Play: If traveling with children, the open space is ideal for them to run and play freely, a much-needed outlet in a busy city.
Sketching/Painting: Bring a sketchpad or canvas to capture the scene of the massive open space or the surrounding historic structures.
Information
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Why Famous:
Central Event Venue: The Parade Ground is most famous for being the largest and most central open venue in Dehradun, hosting all major state-level, political, cultural, and public events, including the grand celebrations of Republic Day and Independence Day.Central Event Venue: The Parade Ground is most famous for being the largest and most central open venue in Dehradun, hosting all major state-level, political, cultural, and public events, including the grand celebrations of Republic Day and Independence Day.
Sports and Fitness Center: It is a key recreational space for the city, renowned as the main area for morning walks, jogging, and community sports like cricket and football, serving as the city's unofficial fitness hub.
Historical Military Use: Its name and historical context stem from its use as a major ground for British Indian Army and local military parades, establishing its historical identity as a formal assembly area.
Trade Fair Location: The ground is famous for hosting large-scale trade fairs and the annual Uttarakhand Festival (Lok Mahotsav), showcasing local crafts, food, and cultural performances, thereby acting as a focal point for regional cultural exchange. -
Architecture:
Layout and Functionality: The Parade Ground is architecturally defined by its vast open space rather than structures. It is a large, trapezoidal or rectangular field designed for the dual purpose of military parades and public gatherings. The key architectural feature is i...Layout and Functionality: The Parade Ground is architecturally defined by its vast open space rather than structures. It is a large, trapezoidal or rectangular field designed for the dual purpose of military parades and public gatherings. The key architectural feature is its sheer scale, allowing for the assembly of thousands of people. It often includes a simple, permanent stage or dais for dignitaries during official events. The ground's surface is typically grass or hard-packed earth, suitable for marching, sports, and temporary event setups.
Dimensions and Surrounding Elements: The exact dimensions vary, but the ground covers several acres, making it one of the largest open spaces in the city center. It is bordered by important roads and buildings, including commercial establishments and administrative offices, which frame the space. The perimeter is usually demarcated by low boundary walls or fencing, with multiple entry and exit points designed to manage large crowds. The lack of major permanent structures emphasizes its role as a versatile, multipurpose area. The historical importance of the ground dictates that any construction within the main area is strictly regulated, preserving its open, historical nature. It is a significant piece of urban green/open space planning for central Dehradun. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED), approximately 25 km away. Hire a prepaid taxi or take a local bus towards the city center/Clock Tower. The Parade Ground is a short walk or a very quick auto-ride from the Clock Tower area.
Read MoreBy Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED), approximately 25 km away. Hire a prepaid taxi or take a local bus towards the city center/Clock Tower. The Parade Ground is a short walk or a very quick auto-ride from the Clock Tower area.
By Train: Dehradun Railway Station (DDN) is the nearest railhead, located about 2 km from the ground. A direct auto-rickshaw or taxi will take around 10-15 minutes.
By Road: Regular bus services from major North Indian cities arrive at the ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal), which is about 8 km away. From ISBT, take a shared Vikram (auto) or a city bus heading towards the Clock Tower or Rajpur Road, which stops near the ground.
By Local Transport: Being centrally located, the Parade Ground is easily accessible via shared autos (Vikram) that ply the main city routes, particularly those going towards Rajpur Road. You can also use local buses or taxis. Due to its size and location, most local drivers know the place well. Walking is a good option if you are staying in the city center.Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Best Season (Outdoor Activities): March to June and October to November offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor exercise, walking, and attending events comfortably.
Monsoon Usage: The ground can be slippery and muddy during heavy monsoon...Best Season (Outdoor Activities): March to June and October to November offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor exercise, walking, and attending events comfortably.
Monsoon Usage: The ground can be slippery and muddy during heavy monsoon (July-September) rains, making its use for sports or exercise difficult.
Winter Sun: Winter (December to February) is a good time to visit during the mid-day (11 AM to 3 PM) to enjoy the pleasant warmth of the sun in the open space.
Different Parts of the Day (Morning Fitness): The early morning (6 AM to 8 AM) is the best time to visit for fitness activities, serenity, and a breath of fresh air. The evening (5 PM to 7 PM) is best for a casual stroll and people-watching.
Event Timing: If you wish to witness a major event, the best time to visit is dictated by the specific event schedule, which often falls between 10 AM and 4 PM.Near Tourist Places:
1. Clock Tower (0. 1 KM) Adjacent to the ground, the heart of the city. 2. Paltan Bazaar (0. 6 KM) The main shopping street. 3. Ram Rai Gurudwara (1. 5 KM) Prominent Sikh shrine. 4. Rajpur Road (0. 2 KM) Starts right near the ground. 5. Dehradun Railway Station (2 KM) Major access point. 6. Pacific Mall (4 KM) Modern shopping and entertainment center. 7. Tapkeshwar Temple (7 KM) Cave temple of Lord Shiva. 8. Forest Research Institute (FRI) (7 KM) Architectural marvel and educational institute. 9. Mindrolling Monastery (9 KM) Major Buddhist attraction. 10. Khalanga War Memorial (6 KM) Historical Gorkha war memorial.Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety (Sun Protection): Use sunscreen and a hat during the day, as the ground offers little shade. In the evening, be aware of uneven ground while jogging/walking.
Packing (Activity Gear): Carry your walking/jogging shoes and poss...Health & Safety (Sun Protection): Use sunscreen and a hat during the day, as the ground offers little shade. In the evening, be aware of uneven ground while jogging/walking.
Packing (Activity Gear): Carry your walking/jogging shoes and possibly a water bottle. If attending a formal event, dress appropriately for the occasion.
Accommodation (City Center): Hotels near the Clock Tower and on Rajpur Road are the most convenient, offering a quick commute.
Event Security: If attending a large political or national event, be prepared for heavy security checks, traffic diversions, and long queues. Arrive early.
Crowd Management: On event days, keep a clear escape route in mind and avoid the very center of the crowd if you are uncomfortable with large gatherings.
Photography Tip: Carry a telephoto lens if you want to capture sports action or stage performances from a distance.
Check Schedule: Always check the local news or administration website for any scheduled events before your visit, as this can affect both access and traffic.
Morning Serenity: For a peaceful visit, the earliest morning hours offer the best experience.
Vehicle Parking: On event days, finding nearby parking can be extremely difficult and expensive. Consider using a taxi or local transport.
Waste Disposal: Use the designated bins and help maintain the cleanliness of this major public space.
Water and Hydration: Carry your own water bottle, especially during summer workouts.
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